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Express Entry Draw 356: 202 Invited with CRS Cut-Off at 788

    Express Entry Draw 356: Canada Issues 202 ITAs in PNP-Focused Round

    On July 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #356, inviting 202 candidates through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 788, with a tie-breaking rule applied to profiles submitted before June 5, 2025, at 23:50:45 UTC.

    This draw reflects IRCC’s continued focus on targeted Express Entry rounds in 2025, particularly emphasizing regional and provincial alignment. As of this draw, IRCC has issued approximately 6,053 invitations through PNP streams alone this year, showcasing the importance of provincial nominations as a pathway to permanent residency in Canada.

    What Makes the July 21, 2025 PNP Draw Stand Out?

    Though smaller in size compared to previous PNP draws, Draw 356 offers key insights into Canada’s current immigration approach:

    • The high CRS cut-off of 788 indicates intense competition and limited availability of provincial nomination slots.

    • Only candidates with a provincial nomination (adding 600 points to their base CRS) could realistically receive an ITA.

    • The draw follows just two weeks after the previous PNP draw held on July 7, 2025, which invited 356 candidates with a cut-off of 750.

    • IRCC’s recent trend of compact PNP draws highlights the growing selectivity among provinces and the federal government due to allocation caps and program priorities.

    These developments suggest that provincial nominations remain a critical but increasingly competitive pathway, especially for candidates with moderate CRS scores or specific in-demand skill sets.

    2025 Draw Trends: What to Expect?

    So far in 2025, IRCC has conducted 25 Express Entry draws, distributed across various streams:

    • 13 PNP-specific draws: approx. 6,053 ITAs

    • 4 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws: 15,000 ITAs

    • 3 French-language draws: 18,500 ITAs

    Other draws targeting in-demand occupations such as healthcare, trades, and tech

    This trend shows a shift in focus toward candidates who not only possess required skills but also meet regional or language-specific needs. Immigration observers anticipate that the next draw may prioritize CEC candidates, possibly by late July or early August—providing new opportunities for temporary residents and Canadian graduates.

    How Swainz Overseas Careers Can Help You Succeed

    If you are aiming to secure permanent residence in Canada through Express Entry, obtaining a provincial nomination could be your fastest and most reliable option. Swainz Overseas Careers, the best Canada immigration consultancy in Hyderabad, is your expert partner on this journey.

    At Swainz Overseas Careers, we take a tailored approach to your immigration plan. Our team meticulously assesses your profile to identify the most suitable pathway—be it PNP, CEC, or Federal Skilled Worker. We assist in boosting your CRS score and help you choose the province that best aligns with your career background and qualifications. From preparing a compelling application and managing documentation to assisting with IELTS training and visa submission, Swainz ensures a seamless, strategic, and successful immigration process.

    Stay Ready for Your ITA

    Express Entry Draw 356 demonstrates that while competition under PNP streams is intensifying, opportunities still exist for well-prepared candidates. With a CRS cut-off of 788 and limited ITAs, having a strong, complete profile and a strategic provincial plan is more crucial than ever.

    Don't leave your future to chance. Whether you're just entering the Express Entry pool or trying to improve your ranking, team up with Swainz Overseas Careers—the best Canada immigration consultancy in Hyderabad—for trusted advice, comprehensive support, and proven results.

    Let Swainz help you prepare for the next Express Entry draw. Your Canadian dream begins with the right guidance.

    Frequently Asked Question

    Yes, a CRS score of 495 is competitive for general or category-based Express Entry draws. However, for PNP draws like the recent one with a 788 cut-off, you’ll need a provincial nomination to qualify.

    Express Entry draws typically occur every two weeks, but IRCC has been issuing draws more flexibly in 2025. The next draw could be for CEC or a category-based stream by late July or early August.

    A CRS score of 400 is generally not high enough for direct Express Entry invitations. To boost your chances, obtaining a provincial nomination (+600 points) can significantly improve your profile.

    The minimum CRS score for a PNP draw depends on provincial criteria and IRCC’s thresholds. In Draw 356, only candidates with 788+ (including nomination points) received invitations.

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