Canada Launches 2026 with One of the Largest CEC Express Entry Draws Ever
Canada has kicked off 2026 with a major immigration move, issuing one of the largest-ever invitation rounds under the Canadian Experience Class through the Express Entry system.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has invited 8,000 candidates with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence, marking the second-largest CEC draw in history.
This strong start highlights Canada’s continued focus on retaining skilled workers who are already contributing to the country’s economy.
Key Details of the Latest CEC Draw
To be selected in this round, candidates were required to:
- Meet a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 511
- Have created their Express Entry profile before 3:59 p.m. UTC on June 10, 2025
The cut-off score is notably lower than any Canadian Experience Class draw held in 2025, signalling a more accessible pathway for in-Canada applicants early this year.
How This Draw Compares Historically
This invitation round stands out for both its size and competitiveness.
- It is the second-largest CEC draw ever conducted
- It is surpassed only by the extraordinary pandemic-era draw that invited more than 27,000 candidates
- The CRS score of 511 is lower than all CEC cut-offs seen throughout 2025
This suggests a renewed push to convert temporary residents into permanent residents as early as possible in the year.
Express Entry Activity So Far in 2026
Within the first week of the year, IRCC has already conducted two Express Entry draws:
- One Canadian Experience Class draw
- One Provincial Nominee Program draw
Together, these two rounds have resulted in over 8,500 invitations being issued in just the opening days of 2026.
This early momentum reflects IRCC’s strategy of prioritizing candidates who are already established in Canada or have received provincial support.
Why January Draws Matter
January traditionally sees increased Express Entry activity as the federal government works to meet its annual permanent resident admissions targets.
Because there is typically a delay of several months between receiving an invitation and becoming a permanent resident, early-year draws play a crucial role in ensuring that admissions targets are met later in the year.
Large CEC draws at the start of the year allow IRCC to secure future landings from candidates who already meet Canadian work experience requirements.
What This Means for Candidates in Canada
This draw reinforces several important trends:
- In-Canada applicants continue to be a top priority
- Canadian work experience remains a strong advantage
- Competitive CRS scores may fluctuate lower during high-volume draws
- Early profile creation can make a critical difference during tie-break situations
For temporary residents working in Canada, this draw signals strong opportunities ahead in 2026.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
