IRCC Holds First CEC draw May 2025 in Over Three Months
On May 13, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held its first Canadian Experience Class CEC draw May 2025, issuing 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system.
To qualify, candidates needed:
- A minimum CRS score of 547
- An Express Entry profile submitted before 5:26 p.m. UTC on May 21, 2024
This marks May’s fourth Express Entry draw and the 34,440th ITA issued in 2025.
2025 Express Entry Draw Highlights
| Draw Type | Total Draws | ITAs | Lowest CRS Score |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 8 | Varies | Up to 764 |
| Canadian Experience Class | 4 | Up to 4,000 | 521–547 |
| French-language Proficiency | 3 | Up to 7,500 | 379–428 |
| Education | 1 | 1,000 | 479 |
| Healthcare & Social Services | 1 | 500 | 510 |
New Immigration Minister Appointed
This draw was the last under Minister Rachel Bendayan. Canada’s new Immigration Minister is Lena Metlege Diab, appointed on May 13 as part of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s cabinet shuffle.
Upcoming immigration priorities under Minister Diab are expected to include:
- Stabilizing permanent resident intake to 1% of Canada’s population by 2027
- Boosting francophone immigration
- Reforming the Global Talent Stream
- Reducing temporary resident numbers (work and study permits)
Conclusion
The latest CEC draw May 2025 signals a renewed focus on candidates with Canadian work experience, while Minister Lena Diab’s appointment marks a potential shift in immigration priorities. As Canada refines its immigration strategies, upcoming draws and policy updates will shape opportunities for aspiring permanent residents. For the updates, please contact Asif Consulting.
