Skilled Immigration Picks Up in June 2025 Express Entry Draws
Express Entry Makes Strong Return in June 2025
Canada’s immigration landscape experienced a sharp turn in June 2025, as the Express Entry system picked up considerable speed following a relatively quiet spring. With the highest number of draws in a single month this year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) showed renewed intent to meet its annual permanent residency targets.
June 2025: The Comeback Month for Express Entry
In a notable spike, IRCC issued 7,405 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) over six separate rounds—outpacing both April and May combined. These invitations were spread across general, program-specific, and category-based draws.
Below is a summary of the June draws:
| Draw Date | Stream Invited | Invitations Sent | Lowest Score Selected |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 2, 2025 | PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) | 277 | 726 |
| June 4, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services (Targeted) | 500 | 504 |
| June 10, 2025 | PNP | 125 | 784 |
| June 12, 2025 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 3,000 | 529 |
| June 23, 2025 | PNP | 503 | 742 |
| June 26, 2025 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 3,000 | 521 |
The last time IRCC held six draws in one month was in November 2024, signaling that June could mark a turning point in the 2025 immigration schedule.
Year-to-Date Trends: Where Does June Stand?
Although June showed a significant bounce, it still didn’t reach the heights seen earlier this year. However, it sharply contrasted the low-activity months of April and May.
| Month | Total Invitations |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 5,821 |
| February 2025 | 11,601 |
| March 2025 | 13,261 |
| April 2025 | 1,246 |
| May 2025 | 2,511 |
| June 2025 | 7,405 |
The total number of ITAs issued from January to June 2025 now stands at 41,845.
Who’s in the Express Entry Pool Now?
As of June 22, 2025, the total number of active profiles in the Express Entry pool rose to 256,754—a month-over-month increase of more than 6,600 candidates.
Here’s a breakdown of the CRS score ranges in the pool:
| Score Band | Number of Candidates |
|---|---|
| 0–300 | 8,370 |
| 301–350 | 21,746 |
| 351–400 | 54,237 |
| 401–410 | 13,150 |
| 411–420 | 14,209 |
| 421–430 | 14,273 |
| 431–440 | 15,676 |
| 441–450 | 14,927 |
| 451–460 | 15,525 |
| 461–470 | 17,167 |
| 471–480 | 17,358 |
| 481–490 | 13,508 |
| 491–500 | 13,190 |
| 501–600 | 22,947 |
| 601–1200 | 471 |
The number of high-ranking profiles (scoring above 600) has noticeably increased—primarily driven by PNP nominations. This indicates growing interest in regional immigration routes.
How Competitive Are CRS Scores Right Now?
To help candidates understand their position in the pool, IRCC provides percentile data for each CRS range. These figures highlight how many applicants a candidate is ahead of—or behind.
| CRS Score Bracket | Profiles | Position in Pool (Percentile Range) | Pool Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–300 | 8,370 | Top 0% – 3.26% | 3.26% |
| 301–350 | 21,746 | 3.26% – 11.73% | 8.47% |
| 351–400 | 54,237 | 11.73% – 32.85% | 21.12% |
| 401–410 | 13,150 | 32.85% – 37.98% | 5.12% |
| 411–420 | 14,209 | 37.98% – 43.51% | 5.53% |
| 421–430 | 14,273 | 43.51% – 49.07% | 5.56% |
| 431–440 | 15,676 | 49.07% – 55.17% | 6.11% |
| 441–450 | 14,927 | 55.17% – 60.99% | 5.81% |
| 451–460 | 15,525 | 60.99% – 67.03% | 6.05% |
| 461–470 | 17,167 | 67.03% – 73.72% | 6.69% |
| 471–480 | 17,358 | 73.72% – 80.48% | 6.76% |
| 481–490 | 13,508 | 80.48% – 85.74% | 5.26% |
| 491–500 | 13,190 | 85.74% – 90.88% | 5.14% |
| 501–600 | 22,947 | 90.88% – 99.82% | 8.94% |
| 601–1200 | 471 | 99.82% – 100% | 0.18% |
These numbers show that scores in the 500+ range are increasingly advantageous. Those with lower scores should consider boosting their CRS or exploring provincial nomination pathways.
Key Observations from June 2025
- Shift Toward Targeted Selection: Draws continue to focus on occupations in demand—especially healthcare and social services.
- Provincial Nominations Gaining Ground: A rising number of profiles with scores over 600 suggest candidates are increasingly leveraging PNP routes.
- Competition Intensifies: With a larger pool and higher average scores, many candidates may need to enhance their profiles or explore alternate options.
- Category-Based Draws Continue: IRCC’s emphasis on labor market needs is expected to drive draw decisions for the remainder of the year.
What Should Candidates Do Next?
If your CRS score is not in the competitive range, don’t be discouraged. There are several strategies to strengthen your profile:
- Improve language test results
- Gain additional work experience
- Pursue further education
- Secure a provincial nomination
- Obtain a valid job offer
Final Takeaway
June 2025 marked a much-needed rebound in Canada’s Express Entry activity. With increased draws, higher invitations, and a strong focus on key sectors, IRCC appears to be realigning with its annual targets. As the year progresses, applicants will need to stay agile, informed, and open to alternative immigration strategies to secure their spot.
Whether through Express Entry, a PNP, or a job offer-backed work permit, the key is being proactive and adaptable in an increasingly competitive system.
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