Recent updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveal significant changes in the Express Entry system—changes that are particularly relevant for African professionals planning to migrate and work in Canada. As an immigration expert, I break down these developments and explain their implications to help you better navigate your pathway to building a life in Canada.
Overview of the New Express Entry Draw
In early 2025, IRCC conducted a new draw under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) category of the Express Entry system. In this draw, 646 candidates received invitations to apply for permanent residency in Canada. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750 and had created their Express Entry profile by July 23, 2024. This move signals that IRCC is emphasizing pathways for candidates with specialized skills and targeted regional needs.
Key Changes in the Express Entry System
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Focus on PNP and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Candidates:
Since the beginning of 2025, IRCC has concentrated its Express Entry draws on either PNP or CEC candidates. For African professionals, this means that if you have Canadian education or work experience—or if your skills are in demand in a particular province—your chances of receiving an invitation could improve. The recent draws have returned to sizes similar to those seen in 2024, reflecting stability in the system. -
Updated Federal Targets:
The federal government has increased its target for admissions under Federal economic programs from 110,770 in 2024 to 124,590 in 2025. However, overall immigration levels will see a 20% reduction compared to 2024 targets. With fewer seats available through provincial pathways, the Express Entry system will play an even more crucial role in shaping the immigration landscape in Canada. -
Revised Allocation and CRS Adjustments:
The Federal High-Skilled (FHS) category, which previously contributed 22.8% of planned permanent resident admissions, has now been split into “In-Canada Focus” and “Federal Economic Priorities,” accounting for 31.5% of overall admissions in 2025. Meanwhile, the PNP allocation has been scaled back from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000 in 2025. These shifts imply a larger share of economic immigrants will now be selected directly through Express Entry, affecting all skilled workers, including those from Africa. -
Elimination of Job Offer Points:
In a move that will affect many applicants, the CRS points awarded for valid job offers (50 or 200 points depending on the job level) have been temporarily removed as of spring 2025. This change is expected to lower overall CRS scores for many candidates. For African professionals, this means that additional emphasis must be placed on other factors such as language proficiency, education credentials, work experience, and adaptability factors to remain competitive.
Implications for African Professionals
1. Strategic Preparation is Crucial:
African professionals eyeing a move to Canada must take extra steps to strengthen their Express Entry profile. With the removal of job offer points, it is essential to bolster your profile by:
- Enhancing language proficiency: Invest in language training and take recognized language tests.
- Upgrading education credentials: Consider further studies or obtaining assessments for your foreign degrees.
- Building work experience: Ensure that your professional experience is well-documented and aligns with Canadian job market needs.
2. Understanding Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP):
The PNP offers an alternative route to permanent residency, allowing provinces to select candidates based on local labor market needs. African professionals should research the specific criteria of provinces that align with their skills and experience. Many provinces have dedicated streams for skilled workers, students, and business owners. Visit the Provincial Nominee Program page on the Government of Canada website for detailed information.
3. Navigating the CRS System:
The Comprehensive Ranking System remains a vital tool in the Express Entry process. It awards points for age, language proficiency, education, work experience, and adaptability factors. African professionals should ensure that they submit their Express Entry profile as early as possible since profiles submitted earlier have an advantage if there’s a tie in scores.
4. Competitive Advantage in Specific Sectors:
Canada is continually looking for skilled professionals to fill gaps in its labor market. If you possess expertise in sectors where Canada faces shortages—such as healthcare, engineering, IT, or trades—your chances of a successful application may increase. Highlighting any Canadian experience or relevant foreign qualifications can give you an edge over other candidates.
Government Resources and Next Steps
For detailed and up-to-date information, regularly consult official Canada immigration websites such as:
What You Should Do Next:
- Review your CRS Score: Use the CRS calculator available on the IRCC website to assess your competitiveness.
- Strengthen Your Profile: Focus on improving language skills, obtaining further education or certifications, and documenting your work experience thoroughly.
- Research Provincial Opportunities: Identify provinces in Canada that align with your professional background and target those PNP streams.
- Stay Updated: Immigration policies are evolving. Regularly check official government sites for any new updates or changes that may affect your application.
Conclusion
The latest developments in the Canada Express Entry system underscore a more competitive landscape for permanent residency. While the removal of job offer points and the reallocation of admissions may initially seem challenging, these changes also present new opportunities for African professionals who can strategically enhance their profiles. With a proactive approach, detailed preparation, and continuous monitoring of official updates, you can effectively position yourself to realize your dream of working and settling in Canada.
For further guidance, consider consulting Empire Fly Law and leveraging government resources to navigate the application process with confidence.
By understanding these key updates and their implications, African professionals can make informed decisions and take the necessary steps to pursue their migration goals in Canada.
