Express Entry
Express Entry Draw #346 Invites 511 PNP Candidates in the Latest Draw Round
Canada held its latest Express Entry draw #346 on May 12, 2025, inviting 511 candidates through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream. With a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 706, this draw marked another step in Canada’s strategy to prioritize regional labour needs by selecting candidates already nominated by provinces.
This draw stands out not just for its size but for the implications it carries for candidates waiting in the Express Entry pool with a provincial nomination. With provincial nomination allocations limited in 2025, being selected and entered into the Express Entry system can offer a significant advantage.
Key Highlights of Express Entry Draw #346
| Category | Detail |
| Draw Type | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) |
| Date | May 12, 2025 |
| Number of Invitations (ITAs) | 511 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 706 |
| Tie-breaking Rule | March 4, 2025, at 22:35:42 UTC |
| Predicted Next Draw | Canadian Experience Class draw (expected May 13–14, 2025) |
This draw saw a CRS drop from 727 to 706 compared to the previous PNP-specific round held on April 28, which issued 421 invitations. The expansion in invitations and slight CRS decline signals a continuing effort to clear out high-ranking PNP profiles from the pool.
PNP Candidates Are Gaining Faster Access to Permanent Residence
The latest Express Entry draw is a reminder that PNP-aligned Express Entry profiles currently have an edge. According to recent IRCC data:
- The total ITAs issued to PNP candidates in 2025 now stands at 4,590.
- Total ITAs across all streams for 2025 have reached 33,940.
- At this point in 2024, 38,955 ITAs had been issued, though there had been two more draws.
This suggests that while the pace may seem slower, the draw system is still favouring candidates with provincial nominations. It’s also worth noting that as of May 12, there were only 513 PNP candidates in the Express Entry pool, indicating that nearly all high-scoring provincial nominees have likely received their invitation.
What This Means for Applicants in 2025
With provinces facing reduced nomination allocations, competition to receive a nomination is tighter. However, once nominated and added to the Express Entry pool, the competition significantly drops. This is a sharp contrast to category-based draws, which continue to see high demand, and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws, which have been paused for months.
There are currently more than 22,000 candidates in the pool with CRS scores above 501, making non-PNP routes highly competitive. For those struggling to meet CRS cut-offs, securing a PNP nomination remains a valuable pathway to permanent residency.
How the Provincial Nominee Program Works Under Express Entry in 2025
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces to nominate candidates based on their labour market needs. Some PNP streams are aligned with the Express Entry system, offering faster processing and priority invitations.
Here’s how it works:
- Apply for a provincial nomination through a PNP stream.
- If nominated, receive 600 additional CRS points, almost guaranteeing an Express Entry ITA.
- Once invited, apply to IRCC for permanent residence — processing typically takes about 6 months under Express Entry.
This system is much faster than most other immigration pathways, like family sponsorships, which may take up to 24 months as of April 2025.
Next Express Entry Draw Prediction
IRCC is expected to conduct the next Express Entry draw for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates, which, if it materializes, would be the first CEC-specific draw in 2025. While demand remains high for category-based draws, provinces continue to play a critical role in addressing Canada’s regional and sectoral labour shortages.
Why PNP Candidates Remain at the Heart of Express Entry 2025
The Express Entry Draw #346 highlights the strength of the Provincial Nominee Program in 2025 as a reliable and strategic pathway to Canadian permanent residence. With limited provincial allocations, getting a nomination is more competitive but once you’re in the pool, your chances of receiving an ITA remain very high. If you’re looking to increase your chances of receiving an invitation, provincial nomination could be the key.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How many points do I need for PNP in Express Entry?
To be considered for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) through Express Entry, candidates usually need a minimum CRS score between 300 to 500, depending on the province. Once nominated, you receive an additional 600 points, which almost guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Q2. Is 450 points enough for Canada PR?
A CRS score of 450 can be competitive depending on the type of Express Entry draw. It’s often enough for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws.
Q3. Can I get PNP with a 400 CRS score?
Yes, it’s possible to receive a PNP nomination with a CRS score of 400. Many provinces have lower score thresholds and may issue a nomination based on specific skills, work experience, or ties to the province.
Q4. How can I get 600 points in Express Entry?
The only way to gain an automatic 600 CRS points is through a Provincial Nominee Program.
Q5. Which PNP is easiest for PR?
The “easiest” PNP depends on your profile. However, provinces like Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Ontario regularly invite candidates with CRS scores even below 500. Saskatchewan’s SINP and Alberta’s AAIP are popular due to their lower score requirements and frequent draws.
Q6. Do I need IELTS for PNP?
Yes, IELTS is mandatory for most PNP streams, especially those linked with Express Entry.
