Canada continues to emphasize skilled immigration through its Express Entry program, with the latest Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on April 28, 2025, the second draw in April. Through its commitment to attracting skilled immigrants through the Express Entry stream, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a draw yesterday, issuing 421 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence, highlighting the growing importance provincial nominations play in securing an ITA.

At Zohil-Morton Law, we support corporations, individuals, and families in navigating Canada’s immigration pathways with clarity. Here is an overview of the latest draw and what it means for your immigration strategy.

Key Takeaways from the April 28, 2025 Draw

• A total of 421 candidates received ITAs under the PNP category.
• The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 727, 37 points lower than the April 14, 2025 draw.
• Only candidates with a provincial nomination were considered, which automatically adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score.
• In the event of identical CRS scores, IRCC applied the tie-breaking rule based on the date and time when candidates submitted their Express Entry profiles.

The high score threshold is typical of PNP-specific draws. While general Express Entry draws often have lower CRS cut-offs, PNP rounds focus on addressing provincial labour market demands by inviting candidates who have been pre-selected by a Canadian province or territory.

CRS Score Breakdown in the Express Entry Pool (as of April 28, 2025)

Understanding the Competitive Landscape

As of April 28, 2025, there are over 246,500 candidates in the Express Entry pool. Tens of thousands of these candidates had CRS scores between 401 and 450, making it clear that competition remains intense. Without a provincial nomination, many qualified candidates remain in the pool without receiving an ITA, which is why securing a provincial nomination is a strategic move for many applicants. It offers a clear advantage by significantly increasing your CRS score and placing you at the front of the line in PNP-specific draws, such as the one held on April 28, 2025.

Why Consider a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

PNPs continue to be a powerful route to Canadian permanent residence, especially for candidates whose CRS scores may fall short of the general draw cut-offs. Each province and territory in Canada operates its own nominee program to select candidates who meet specific regional labour market needs.

At Zohil-Morton Law, we guide clients through various PNP streams, including:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
• Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
• Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

We work with clients to assess their eligibility, select the most suitable PNP stream for their background, and guide them through every step of the application process — from expression of interest to nomination and ultimately permanent residence.

How Zohil-Morton Law Can Support Your Immigration Journey

Our experienced immigration team understands the nuances of both Express Entry and PNP pathways. Whether you’ve already entered the Express Entry pool or are planning your immigration strategy, we offer strategic advice tailored to your goals.

We assist with:

• Assessing your suitability for the PNP.
• Enhancing your Express Entry profile to improve your CRS score.
• Preparing and submitting accurate, complete, and compliant applications.
• Representing you throughout the process to minimize errors and delays.

Ready to Move Forward With Your Application?

A provincial nomination can dramatically increase your chances of obtaining Canadian permanent residence. Let Zohil-Morton Law help you make informed decisions, avoid common mistakes, and move forward with confidence.

Contact us to schedule a consultation with Cristina Zohil-Morton, an experienced and trusted immigration lawyer, or e-mail her directly at cristina@zomolaw.ca.