Canada Express Entry: Latest PNP Draw Invites 279 Candidates with CRS Score of 789
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to prioritize Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates in its Express Entry draws. The latest draw, held on February 16, 2026, issued 279 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 789. Candidates needed to have created an Express Entry profile before 12:59 a.m. Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on September 5, 2025, to be eligible.
Express Entry Draws in 2026: A Focus on Provincial Nominees and Canadian Experience
This draw marks the seventh Express Entry selection of the year and the fourth specifically targeting PNP candidates. Throughout 2026, IRCC has demonstrated a clear focus on immigration candidates already present in Canada, particularly those with provincial nominations and Canadian work experience.
2026 Express Entry Draw Summary
| Draw Date | Draw Type | CRS Cut-off Score | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 16 | Provincial Nominee Program | 789 | 279 |
| February 6 | French-Language proficiency | 400 | 8,500 |
| February 3 | Provincial Nominee Program | 749 | 423 |
| January 21 | Canadian Experience Class | 509 | 6,000 |
| January 20 | Provincial Nominee Program | 746 | 681 |
| January 7 | Canadian Experience Class | 511 | 8,000 |
| January 5 | Provincial Nominee Program | 711 | 574 |
Express Entry vs. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Immigration to Canada is primarily managed through two key pathways: the Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Both systems offer distinct advantages for prospective immigrants.
Understanding Express Entry
The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for these programs are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on factors like language skills, education, and work experience. IRCC regularly conducts draws, inviting the highest-ranked candidates to apply for permanent residence.
The Role of Provincial Nominee Programs
Provincial Nominee Programs allow individual provinces and territories to nominate candidates who meet their specific labor market needs. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an ITA through Express Entry.
ITA Statistics for 2026 (as of February 16)
As of February 16, 2026, IRCC has issued a total of 24,457 ITAs through the following draw types:
- Canadian Experience Class: 14,000
- French-Language proficiency: 8,500
- Provincial Nominee Program: 1,534
Key Takeaways
- IRCC continues to prioritize PNP candidates in Express Entry draws.
- A provincial nomination significantly boosts a candidate’s CRS score.
- The CRS cut-off score for the February 16 PNP draw was 789.
- IRCC has issued 24,457 ITAs in 2026 through various draw types.