Canada’s Express Entry system continues to be a key pathway for skilled immigrants seeking permanent residency. In early 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held several rounds of invitations, reflecting priorities under the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan including a strong emphasis on in-Canada experience, Francophone integration, and provincial nominations.
Here’s a breakdown of the most recent draws (as of mid-February 2026) and what they reveal about current trends.
Recent Express Entry Draws (January–February 2026)
- February 6, 2026 – French-Language Proficiency (Category-Based Draw #394)
- Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 8,500
- Minimum CRS score: 400
- This was a record-breaking French proficiency draw the largest category-based invitation round ever focused on bilingualism.
- Tie-breaking rule: February 3, 2026 at 11:11:44 UTC.
- Why it matters: Canada is aggressively targeting Francophone immigrants (outside Quebec) to meet its goal of 10.5% Francophone admissions by 2028. A CRS of 400 is relatively low, making this an excellent opportunity for candidates with strong French skills (even if their overall profile is moderate).
- February 3, 2026 – Provincial Nominee Program (PNP-Specific Draw #393)
- Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 423
- Minimum CRS score: 749
- The high cut-off reflects the 600-point boost from a provincial nomination almost guaranteeing an ITA for nominated candidates.
- Why it matters: PNP remains one of the most reliable routes in 2026, especially for those with provincial ties or job offers.
Earlier 2026 Draws (for Context)
- January 21, 2026 – Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 6,000 ITAs, CRS 509
- January 20, 2026 – PNP: 681 ITAs, CRS 746
- January 7, 2026 – CEC: 8,000 ITAs, CRS 511
- January 5, 2026 – PNP: 574 ITAs, CRS 711
These CEC draws (especially in January) featured some of the lowest cut-offs seen in recent years, showing IRCC’s priority on clearing in-Canada temporary residents (e.g., PGWP holders, work permit workers) to transition them to permanent residency.
Current Express Entry Pool Snapshot (as of early February 2026)
- Total candidates in the pool: 238,920
- High CRS concentration: Thousands of candidates sit above 500, but the pool remains competitive.
- IRCC continues to favor category-based (French, healthcare, trades, etc.) and PNP-specific draws over general/all-program rounds.
Key Trends in 2026
- Strong focus on in-Canada experience — CEC draws are frequent and have lower CRS cut-offs.
- Provincial nominations are powerful — A nomination adds 600 points, making cut-offs in the 700s almost automatic.
- French proficiency is a major advantage — Low CRS requirements (around 400) in Francophone draws make this a strategic boost.
- Fewer general draws — Most invitations target specific categories or programs, aligning with the plan to reduce temporary residents while prioritizing economic and regional needs.
What This Means for Applicants
- If you have Canadian work experience — CEC remains one of the fastest paths to PR.
- If you speak French — Prioritize improving your TEF/TCF scores even moderate proficiency can unlock large draws.
- If you’re outside Canada — Consider a PNP nomination or job offer to boost your chances significantly.
- If your CRS is moderate — Focus on improving language scores, gaining Canadian experience, or securing a provincial nomination.
Express Entry remains highly competitive in 2026, but strategic planning especially leveraging in-Canada pathways or category advantages gives strong candidates a real shot at an ITA.
Worldbridge Immigration, a team of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) based in Kitchener, Ontario, helps clients maximize their CRS scores, target the right draws, and transition smoothly from temporary status to permanent residency.
Want to know your chances in the current Express Entry environment? Book a free eligibility & strategy consultation today. We’ll review your profile, explain how recent draws and 2026 rules affect you, and build a clear, realistic plan no obligation.
Contact Worldbridge Immigration now and take the next step toward your Canadian permanent residency!
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