On January 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the 333ᵉ Express Entry draw. This draw, dedicated to the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), marked an important moment for many candidates aspiring to permanent residency in Canada. A total of 4,000 invitations to apply were sent to candidates who had achieved a minimum score of 527 points in the Global Ranking System.
Find out more about this draw, its impact on applicants and why the Canadian Experience Class plays a key role in Canadian immigration.
What is the Canadian Experience Class?
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the main immigration channels managed by the Express Entry system. It is specifically designed for skilled workers with Canadian work experience, making them well-integrated into Canadian society and economy.
To be eligible for the CEC, candidates must :
- At least 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years;
- Demonstrate language skills in English or French, depending on job requirements;
- Meet the general eligibility criteria for the Express Entry system.
This program offers a unique opportunity to temporary workers and foreign students who have built their future in Canada.
Draw results: facts and figures
Draw #333 on January 23, 2025 saw 4,000 applicants receive an invitation to apply in the Canadian Experience category. This was the largest of IRCC's three draws since the beginning of 2025. Here are the highlights of the draw:
- Minimum score required in the SCG: 527 points, reflecting strong competition among candidates.
- Tie-breaking rule: In the event of a tie, candidates who submitted their profile before July 23, 2024 at 07:06:43 UTC are given priority.
- Draw date and time: The draw took place at 15:30 UTC.
With this score, invited candidates demonstrate a combination of work experience, language skills and other factors that make them highly competitive for entry into the Canadian job market.
Why is this print run important?
The Canadian Experience Class plays an essential role in meeting the needs of the Canadian job market. CEC candidates often have significant advantages:
- They already know how Canadian workplaces work.
- They are better prepared to integrate culturally and socially.
- Their Canadian experience often gives them privileged access to local employers.
Canada, a destination of choice
This print run underlines once again why Canada is one of the most popular destinations for skilled immigrants. With an economy full of opportunities, a universal health care system and job and business openings in a variety of sectors, Canada offers an environment where families and individuals can thrive.
For those who dream of building a future here, the Canadian Experience category is an ideal gateway. Whether you're based in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary or other cities, or in less populated regions that are just as attractive, your skills and experience will be invaluable assets to the country.
Conclusion
Congratulations to the 4,000 applicants who received an invitation to the January 23, 2025 Express Entry draw! This step marks the beginning of a journey towards permanent residency, and for many, a promising future in Canada.
If you have any questions or would like to maximize your chances of being selected in an upcoming draw, our regulated Canadian immigration consultant is here to help you every step of the way. Make an appointment today to receive personalized advice and move your immigration project forward.
We wish you every success!