Express Entry: Canada Starts 2026 With Its First Draw

Canada has officially started its 2026 immigration selection process. The federal immigration department sent out new invitations through the Express Entry system, marking the first draw of the year. This move signals the government’s continued focus on economic immigration and skilled newcomers.

In this latest round, the department invited candidates who already held a provincial nomination. These candidates entered the pool through the Provincial Nominee Program, which allows provinces to select immigrants based on local labour needs.

574 Candidates Receive Invitations

The department issued a total of 574 Invitations to Apply for permanent residence. Only candidates nominated by a province qualified for this draw. Because of the provincial nomination, the score requirement remained very high.

To receive an invitation, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 711. They also had to submit their Express Entry profile before 1:54 a.m. UTC on October 6, 2025. Anyone who met both conditions received an invitation in this round.

This draw sets the tone for the year and gives nominated candidates a clear pathway to permanent residence.

What This First Draw Means

This selection marks the first Express Entry draw of 2026. It shows that the immigration department plans to keep the system active early in the year. Many applicants watch the first draw closely, as it often hints at future trends.

The government earlier shared that it plans to give priority to applicants already living and working in Canada. Officials also confirmed that category-based draws will continue. These draws focus on candidates with specific skills, work experience, or language abilities.

However, the exact shape of future draws remains uncertain. The department has not shared a detailed schedule or the number of invitations planned for each category.

French Speakers and Doctors in Focus

Based on earlier announcements, more draws may soon target French-speaking candidates. Canada aims to increase the number of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec. This goal could lead to more selections under the French language category.

The department also plans to begin selections under a newly announced category for physicians with Canadian work experience. This move could help address ongoing healthcare worker shortages across the country.

These upcoming categories may offer new opportunities for candidates who meet specific criteria.

Early Numbers for 2026

So far in 2026, the immigration department has issued 574 invitations through Express Entry. All invitations have gone to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program.

As the year progresses, more draws are expected. Applicants will continue to monitor score requirements, draw sizes, and category choices as Canada adjusts its immigration intake.