On December 10, 2025, Canada conducted the largest Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draw of the year, issuing 6,000 invitations for permanent residency. This draw marked the most significant since July 17, 2024, when 6,300 invitations were issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The latest update revealed that candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 520 or higher were invited to apply, with the cutoff score dropping by 11 points compared to the previous draw on November 26.
As IRCC adjusts its immigration strategy for 2026, these high-volume CEC draws are providing stability to many in-Canada workers.
Key Details Of The December 10 CEC Draw
- Program: Canadian Experience Class
- Date: December 10, 2025
- Invitations issued: 6,000
- CRS score required: 520
- Rank required: 6,000 or above
- Tie-breaking rule: July 15, 2025 at 17:30:33 UTC
In this round, candidates already working in Canada, with valid Express Entry profiles and meeting the CRS cutoff, were given priority. The focus on individuals with Canadian work experience benefits temporary workers, international graduates, and transitioning applicants.
This draw signifies IRCC’s shift towards prioritizing in-Canada applicants as part of the 2026 immigration levels framework. The large CEC rounds aim to stabilize the temporary resident population, align with labor demands, and provide a clear pathway for long-term workers integrated into the Canadian workforce.
Following the July 17, 2024, draw, IRCC conducted several biweekly CEC rounds ranging from 3,200 to 5,000 invitations each. While this pattern may not repeat exactly, the upcoming priorities suggest a continued emphasis on in-Canada applicants leading into 2026.
All The CEC Express Entry Draws In 2025
- December 10, 2025: 6,000 invitations, CRS 520
- November 26, 2025: 1,000 invitations, CRS 531
- November 12, 2025: 1,000 invitations, CRS 533
- October 28, 2025: 1,000 invitations, CRS 533
- October 1, 2025: 1,000 invitations, CRS 534
- September 3, 2025: 1,000 invitations, CRS 534
- August 7, 2025: 1,000 invitations, CRS 534
- July 8, 2025: 3,000 invitations, CRS 518
- June 26, 2025: 3,000 invitations, CRS 521
- June 12, 2025: 3,000 invitations, CRS 529
What Happens Next For Candidates
Applicants receiving invitations have 60 days to submit their complete permanent residency application, including required documentation. IRCC will continue adjusting draw sizes and thresholds in alignment with the 2026–2028 immigration priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are more large CEC draws expected in 2026?
Larger CEC draws may continue in 2026 as federal policy focuses on in-Canada applicants and managing temporary resident volumes.
Can international graduates benefit from CEC draws?
Yes, international graduates with Canadian work experience often benefit from CEC draws to secure permanent residency.
How does IRCC decide when to hold a large CEC draw?
IRCC considers various factors like temporary resident numbers, Express Entry inventory, and annual targets in determining draw sizes.
How quickly must applicants submit documents after receiving an ITA?
Applicants must submit their complete PR application within 60 days of receiving an invitation.
