Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a category-based Express Entry draw focused on healthcare and social services professionals. The draw occurred on February 20, 2026, and required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 467, with applicants having created an Express Entry profile before 6:22 p.m. UTC on December 9, 2025.
This is the third category-based selection in 2026 and the tenth Express Entry draw of the year. Since the start of the year, IRCC has issued a total of 34,848 ITAs across various draw types, including 20,000 through the Canadian Experience Class, 8,500 via French-language proficiency, 4,000 for healthcare and social services, 1,534 through Provincial Nominee Programs, and 391 for physicians with Canadian work experience.
Analysts note that 2026 has seen IRCC emphasize candidates with in-country connections, particularly provincial nominations and Canadian work experience. This pattern aligns with Canada’s ongoing labour-market needs and efforts to place skilled workers where they are most needed.
For job seekers and potential applicants, the timing underscores the value of maintaining an up-to-date Express Entry profile and pursuing provincial nomination opportunities if you have a Canadian connection. Readers should continue monitoring IRCC announcements, as future draws are expected to target specific streams to address regional labour demands.
Maple News will continue to track Express Entry developments and provide updates on new draws, CRS cut-offs, and eligibility criteria for all categories.