Category: New Updates

As we progress through 2025, Express Entry draws remain unpredictable, shaped by recent shifts and the federal government’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan.

The most recent draw on May 13, 2025, saw 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) with a high CRS cut-off of 547. This draw has left many prospective immigrants wondering what to expect next.

In this article, we analyze recent trends and offer insights into what the upcoming Express Entry draws may look like—helping applicants make strategic decisions in a competitive environment.

 

Recent Express Entry Trends in 2025

Emphasis on In-Canada Candidates

In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is clearly prioritizing CEC candidates, with 9,350 ITAs issued under this category as of May 7.

The most recent CEC draw had the highest CRS cut-off of the year, reflecting a pool filled with strong profiles—mostly candidates already in Canada with relevant work experience and strong language abilities.

This strategic shift aligns with the reduced immigration targets for 2025—now 395,000 compared to 485,000 in 2024—Canada’s first annual reduction in over 10 years.

CEC draws are projected to account for 20–25% of Express Entry invitations this year, with CRS scores expected to stay above 500 due to limited draw sizes and competitive profiles.

 

Growth in Category-Based Draws

Since their introduction in mid-2023, category-based draws have gained traction. These target candidates with French language skills or experience in sectors like healthcare, STEM, skilled trades, and education.

In 2025, approximately 40,000 spots are allocated for category-based selections, with 1–2 draws per month expected.

 

Key highlights:

French Language Draws: Lower CRS thresholds and larger draw sizes. Example: March 21 saw 7,500 ITAs at a CRS of 379.

Healthcare Draw (May 2): 500 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 510, the highest for this category.

Education Draw (May 1): Canada’s first-ever education-focused draw issued 1,000 ITAs at 479, highlighting the importance of early childhood educators and teachers.

These draws help Canada address labor shortages while supporting its goal to have 10% French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec by 2027.

 

Decrease in PNP Invitations

While the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) has long been a cornerstone of Express Entry, the new Immigration Levels Plan cuts PNP targets from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000 in 2025.

Though bi-weekly PNP draws may continue, their frequency and volume are expected to drop. Recent PNP draws had high CRS cut-offs—like 763 on April 14—due to the 600-point boost from nominations.

The reduction aims to ease pressure on housing and healthcare systems, with provinces offered the option to reallocate some nominations toward refugee resettlement instead.

 

Job Offer Points Removed

A major 2025 policy change was the removal of CRS points for job offers (previously 50–200 points) effective March 2025. This move targets fraudulent LMIA practices.

Though expected to slightly lower CRS cut-offs, draw scores remain high due to smaller draw sizes and infrequent invitations.

 

High CRS Scores and Limited Draw Sizes

Early 2025 has featured fewer invitations and higher CRS cut-offs. For example:

April saw just two PNP draws with 1,246 ITAs total, a sharp contrast to 17,000+ ITAs issued in January and February.

The May 13 CEC draw had only 500 invitations with a cut-off of 547, indicating a highly competitive Express Entry pool dominated by strong CEC profiles.

This reflects IRCC’s strategy to align with reduced immigration targets while managing the existing backlog of over 852,000 permanent residence applications, enough to meet the targets for the next two years.

 

Next Express Entry Draw: What to Expect

The next Express Entry draw is anticipated between May 27–30, 2025, following the biweekly pattern. However, IRCC’s draw schedule remains fluid.

 

Likely Draw Type

A category-based draw is most likely next, as none have occurred since May 2. Potential targets include:

• • Healthcare, due to ongoing labor shortages.
• • French Proficiency, helping Canada meet Francophone immigration goals.
• • Skilled Trades, which hasn’t seen a draw in months.
  
  

CEC draws are less likely immediately after the recent May 13 round, and PNP draws may continue at smaller volumes.

 

Predicted CRS Cut-Offs

• • French Proficiency: ~360–380 (e.g., March 21 draw at 379)
• • Healthcare: ~490–510 (last was 510)
• • Trades: ~450
• • PNP: ~700+ (due to 600-point nomination boost)
  
  

Applicants with CRS scores below 450 will need to qualify under targeted categories like French or trades to stand a chance.

 

Expected ITAs

The number of invitations may range from 500 to 2,000, depending on the draw type:

• • French draws can be larger (2,000–7,500)
• • Healthcare and trades draws are typically smaller (~500–1,000)
• • PNP draws may remain limited due to reduced quotas
  
  

As of May 13, IRCC has issued 34,440 ITAs for the year, suggesting a more controlled pace as they manage targets and inventory.

 

Will CRS Scores Drop in 2025?

In general, broad CRS cut-offs are unlikely to fall significantly in 2025. The combination of limited draw frequency, reduced targets, and strong applicant profiles is keeping scores high.

However, French-speaking applicants and candidates in targeted categories still have a better chance, given the lower cut-offs and higher allocation.

 

Can You Get PR With a 400 CRS Score?

A CRS score of 400 is unlikely to succeed in general draws this year. However, candidates with French language proficiency or experience in trades may still qualify under category-based draws.

To boost your Express Entry profile:

• • Learn French
• • Gain Canadian work experience
• • Pursue a provincial nomination
  
  

Keep your profile updated regularly, as it stays active for 12 months and new qualifications could improve your ranking.

Canada’s immigration system, once seen as a benchmark of efficiency and fairness, is now facing severe delays that are impacting thousands of temporary residents. From stalled visa extensions to years-long waits for permanent residency and spousal sponsorships, the system is under tremendous strain.

Adding to the bottleneck, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) is facing its own backlog in processing Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs)—an essential step for employers seeking to hire foreign workers. Meanwhile, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced in January 2025 that it would cut 3,300 jobs, further stretching already limited resources.

Observers suggest the government may be intentionally slowing processing times to prompt temporary residents to leave on their own, raising questions about the country’s immigration priorities.

This article delves into the growing human and economic toll of these delays, the structural problems behind them, and what they mean for Canada’s future.

 

A System Under Pressure: The Immigration Backlog

As of March 31, 2025, IRCC had 1.97 million applications in its inventory—only slightly down from February’s 2.03 million. The number includes citizenship, permanent residency, and temporary residency applications, many of which exceed the government’s standard processing timelines.

 

Processing times for temporary resident extensions are particularly long:

Visitor visa extensions: 169 days

Study permit extensions: 234 days

Work permit extensions: 237 days 
(As of May 13, 2025)

Meanwhile, LMIA processing through ESDC is also experiencing significant delays:

High-wage and low-wage streams: 61 business days

Permanent Residence Stream: Up to 214 business days (over 7 months)

 

Spousal sponsorships have also slowed dramatically. As of May 2025, average processing times are:

Outside Quebec: 29 months (up from 24 months)

In Quebec: 36 months

Temporary Residents: Living in Limbo

Temporary residents—including students, workers, and visitors—face immense uncertainty. International students, who contribute over $22 billion to Canada’s economy, face risks to their legal status and education due to 234-day wait times for permit extensions. Workers in essential sectors like healthcare and agriculture are waiting an average of 237 days for work permit renewals, threatening their livelihoods.

Visitor visa holders must wait roughly 169 days to extend their stay—with no guarantee of approval after months of waiting.

Critics say the government is using these prolonged timelines to discourage temporary residents from staying, possibly to reduce population pressures.

 

LMIA Bottlenecks: Employers and Workers Stuck

The LMIA process is essential for employers looking to hire foreign talent through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. While the Global Talent Stream remains fast (8 business days), most other streams are lagging far behind. The Permanent Residence LMIA stream, crucial for helping workers transition to PR, takes over seven months.

High volumes, seasonal demand, and complex assessments contribute to these delays. Employers must provide extensive documentation, and incomplete applications can extend timelines even further.

The impact is far-reaching: employers struggle to fill jobs, and workers risk losing opportunities while waiting. Once an LMIA is approved, workers still face a 237-day processing time for a work permit.

 

A Quiet Shift: Government Encouraging Departures?

Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan targets 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, focusing largely on economic immigration. However, policy signals suggest a shift away from temporary residents. With a cap on study permits and a pause in Express Entry draws from March to May 2025, pathways to PR for temporary residents are narrowing.

Experts argue these delays may be a strategic move to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada.

 

Families Struggle to Reunite

Perhaps the most emotional fallout from these delays is felt by families awaiting spousal sponsorships. Processing now takes over two years outside Quebec and three years within the province.

Cases like one from Cape Breton—where a Canadian man is separated from his Iranian wife—highlight the deep personal toll. Families are facing heartbreak, legal costs, and uncertainty as the backlog for spousal sponsorships continues to grow.

 

The Numbers and Definitions

As of Q1 2025, there were 3,020,936 non-permanent residents in Canada. This marks the first recorded quarterly drop, but the total remains higher than Q1 2024’s figure of 2,729,771.

A temporary resident is anyone who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident but is authorized to live in Canada temporarily—such as international students, foreign workers, and visitors.

 

A Nation at a Crossroads

Canada’s immigration backlog is not just a policy issue—it’s a humanitarian and economic crisis. With massive processing delays, reduced staffing, and a possible quiet effort to reduce temporary residents, the government is testing its commitment to compassion, family reunification, and workforce stability.

As Canada executes its 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, the challenge will be maintaining the country’s global reputation while supporting the people and families who want to call Canada home.

Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) continues to play a crucial role in the country’s immigration system by allowing provinces and territories to select candidates who can support local economic and labor demands. However, relocating to a different province after receiving Permanent Resident (PR) status through a PNP pathway requires careful consideration, especially given the stricter rules and reduced nomination quotas in 2025.

What’s Changing in Canada’s PNP for 2025?

The PNP allows provinces (except Quebec and Nunavut) to nominate immigrants that align with their economic needs. In 2025, the federal government reduced the number of PNP spots to 55,000, down from 110,000 in 2024, due to revised immigration targets. This significant cut makes it more competitive to get a nomination, requiring applicants to apply strategically.

 

There are two types of PNP pathways:

• Enhanced (linked with Express Entry)

• Base (direct applications to provinces)

Applicants must show a genuine intention to settle in the nominating province, often by signing formal commitments.

 

Key Change in 2025:

Due to limited allocations, provinces are prioritizing critical sectors such as healthcare, construction, and tech. For instance, British Columbia’s PNP allotment dropped to 4,000, with a strong focus on health professionals and entrepreneurs.

Updated PNP Process for 2025

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet the criteria of the province and the relevant federal immigration program (e.g., FSW, CEC). Language requirements and proof of intent to settle are key.

Step 2: Apply for Nomination

Enhanced Streams: Create an Express Entry profile and await a provincial Notification of Interest (NOI).

Base Streams: Apply directly via the province’s website or intake system.

Step 3: Accept the Nomination

Enhanced nominees must accept within 30 days to get 600 CRS points. Base nominees proceed directly to PR application.

Step 4: Apply for PR

Express Entry applicants must apply within 60 days. Base stream applications may take 12–18 months via paper or portal submission.

Step 5: Land in the Nominating Province

Complete your landing and fulfill provincial requirements, such as New Brunswick’s in-person registration within 30 days.

Note for 2025:

Due to reduced quotas, some provinces are prioritizing applicants already living in Canada. Stay updated via official provincial sites.

Can You Relocate After Receiving PR Through PNP in 2025?

Yes, Canada’s Charter grants mobility rights, meaning PR holders can live and work anywhere. However, if it appears you never intended to settle in your nominating province, this could be considered misrepresentation.

Potential Risks Include:

• • Revocation of PR
• • Deportation
• • 5-year ban on re-entry

Some provinces, like BC and Ontario, monitor nominee compliance more closely in 2025.

How Long Should You Stay in the Province?

While no specific law dictates a minimum stay, remaining in your province for a reasonable time helps demonstrate good faith.

Recommended Timelines:

Short Stay (1-2 months): Risky, especially if you leave right after receiving your PR card.

Moderate Stay (6–12 months): Usually enough if you can’t secure employment or settle properly.

Longer Stay (1–2 years): Strong evidence of your intent to settle.

Key Factors:

• • Compliance with local obligations (e.g., NB registration)
• • Proof of effort to settle
• • Valid reasons for moving (e.g., job, family, medical needs)

Risks of Moving Too Quickly

Immediate relocation may trigger an investigation, particularly if:

• • You never obtained a health card, job, or lease in the nominating province
• • You began working or studying elsewhere immediately

Valid Reasons to Move After PNP PR

To reduce risk, ensure your relocation is supported by valid reasons:

• • Job opportunities unavailable in your province
• • Reuniting with family
• • Education or health-related needs

Always notify the province and document your situation before moving. For example, BC requires notice via voicemail or email.

 

How to Prove Your Intent to Settle

Build a strong case with supporting documents, including:

• • Lease or home purchase agreements
• • Utility bills and mail
• • Job applications and employment offers
• • Provincial ID (e.g., health card, driver’s license)
• • Community engagement (volunteering, etc.)
• • Email communications with the province

Retention: Keep these documents for at least 5 years.

 

2025 Province-Specific Updates

British Columbia:

4,000 nomination cap, healthcare and entrepreneur focus. Some student streams are paused.

Ontario:

Expanded job offer streams, including options for self-employed physicians. Tougher fraud prevention rules.

Alberta:

Focus on healthcare and law enforcement roles. Smaller draws due to federal cuts.

New Brunswick:

Requires in-person registration and prioritizes in-Canada applicants following 50% quota reduction.

 

Legal Steps to Relocate in 2025

• • Review provincial obligations (e.g., in-person registration).
• • Establish genuine ties (housing, employment, ID).
• • Collect evidence of efforts and valid reasons to move.
• • Notify the province in writing.
• • Update your address with IRCC and service providers.
• • Be prepared to show documentation if questioned.

Move Provinces Confidently and Legally in 2025

While relocating after receiving PR through the PNP is your right, doing so without proper preparation in 2025 could jeopardize your status due to stricter scrutiny and reduced quotas.

Stay at least 6–12 months, document your efforts to settle, and communicate your intent clearly to reduce risks.

For personalized support, speak with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or your province’s immigration office.

In May 2025, seven foreign workers employed at a Quebec-based company are at risk of being deported due to recent updates to Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program. These changes have left not only the workers in a state of uncertainty but also caused distress for their employer, Airex Industries, and the local community.

What’s Happening?

Airex Industries, a Laval company that specializes in pollution control equipment, is struggling to renew work permits for seven of its employees—skilled welders critical to its operations. These employees, including Colombian national Fabian Molano, are on closed work permits that tie them directly to this specific employer.

Due to changes introduced to the TFW Program in November 2024, the company now faces significant hurdles in renewing the workers’ permits. Without extensions, these individuals may be forced to leave Canada, a country they’ve contributed to for years. Molano expressed his stress and fear about the situation, while Airex President Tony Vasilakos warned that losing these workers would seriously disrupt production.

 

What Changed in the TFW Program?

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program allows employers to hire internationally when Canadian workers aren’t available. But beginning in late 2024, the federal government implemented new rules to give hiring preference to Canadians—especially in regions with high unemployment.

 

Key changes include:

Higher Wages: In areas where unemployment is above 6%, employers must now offer temporary foreign workers at least 20% more than the median wage. For welders near Drummondville, this means at least $33/hour.

Stricter LMIA Requirements: Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) are now more difficult to obtain, especially if wage conditions aren’t met.

Local Hiring Push: The rules are designed to encourage hiring Canadians first, particularly in regions with underutilized labor pools.

These changes are part of a broader plan to reduce Canada’s temporary resident population from 7% to 5% by 2026.

 

Impact on Quebec Businesses

For Airex Industries and other companies in Quebec, the consequences are serious. Skilled welders like the ones at Airex are hard to find—especially those certified by the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB). Vasilakos argues that despite high unemployment rates in the region, qualified welders remain in short supply.

“We’ve followed the rules from the start,” he said. “Now it feels like we’re being punished for doing things by the book.”

Employers now face a difficult choice: meet higher wage demands or lose critical staff. Across Quebec, businesses in agriculture, health care, and manufacturing are facing similar dilemmas due to stricter hiring conditions.

 

Who Are the Workers Affected?

The seven workers at Airex have been part of the company for years. Many have established roots in Canada and contribute both economically and socially. Molano, like many others, holds a closed work permit, meaning if his permit isn’t renewed, he must leave Canada—even if no other local workers can fill his role.

Their potential departure is not just a personal loss—it’s a loss for the economy and the communities they serve.

 

Why Is It So Hard to Find Welders in Quebec?

The welding profession faces a shortage across the province, despite overall high unemployment. Here’s why:

Specialized Certification: Welders need CWB accreditation, a credential not all local job seekers possess.

Aging Workforce: Fewer young people are entering skilled trades.

Skills Mismatch: Many unemployed workers in high-unemployment regions aren’t qualified for specialized jobs like welding.

The TFW rule changes don’t account for this disconnect, which leaves companies like Airex in a bind.

 

Quebec’s Broader Immigration Shift

These local challenges reflect a broader shift in Quebec’s immigration policy:

Foreign Recruitment Paused: The province has suspended major recruitment initiatives (like Journées Québec) until mid-2025.

Simplified LMIA Stream Narrowed: In February 2025, the list of jobs eligible for fast-tracked LMIA processing was slashed from 267 to just 76.

PEQ Suspensions: Quebec’s Experience Program (PEQ) streams for graduates and skilled workers have been paused until June 30, 2025, limiting permanent residence options for foreign workers.

These moves align with Canada’s federal plan to reduce temporary residents, but have created significant disruptions for Quebec employers.

 

What Can Be Done?

To address the current crisis, governments at both the provincial and federal levels could consider the following:

TFW Flexibility: Create exemptions for sectors with proven shortages, like manufacturing, and extend permits for those already in Canada.

Permanent Residency Access: Reopen and expand programs like the PEQ for intermediate-skilled workers. The federal government could also increase quotas under the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Programs.

Employer Support: Offer financial incentives or subsidies to help employers meet higher wage requirements and invest in local training programs to boost domestic skills in trades.

Public Advocacy: Companies and workers alike can raise awareness by speaking to media and policymakers. Organizations like the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association (CILA) are already calling for more humane, flexible immigration policies.

How Can Affected Workers Respond?

If you’re a temporary worker in Quebec facing a similar issue:

Review Your Status: Know when your permit expires and apply for renewal early.

Explore Other Options: Look into programs like the International Mobility Program (IMP) or the PEQ Temporary Worker stream.

Get Legal Advice: Consult an immigration lawyer to explore possible alternatives to remain in Canada.

Work With Your Employer: Companies may be able to apply under LMIA-exempt categories depending on their industry.

 

The Bigger Picture

Quebec is walking a tightrope in 2025—balancing economic needs with cultural and infrastructure pressures. The province plans to admit between 48,500–51,500 new immigrants this year, with a focus on skilled workers. But temporary residents are under growing pressure, and the province has capped the number of skilled worker invitations from any single country to 25%, effective until October 2025.

While these measures may help with housing and resource constraints, they also pose serious risks to businesses and foreign workers.

 

Key Takeaways:

• • Seven skilled welders at Airex Industries are facing deportation due to new TFW rules.
• • Employers now must meet higher wage thresholds and face tougher LMIA conditions.
• • Quebec’s immigration tightening has made it harder for businesses to retain essential talent.
• • Policy changes intended to prioritize locals may backfire by worsening labor shortages.
• • Flexible immigration policies and support for both employers and workers are urgently needed.

 

Moving to Canada is an exciting adventure—but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. It’s completely normal to feel out of place at first, especially as you try to adapt and build a new life.

This guide isn’t about the paperwork or government procedures—this is all about how to feel at home in your new country, with simple tips that help you settle in emotionally and socially.

 

1. Pursue New Interests Right Away

The early weeks after your move are a great time to channel your energy into trying new activities. Whether it’s climbing at a local gym, taking an art class, or exploring your neighborhood theater scene—jump in early before routine sets in.

This is one of the most effective ways to meet new people. Trying new things puts you in the right mindset to make connections—and it’s fun!

 

2. Keep Doing What You Love—But Embrace the Local Spin

While it’s great to explore new interests, don’t leave behind the things that define who you are. Holding on to familiar hobbies helps create a sense of stability during a big life change.

At the same time, explore how Canadians enjoy those same hobbies. Whether it’s poker, board games, or outdoor sports—join local groups or clubs and learn the “Canadian way” of doing what you already love.

 

3. Be Part of the Community

The best way to feel like you belong is to give back. Volunteering is a powerful way to meet people and contribute to your new community.

Whether you help at a food bank, volunteer with animals, or join a cause close to your heart, this kind of involvement helps you build real, lasting connections. If you’re working or studying locally, you’ll naturally find people with shared experiences and goals.

 

4. Consider Language Classes

If English or French isn’t your first language—or even if you want to improve—language classes offer more than just lessons. They’re a great place to meet others who are also trying to settle in.

Many of your classmates will be newcomers like yourself, while others may be locals trying to improve their second language. If you’re fluent in English, why not take up French? It’s spoken by about 22% of Canadians and can really open doors, especially in regions like Quebec.

 

5. Join Expat Communities—Without Guilt

Some newcomers avoid expat groups because they worry it might hold them back from integrating. But connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly helpful.

You’ll share experiences, get practical advice, and meet people who’ve been in your shoes. Many long-time expats lead these groups and can offer valuable insights into Canadian life.

 

6. Learn About Canadian Culture—One Page at a Time

If you’re not quite ready to socialize, start by getting to know Canadian culture through books. It’s a low-pressure way to understand local quirks, humor, and values.

Funny and insightful reads like How to Be a Canadian by Will Ferguson or The Xenophobe’s Guide to the Canadians are great starting points. Even reading Canadian fiction or watching popular Canadian films can help you feel more in tune with the culture—and give you conversation starters when you do meet people.

 

Final Tip: Just Take the First Step

Canadians may not be as outgoing as Americans, but they’re generally kind, open, and happy to connect—if you give them the chance.

So don’t hesitate. Share some cookies with a neighbor. Strike up a conversation at your local coffee shop. Ask a librarian for a book recommendation. Go to events in your community, and keep showing up.

Making real connections starts with showing up—just take that first step!

Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Canadian government is reportedly considering targeted immigration support for Indian and Pakistani residents currently in Canada.

The possible move comes as Canada’s South Asian community expresses growing concern over the safety of loved ones, immigration delays, and disrupted travel following the latest spike in regional hostilities.

Canada has a history of extending immigration relief to nationals of countries in crisis. In recent weeks, the federal government issued travel advisories for both India and Pakistan in light of ongoing diplomatic and security issues.

The current India-Pakistan flare-up stems from a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir in April 2025, which resulted in 26 deaths, including tourists. India blames Pakistan for harboring the attackers—an allegation that Pakistan strongly denies.

In retaliation, both nations have enforced strict measures: recalling diplomats, suspending bilateral agreements (like the Indus Waters Treaty), banning trade, and cancelling visas. The closure of the Attari-Wagah border and flight restrictions have further disrupted cross-border movement, leaving many families divided.

Canada is home to about 1.7 million people of Indian origin and over 300,000 people of Pakistani descent. In provinces such as British Columbia and Ontario, where these communities are concentrated, there has been a collective call for peace and proactive Canadian government support.

Possible Immigration Responses Canada Could Announce

Although no formal program has been declared, based on past humanitarian actions, Canada may implement temporary immigration policies such as:

Permit Extensions: Automatic or simplified extensions for visitors, international students, and workers from India and Pakistan who cannot return home due to travel restrictions or safety issues.

Faster Family Reunification: Prioritized processing of sponsorship applications for close family members impacted by visa or travel bans.

Humanitarian Pathways: Special permits or residency options for those facing hardship or risk due to the conflict, especially those with family ties on both sides of the border.

Support for Asylum Seekers: Streamlined pathways for Indian and Pakistani nationals who may seek refuge citing political or safety concerns.

Enhanced Consular Services: Expanded staffing and resources at Canadian missions abroad to address increased inquiries and assist affected applicants.

These potential actions would primarily benefit students, workers, and families currently in Canada. With over 400,000 Indian students alone, any uncertainty surrounding study permits or post-graduation work permits could have significant consequences.

 

Past Examples of Canada’s Humanitarian Immigration Responses

Canada has previously rolled out emergency immigration programs in response to international crises:

1971-72: Provided refuge to over 5,000 people from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) during the liberation war.

1999: Welcomed more than 7,000 Kosovars through expedited immigration streams during the Kosovo conflict.

2015: Resettled 25,000+ Syrian refugees via government and private sponsorships.

2022: Offered temporary visas, work permits, and family reunification under CUAET to over 200,000 Ukrainians fleeing the war.

2023-24: Assisted over 1,500 Sudanese with temporary status, fee waivers, and faster family reunification processing due to the civil conflict.

 

These past measures show Canada’s ability to quickly adapt immigration policies in response to urgent humanitarian needs.


Voices from the Community

South Asian community leaders in Canada are cautiously optimistic.

“We need reassurance for our families and stability in our immigration status,” said Haroon Khan from the Pakistan-Canada Association in Vancouver. “Any action to ease uncertainty is welcome, but diplomacy must also be part of the solution.”

International students have voiced concern over their future in Canada. Simran, a student from Punjab, told CBC News: “The tensions back home might affect my study permit extension. That’s a big worry.”

Vinay Sharma of the Vedic Hindu Cultural Society emphasized community harmony: “In Canada, we live as one family. We hope the government takes care of our needs while advocating for peace in South Asia.”

What’s Next?

While the Canadian government has not officially announced new immigration measures, advocacy from the South Asian community continues to build momentum. If implemented, such steps could bring timely relief and reflect Canada’s commitment to humanitarian values.

Stay tuned for further updates as the government monitors the situation and considers its next steps.

On May 13, 2025, IRCC held its first Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw in over three months. While it’s a relief to see CEC draws return, the numbers tell a different story:

 

CRS cutoff: 547 – the highest so far in 2025

Invitations issued: Only 500

This limited number of invitations, coupled with the long gap since the last draw (Feb 5), drove the CRS score up significantly.

CEC Draw Details – May 13, 2025:

Program: Canadian Experience Class

CRS cut-off: 547

ITAs issued: 500

Tie-breaking rule: May 21, 2024, at 17:26:27 UTC

 

This high cutoff reflects the backlog and competition in the pool due to the suspension of CEC draws earlier this year.

 

How to Improve Your CRS Score in 2025

With higher CRS thresholds, boosting your score is more important than ever. Here’s how:

 

Improve Your Language Scores

• Take IELTS or TEF again to aim for CLB 9 or higher.
• Up to 136–150 points can be gained here.

 

Gain More Skilled Work Experience

• Especially in NOC TEER 0–3 roles.
• Can add up to 100 points (Canadian experience).

 

Advance Your Education

• A Master’s or PhD can earn up to 135 points.
• Get your credentials assessed through WES or similar.

 

Apply for a Provincial Nomination (PNP)

 

• Adds 600 points—practically guaranteeing an ITA.
• Explore options in Ontario, BC, Alberta, etc.
  
  

Include a Spouse (If Applicable)

 

• Their education and language scores can contribute up to 40 points.

 

Ready to Improve Your CRS Score or Explore Your Immigration Options?

At Kingsbridge Immigration, we specialize in guiding skilled professionals through Canada’s Express Entry and PNP pathways. Whether you need help boosting your CRS score, applying for a provincial nomination, or preparing a strong application — we’re here to help.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated processing times for a wide range of applications, including visas, permanent residency, citizenship, and passports.

Whether you’re applying from abroad or within Canada, these timelines are essential for planning your next steps—whether to study, work, sponsor a family member, or change your immigration status.

IRCC now uses a modern, real-time system that reflects current data, giving applicants a clear idea of how long most applications (about 80%) will take to process. Since 2022, outdated standards have been replaced with more accurate and frequently updated timelines.

Temporary resident visa and PR card timelines are updated weekly, while processing times for permanent residence, citizenship, and family sponsorship applications are refreshed monthly.

Because processing times depend on demand and internal capacity, they can shift—making it vital to stay updated when planning your next step.

Below is a full summary of the current IRCC processing times to help guide your Canadian immigration journey.

Note: These are estimated timelines and not guaranteed. Actual processing may vary depending on case complexity and documentation requirements.

Citizenship Processing (As of May 1, 2025)

Citizenship Grant: 10 months (was 8 months)

Citizenship Certificate: 4 months (was 3 months)

Renunciation: 7 months (was 8 months)

Search of Citizenship Records: 15 months (unchanged)

Resumption of Citizenship: No available estimate

Applicants who submitted their files around March 24, 2025, should expect their AOR soon. Delays are more common for those applying from outside Canada or the U.S.

PR Card Processing (Updated Weekly)

New PR Card: 35 days (up from 19 days)

PR Card Renewal: 10 days (no change)

Tip: Submitting a complete application helps avoid delays.

Family Sponsorship (Updated Monthly)

Spouse/Common-Law (Outside Canada, Non-Quebec): 10 months (down from 11)

Spouse/Common-Law (Outside Canada, Quebec): 36 months (up from 35)

Spouse/Common-Law (Inside Canada, Non-Quebec): 29 months (up from 24)

Spouse/Common-Law (Inside Canada, Quebec): 36 months (no change)

Parents/Grandparents (Non-Quebec): 36 months (no change)

Parents/Grandparents (Quebec): 48 months (no change)

Quebec’s longer timelines are due to its separate immigration agreements with the federal government.

Canadian Passport Processing (As of May 1, 2025)

In-Person Application: 10 business days

By Mail (Inside Canada): 20 business days

Urgent Pick-Up: By next business day

Express Pick-Up: 2–9 business days

From Outside Canada: 20 business days

Economic Class PR (Updated Monthly)

CEC: 5 months (no change)

FSWP: 5 months (down from 6)

PNP via Express Entry: 5 months (down from 6)

Non-Express Entry PNP: 20 months (down from 21)

QSW: 9 months (no change)

Federal Self-Employed: 53 months (up from 50)

Start-Up Visa: 41 months (up from 40)

Atlantic Immigration Program: 11 months (no change)

Some streams like FSTP and Quebec Business lack sufficient data for current estimates.

Temporary Resident Visas (Updated Weekly)

Visitor Visas (Outside Canada):

India: 19 days

U.S.: 18 days

Nigeria: 89 days

Pakistan: 25 days

Philippines: 27 days

Visitor Visas (Inside Canada): 20 days

Visitor Visa Extensions: 163 days

Super Visas:

India: 119 days

U.S.: 74 days

Nigeria: 68 days

Pakistan: 172 days

Philippines: 116 days

Study Permits (Outside Canada):

India: 8 weeks

U.S.: 5 weeks

Nigeria: 5 weeks

Pakistan: 9 weeks

Philippines: 11 weeks

Study Permits (Inside Canada): 4 weeks

Extension of Study Permit: 223 days

Work Permits (Outside Canada):

India, U.S., Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines: No change (7–18 weeks)

Work Permit (Inside Canada): 233 days (up from 227)

Other Temporary Visas:

SAWP: 11 days

IEC: 5 weeks (up from 4)

eTA: Typically 5 minutes (up to 72 hours possible)

Tracking IRCC processing times gives applicants a valuable roadmap to anticipate and prepare for delays. Whether you’re reuniting with loved ones, applying for permanent residency, or becoming a Canadian citizen, understanding current timelines ensures better planning.

At Kingsbridge Immigration, we’ve monitored these trends for years—giving you data-backed insights for a smoother journey to Canada.

Ready to begin your Canadian immigration journey? Let’s get started.

IRCC Issues 825 ITAs to PNP Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 825 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a recent Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw under the Express Entry system.

To be eligible, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 764 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile prior to the specified cut-off time.

This draw marks the first one held since CRS points for arranged employment were removed. It follows recent category-based draws, including one focused on French-language proficiency and another PNP-specific round.

So far, IRCC has issued over 31,000 ITAs this year through Express Entry. Under the current Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aims to welcome more than 124,000 new permanent residents via Express Entry in 2025. However, not every ITA results in permanent residency, as some applications may be refused, withdrawn, or remain incomplete.

What to Do After Receiving an ITA

Applicants who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. Required documents include:

• Valid passport or travel document

• Birth certificate

• Proof of work experience

• Police certificates

• Medical examination results

• Settlement fund documentation

• Photos of the principal applicant and family members

Failure to submit the application within the timeframe may result in the expiration of the invitation.

Once you are approved for permanent residence (PR) in Canada, there are a few important steps you must complete before fully enjoying the benefits of your new status. One critical issue many new permanent residents face is whether they can leave and re-enter Canada while waiting for their first PR card.

 

Here’s what you need to know:

 

Traveling Outside Canada After PR Approval: What Are the Rules?

To return to Canada by air, train, bus, or boat, you must have your PR card or, if you don’t have it yet, a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD). Without one of these documents, you won’t be allowed to board transportation heading to Canada.

 

If you’re returning to Canada by private vehicle through a land border, you might be able to re-enter by presenting your valid Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR). However, entry is not guaranteed — it’s at the discretion of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. Also, keep in mind that CoPR documents are typically valid for one year from the date they are issued.

 

Adjusting to Permanent Resident Status Inside Canada

Recently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a “virtual landing” system for people who are already in Canada when their PR is approved. This process is managed through the PR Confirmation Portal.

 

After your application is approved:

 

IRCC will email you for information to create your portal account.

 

You’ll then receive login details and must submit an electronic declaration confirming you’re inside Canada and accepting your new PR status.

 

Once accepted, IRCC will allow you to download your signed CoPR.

 

The signature date on the CoPR officially marks your transition to permanent resident status. From that moment on, your previous permits (such as a work permit or study permit) become invalid, and you must now rely on your PR status to stay and return to Canada.

 

However, you must wait for your PR card to arrive by mail before traveling internationally. If you leave Canada before receiving it, you’ll need to apply for a PRTD to return — a process that can take time. The only slight exception is traveling back by land in a private car, where showing your CoPR might allow you to enter, but again, it’s not guaranteed.

 

Landing as a New Permanent Resident from Outside Canada

If your PR application was approved while you were living abroad, you’ll need to physically travel to Canada to complete your landing.

 

When you arrive:

 

You must present your passport, CoPR, and, if required, a permanent resident visa.

 

A CBSA officer will confirm your identity, assess your eligibility, and officially admit you as a permanent resident.

 

After landing, you’ll need to provide a Canadian address where your PR card will be mailed.

 

Until you receive your PR card, you should avoid traveling internationally if you plan to return to Canada by plane or public transportation. If necessary, you could apply for a PRTD or attempt re-entry by land using your signed CoPR — but again, success is based on the border officer’s discretion.

 

Receiving your CoPR is a major milestone, but it doesn’t immediately guarantee easy international travel. Until your PR card arrives, traveling can be complicated. It’s best to stay in Canada until your PR card is safely in hand, or be prepared for the extra steps needed if you plan to leave.

 

Need help with your next steps after becoming a Canadian permanent resident? Our experts at Kingsbridge Immigration can guide you through the process and help you avoid any travel headaches.