Recently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the issuance of 2,000 invitations to apply (ITA) through the Express Entry system for Canadian Experience Class candidates.
To qualify for this draw, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 518 and had to create an Express Entry candidate profile before 8:48 p.m. Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on February 13, 2026.
Foreign nationals residing in Canada who have applied for permanent residence under Express Entry may also be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). In situations where a foreign national’s current work permit expires before their BOWP application is processed, they can continue working under maintained status, provided they remain in Canada.
Eligible family members of the primary applicants may also qualify for an open work permit.
Summary of Express Entry Draws
| Date | Draw Type | CRS Cut-off Score | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 29 | Canadian Experience Class | 518 | 2,000 |
| September 28 | Provincial Nominee Program | 725 | 733 |


