Canada Invites 2,000 Canadian Experience Class Candidates Through Latest Express Entry Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another Express Entry draw, inviting 2,000 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates to apply for permanent residence.

The latest draw, held on July 21, 2026, targeted applicants with Canadian work experience, continuing IRCC’s focus on candidates who have already established themselves in Canada.

To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates needed:

• Minimum CRS Score: 516
• Express Entry Profile Created Before: May 26, 2026, at 5:33 p.m. UTC

IRCC Continues to Prioritize Candidates with Canadian Experience

Throughout 2026, Express Entry draws have largely focused on applicants with strong ties to Canada, particularly those under the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program.

This strategy reflects Canada’s continued efforts to retain skilled workers who already contribute to the country’s labour market.

Express Entry Draw Highlights

• Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• ITAs Issued: 2,000
• CRS Cut-off: 516
• Draw Date: July 21, 2026

Express Entry Activity in 2026

IRCC has now held 40 Express Entry draws during 2026.

Draw distribution:

• Provincial Nominee Program: 14
• Canadian Experience Class: 12
• French-Language Proficiency: 7
• Healthcare & Social Services: 2
• Physicians with Canadian Work Experience: 2
• Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 2
• Trades: 1

Nearly 100,000 Invitations Issued

So far this year, IRCC has issued 99,612 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through Express Entry.

Breakdown:

• Canadian Experience Class: 45,250
• French-Language Proficiency: 35,500
• Provincial Nominee Program: 6,450
• Healthcare & Social Services: 8,000
• Trades: 3,000
• Physicians with Canadian Work Experience: 662
• Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 750

What This Means for Applicants

The continued focus on Canadian Experience Class candidates is encouraging for temporary foreign workers and international graduates with Canadian work experience. Keeping your Express Entry profile up to date and maximizing your CRS score remain key to improving your chances of receiving an invitation.

CAD Immigration helps individuals and families navigate their Canadian immigration journey with expert guidance and personalized support.

Your Canadian dream starts here. 🇨🇦