Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 264 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a March 2 Express Entry draw focused on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. To be considered, applicants needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 710 and had to have created an Express Entry profile before 6:02 p.m. UTC on August 7, 2025.
This draw marks the fifth Provincial Nominee Program round and the eleventh Express Entry selection of 2026, and it is the first Express Entry draw of March. As in past rounds, provincial nomination remains a powerful pathway within Express Entry, since a nomination adds 600 CRS points, effectively almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply for many candidates.
IRCC has prioritized candidates already in Canada with provincial nominations and Canadian work experience, and PNP draws have been the most frequent this year. So far in 2026, IRCC has issued 35,112 ITAs across all draw types, reflecting a strong emphasis on provincial nominations alongside other pathways under Express Entry.
The current data underscore a clear trend: provincial nominations continue to drive Express Entry selections, with nominations providing a substantial competitive edge for applicants seeking permanent residence.
Maple News will continue monitoring forthcoming draws and provide updates to help eligible applicants strengthen their profiles and pursue timely invitations.