Latest Express Entry Draw: A February Surprise for CEC & PNP Candidates
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has delivered a welcome surprise to prospective immigrants with a recent series of Express Entry draws, including a statutory holiday draw. These draws have focused heavily on candidates within Canada, particularly those with Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nominations and valuable Canadian work experience. Understanding these trends is crucial for anyone aiming to immigrate to Canada.
Recent Express Entry Draw Details (February 2026)
Here’s a breakdown of the recent Express Entry draws, providing key information for applicants:
| Draw Date | Draw Type | CRS Cut-off Score | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 17 | Canadian Experience Class | 508 | 6,000 |
| February 16 | Provincial Nominee Program | 789 | 279 |
| February 6 | French-Language proficiency | 400 | 8,500 |
| February 3 | Provincial Nominee Program | 749 | 423 |
| January 21 | Canadian Experience Class | 509 | 6,000 |
| January 20 | Provincial Nominee Program | 746 | 681 |
| January 7 | Canadian Experience Class | 511 | 8,000 |
| January 5 | Provincial Nominee Program | 711 | 574 |
2026 Express Entry Draw Summary
So far in 2026, IRCC has demonstrated a clear focus on specific candidate pools. Here’s a summary of the draw types and the number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued:
- Provincial Nominee Program: 4 Draws
- Canadian Experience Class: 3 Draws
- French-Language proficiency: 1 Draw
In total, IRCC has issued 24,457 ITAs across these draw types:
- Canadian Experience Class: 20,000 ITAs
- French-Language proficiency: 8,500 ITAs
- Provincial Nominee Program: 1,534 ITAs
What Does This Mean for Your Express Entry Application?
The recent trend indicates a strong preference for candidates with provincial nominations and Canadian experience. If you have a provincial nomination, your chances of receiving an ITA are significantly higher. Similarly, strong French-language skills can also boost your score.
Visit the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and to assess your eligibility.
Understanding your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is vital. Use a CRS calculator to estimate your score and identify areas for improvement.
Stay informed and prepared – the Canadian immigration landscape is constantly evolving!
