In 2025, several Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams across Canada have either paused or shut down. While this may seem like bad news at first glance, the truth is—it could actually benefit skilled workers, especially those already living and working in Canada.
With the federal government shifting focus toward Express Entry and reducing PNP quotas, skilled professionals have new avenues to secure permanent residency (PR) more efficiently.
A Strategic Shift: Express Entry Takes the Lead
Canada’s immigration strategy has been significantly rebalanced in 2025. The federal government has cut PNP targets in half, from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000 in 2025. This means fewer provincial nominations, but a big jump in Express Entry opportunities.
Express Entry targets have increased to 124,590, making up over 53% of all economic immigration slots.
In contrast, in 2024, Express Entry accounted for only 39% of total economic immigration.
This change is a clear signal: the Express Entry system is now the dominant immigration pathway, especially for skilled workers already in Canada.
Who Benefits the Most?
If you’re a skilled worker with Canadian work experience, you’re in luck.
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a category within Express Entry, has become a primary focus in 2025. The government is prioritizing candidates with real, hands-on experience in the Canadian labor market.
Candidates with:
- At least 1 year of paid, full-time skilled work experience in Canada in the last 3 years
- Sufficient English or French proficiency (CLB 7 or CLB 5, depending on occupation)
…now have a much better chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
As of early 2025, CEC CRS scores have ranged between 521–547, offering great opportunities for those already employed in Canada.
PNP vs Express Entry: Why Federal Is Better in 2025
| Feature | PNP | Express Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Must settle in nominating province | Can live anywhere (except Quebec) |
| Processing Time | 20 months average | 5–6 months standard |
| Application Steps | Two-level (Province → Federal) | Single-level (Federal only) |
| Eligibility | Varies widely across 80+ streams | Simplified under CEC |
Express Entry saves time, offers freedom of mobility, and reduces bureaucracy—making it the smarter choice for most skilled professionals today.
Read More: How to Confirm IRCC Received Your Canadian Immigration Application in 2025
PNP Closures Across Canada
Several major provinces have paused or modified their PNP streams:
- British Columbia shut down its International Graduate stream and postponed new program launches.
- New Brunswick paused its Strategic Initiative stream due to an overwhelming number of applications.
- Most provinces have received fewer nomination slots due to the federal government’s reallocation.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re a skilled worker in Canada—especially on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or a temporary work visa—this is the ideal time to pivot toward Express Entry.
At The Millennium Immigration, we can help you:
- Understand your CRS score and optimize it
- Prepare a competitive Express Entry profile
- Navigate category-based draws
- Avoid common mistakes in your application
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don’t let shifting immigration policies catch you off guard. With the right strategy, 2025 could be your year to become a permanent resident of Canada.