Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 681 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system in its latest round of selection. Held on January 8, this draw focused exclusively on candidates who had received a provincial nomination through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 746 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile before 4:09 a.m. UTC on November 19, 2025. The high CRS threshold reflects the additional 600 points awarded to PNP nominees, demonstrating how provincial endorsement significantly boosts a candidate’s likelihood of being selected.
This draw marks the second PNP-focused round and the third Express Entry selection so far in 2026. It follows a January 5 draw that also targeted PNP candidates, issuing 574 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 711, and a larger Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on January 7, which issued 8,000 ITAs with a lower CRS cut-off of 511.
In total, IRCC has now issued 9,255 ITAs in 2026. The bulk of these have gone to CEC candidates, reflecting Canada’s ongoing emphasis on applicants with direct experience in its labour market. According to Maple News, this pattern underscores IRCC’s continued focus on attracting skilled workers who are either already working in Canada or have been selected by a province.
So far, IRCC has held one CEC-specific draw and two PNP-specific draws this year. Express Entry has proven to be a key pathway to permanent residence for foreign professionals and international graduates, with the Canadian government using it to strategically meet labour market and economic needs.
Candidates seeking permanent residency in Canada through Express Entry can improve their odds by securing a provincial nomination, which dramatically raises their CRS score. With more targeted draws expected in the coming months, staying informed and updated on eligibility requirements remains crucial.
Maple News will continue to cover all developments in IRCC’s Express Entry system and provide timely updates for aspiring immigrants.