Canada Immigration Update – November 17, 2025

Canada Immigration Update – November 17, 2025 Snapshots: IRCC’s application inventory has topped the two-million mark, and processing times now vary sharply by stream. This update explains where delays are concentrated, which routes are moving faster, and how applicants can reduce risk by submitting complete files, selecting the smartest pathways, and making well-timed submissions.

Key Developments

1. On October 27, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a targeted Express Entry draw under the Provincial Nominee Program stream, issuing 302 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 761. Business Today+1

   • This is a 17‑point drop from the prior PNP‑linked draw on October 14. Business Today+1

   • Implication: PNP-linked candidates continue to be invited, and a modest reduction in the CRS threshold suggests slightly increased access in this stream.

2. The federal government will publish its next three‑year immigration target plan (the 2026‑2028 Immigration Levels Plan) on or before November 1, 2025. MLT Aikins+2The Economic Times+2

   • Early indications suggest that permanent-resident targets are expected to remain relatively stable, while the number of temporary residents may be reduced as part of a shift in long-term strategy. The Economic Times+1

   • Implication: Applicants and employers should anticipate slower growth in temporary-resident streams and an increased emphasis on sustainable, permanent-resident selection.

3. IRCC updated its published processing times tool in October 2025 to include new dashboard features. Applicants can now view queue length data, estimated time remaining, and other granular details. Moving2Canada+1

   • For example, the standard service goal for many Express Entry permanent-residence applications remains six months. CIC News+1

   • Practical note: While these are service goals (not guarantees), better transparency helps applicants monitor their file more closely.

4. On the policy side, the government has flagged upcoming changes to reduce the number of new temporary‑resident admissions in the coming years‑‑both to align with infrastructure capacity and labour‑market strategy. Immigration News Canada+1

   • Implication: Those in temporary‑resident status (students, workers) should be preparing proactively for transition‑to‑permanent‑residence strategies.

   • Additionally, the eligibility criteria for certain open or extended work permits are evolving, making documentation and employer compliance increasingly important. Emaroo Cottages+1

What This Means for Clients

• Skilled-worker and PNP hopefuls: The latest draw shows that PNP-linked routes remain active, and the CRS threshold can shift—keeping your profile current (including language scores, work experience, and job offer) is critical.

• Temporary‑resident applicants (students/workers): With upcoming policy shifts reducing new temporary admissions, consider your plan for moving from temporary status to permanent residency now, rather than later.

• Employers and regional recruiters: These draws and policy signals demonstrate an emphasis on regional labour market needs and PNP usage. Work with your immigration advisor to ensure that job offers, Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), and provincial nominations align.

• General applicants: Check the IRCC tool for an update on your current status. Preparation remains key—submit complete files, monitor your application queue, and respond promptly to any requests.

Canada Immigration Update – November 17, 2025