Express Entry:Canada holds 2nd-largest CEC draw in its past ever on record

Canada has taken a strong step to begin the new year by inviting thousands of skilled workers to apply for permanent residence. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada issued 8,000 invitations through the Express Entry system under the Canadian Experience Class category.

This round stands as the second-largest draw ever held for this group. Only one draw during the pandemic years surpassed it, when authorities invited more than 27,000 people at once.

Who qualified for this draw

Candidates needed to meet two key requirements to receive an invitation. They required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 511. They also had to submit their Express Entry profile before 3:59 p.m. universal time on June 10, 2025.

Officials focused on applicants who already live and work in Canada. These individuals bring Canadian job experience, language skills, and familiarity with daily life in the country.

Lower score opens more doors

This draw also brought welcome news for many hopeful applicants. The cut-off score dropped lower than any seen in all Express Entry draws during 2025. Before this week, the lowest score for a Canadian Experience Class draw stood at 509, recorded in September 2024.

The reduced score signals stronger chances for skilled workers who built careers in Canada but struggled to reach higher points in past rounds.

Early-year momentum builds fast

This invitation round followed another selection held just days earlier. On January 5, authorities invited 574 candidates through the Provincial Nominee Program, with a much higher score requirement.

With these two draws combined, Canada has already issued more than 8,500 invitations during the first full week of 2026. This pace reflects a familiar pattern. January often brings heavy activity as officials plan ahead to meet annual immigration goals.

Focus stays on workers inside Canada

So far this year, officials have limited selections to candidates with strong ties to Canada. One draw targeted Canadian Experience Class applicants, while another focused on provincial nominees.

This approach highlights the government’s ongoing interest in workers who already support local economies. Provinces and employers continue to rely on these candidates to fill labour gaps and sustain growth.

What comes next for invited candidates

An invitation does not grant permanent residence right away. Applicants must still submit full applications and complete processing steps. Most new arrivals reach Canada at least six months after receiving an invitation.

As processing continues, many of these invited workers may become permanent residents later in 2026. Their arrival will help Canada meet its immigration targets while strengthening the workforce across the country.