Canada Invites Foreign Nationals to Apply for Permanent Residency

On December 11, 2025, Canada took a significant step in its immigration strategy by announcing the latest results of its Express Entry draw. This particular draw focused on healthcare and social services, issuing 1,000 invitations to eligible foreign nationals for permanent residency.

Details of the Express Entry Draw

The Express Entry draw was conducted at 11:51:44 UTC on December 11, 2025. The lowest-ranked candidate who received an invitation had a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 476. The tie-breaking rule applied to this round was established on November 26, 2025, at 07:44:30 UTC. This signifies that candidates with a score of 476 must have submitted their profiles before this date to be considered for an invitation.

Recent Immigration Trends

Just a day prior, on December 10, Canada hosted one of its most significant Express Entry draws, offering 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Canadian Experience Class. Additionally, results for the Provincial Nominee Program draw were released on December 8, showcasing the country’s ongoing commitment to diverse immigration pathways.

Eligibility for Healthcare and Social Services Occupations

To qualify as an eligible foreign national for the healthcare and social services occupations, candidates must meet certain requirements:

• At least six months of full-time work experience in relevant occupations, or the equivalent in part-time work.
• Experience must have been gained in the three years leading up to the establishment of this category.
• Candidates must have performed the essential duties and responsibilities outlined in the National Occupational Classification for their specific occupation.

Changes to the CRS System

In a notable change, Canada withdrew ‘job offer points’ from the CRS on March 25, 2025. This adjustment impacts candidates across various categories, particularly those in senior management positions and other skilled occupations. It aims to streamline the evaluation process without compromising the quality of applications.

These developments reflect Canada’s efforts to adapt its immigration policies to better serve both foreign nationals seeking residency and the local labor market needs. The nuances of the Express Entry system continue to evolve, ensuring a balanced approach to welcoming skilled workers into the country.