Express Entry: Canada Holds First Draw Under New Immigration Category

Canada’s immigration department has invited more candidates to apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry system. The latest draw focused on experienced senior managers who already have work experience in Canada.

Officials issued 250 invitations to apply (ITAs) in this new category. Candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 429 to receive an invitation. Applicants also had to submit their Express Entry profiles before 3:10 p.m. UTC on August 19, 2025 to qualify for consideration.

This selection marks an important moment for Canada’s immigration program, as it represents the first-ever draw for senior managers with Canadian work experience. The selection also stands as the fourteenth Express Entry draw held in 2026.

A New Category for Experienced Managers

Earlier this year, Canada introduced several changes to its immigration system. Authorities announced three new occupational categories as part of a broader update in February 2026. The new draw for senior managers falls under these updated rules.

To qualify under this category, candidates must show at least 12 months of work experience in Canada during the past three years. Their work must fall within specific senior management occupations listed under Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC).

Eligible roles include:

• Senior managers in construction, transportation, production, and utilities
  
• Senior managers in trade, broadcasting, and other services
  
• Senior managers in health, education, social and community services, and membership organizations
  
• Senior managers in financial, communications, and other business services

These occupations often involve leadership responsibilities, strategic decision-making, and managing large teams or operations.

Immigration Focus in 2026

So far this year, immigration draws have largely focused on candidates who already live and work in Canada. Officials have placed strong attention on applicants with Canadian work experience or provincial nominations.

Different draw types have taken place throughout 2026. Provincial nominee draws have occurred five times, while Canadian Experience Class draws have taken place four times. The department has also conducted selections targeting French-language speakers, healthcare workers, physicians, and now senior managers.

The Express Entry system allows Canada to select skilled workers who can quickly contribute to the country’s economy and labour market. Targeted draws also help fill specific gaps in industries facing worker shortages.

Recent Express Entry Draws in 2026

Several draws have already taken place this year, each targeting different groups of candidates.

On March 4, officials invited 5,500 candidates with strong French-language skills, with a CRS score requirement of 397. The following day, 4,000 candidates from the Canadian Experience Class received invitations with a 508 CRS score.

Earlier draws in February included 4,000 invitations for healthcare and social services workers, as well as 391 invitations for physicians with Canadian work experience. Provincial nominee selections have also occurred multiple times, though they typically require higher CRS scores.

Invitations Issued So Far This Year

Immigration officials have issued 39,362 invitations through Express Entry in 2026.

Most invitations have gone to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class, which has received 24,000 invitations so far. Candidates with French-language proficiency have received 14,000 invitations. Other categories include 4,000 invitations for healthcare workers, 1,798 through provincial nominations, 391 for physicians, and 250 for senior managers in the newest category.

The latest draw shows Canada’s continued effort to attract skilled professionals who already have experience working in the country.