CEC Express Entry draw records lowest CRS cut-off as thousands of candidates invited

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has continued its strong start to 2026 by issuing a fresh round of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system, offering new opportunities for candidates with Canadian work experience.

In the latest draw, IRCC issued 6,000 ITAs under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). To be eligible, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 509 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile before 4:35 a.m. (UTC) on October 29, 2025.

Latest Draw Details 

• Draw Date: January 21, 2026
• Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class
• Number of Invitations: 6,000
• Minimum CRS Score Required: 509

Express Entry Draws List 2026

This draw is the third Express Entry draw of 2026 and the second large CEC-focused selection conducted this year, highlighting Canada’s continued focus on candidates already contributing to the Canadian workforce.

Within just the first month of 2026, IRCC has already issued 14,000 ITAs to Canadian Experience Class candidates across two draws. These large-scale selections have significantly reshaped the Express Entry candidate pool and improved prospects for applicants with Canadian education and work experience.

Notably, CEC draws held in 2026 have featured some of the lowest CRS cut-off scores in recent years. Both the current draw and the previous CEC draw recorded the lowest CRS requirements since September 2024, bringing renewed hope to candidates who were previously just below the cut-off range.

Express Entry draws this year have primarily focused on inland candidates, particularly those with Canadian work experience and provincial nominations, reflecting Canada’s strategy to prioritize applicants who are already well integrated into the labour market.

Express Entry Draws Held in 2026 (So Far)

ITAs Issued Through Express Entry in 2026

So far in 2026, IRCC has issued a total of 15,255 ITAs through the Express Entry system across these two categories. With continued emphasis on Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program candidates, applicants with Canadian work history and strong profiles may see improved chances of receiving an invitation in upcoming draws.

Connect with us