Canada Express Entry: More CEC Invitations & IRCC’s Immigration Backlog Reduction in 2025

Introduction

Canada’s immigration system is evolving rapidly in 2025, with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) taking significant steps to streamline the Express Entry process and reduce application backlogs.

In a major development, IRCC issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the latest Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw, making it one of the largest draws of the year. Additionally, for the first time in months, Canada’s immigration backlog has dropped below one million applications, signaling faster processing times for certain applicants.

But what does this mean for aspiring immigrants? If you’re planning to move to Canada through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other immigration pathways, these changes can significantly impact your application.

Let’s explore the latest updates, their implications, and real-world scenarios where these changes can shape the future of Canadian immigration.

IRCC’s Latest Express Entry Draw: 4,000 ITAs for CEC Candidates

On February 5, 2025, IRCC conducted a targeted Express Entry draw under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), issuing 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 521.

What’s even more significant is that this draw followed another one on February 4, 2025, where only 455 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates were invited, and the CRS cut-off was a staggering 802.

This clear shift in preference indicates that IRCC is prioritizing candidates with Canadian work experience, making CEC applicants a key focus in 2025.

Why is This Important?

• Lower CRS Score Requirement: The trend suggests that CRS scores for CEC draws are gradually decreasing—from 542 in January to 521 in February—providing more opportunities for in-Canada applicants.
• Faster Pathway for Work Permit Holders: Individuals currently working in Canada under Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) or employer-sponsored work permits have a better chance of receiving an ITA.
• Reduced Reliance on PNP for PR: With fewer PNP invitations and a higher CRS cut-off for PNP applicants, those without employer sponsorship or provincial nominations might find CEC to be a more viable route.

Real-Life Use Case: How This Change Affects Applicants

Case 1: International Graduate in Canada
Amit, an international student from India, completed his Master’s degree in Toronto and secured a full-time job in data analytics. Previously, his CRS score of 510 was not high enough for Express Entry draws. However, with the recent CEC-focused draws and decreasing CRS cut-offs, Amit now has a better chance of receiving an ITA.

Case 2: Skilled Worker on a Work Permit
Maria, a software developer from Brazil, has been working in Vancouver for two years on a closed work permit. She was previously considering employer sponsorship under the BC PNP, but with Express Entry favoring CEC applicants, she can apply directly for PR without a provincial nomination.

Canada’s Immigration Backlog Drops Below 1 Million Applications

In another positive shift, IRCC has successfully reduced its backlog, with total pending applications dropping to 942,300 as of December 31, 2024. This marks a 6.38% decrease from the previous month, where over 1,006,500 applications were awaiting processing.

Which Applications Are Being Processed Faster?

• Express Entry Applications: IRCC has significantly improved processing for Express Entry applicants. Only 18% of Express Entry applications are now in backlog, meeting the six-month processing standard.
• Family Sponsorship Applications: The backlog for spousal sponsorships is also improving, with only 15% of cases delayed, aligning with IRCC’s processing goals.
• Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs): Unfortunately, visitor visas and study permits remain heavily backlogged, with 75% of applications still pending processing.

How Will This Impact Applicants?

• Faster PR Processing: Express Entry applicants under CEC and PNP categories can expect faster processing times in 2025.
• Work & Study Permit Delays: Individuals applying for study permits, work permits, and visitor visas may still face longer wait times due to higher backlog rates in these categories.
• PNP Applicants May Face Delays: The backlog for PNP-linked Express Entry applications increased to 25%, meaning processing times for provincial nominations may be slower compared to CEC applicants.

Real-Life Use Case: How Backlog Reduction Affects Immigration Plans

Case 3: Skilled Worker Applying for PR
David, an IT professional from Nigeria, applied for PR through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) in early 2024. Previously, IRCC was struggling with processing times, but with backlog reduction efforts, his PR application now moves much faster than expected.

Case 4: International Student Facing Study Permit Delays
Emma, a prospective student from France, applied for a study permit to start her program in September 2025. However, with TRV applications still heavily backlogged, she faces longer processing times and is advised to apply as early as possible.

What’s Next for Canadian Immigration in 2025?

Looking ahead, IRCC is expected to focus on three key areas:

1. More CEC Invitations & Lower CRS Scores

   • CEC candidates with Canadian work experience will continue to benefit from more invitations and decreasing CRS cut-offs.

2. PNP Processing Times May Fluctuate

   • While PNP remains an important pathway, the higher CRS scores and growing backlog could slow processing times for some applicants.

3. AI & Automation in Immigration Processing

   • IRCC is expected to leverage AI-driven automation to improve processing speeds and clear backlogs more efficiently.

Final Thoughts: How You Can Benefit from These Changes

???? If you’re in Canada on a work permit: Update your Express Entry profile and prepare your documents for a CEC draw—your chances of getting an ITA are higher than ever.

???? If you’re applying from outside Canada: Consider employer-sponsored PR pathways like LMIA-supported work permits or PNP nominations to strengthen your Express Entry profile.

⏳ If you’re waiting for study or work permits: Apply as early as possible to avoid delays caused by TRV backlog issues.

???? Need expert guidance? Consulting an RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) can help optimize your application and increase your chances of securing PR in Canada!

Declaration

This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies and processing times are subject to change, and applicants should consult official IRCC sources or an authorized immigration consultant for personalized guidance.