Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a major Express Entry draw on Tuesday, extending 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. It marks one of the largest healthcare-focused rounds this year.
The latest draw targeted 37 healthcare and social services occupations.
| Draw Date | Category | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 19 | Healthcare and Social Services | 2,500 | 470 |
| July 22 | Healthcare and Social Services | 4,000 | 475 |
| June 4 | Healthcare and Social Services | 500 | 504 |
| May 2 | Healthcare and Social Services | 500 | 510 |
That means Canada is increasingly prioritizing healthcare and social services professionals through targeted Express Entry draws. Another interesting part is that the Express Entry now includes an expanded list of occupations as of August 2025.
Regular healthcare draws mean increased chances for nurses, doctors, and social workers who might have been left out before. The federal government is working to fill pressing gaps in critical sectors, recognizing the need for talent in healthcare and social support roles. Category-based draws now give diverse applicants—from experienced professionals to skilled newcomers—a more level playing field. Canada is prioritizing candidates who will keep people healthy and communities strong.
Today's Express Entry draw is the fifth of the month and the second this week—a sign that Canada is steadily ramping up its immigration efforts. Since May, there's been a noticeable change: every month, IRCC has held a dedicated draw just for healthcare and social services professionals. Canada had not held Express Entry draws specifically for healthcare and social services workers until this spring. This marks a significant change in immigration priorities. The latest draw adds to a series of recent rounds targeting Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, French-speaking immigrants, and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants.
In total, more than 55,000 skilled workers have received invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence through Express Entry so far this year.
Most of these invitations have gone to PNP candidates, with the remainder distributed among CEC, French-language, and other priority occupation groups. These draws reflect a purposeful shift toward welcoming immigrants who fill critical roles, underscoring Canada's strategic commitment to addressing labor market needs.
| Draw Category | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 15 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 8 |
| French-language proficiency | 4 |
| Healthcare and social services | 4 |
| Education | 1 |
If you are aiming for permanent residency, these changes mean your application may have a better shot than ever before.
To see if you qualify or to learn more about the Express Entry process, you may contact us for a personalized consultation.
Feel free to contact us for your queries.
Read to know: Express Entry Applicants Face New Upfront Medical Exam Rule from August 21
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