On September 2, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw #363, specifically targeting applicants under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream. A total of 249 candidates with valid provincial nominations received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.
Here are the key details at a glance:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Draw | September 2, 2025 |
| PNP Invitations | 249 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 772 |
| Tie-breaking Rule | August 28, 2025 at 19:19:18 UTC |
Why This Draw Matters
- High CRS threshold highlights competitiveness: With a minimum score of 772, only candidates with strong provincial ties and profiles were invited. Given the additional 600 CRS points from a provincial nomination, this draw suggests base scores as low as 172 could still qualify.
- PNP remains a strategic, although selective, pathway: While PNP draws typically feature fewer invitations, they remain highly effective for candidates who secure a nomination—especially those with specific in-demand skills or ties to a province.
- Provincial nominations continue to carry weight: The 600-point boost demonstrates the potency of PNPs in Express Entry—even when competition and cutoffs remain elevated.
What You Should Do Next
- Check your CRS score: If you hold a provincial nomination, assess whether your base CRS (excluding the PNP bonus) aligns with recent cutoffs like 772.
- Aim for nominations with depth: Competition for provincial streams is increasing. Focus on streams aligned with your skillset, education, language ability, and in-demand occupations.
- Stay proactive: Provincial programs may adjust eligibility criteria or quotas. Stay informed and ready to apply when programs open.
- Explore alternate pathways: Candidates not yet nominated can still pursue Express Entry via Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker, or targeted category-based draws (like healthcare or French-speaking professionals).
Want Guidance? Earnest Immigration Can Help
Navigating the complexities of PNP Express Entry draws—cutoffs, provincial eligibility, and strategy—can be challenging, especially as competition intensifies.
At Earnest Immigration, we specialize in helping candidates:
- Determine suitability for Express Entry and PNP pathways
- Identify and target the most promising provincial streams
- Optimize your profile—language scores, education, work experience
- Prepare applications that meet the highest chances of success
📩 Get in touch with Earnest Immigration today to evaluate your profile and build a winning strategy for Canadian permanent residency.
