In a major development for skilled workers and international graduates already contributing to the Canadian economy, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a new Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draw—the largest CEC round since July 2024.
This latest Express Entry 2025 update is welcome news for thousands of applicants seeking a stable and reliable pathway to Canadian permanent residence (PR).
Key Highlights of the December 10, 2025 CEC Draw
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Number of ITAs issued: 6,000
- Minimum CRS score: 520
- Tie-breaking rule: Profiles submitted before July 15, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. UTC
The CRS cutoff of 520 represents a noticeable improvement for candidates who have faced persistent high thresholds of 533–534 across recent draws. For many skilled workers and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders, this reduction signals a more accessible and predictable path to PR.
Why This Is a Landmark Moment for Express Entry Applicants
The size and timing of this draw reflect an increasingly pro-immigration policy environment in Canada, especially for workers who have already built Canadian work experience under the CEC program.
1. Strong Commitment to Domestic Skilled Workers
CEC candidates—particularly international graduates, temporary foreign workers, and individuals with Canadian work experience—form a crucial part of Canada’s long-term labour force. By issuing a large volume of ITAs, IRCC is clearly prioritizing:
- Retaining talent already integrated into the labour market
- Strengthening long-term workforce stability
- Providing transitions from temporary to permanent status
2. Renewed Positive Momentum for CRS Score Trends
This draw breaks a five-draw pattern of CRS stagnation and demonstrates IRCC’s readiness to issue larger rounds when pool composition and annual targets allow it.
A 520 CRS cutoff may indicate a move toward more balanced draws heading into early 2026, particularly as IRCC seeks to realign its Express Entry 2025–2026 distribution strategy.
3. Alignment with Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan
Canada continues to reaffirm its commitment to attracting global talent, with ambitious annual immigration targets and a strong focus on economic immigration pathways.
This large CEC draw directly supports:
- Canada’s 2025 & 2026 immigration targets
- PR transitions for workers already contributing to the economy
- IRCC’s strategy to maintain competitive pathways for skilled workers
Year-to-Date: IRCC Has Issued More Than 105,000 Express Entry Invitations in 2025
With this new draw, IRCC has now issued over 105,000 ITAs across all Express Entry programs in 2025, including:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- French-Language Proficiency category-based draws
- Health, STEM, and Other Priority Occupations
This widespread activity is a clear signal of Canada’s continued commitment to supporting economic growth through high-skilled immigration.
A Closer Look: How This Draw Benefits CEC Candidates
The Canadian Experience Class remains one of the most sought-after routes to permanent residence because it rewards Canadian work experience, adaptability, and successful integration.
For International Graduates
This is especially positive for PGWP holders, many of whom have struggled with high CRS cut-offs and limited CEC draw frequency in 2024 and early 2025. A larger, more inclusive draw increases the probability that international graduates will secure PR before work permits expire.
For Employers
Employers benefit when temporary workers can transition to permanent residence, reducing turnover, mitigating labour shortages, and supporting long-term workforce stability.
Outlook for 2026: What Candidates Should Expect Next
Based on current policy signals and IRCC’s 2026 immigration framework, candidates should anticipate:
1. Continued Large CEC and Category-Based Draws
IRCC is likely to maintain consistent rounds for CEC, French-language proficiency, and priority occupation categories.
2. Stabilizing CRS Scores
As inventory levels normalize, CRS scores may gradually become more predictable, offering greater clarity for candidates planning their immigration timelines.
3. Expanded Category-Based Selection
Canada is expected to increase the focus on:
- Healthcare
- STEM occupations
- Skilled trades
- Transport and logistics
- Early childhood educators and social support roles
These occupations remain in high demand and may see more targeted draws in the first half of 2026.
Final Takeaway: A Strong, Positive Signal for Canada’s Skilled Immigration Pathways
The December 10 CEC draw is one of the most encouraging developments for Express Entry candidates in more than a year. With 6,000 invitations, a significantly reduced CRS cutoff, and a strong pro-immigration direction, IRCC is reinforcing its commitment to welcoming skilled workers and supporting long-term population and economic growth.
For individuals seeking Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry, this draw offers renewed optimism, greater accessibility, and a clear indication that Canada remains one of the world’s most welcoming destinations for skilled immigrants.
