Canada Launches First 2026 Express Entry Draw
Canada has initiated its 2026 Express Entry draws, with the first round focusing on candidates from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued a total of 574 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in this draw.
Details of the First Draw
To qualify for this latest selection, candidates were required to meet specific criteria:
- Achieve a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 711.
- Complete their Express Entry profile prior to 1:54 a.m. UTC on October 6, 2025.
Future Draws and Trends
This draw is significant as it represents the first Express Entry selection event of the year. The IRCC has indicated a continued focus on candidates currently residing in Canada seeking permanent residence.
Moving forward, additional Express Entry draws are expected, particularly those targeting specific categories. These include an anticipated rise in selections for French-speaking candidates, reflecting Canada’s commitment to increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
New Category Announcements
Furthermore, the IRCC has introduced a new category aimed at “Physicians with Canadian work experience.” This initiative suggests a broader push to address labor shortages in the healthcare sector.
As of now, IRCC has issued 574 ITAs through this year’s Express Entry program, shaping the landscape of immigration in Canada for 2026.
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