Latest Express Entry CEC lottery opens the way to permanent residency

Express Entry draw #353, held this past June 26, 2025, has generated great anticipation by inviting 3000 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants with a cut-off score of 521. This figure is notably lower than many previous draws, a clear sign that the time to act is now.

If you are in Canada on a temporary work permit, read this blog so that you understand the importance of transitioning to skilled employment and can participate in the Express Entry rounds for the Canadian Experience Class. This decision can make a world of difference in your immigration profile and help you obtain permanent residency. Let's get started!

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Analysis of recent draws by CEC

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Draw #353 closed the month of June, and did so with a lower score (521) than previous draws. In June, the Canadian government launched two draws for the Canadian Experience Class, both with the issuance of 3000 invitations to apply. Draw #351 (June 12) required a minimum score of 529, four points higher than 353. Last May, a single draw was launched for the CEC and the score was 547, much higher!

Although it is not known whether the score could drop further from the current 521, it is important to keep in mind that what counts most for permanent residency eligibility under the Canadian Experience Class is that, if already residing in Canada, you have accumulated qualifying work experience in a TEER 1, 2 or 3.

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Why is Canadian work experience worth more than a high monthly income?

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In Canada, immigration strategy is a determining factor in the transition process. It is not only about obtaining the highest monthly income in "first entry" jobs, this only serves to save money for a certain period of time. The immigration system requires a long-term vision. Temporary workers should invest their efforts in building a stable future and increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency, rather than focusing only on monetary gains under a status that will sooner or later expire and force them to return to their country of origin.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is actively prioritizing skilled workers who have demonstrated their ability to adapt to the country's labour market. Through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program, a mainstay we constantly talk about at Immiland Canada, candidates with at least one year of qualified work experience within the country have great advantages in the Express Entry system.

These advantages include:

• Highest CRS score

Canadian work experience adds up to significant points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which exponentially increases your chances of receiving an ITA.

• Proven adaptability

Having worked in Canada demonstrates your ability to successfully integrate into both the Canadian society and economy. IRCC takes this very seriously.

• Faster migration processes

Workers with Canadian experience can apply directly to the Canadian Experience Class, which often avoids lengthier processes, such as the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

It is worth noting that, to date, several PNP programs have closed or paused their admissions to reorganize their local immigration processes. While this may seem discouraging to some, it represents a great opportunity for others, as the federal government's objectives increasingly focus on those already living and working in Canada and applying through the CEC.

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Temporary status requires a long-term vision

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In Canada, it is imperative to work with foresight when it comes to immigration stability. A good immigration strategy is worth more than a large salary with no prospect of residency.

Many immigrants come to Canada looking to improve their income, but the real advantage lies in long-term planning. A skilled job not only allows you to earn money, but brings you closer to permanent residency, which guarantees quality of life in many ways, for example:

• You are free to work with any employer without the restrictions of a closed work permit.
• You are eligible for free health care in most provinces.
• Tuition rates are much lower at colleges and universities.
• You do not need temporary work permits.
• You have the possibility to apply for Canadian citizenship.
• You have the ability to sponsor your spouse, children or parents to live with you in Canada.

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At Immiland Canada, we are dedicated to assisting the immigrant population to successfully move towards permanent status. You can schedule an appointment with one of our CICC consultants or Canadian lawyers by clicking here.

Do you want to obtain permanent residency in Canada? Contact us for more information.

Before applying, we recommend that you evaluate your eligibility, focus your efforts on obtaining qualified employment and ensure that your actions today translate into stability and success tomorrow.

We hope you found this topic useful, thank you very much for reading, see you in the next blog!

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With love,

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Immiland Canada