Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to provide pathways for skilled immigrants to make Canada their home. In its latest Express Entry draw, the government issued 423 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) specifically for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.
Who Qualified for This Draw?
To be considered in this round, candidates had to meet the following criteria:
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Minimum of 749
Profile Submission: Express Entry profile created before 10:30 p.m. UTC on December 16, 2025
If you’re curious about your chances in upcoming draws, you can check how competitive your Express Entry profile is.
Express Entry Trends in 2026
The latest draw marks the fifth Express Entry selection of the year, and reflects Canada’s continued focus on candidates already living and working in the country, especially those with provincial nominations and Canadian work experience.
Here’s a snapshot of Express Entry draws so far in 2026:
| Draw Date | Draw Type | CRS Cut-off Score | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 this year, IRCC has issued a total of 19,478 ITAs, broken down by program:
| Draw Type | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|
| Canadian Experience Class | 14,000 |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 1,255 |
What This Means for Aspiring Immigrants
Canada’s Express Entry system remains highly competitive, particularly for PNP candidates. If you are aiming for immigration through the Provincial Nominee Program, it’s essential to:
Keep your Express Entry profile updated
Improve your CRS score through education, work experience, or language proficiency
Consider provincial nomination pathways to significantly boost your chances
With multiple draws already conducted this year, staying informed and prepared can make all the difference in securing an ITA.
At EV Immigration Canada, we guide aspiring immigrants through the Express Entry process, helping you maximize your chances of receiving an ITA and making Canada your new home.

