Canada Conducts Record-Breaking Category-Based Express Entry Draw
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Canada conducted a historic category-based Express Entry draw, issuing 8,500 ITAs to candidates with French language proficiency and CRS scores of 400 or above, highlighting the focus on skilled immigration.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently conducted a major Express Entry draw, issuing 8,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates demonstrating French language skills. This round marked one of the largest category-based draws in the history of Canada’s immigration system.
To qualify for this draw, candidates needed to achieve a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 400. Additionally, applicants were required to have created their Express Entry profiles before 11:11 a.m. UTC on February 3, 2026, to be eligible for consideration.
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2026
In 2026, Canada’s Express Entry draws have continued to prioritize skilled candidates with Canadian work experience and provincial nominations. Each draw has varied in focus, CRS cut-off scores, and the number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued.
|
Date |
Draw Type |
CRS Cut-off Score |
ITAs Issued |
|
February 6 |
French-Language Proficiency |
400 |
8,500 |
|
February 3 |
Provincial Nominee Program |
749 |
423 |
|
January 21 |
Canadian Experience Class |
509 |
6,000 |
|
January 20 |
Provincial Nominee Program |
746 |
681 |
|
January 7 |
Canadian Experience Class |
511 |
8,000 |
|
January 5 |
Provincial Nominee Program |
711 |
574 |
So far, 2026 has seen six Express Entry draws, reflecting Canada’s focus on candidates already contributing to the local workforce and those with strong provincial support.
Also Read: Canada Invites 681 PNP Candidates to Apply For PR in the Latest Express Entry Draw
Express Entry 2026: Overview of Draw Types and ITAs
In 2026, Canada’s Express Entry program has concentrated on candidates already residing in the country, particularly those with Canadian work experience or provincial nominations. So far, the draws have included various categories, with Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program candidates being the primary focus, alongside a special draw for French-language proficient candidates.
Number of Draws by Type in 2026
Draw Type | Number of Draws |
Canadian Experience Class | 2 |
Provincial Nominee Program | 2 |
French-Language Proficiency | 1 |
ITAs Issued by Draw Type in 2026
Draw Type | ITAs Issued |
Canadian Experience Class | 14,000 |
French-Language Proficiency | 8,500 |
Provincial Nominee Program | 1,255 |
Explore: Latest Canada Express Entry Draw Records Lowest CRS, Invites 6,000 Candidates to PR
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In 2026, Canada’s Express Entry draws have strategically focused on skilled candidates with Canadian work experience, provincial nominations, and French-language proficiency. Understanding the draw types and eligibility criteria is key to maximizing your chances of receiving an ITA. With GetGIS, navigating Canada’s immigration process becomes simple, fast, and stress-free.
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