• Standard Immigration   20 August 2025

Canada Express Entry Update: August 2025 Draw & New Medical Exam Rule

Canada continues to update its immigration process to streamline applications and maintain high standards for permanent residency (PR). In August 2025, two significant announcements were made that all Express Entry applicants should be aware of.

Express Entry Draw – August 18, 2025

The most recent Express Entry draw was held on August 18, 2025, specifically targeting candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Here are the key details:

  • Total Invitations Issued: 192 candidates

  • CRS Cut-off Score: 800 (one of the highest cut-offs of this year)

This draw reflects the continued competitiveness of Canada’s Express Entry system, especially for candidates applying through provincial nominations. A higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off means only the most qualified candidates with strong profiles are being invited to apply.

New Rule Effective August 21, 2025

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has also introduced a new mandatory requirement for all Express Entry applicants.

  • Starting August 21, 2025, all applicants must complete their medical examinations upfront before submitting their PR applications.

Previously, many applicants were allowed to submit their PR applications first and complete medical exams later during the processing stage. With this new change, medical exams become a prerequisite before application submission.

Why This Change Matters?

  • Faster Processing: Submitting medical results along with the application can reduce overall processing time.

  • Clarity for Applicants: Candidates will know earlier if any medical conditions could impact their eligibility.

  • Efficiency for IRCC: It helps the department avoid delays caused by pending medical documentation.

What Applicants Should Do Now

If you are planning to apply under Express Entry:

  1. Book your medical exam early with an IRCC-approved panel physician.

  2. Prepare all required documents before the submission deadline.

  3. Stay updated with future draws, as CRS cut-offs may continue to fluctuate.

Final Thoughts

The August 18 draw and the new medical exam requirement highlight Canada’s commitment to a transparent, efficient, and health-conscious immigration process. With higher CRS cut-offs and stricter pre-application requirements, applicants must prepare thoroughly to increase their chances of success.

At Stanstead Immigration Services, we guide candidates step-by-step through the entire Express Entry process – from eligibility checks and CRS score improvement to medical exam guidance and PR application submission.