How Does the Express Entry Tie-Breaking Rule Impact Canadian Immigration in 2025?
- Rajan Jain
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Are you planning to apply for Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry? Understanding the tie-breaking rule can be the key to receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) rather than waiting for the next draw. In this guide, we’ll break it down in simple terms so you can navigate your immigration journey with confidence.
What is the Express Entry Tie-Breaking Rule?
The tie-breaking rule is a fair and transparent method used by IRCC to determine which candidates receive an ITA when multiple applicants have the same CRS score at the cut-off point.
Key Points About the Tie-Breaking Rule:
When multiple candidates have the same CRS score, IRCC uses the date and time of profile submission to decide who gets invited first.
Earlier submissions take priority over later ones.
The rule applies to all Express Entry streams, including:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
It is also used in category-based Express Entry draws, where IRCC selects candidates based on specific skills and experience.
How Does the Express Entry Tie-Breaking Rule Work?
Let’s break it down with an example:
Imagine a draw with a CRS cut-off score of 542. Three candidates have this score:
Candidate A: Submitted profile on January 10, 2025, at 15:30 UTC.
Candidate B: Submitted profile on January 11, 2025, at 09:45 UTC.
Candidate C: Submitted profile on January 12, 2025, at 14:20 UTC.
If IRCC sets the tie-breaking timestamp as January 11, 2025, at 10:00 UTC:
Candidate A and Candidate B receive an ITA (submitted before the tie-breaking timestamp).
Candidate C remains in the pool (submitted after the timestamp).
How the Tie-Breaking Rule Works in Category-Based Express Entry Draws
Category-based draws were introduced to target candidates with specific skills in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. However, the tie-breaking rule still applies:
If a category-based draw has a CRS cut-off of 480, but multiple candidates have this score, the one who submitted their profile earlier will receive the ITA first.
Even if you meet the category-based criteria, submitting your profile late could result in missing out on an ITA.
Important Considerations for Your Express Entry Profile
Does Updating Your Profile Affect Your Submission Date?
Many candidates worry that making changes to their Express Entry profile will affect their submission date. Here’s what you need to know:
What Won’t Change Your Submission Date:
Updating language test scores.
Adding new work experience.
Modifying personal details.
Updating education credentials.
What Will Change Your Submission Date:
Deleting your profile and creating a new one.
Letting your profile expire and submitting a new one.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting an ITA
As immigration policies continue to evolve, candidates should be aware of how the tie-breaking rule will impact their plans for 2025.
Strategic Planning: Candidates should create a timeline for submitting their EOIs. Delaying eligibility confirmation might lead to lost opportunities, so acting swiftly can make a big difference. Even if your CRS score isn’t perfect, enter the pool as soon as you’re eligible.
Monitor Express Entry Trends: Keeping an eye on changes in immigration policy and CRS cut-offs can provide insights to optimize the timing of applications.
Enhanced Profiles: Investing in your profile is essential. Completing additional certifications, improving language test scores, or gaining relevant work experience can boost your CRS score. For example, improving your English or French language score by just one band can increase your CRS , making you more competitive.
Leverage Category-Based Draws: Even if your CRS score isn’t perfect, enter the pool as soon as you’re eligible.
Maintain Valid Documents: Make sure your passport, language tests, and other documents don’t expire during the process.
Get Expert Guidance from Visa Vlogs
At Visa Vlogs, powered by Rajan Jain Immigration Consulting Inc., we help applicants navigate the Express Entry system with confidence. Our team can assist you with:
Strategic CRS score optimization to increase your chances of receiving an ITA.
Understanding and leveraging the tie-breaking rule to avoid common mistakes.
Submitting a well-prepared profile early to maximize your chances.
Category-based Express Entry guidance for targeted immigration pathways.
Ongoing updates on Express Entry policies and trends.
Take the Next Step Toward Canadian PR
Don’t let the tie-breaking rule stand in your way. Whether you’re just entering the Express Entry pool or looking to strengthen your application, we’re here to help. At Rajan Jain Immigration Consulting Inc., under the brand Visa Vlogs, we specialize in guiding you through the intricacies of Canadian immigration, ensuring your application stands out. Contact us today for personalized support in navigating your immigration journey with confidence.
