Welcome to episode 81 of the Canada Immigration News Podcast, where we deliver the most relevant immigration updates across Canada. In this episode, we cover the latest category-based Express Entry draw for healthcare workers, North Bay Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) updates for 2025, a significant change to the PRRA hearing consent process, and the latest national job vacancy data.

Express Entry Draw #345 targets healthcare workers with a record-high CRS cut-off

On May 2, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held Express Entry Draw #345, inviting 500 candidates under the healthcare category. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cut-off was 510, the highest ever seen in a healthcare-targeted draw. This was the first healthcare-specific invitation round of the year and signals growing competition in the pool or a tightening of selection criteria. The tie-breaking rule for this round was set at July 21, 2024, 04:31:17 UTC, meaning candidates who met the minimum score and submitted their profiles before that date received invitations.

North Bay announces 2025 priority occupations under RNIP

North Bay, Ontario has updated its Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) community priorities for 2025. The city will now prioritize job offers in healthcare and social services, skilled trades, sales and marketing, business administration, and education including early childhood care. Applicants must meet both federal RNIP eligibility and secure employment with a participating local employer to qualify. The updated list reflects regional labor shortages and North Bay’s commitment to attracting long-term, skilled newcomers to support its economy and communities.

Virtual hearings become the new default for PRRA applicants

As of April 29, 2025, IRCC has revised its policy on Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) hearings by making virtual consent the default. Now, when an applicant submits a PRRA application, it is assumed they consent to a virtual hearing. Previously, applicants were required to submit written consent for remote attendance. This procedural shift aims to speed up scheduling and improve accessibility across the system. Those still seeking an in-person hearing must submit a formal request with justification.

Canada records 528,000 job vacancies as of February 2025

According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, the country had 528,000 job vacancies as of February 2025. While this marks a slight year-over-year decline, demand remains high across sectors such as healthcare, accommodation and food services, and retail trade. Nearly one in five vacancies were in healthcare, which continues to top the list of labor shortages nationwide. The numbers further underscore Canada’s need for targeted immigration to meet labor market demands and maintain economic momentum.

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