New Express Entry Draw Targets Healthcare Workers- Invites 2,500 Candidates
On August 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) executed a targeted Express Entry draw specifically for the Healthcare and Social Services occupation category, inviting 2,500 candidates who met a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 470 or higher. This significant draw marks the second-largest healthcare-focused round of the year.
Key Draw Highlights
- Draw Date: August 19, 2025
- Category: Healthcare and Social Services Occupations (Version 2)
- Invitations Issued: 2,500 ITAs
- Minimum CRS Score: 470
- Tie-Breaking Rule: Candidates who submitted their profiles before April 23, 2025 at 20:08:53 UTC received priority in the case of score ties
Why This Matters
Canada’s healthcare and social services sectors are experiencing urgent labor shortages. By conducting category-based draws like this, IRCC can effectively recruit professionals in high-priority roles—ranging from registered nurses and pharmacists to social workers and therapists.
A CRS cut-off of 470 is relatively accessible compared to previous general draws, empowering more hopeful candidates—especially those with strong healthcare/social services credentials—to secure Canada PR.
Historical Context: How This Draw Compares
| Date | Draw Type | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-off |
| July 22, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services (V2) | 4,000 | 475 |
| June 4, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services (V2) | 500 | 504 |
| May 2, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services (V2) | 500 | 510 |
| August 19, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services (V2) | 2,500 | 470 |
This August draw, while second in scale to the July 22 round (4,000 ITAs at 475 CRS), stands out for its notably lower CRS threshold—making it especially competitive and encouraging for many applicants.
What This Means for You
- Greater Opportunity: Healthcare and social services professionals with CRS scores around or above 470 are prime candidates for ITAs.
- Strategic Profile Updates: Candidates should ensure their Express Entry profiles highlight relevant National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and emphasize six months (or equivalent) of continuous work experience in eligible roles.
- Tie-Break Priority: Early profile submission continues to matter. Profiles submitted before the tie-breaking timestamp may have better chances in tight cut-offs.
Tips to Improve Your CRS Score
If your CRS score is close to the cut-off, here are strategies to boost your profile:
- Retake a language test (IELTS/CELPIP or TEF) to score higher in English or French.
- Claim spousal points — if your partner can complete a language test or add educational/work credentials.
- Pursue a Canadian job offer in a healthcare or social service role (adds 50–200 CRS points).
- Apply for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) — a nomination adds 600 CRS points, guaranteeing an ITA.
- Update work experience — ensure your NOC codes match the eligible occupations listed by IRCC.
The August 19, 2025 Express Entry draw highlights how Canada is making immigration pathways more accessible for healthcare and social service professionals. With a cut-off score of just 470, many skilled candidates who were previously on the margin now have an excellent chance of securing permanent residency.
For applicants in these sectors, staying proactive by updating your Express Entry profile and exploring CRS-boosting strategies can be the key to success in upcoming draws.