Express Entry Draw #342 | 825 Invitations Issued in PNP Draw
Latest Express Entry Draw #342 has finally taken place on 14th April 2025 and invited 824 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 764.
Express Entry Draw #342 Highlights
Here’s a quick summary of the draw results:
| Draw Type | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) |
| Number of Invitations | 825 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 764 |
| Date of Draw | April 14, 2025 |
| Tie-Breaking Rule | August 17, 2024, at 18:35:52 UTC |
| Next Predicted Draw | Canadian Experience Class – April 15, 2025 |
This draw also marks the first PNP-specific round after the removal of CRS points for Arranged Employment — a key change that could reshape future candidate profiles in the Express Entry pool.
What This Draw Tells Us About the 2025 PNP Landscape
With 825 invitations issued, this is the largest PNP-specific draw of the year so far. However, it also highlights a noticeable trend: while the draw size was significant, expectations were higher, especially since no PNP-specific round was held in the past four weeks.
And there’s a bigger story behind the numbers.
- Total PNP ITAs in 2025 (so far): 3,658
- Compared to same time in 2024: Down nearly 50%
Why the drop? It ties back to Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan, which has made it clear that PNP admissions via Express Entry are being intentionally reduced. The goal appears to be to manage the flow of permanent residency through a more targeted and streamlined approach, balancing federal and provincial priorities.
Comparison with Previous PNP-Specific Draw
The previous PNP-specific Express Entry Draw #340, issued 536 ITAs to PNP candidates with a minimum CRS score of 736. In comparison to the previous round, not only did more PNP candidates receive ITAs this round, but the CRS score also decreased which gave more candidates a chance at receiving an ITA this draw.
What to Expect Next in Express Entry?
All signs point toward a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw coming up on April 15, 2025. If that happens, it will be the first CEC draw in over a month — potentially offering a fresh opportunity to those with Canadian work experience.
How the Provincial Nominee Program Works With Express Entry
Not sure how the two systems work together? Here’s a quick overview.
- Express Entry is the federal system for managing skilled worker applications.
- PNP allows provinces to nominate individuals who meet their labour market needs.
- Once invited, you submit your permanent residence application and typically receive a decision within 6 months — much faster than other immigration routes.
So, if you’re thinking long-term, securing a PNP nomination through Express Entry can give you a significant edge.
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