Welcome to Canada Immigration News Podcast Episode #72! In this episode, we discuss the latest updates in Canadian immigration and economic policies, including new Express Entry draws, Nova Scotia’s investment plan, and British Columbia's minimum wage increase. Stay informed with the most recent developments shaping Canada in 2025.

IRCC Issues 646 Invitations in Latest Express Entry Draw #336

Canada continues to refine its immigration process, with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issuing 646 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in Express Entry Draw #336. This draw targeted Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates and required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 750.

This draw follows a pattern seen earlier in 2025, where PNP and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates were prioritized. Those who submitted their Express Entry profiles before July 23, 2024, at 5:41 PM UTC were eligible for this round. The high CRS requirement underscores the competitive nature of Express Entry, making provincial nominations a valuable pathway for skilled workers.

Canada Holds First French-Language Express Entry Draw #337 of 2025 – 6,500 ITAs Issued

In a major step towards strengthening Francophone immigration, Canada has issued 6,500 ITAs in the first French-language Express Entry draw of 2025. This category-based draw (Express Entry Draw #337) had a CRS cutoff score of 428, significantly higher than last year’s biggest French-language draw, which required 365 points.

This draw highlights Canada’s continued commitment to attracting French-speaking immigrants, particularly in provinces outside Quebec. As competition for permanent residency intensifies, candidates are encouraged to boost their CRS scores through additional work experience, education, and provincial nominations.

Nova Scotia’s Largest Investment Plan – A New Era of Growth and Opportunity

Nova Scotia is making history with its largest-ever capital investment plan, allocating over $2.35 billion to critical sectors such as healthcare, housing, and infrastructure. This ambitious initiative aims to create jobs, modernize public services, and stimulate economic growth across the province.

A significant portion of this investment - $750.9 million - will go toward healthcare improvements, including hospital upgrades and digital health technology advancements. This funding will ensure better medical services, reduced wait times, and enhanced access to healthcare professionals.

This historic investment plan is expected to transform Nova Scotia into an even more attractive destination for newcomers seeking economic opportunities and a high quality of life.

British Columbia Raises Minimum Wage to $17.85 Per Hour Starting June 2025

British Columbia has announced a new minimum wage increase, set to take effect on June 1, 2025. The wage will rise from $17.40 to $17.85 per hour—a 2.6% increase aimed at helping workers manage rising living costs.

This increase is part of BC’s policy to tie minimum wage adjustments to inflation, ensuring fair compensation for workers. Key highlights include:

• Effective Date: June 1, 2025
• General Minimum Wage: $17.85 per hour
• Annual Increase Mechanism: Linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI)

The increase will also impact workers in various sectors, including residential caretakers, live-in home-support workers, camp leaders, and app-based delivery drivers. Agricultural workers harvesting specific crops will see their piece rates rise by 2.6% starting December 31, 2024.

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