Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another major Express Entry draw #362 Canada, issuing 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in healthcare and social services. This marks the second-largest draw of the year for the sector, reinforcing Canada’s focus on addressing labour shortages in essential professions. To qualify, candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 470 and a profile submitted before April 23, 2025, at 8:08 p.m. UTC.

Healthcare and Social Services: A Growing Priority in Express Entry

This latest round highlights the federal government’s clear focus on healthcare and social services as one of the most in-demand occupational categories. Since May 2025, IRCC has consistently held monthly rounds, a significant change from earlier in the year when no healthcare-specific Express Entry draws were held.

With Canada facing shortages in nursing, caregiving, and community health, these targeted selections provide opportunities for skilled professionals worldwide to secure permanent residency and fill urgent gaps in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community organizations.

Express Entry Draw Canada #362: August 19, 2025

Here’s a quick breakdown of the latest round:

This draw comes just a day after the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on August 18 (192 ITAs, cut-off 800) and follows other rounds such as the French-language proficiency draw on August 8 and the Canadian Experience Class draw on August 7.

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued more than 55,000 ITAs across multiple categories, with healthcare and social services steadily becoming a central focus.

Express Entry Next Draw Prediction

One of the most common questions from candidates is: “When is the Express Entry next draw?” While IRCC does not release schedules in advance, trends suggest healthcare-focused draws will continue monthly, alongside CEC, PNP, and French-language rounds.

Based on current patterns, the Express Entry next draw prediction points to another healthcare and social services round in September 2025. CRS cut-offs may remain competitive, but consistency in monthly draws shows IRCC’s intent to maintain momentum.

Why Healthcare Candidates Are in Demand

The healthcare system in Canada is under pressure due to retirements, an aging population, and rising service needs. Roles such as nurses, personal support workers, caregivers, and social workers are especially sought after.

By issuing invitations through category-based Express Entry draws, the government ensures qualified candidates can secure permanent residency more efficiently, helping to stabilize the healthcare workforce.

Looking Ahead for Express Entry in 2025

The consistent focus on healthcare since May indicates a long-term strategy rather than a one-off measure. For applicants, this means maintaining a strong profile, boosting CRS scores, and being ready for the Express Entry next draw. Immigration professionals advise candidates to monitor official announcements and keep their documentation updated.

With 2,500 invitations issued in the second largest healthcare round of 2025, the Express Entry draw Canada system continues to prioritize urgent labour needs. For healthcare professionals worldwide, the Express Entry next draw may offer a pathway to permanent residency, making this one of the most promising times to enter Canada’s immigration system.

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