Today, Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 940 invitations to eligible Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. The lowest CRS score is 711, 2 point lower than the previous PNP draw.

The recent PNP draws do indicate IRCC’s willingness to lower the threshold. Nevertheless, unlike the perpetual decrease people witness with the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw scores, PNP draw statistics over the past year are yet to convey a upward or downward trend. One plausible reason could be the IRCC’s conservation of high-quality applicant pool, which may be compromised due to decreased scores.

Regardless of PNP scores’ equivocating trend, the drawing pool continues to enlarge. From IRCC’s latest data from June 7th, there are currently 747 candidates in the 601-1200 score range, 270 more than that of May 27th. As intimidating as it may appear to be, those who attain eligibility for PNP need not to worry. Past PNP draws exhibit an almost 100% invitation rate.

IRCC elucidated in February that the department will grant priorities to various forms of permanent residence applications. Part of the leniency is due to a shortage of immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on IRCC’s words, the merits given to applicants will at least last until the termination of travel restrictions.

Currently, Canadian provinces are promptly implementing economic recovery agendas. Moreover, a reopening of the border is no longer in the far future. Given these impending events, the clock is ticking for potential candidates. We suggest those who qualify for any immigration programs to submit their applicants as soon as possible.