Express Entry: PNP Candidates Invited in the First February Draw

Canada’s immigration department continued its steady pace this year by sending out more invitations through the Express Entry system. The latest draw, held in early February, focused on people who already held a provincial nomination, offering them a chance to move one step closer to permanent residence.

February Draw Focuses on Provincial Nominees

The department invited 423 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program. These candidates already earned support from a province or territory, which placed them high in the Express Entry pool.

To qualify for this round, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 749. They also had to submit their Express Entry profile before 10:30 p.m. Universal Coordinated Time on December 16, 2025. Only those who met both conditions received an invitation to apply.

A provincial nomination adds a large number of points to a candidate’s score. This boost explains why the cut-off score stayed much higher than in other types of Express Entry draws.

Fifth Selection of the Year

This February draw became the fifth Express Entry selection of the year. Earlier rounds in January showed a similar pattern, with the department alternating between candidates with Canadian work experience and those nominated by provinces.

In January, the department invited 6,000 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class with a cut-off score of 509. Another draw under the same category followed, inviting 8,000 people with a score of 511. Provincial nominees also saw two rounds in January, with cut-off scores of 746 and 711, and a total of more than 1,200 invitations issued.

Strong Focus on In-Canada Candidates

So far this year, the department has focused only on candidates already living and working in Canada. This group mainly includes people with Canadian work experience and those backed by a provincial nomination.

This approach helps provinces and employers keep skilled workers who already contribute to local communities. It also allows newcomers who have settled in Canada to move more quickly toward permanent status.

Invitation Numbers So Far in 2026

Since the start of the year, the department has issued 19,478 invitations through Express Entry. Most of these went to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class, who received 14,000 invitations. Provincial nominees received 1,255 invitations during the same period.

These numbers show strong demand for workers who already understand life and work in Canada. Provinces continue to play a key role by selecting candidates who match their labour needs.

What This Means for Candidates

The high score in the latest draw shows tough competition among provincial nominees. Candidates who plan to apply often improve their chances by gaining Canadian work experience, improving language scores, or seeking a provincial nomination.

As the year moves forward, many candidates expect more draws that follow the same pattern. Those already in Canada may continue to see better chances, while others may need to wait for broader selections.