The government of Canada has recently issued a significant number of invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residence through the Express Entry system.

In a recent draw specifically for candidates with French-language proficiency, the immigration department granted 5,000 ITAs.

To qualify for this draw, candidates were required to meet the following criteria:

• A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 435.
• Creation of an Express Entry candidate profile before 9:31:22 p.m., Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on October 6, 2026.

Foreign nationals who submit an Express Entry PR application and reside in Canada may also be eligible to obtain a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).

The BOWP allows individuals with an expiring work permit to maintain their status and continue working under the conditions of their existing permit as long as they stay within Canada.

Summary of Recent Express Entry Draws

Date	Draw Type	CRS Cut-off Score	ITAs Issued
October 16	French-Language Proficiency	435	5,000
October 15	Canadian Experience Class	519	2,500
October 13	Provincial Nominee Program	772	752
October 1	Trades	476	3,500