Canada Issues 279 Invitations in New Express Entry Draw for Provincial Nominees
Canada has conducted a new Express Entry draw, issuing 279 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program.
The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 789 points.
This draw, which took place on February 16, 2026, represents draw number 395 and continues Canada’s strategy of utilizing the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to address regional labor market needs across the country.
State of the Pool
The latest draw saw the tie-breaking rule implemented on September 05, 2025 at 0:59:13 UTC. If more than one candidate had the minimum CRS score, only those who submitted their Express Entry profiles before this date and time received invitations.
Candidates have a 60-day window to submit their applications, which will usually be processed within the six-month standard.
Summary of Recent Draws
- The February 16 draw (395) focused exclusively on PNP candidates, following a trend of program-specific rounds to start the second month of the year.
- The CRS score of 789 reflects the 600 additional points automatically awarded to candidates who have received a provincial nomination.
- So far in 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has maintained a steady frequency of draws, balancing general rounds with category-based and program-specific invitations.
What Can Employers Do To Recruit Foreign Workers?
Employers are encouraged to consider securing an LMIA or nomination under provincial nomination programs (PNPs) to ensure long-term retention of employees.
At immigration.ca we provide Canadian employers with unparalleled immigration legal services and can help with the recruitment of foreign nationals. We bring qualified candidates to Canada in the shortest time possible. Employers in a wide range of industries can directly benefit from our unique position as one of Canada’s leading immigration firms in the industry to meet both their recruitment and immigration requirements.
Interested employers wishing to seek our assistance are invited to contact us here for further information.
What Should Candidates Do Next?
Securing an approved offer of employment is highly recommended as one of the best pathways to guaranteeing an ITA in the next round of invitations.
Find out whether you qualify for Canada by completing our free online evaluation. We will provide you with your evaluation results within 1-2 business days.
