Express Entry Draw #340: 536 Invitations Issued Under PNP

On March 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #340, issuing 536 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 736 received invitations.

This draw highlights the continued focus on provincial nominations, which provide a significant CRS boost, enabling candidates with lower core scores to qualify for an invitation.

Key Details

• Express Entry Draw #337

• Date of Draw: March 17, 2025, at 15:33:36 UTC

• Number of Invitations Issued: 536

• Minimum CRS Score: 736

• Program Specified: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

• Tie-breaking Rule: March 12, 2025, at 14:02:14 UTC

Impact of the Latest Express Entry Draw on Francophone Immigration

This draw continues the trend of high CRS scores for PNP-specific rounds, as provincial nominations grant candidates an additional 600 CRS points, making them highly competitive in the Express Entry pool. With only 536 invitations issued, this round was more selective than general draws, focusing on candidates endorsed by provinces.

Recent trends show frequent PNP-focused draws, reinforcing the provinces' role in selecting skilled workers tailored to their labor market needs. Candidates looking to improve their CRS scores should consider securing a provincial nomination, which remains one of the most effective ways to guarantee an ITA.

Understanding Express Entry Invitations: How to Secure Your ITA

Understanding how Express Entry invitations are issued is crucial for maximizing your chances of receiving an ITA. The selection process is based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability. Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive invitations in each draw. Some rounds are general, while others focus on specific categories such as provincial nominees, Francophone candidates, or in-demand occupations.

If you are not selected in a particular draw, you remain in the Express Entry pool and can improve your CRS score by updating your profile, gaining additional qualifications, or securing a provincial nomination.

Express Entry Draws Explained: How They Work & What to Expect

Express Entry draws are held by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to invite top-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residence. Some draws are general, open to all candidates, while others target specific groups like Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants, Francophone candidates, or workers in high-demand fields.

Each draw sets a fixed number of invitations and a minimum CRS score. The frequency and selection criteria depend on Canada's immigration goals and labor market needs. If your score meets or exceeds the cut-off, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). If not, you stay in the pool for future draws. Keeping track of trends and improving your CRS score can boost your chances.

10 Most Recent Express Entry Draws

Express Entry FAQ: Key Insights & Strategies

Get Expert Help with Your Express Entry Application

Didn’t receive an invitation this time? Don’t be discouraged! Express Entry draws vary, and improving your profile can significantly increase your chances. Consider enhancing your language scores, gaining additional work experience, or exploring provincial nomination programs.

Not sure if your profile meets the CRS cut-off? Get a free assessment with AskAïa to determine your eligibility and maximize your chances of receiving an invitation.