Canada Issues 423 ITAs in First February Express Entry Draw Targeting Provincial Nominees

Canada has conducted its 393rd Express Entry draw, issuing 423 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program on February 3, 2026.

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 749 points.

This high-scoring, program-specific draw confirms the federal government’s continued focus on provincial priorities to meet targeted regional labour needs, ensuring that nominees with provincial endorsements receive priority processing.

State of the Pool

The latest draw saw the tie-breaking rule implemented on December 16, 2025 at 22:30:36 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

• Draws targeting Provincial Nominees maintain a high CRS requirement, consistently staying above the 700 mark due to the additional 600 points awarded by the nomination.
• This is the first program-specific draw of the month, indicating a strong start to the new year’s allocation quotas for the provinces.
• General (All-Program) draws are anticipated to resume shortly, typically featuring scores in the 490s or lower.

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.