Blog - Ese Umoh Immigration – Canada Immigration Consultant

February 20, 2026

Nova Scotia just made it easier to understand its immigration pathways – What changed?

By EUIC Admin News, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve ever looked at Nova Scotia’s immigration options and felt completely overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The province used to have ten different immigration streams under its Nominee Program and keeping track of which one applied to you was honestly a headache. Well, that just changed.

As of February 18, 2026, Nova Scotia brought all ten of those streams together under just four clear categories. Same eligibility rules, less confusion. Think of it as tidying up a messy room everything is still there, it’s just a lot easier to find what you’re looking for.

The four Nova Scotia Nominee Program NSNP pathways include:

1. Skilled Worker:

This one is for people who already have a job offer from an employer based in Nova Scotia. Whether you’re in construction, healthcare as a physician, or another in-demand trade, this stream likely covers you. You need to be between 21 and 55, have some relevant work experience, and meet basic language requirements.

Construction workers can even skip the high school diploma requirement if they completed an industry training program. What matters most here is that you have a valid job offer from an employer in the construction sector and that your role falls under one of the qualifying occupations listed for this pathway:

Bricklayers – 72320
Carpenters – 72310
Concrete finishers – 73100
Construction managers – 70010
Construction trades helpers and labourers – 75110
Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations – 72011
Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades – 72020
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers – 72014
Crane operators – 72500
Electricians (except industrial and power system) – 72200
Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics – 72402
Heavy equipment operators – 73400
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics – 72401
Home building and renovation managers – 70011
Industrial electricians – 72201
Material handlers – 75101
Other trades helpers and labourers – 75119
Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers – 73102
Residential and commercial installers and servicers – 73200
Roofers and shinglers – 73110
Sheet metal workers – 72102
Welders and related machine operators – 72106

If you’re a physician, you’ll need a confirmed job offer from either the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) or the Izaak Walton Killam Health Centre (IWK) in an eligible medical role to qualify under this pathway.

General practitioners and family physicians – 31102
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine – 31100
Specialists in surgery – 31101

2. Nova Scotia: Express Entry:

This is for people who already have a profile in Canada’s federal Express Entry system and have at least one year of work experience in Nova Scotia in a skilled occupation. If you’re a physician with a job offer from Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK, there’s also a dedicated path for you here.

3. Entrepreneur:

Got business ownership experience and the financial resources to invest in a Nova Scotia business? This stream is for you. The investment requirement starts at $400,000 if you’re setting up outside Halifax, or $600,000 within Halifax. Recent international graduates who’ve already been running a business in the province can also qualify through a separate pathway.

4. Nova Scotia Graduate:

This one helps recent graduates from Nova Scotia institutions land permanent residence if they have a job offer in a specific occupation like early childhood education, nursing support, pharmacy technicians, or paramedical roles. It’s a great pathway for people who studied in the province and want to build their future there.

What if you already applied?

Good news if you already have an active Expression of Interest sitting in the NSNP pool, nothing changes for you. These restructured streams only affect new applications submitted after February 18, 2026. Your existing EOI stays exactly as it was.

Why does this matter for you?

Nova Scotia made these changes specifically to make the immigration process clearer – both for newcomers and for employers looking to hire internationally. Fewer streams mean less confusion about where you fit. It’s a move in the right direction, and it opens up a real opportunity for people who previously felt lost navigating the system.

Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson, a healthcare professional, a recent graduate, or an entrepreneur, Nova Scotia is actively trying to bring people in and now the door is a little easier to walk through.

Navigating Canadian immigration whether through provincial nomination, Express Entry, or school admissions can still feel complicated even when the rules are simplified. That’s exactly where we come in. Our team helps people like you understand your options, assess your eligibility, and put together the strongest possible application. Don’t leave your Canadian dream to guesswork. Book a consultation with us today using the link below, and let’s figure out your best path forward together.

1-hour consultation (Comprehensive and in-depth)

30-minute consultation (Quick and focused)

February 20, 2026

What if your CRS score was actually enough all along?

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

For years, people have stared at their Express Entry scores wondering if they would ever see the inside of a Canadian permanent residence application. Scores in the 400s, 500s sometimes even higher were the norm. So when Canada quietly dropped a cut-off of just 169 this week, a lot of people did a double take.

No, that’s not a typo.

On February 19, 2026, Canada ran its very first Express Entry draw under a brand new category Physicians with Canadian Work Experience and invited 391 doctors to apply for permanent residence with a CRS score floor that hasn’t been seen since the height of a global pandemic. To put that in perspective, the last time the cut-off went lower than this was 2021, when it bottomed out at 75 under very extraordinary circumstances.

This is history. And it tells a bigger story about where Canada’s immigration system is heading.

Canada has a doctor problem – and immigration is the fix

Walk into a clinic in rural Ontario or a small town in Nova Scotia and you’ll likely see the same sign: “We are not accepting new patients.” Canada has been quietly battling a physician shortage for years, and the government has decided it’s done waiting for a domestic solution.

Back in December 2025, Canada’s immigration ministry announced a suite of new measures specifically designed to attract more doctors – both through federal and provincial channels. The Physicians with Canadian Work Experience category is the first real product of that plan, and its debut draw just proved it means business.

So who actually qualifies?

This isn’t a draw that’s open to every Express Entry hopeful. To have been considered, candidates needed to:

Already meet the basic requirements of one of the three main Express Entry programs
Have clocked at least 12 months of full-time physician work in Canada within the last three years
Be working in one of the specific medical occupations listed under the category
Have had an active Express Entry profile before January 3, 2026

The key phrase here is in Canada. This draw is squarely aimed at doctors already on the ground, already serving Canadian communities, and simply waiting for a clear path to stay permanently.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

Draw date	Draw Type	CRS cut-off score	ITAs issued
February 19	Physicians with Canadian work experience	169	391
February 17	Canadian Experience Class	508	6,000
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

2026 is moving fast – this is the proof

This physician draw was actually the ninth Express Entry selection of the year and we’re barely into February. Since January 1st, Canada has handed out 30,848 invitations across draws targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates, French speakers, provincial nominees, and now physicians.

The pattern is hard to ignore: Canada is pulling toward people already inside its borders, people already contributing, people who just need the paperwork to catch up with the life they’ve already built.

What this moment is really telling you

Whether you’re a doctor, a skilled worker, or someone who’s had an Express Entry profile collecting dust – this week’s draw is a signal, not just a statistic. Canada is creating new doors, and it’s doing it faster than most people are paying attention.

The risk isn’t applying. The risk is waiting too long to figure out your options.

If you’re unsure where your score stands, which category fits your background, or whether a Provincial Nomination could boost your profile: that’s exactly what our team untangles every day. From Express Entry and Provincial Nominations to school admissions and beyond, we’ll help you find the clearest, fastest route to your Canadian future.

Your next step starts with one conversation. Book your consultation using the link below – let’s make your move count.

1-hour consultation (Comprehensive and in-depth) :

https://euiacademy.selar.com/60minute

30-minute consultation (Quick and focused) :

https://euiacademy.selar.com/30minutes

February 18, 2026

6,000 people got invited to live in Canada: This is how you can be next

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been waiting for a good time to take your Canadian permanent residency dream seriously, that time might be right now.

See below details of the recent CEC draw:

Canada sent out 6,000 invitations to skilled workers through its Express Entry system
This draw specifically targeted candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The score needed to qualify dropped to 508, the lowest it has been since 2024

So what is the Canadian Experience Class?

The CEC is a pathway designed for people who already have work experience in Canada. If you’ve worked there and built your life there even temporarily, this stream is essentially Canada saying, “We want you to stay.” The government has been heavily focused on this group in 2026, having now run three CEC-specific draws in just the first two months of the year.

In fact, since January, Canada has handed out over 20,000 invitations to CEC candidates alone, which tells you exactly where the country’s immigration priorities are sitting right now.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

Draw date	Draw Type	CRS cut-off score	ITAs issued
February 17	Canadian Experience Class	508	6,000
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

What does a lower score mean for you?

Every point counts in Express Entry. When the cutoff score drops, it opens the door for thousands of people who may have been just out of reach before. A score of 508 means more people qualify, and if your score is close to that range, now is the time to get your profile in order.

This is your sign to act

Whether you have Canadian work experience, you’re thinking about studying in Canada, or you’re exploring other immigration routes like Provincial Nomination, the window of opportunity is open right now and these windows don’t stay open forever.

Our team helps people navigate exactly this kind of moment – from Express Entry and Provincial Nomination to school admissions and more. Don’t guess your way through the process. Book a 30-minute 0r 60-minute consultation with us today and let’s figure out the best pathway for your situation together.

February 16, 2026

Canada invites 279 PNP candidates: What does this mean for your immigration journey?

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Good news as IRCC sent out fresh invitations to apply for permanent residence. This time around, 279 candidates with provincial nominations got their golden ticket through the Express Entry system.

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the Express Entry draws this year, you’ll notice something interesting. Canada seems to be playing favorites with certain groups of applicants, and understanding this pattern could be the difference between waiting endlessly and getting your invitation sooner than you think.

What happened in this latest draw?

The latest selection was specifically for people who already have a Provincial Nominee Program certificate. To get picked, you needed two things: a score of at least 789 points on the ranking system, and you must have submitted your profile before early September last year. Yes, that’s a high score, but there’s a reason why it works this way.

Provincial nominees automatically get 600 extra points added to their base score. So if you’re sitting at around 190 points on your own, a provincial nomination shoots you up to 790, putting you well within the range for selection.

The bigger picture for 2026

So far this year, Canada has been laser-focused on three types of candidates: those with provincial nominations, people with Canadian work experience, and French speakers. That’s it. No general draws for everyone in the pool.

Out of the seven draws held so far, four have targeted provincial nominees specifically. Two others went to people with Canadian Experience Class qualifications, and one massive draw invited 8,500 French-speaking candidates.

The numbers tell a clear story. If you’re outside Canada without a provincial nomination or French language skills, your chances of getting picked in a general draw are looking slim right now. But if you have a way to get into one of these three categories, your path becomes much clearer.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

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

Why provincial nominations matter more than ever

Think about it this way. Canada has different provinces with different needs. Alberta needs tech workers. Saskatchewan wants farmers and agriculture specialists. British Columbia is looking for healthcare professionals and skilled tradespeople. Each province runs its own nomination program and chooses people who match what they need.

When a province nominates you, they’re basically telling the federal government, “We want this person in our province.” That carries a lot of weight. Plus, those 600 bonus points make your profile incredibly competitive.

The catch is each province has its own rules, requirements, and processing times. Some look at your work experience, others care more about your education or language scores. Some even require you to have a job offer first.

What should you do next?

If you’re serious about moving to Canada, sitting around waiting for a general Express Entry draw probably isn’t your best strategy anymore. The government has shown us their hand, they want people who are already connected to Canada somehow, whether through work experience here, French language ability, or a provincial nomination.

Start by checking which provinces might be a good fit for your background. Look at what they’re asking for in their recent draws. Are you in an occupation they need? Do you meet their language requirements? Could you get a job offer in that province?

Some people make the mistake of just hoping their score will be enough in a future draw. But hope isn’t a strategy. Getting a provincial nomination is the clearest path forward for most people right now. It’s also worth exploring whether you could qualify for the Canadian Experience Class if you’re already in Canada on a work permit.

Ready to take control of your immigration journey?

The immigration landscape keeps shifting, and what worked last year might not work now. The latest Express Entry patterns show that targeted approaches are winning over the “wait and see” strategy.

Whether you need help understanding provincial nomination options, want to explore Express Entry possibilities, or need guidance on school admissions that could lead to Canadian work experience, having expert support makes all the difference. Don’t leave your future to chance when there are clear pathways available. [Book your consultation now] and let’s build a personalized strategy that actually gets you to Canada.

February 2, 2026

Are You Tired of Waiting Forever for Your Canadian Work Permit?

By EUIC Admin Temporary Visa

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been trying to get a work permit for Canada, you probably know the struggle. The waiting game can feel endless, and sometimes it seems like your application is stuck somewhere in a pile of paperwork. But this is some good news that could change everything for you: Canada is now speeding things up for people working in certain jobs.

Why This Matters to You

Let’s be honest, when you’re planning to move to a new country, every day counts. You want to start your new life, begin your job, and settle down as quickly as possible. The Canadian government gets this, which is why they’re now putting some applications on the fast track.

If you work in healthcare or agriculture and food-related fields, your work permit application might get processed much faster than before. This isn’t just a small thing, it could be the difference between starting your dream job in a few weeks versus waiting for several months.

Which Jobs Get This Fast-Track Treatment?

This is where it gets interesting. Canada has created a special list of jobs that they really need people for right now. These aren’t random choices, they picked jobs where there simply aren’t enough workers to go around.

In healthcare, almost every position you can think of is included. Nurses, doctors, medical lab workers, pharmacists, nurse aides, the list goes on. Whether you’re a registered nurse coordinating patient care or a paramedic saving lives on the front lines, you’re on this priority list.

For those in agriculture and food work, there’s also great news. Butchers, farm supervisors, livestock workers, people who work in food processing plants, and greenhouse workers all qualify. These jobs keep food on Canadian tables, and the country needs more hands to keep everything running smoothly.

How Does This Actually Work?

You might be wondering, “Do I need to fill out a special form or apply somewhere different?” The answer is no, and that’s actually the beauty of it.

This priority processing happens automatically when you apply for your work permit as long as you do one important thing: make sure the job code on your application matches the job you’ve been offered. Canada uses something called NOC codes (National Occupation Classification) to organize different jobs. Your employer should give you the right code, and you just need to use that exact code when filling out your work permit application.

Think of it like this: when you use the right code, your application goes into a special, faster-moving line. No extra fees, no complicated steps, just smart organization that gets your paperwork moving quicker.

There’s More Good News

Getting your work permit faster is great, but what about staying in Canada permanently? Many people want to know if these priority jobs also help them become permanent residents.

The answer is yes, at least for most of them. If you work in one of these healthcare jobs and you qualify for Express Entry (Canada’s main permanent residence program), you’ll have a better chance of getting an invitation to apply for permanent residence. The score you need is usually lower than what other people need.

For agriculture workers, things are a bit different. Only butchers working in retail and wholesale get this extra benefit in Express Entry. But don’t let that discourage you, there are other paths to permanent residence, including provincial programs that love agricultural workers.

See below the eligible occupations for priority work permit processing

Healthcare occupations

Occupation title	NOC code
Nursing coordinators and supervisors	31300
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses	31301
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine	31100
Specialists in surgery	31101
Police investigators and other investigative occupations	41310
General practitioners and family physicians	31102
Nurse practitioners	31302
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals	31303
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists	32103
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating	31209
Pharmacists	31120
Medical laboratory technologists	32120
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations	33101
Medical radiation technologists	32121
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists	32123
Licensed practical nurses	32101
Paramedical occupations	32102
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates	33102

Agriculture and agri-food occupations

Occupation title	NOC code
Butchers – Retail and wholesale	63201
Meat cutters and fishmongers – Retail and wholesale	65202
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors	82030
Livestock labourers	85100
Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators	84120
Harvesting labourers	85101
Nursery and greenhouse labourers	85103
Fish and seafood plant workers	94142
Labourers in food and beverage processing	95106
Labourers in fish and seafood processing	95107
Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers	94141

What This Means for Your Future

Think about it: you get to Canada faster, you start working sooner, and for many of you, there’s a clearer path to making Canada your permanent home. It’s like Canada is rolling out a welcome mat specifically for you.

This isn’t just about filling jobs but about building communities. Canada needs people who will care for the sick, grow food, and keep essential services running. In return, they’re making it easier for you to build the life you’ve always wanted.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Understanding these opportunities is one thing, but actually navigating the Canadian immigration system can still feel overwhelming. Should you apply now or wait? Which province is best for your situation? How do you make sure your application is perfect the first time?

Whether you’re looking at Express Entry, trying to figure out provincial nomination programs, or even considering school admissions as a pathway to Canada, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Our team helps people just like you turn their Canadian dreams into reality every single day. We know the shortcuts, we understand the system, and we’re here to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Don’t let confusion or uncertainty keep you from the life you deserve. Book a 30 minute or 60 minute consultation with us today and let’s create a personalized roadmap for your Canadian future. Your new life is waiting, let’s make it happen together.

January 16, 2026

Big News for International Students: Canada Keeps the Same List of Work Permit Programs for 2026

By EUIC Admin Canada

Dear future neighbour,

If you’re planning to study in Canada or already working on your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application, here’s something you need to know: Canada just decided to keep things as they are for the rest of 2026. The government isn’t adding or removing any programs from the list of courses that qualify you for a work permit after graduation.

This might sound like a small detail, but it’s actually a huge deal for anyone hoping to study, work, and eventually settle in Canada.

What’s Actually Happening?

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) put out an update saying they’re hitting pause on making any changes to which educational programs can lead to a PGWP this year. Originally, they planned to shake things up in early 2026, but they’ve now decided to keep everything the same until the year wraps up.

Right now, there are 1,107 programs on the approved list. These cover areas like healthcare, education, skilled trades, farming, science and technology, and transportation, basically fields where Canada really needs workers.

Why Does This Matter to You?

Here’s the thing: if you’re an international student graduating from certain college programs or certificate courses, your program needs to be on this approved list for you to get a PGWP. Without that work permit, you can’t gain the Canadian work experience that opens doors to permanent residency.

The good news is you now have complete clarity for the entire year. You don’t have to worry about your program suddenly getting dropped from the list halfway through your studies. That peace of mind is worth a lot when you’re making major life decisions.

Students working toward bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees can breathe easy—you’re automatically exempt from these field-of-study restrictions anyway.

How Do You Know If Your Program Qualifies?

Before you apply for your study permit or work permit, you’ll want to check something called the CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs code). Think of it as your program’s ID number, it’s a six-digit code that tells the government exactly what you’re studying.

You can find the complete list of approved codes on the IRCC website. Just make sure your program matches one of those codes, and you’re good to go.

A Quick Look Back: What Happened Last Year?

In 2025, things got a bit messy. Canada added 119 new programs to the list but also planned to remove 178 others. Then they paused those removals and said they’d sort everything out in early 2026. Now, instead of sorting it out, they’re just keeping everything frozen.

What does that mean? Those 178 programs that were supposed to be removed? They’re still on the list and will stay there for all of 2026. So if you’re in one of those programs, you just got a pleasant surprise.

The Bigger Picture

This freeze isn’t just about bureaucracy, it’s about your future. A PGWP gives you the chance to work anywhere in Canada after you graduate, gain valuable experience, and build the foundation for permanent residency. For many international students, it’s the critical bridge between being a student and becoming a Canadian resident.

The stability this freeze brings means you can plan your education and career path without constantly checking for policy changes.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can feel overwhelming, especially when rules keep changing and different programs have different requirements. Whether you’re just starting to think about studying in Canada, trying to figure out if your program qualifies for a PGWP, or looking at your options for permanent residency through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program, having the right guidance makes all the difference.

Our team specializes in helping international students and graduates turn their Canadian education into a pathway to permanent residency. We handle everything from school admissions and study permits to work permit applications and permanent residency programs. Don’t leave your future to guesswork – book a 60-minute or 30-minute consultation with us and let’s create a clear roadmap for your Canadian dream.

January 8, 2026

How long does a Canada visa take? IRCC processing times by country

By EUIC Admin Temporary Visa

Dear future neighbour,

Are you planning to visit, study, or work in Canada in 2026? Whether you’re booking a flight to see family, preparing for university, or advancing your career, one of the most important steps is understanding how long your visa application might take to be processed by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).

Every week, IRCC updates its processing times by country and application type and these timelines can vary widely depending on where you’re applying from and what kind of permit you’re seeking. As of January 7, 2026, many applicants around the world are seeing a range of wait times for temporary residence visas, including visitor visas, study permits, and work permits.

The processing time estimates listed below are designed to help you plan your application with confidence. They give you a realistic idea of how long IRCC may take to process visitor visas, study permits, and work permits based on your country of application. If you have fixed travel dates, school start times, or work commitments, applying as early as possible is strongly recommended. Please note that applications requiring additional review, or periods of high application volume, may result in longer processing times than those officially published by IRCC.

Processing time for Visiting Visa as at January 7, 2026

S/N	COUNTRY	PROCESSING TIME (VISITING VISA)
1	Afghanistan	90 days
2	Albania	44 days
3	Algeria	53 days
4	Andorra	No processing time available
5	Angola	338 days
6	Anguilla	No processing time available
7	Antigua and Barbuda	23 days
8	Argentina	14 days
9	Armenia	23 days
10	Aruba	No processing time available
11	Australia	5 days
12	Austria	41 days
13	Azerbaijan	63 days
14	Bahamas	21 days
15	Bahrain	67 days
16	Bangladesh	25 days
17	Barbados	120 days
18	Belarus	23 days
19	Belgium	56 days
20	Belize	23 days
21	Benin	822 days
22	Bermuda	52 days
23	Bhutan	No processing time available
24	Bolivia	27 days
25	Bonaire	No processing time available
26	Bosnia and Herzegovina	47 days
27	Botswana	667 days
28	Brazil	41 days
29	British Virgin Islands	No processing time available
30	Brunei	No processing time available
31	Bulgaria	14 days
32	Burkina Faso	78 days
33	Burma (Myanmar)	22 days
34	Burundi	207 days
35	Cambodia	19 days
36	Cameroon	190 days
37	Cabo Verde	No processing time available
38	Cayman Islands	23 days
39	Central African Republic	137 days
40	Chad	509 days
41	Chile	13 days
42	China (People’s Republic of)	20 days
43	Colombia	35 days
44	Comoros Island	No processing time available
45	Costa Rica	29 days
46	Côte d’Ivoire	161 days
47	Croatia	No processing time available
48	Cuba	22 days
49	Cyprus	43 days
50	Czech Republic	41 days
51	Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)	144 days
52	Denmark	53 days
53	Djibouti	107 days
54	Dominica	42 days
55	Dominican Republic	27 days
56	Ecuador	23 days
57	Egypt	101 days
58	El Salvador	25 days
59	Equatorial Guinea	561 days
60	Eritrea	45 days
61	Estonia	24 days
62	Eswatini	No processing time available
63	Ethiopia	82 days
64	Fiji	6 days
65	Finland	95 days
66	France	54 days
67	Gabon	62 days
68	Gambia	533 days
69	Georgia	27 days
70	Germany	43 days
71	Ghana	529 days
72	Greece	40 days
73	Grenada	28 days
74	Gautemala	32 days
75	Guinea	571 days
76	Guinea-Bissau	No processing time available
77	Guyana	20 days
78	Haiti	47 days
79	Holy See	No processing time available
80	Honduras	29 days
81	Hong Kong SAR	15 days
82	Hungary	50 days
83	Iceland	71 days
84	India	114 days
85	Indonesia	22 days
86	Iran	90 days
87	Iraq	121 days
88	Ireland	49 days
89	Israel	28 days
90	Italy	39 days
91	Jamaica	20 days
92	Japan	21 days
93	Jordan	57 days
94	Kazakhstan	25 days
95	Kenya	88 days
96	Kiribati	No processing time available
97	Kosovo	43 days
98	Kuwait	63 days
99	Kyrgyzstan	28 days
100	Laos	18 days
101	Latvia	No processing time available
102	Lebanon	43 days
103	Lesotho	No processing time available
104	Liberia	721 days
105	Libya	63 days
106	Liechtenstein	No processing time available
107	Lithuania	24 days
108	Luxembourg	98 days
109	Macao SAR	16 days
110	Macedonia	45 days
111	Madagascar	322 days
112	Malawi	137 days
113	Malaysia	41 days
114	Maldives	No processing time available
115	Mali	524 days
116	Malta	40 days
117	Marshall Islands	No processing time available
118	Martinique	No processing time available
119	Mauritania	234 days
120	Mauritius	90 days
121	Mexico	42 days
122	Micronesia (Federated States of)	No processing time available
123	Moldova	15 days
124	Monaco	No processing time available
125	Mongolia	15 days
126	Montenegro	64 days
127	Morocco	23 days
128	Mozambique	274 days
129	Namibia	570 days
130	Nauru	No processing time available
131	Nepal	20 days
132	Netherlands	44 days
133	New Caledonia	No processing time available
134	New Zealand	5 days
135	Nicaragua	35 days
136	Niger	471 days
137	Nigeria	34 days
138	North Korea	No processing time available
139	Norway	59 days
140	Oman	46 days
141	Pakistan	68 days
142	Palestinian Authority (Gaza)	214 days
143	Palestinian Authority (West Bank)	214 days
144	Panama	25 days
145	Papua New Guinea	No processing time available
146	Paraguay	16 days
147	Peru	26 days
148	Philippines	17 days
149	Poland	28 days
150	Portugal	52 days
151	Puerto Rico	No processing time available
152	Qatar	88 days
153	Romania	16 days
154	Republic of Congo (Brazzaville)	82 days
155	Russia	29 days
156	Rwanda	209 days
157	Samoa	No processing time available
158	San Marino	No processing time available
159	Sao Tome and Principe	No processing time available
160	Saudi Arabia	28 days
161	Senegal	239 days
162	Serbia	44 days
163	Seychelles	No processing time available
164	Sierra Leone	558 days
165	Singapore	41 days
166	Slovakia	No processing time available
167	Slovenia	No processing time available
168	Solomon Islands	No processing time available
169	Somalia	91 days
170	South Africa	598 days
171	South Korea	21 days
172	South Sudan	70 days
173	Spain	52 days
174	Sri Lanka	59 days
175	St. Kitts and Nevis	No processing time available
176	St. Lucia	41 days
177	St. Vincent and Grenadines	39 days
178	Sudan	No processing time available
179	Suriname	49 days
180	Sweden	49 days
181	Switzerland	54 days
182	Syria	69 days
183	Tahiti	No processing time available
184	Taiwan	21 days
185	Tajikistan	22 days
186	Tanzania	181 days
187	Thailand	19 days
188	Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)	No processing time available
189	Togo	595 days
190	Tonga	No processing time available
191	Trinidad and Tobago	28 days
192	Tunisia	58 days
193	Turkiye	21 days
194	Turkmenistan	No processing time available
195	Turks and Caicos Islands	25 days
196	Tuvalu	No processing time available
197	Uganda	74 days
198	Ukraine	25 days
199	United Arab Emirates	58 days
200	United Kingdom	52 days
201	United States of America	29 days
202	Uruguay	26 days
203	US Virgin Islands	No processing time available
204	Uzbekistan	28 days
205	Vanuatu	No processing time available
206	Venezuela	24 days
207	Vietnam	31 days
208	Yemen	117 days
209	Zambia	466 days
210	Zimbabwe	515 days

Processing time for Work Permit as at January 7, 2026

S/N	COUNTRY	PROCESSING TIME (WORK PERMIT)
1	Afghanistan	No processing time available
2	Albania	14 weeks
3	Algeria	20 weeks
4	Andorra	No processing time available
5	Angola	No processing time available
6	Anguilla	No processing time available
7	Antigua and Barbuda	No processing time available
8	Argentina	No processing time available
9	Armenia	No processing time available
10	Aruba	No processing time available
11	Australia	7 weeks
12	Austria	No processing time available
13	Azerbaijan	No processing time available
14	Bahamas	No processing time available
15	Bahrain	No processing time available
16	Bangladesh	9 weeks
17	Barbados	No processing time available
18	Belarus	No processing time available
19	Belgium	7 weeks
20	Belize	No processing time available
21	Benin	No processing time available
22	Bermuda	No processing time available
23	Bhutan	No processing time available
24	Bolivia	No processing time available
25	Bonaire	No processing time available
26	Bosnia and Herzegovina	No processing time available
27	Botswana	No processing time available
28	Brazil	6 weeks
29	British Virgin Islands	No processing time available
30	Brunei	No processing time available
31	Bulgaria	No processing time available
32	Burkina Faso	10 weeks
33	Burma (Myanmar)	No processing time available
34	Burundi	No processing time available
35	Cambodia	No processing time available
36	Cameroon	8 weeks
37	Cabo Verde	No processing time available
38	Cayman Islands	No processing time available
39	Central African Republic	No processing time available
40	Chad	No processing time available
41	Chile	4 weeks
42	China (People’s Republic of)	9 weeks
43	Colombia	6 weeks
44	Comoros Island	No processing time available
45	Costa Rica	No processing time available
46	Côte d’Ivoire	7 weeks
47	Croatia	No processing time available
48	Cuba	No processing time available
49	Cyprus	No processing time available
50	Czech Republic	No processing time available
51	Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)	9 weeks
52	Denmark	No processing time available
53	Djibouti	No processing time available
54	Dominica	No processing time available
55	Dominican Republic	No processing time available
56	Ecuador	9 weeks
57	Egypt	181 weeks
58	El Salvador	No processing time available
59	Equatorial Guinea	No processing time available
60	Eritrea	No processing time available
61	Estonia	No processing time available
62	Eswatini	No processing time available
63	Ethiopia	No processing time available
64	Fiji	No processing time available
65	Finland	No processing time available
66	France	5 weeks
67	Gabon	No processing time available
68	Gambia	No processing time available
69	Georgia	No processing time available
70	Germany	185 weeks
71	Ghana	16 weeks
72	Greece	No processing time available
73	Grenada	No processing time available
74	Gautemala	2 weeks
75	Guinea	No processing time available
76	Guinea-Bissau	No processing time available
77	Guyana	No processing time available
78	Haiti	7 weeks
79	Holy See	No processing time available
80	Honduras	3 weeks
81	Hong Kong SAR	34 weeks
82	Hungary	No processing time available
83	Iceland	No processing time available
84	India	9 weeks
85	Indonesia	6 weeks
86	Iran	34 weeks
87	Iraq	122 weeks
88	Ireland	No processing time available
89	Israel	No processing time available
90	Italy	19 weeks
91	Jamaica	3 weeks
92	Japan	4 weeks
93	Jordan	24 weeks
94	Kazakhstan	No processing time available
95	Kenya	15 weeks
96	Kiribati	No processing time available
97	Kosovo	No processing time available
98	Kuwait	15 weeks
99	Kyrgyzstan	No processing time available
100	Laos	No processing time available
101	Latvia	No processing time available
102	Lebanon	21 weeks
103	Lesotho	No processing time available
104	Liberia	No processing time available
105	Libya	No processing time available
106	Liechtenstein	No processing time available
107	Lithuania	No processing time available
108	Luxembourg	No processing time available
109	Macao SAR	No processing time available
110	Macedonia	No processing time available
111	Madagascar	28 weeks
112	Malawi	No processing time available
113	Malaysia	No processing time available
114	Maldives	No processing time available
115	Mali	No processing time available
116	Malta	No processing time available
117	Marshall Islands	No processing time available
118	Martinique	No processing time available
119	Mauritania	No processing time available
120	Mauritius	29 weeks
121	Mexico	2 weeks
122	Micronesia (Federated States of)	No processing time available
123	Moldova	No processing time available
124	Monaco	No processing time available
125	Mongolia	No processing time available
126	Montenegro	No processing time available
127	Morocco	8 weeks
128	Mozambique	No processing time available
129	Namibia	No processing time available
130	Nauru	No processing time available
131	Nepal	4 weeks
132	Netherlands	15 weeks
133	New Caledonia	No processing time available
134	New Zealand	No processing time available
135	Nicaragua	3 weeks
136	Niger	No processing time available
137	Nigeria	9 weeks
138	North Korea	No processing time available
139	Norway	No processing time available
140	Oman	No processing time available
141	Pakistan	14 weeks
142	Palestinian Authority (Gaza)	No processing time available
143	Palestinian Authority (West Bank)	No processing time available
144	Panama	No processing time available
145	Papua New Guinea	No processing time available
146	Paraguay	No processing time available
147	Peru	6 weeks
148	Philippines	6 weeks
149	Poland	188 weeks
150	Portugal	No processing time available
151	Puerto Rico	No processing time available
152	Qatar	22 weeks
153	Romania	31 weeks
154	Republic of Congo (Brazzaville)	No processing time available
155	Russia	188 weeks
156	Rwanda	No processing time available
157	Samoa	No processing time available
158	San Marino	No processing time available
159	Sao Tome and Principe	No processing time available
160	Saudi Arabia	6 weeks
161	Senegal	6 weeks
162	Serbia	No processing time available
163	Seychelles	No processing time available
164	Sierra Leone	No processing time available
165	Singapore	8 weeks
166	Slovakia	No processing time available
167	Slovenia	No processing time available
168	Solomon Islanda	No processing time available
169	Somalia	No processing time available
170	South Africa	21 weeks
171	South Korea	16 weeks
172	South Sudan	No processing time available
173	Spain	10 weeks
174	Sri Lanka	19 weeks
175	St. Kitts and Nevis	No processing time available
176	St. Lucia	No processing time available
177	St. Vincent and Grenadines	No processing time available
178	Sudan	No processing time available
179	Suriname	No processing time available
180	Sweden	No processing time available
181	Switzerland	No processing time available
182	Syria	No processing time available
183	Tahiti	No processing time available
184	Taiwan	7 weeks
185	Tajikistan	No processing time available
186	Tanzania	No processing time available
187	Thailand	6 weeks
188	Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)	No processing time available
189	Togo	18 weeks
190	Tonga	No processing time available
191	Trinidad and Tobago	No processing time available
192	Tunisia	9 weeks
193	Turkiye	185 weeks
194	Turkmenistan	No processing time available
195	Turks and Caicos Islands	No processing time available
196	Tuvalu	No processing time available
197	Uganda	No processing time available
198	Ukraine	No processing time available
199	United Arab Emirates	36 weeks
200	United Kingdom	6 weeks
201	United States of America	9 weeks
202	Uruguay	No processing time available
203	US Virgin Islands	No processing time available
204	Uzbekistan	No processing time available
205	Vanuatu	No processing time available
206	Venezuela	No processing time available
207	Vietnam	7 weeks
208	Yemen	No processing time available
209	Zambia	No processing time available
210	Zimbabwe	No processing time available

Processing time for Study Permit as at January 7, 2026

S/N	COUNTRY	PROCESSING TIME (STUDY PERMIT)
1	Afghanistan	No processing time available
2	Albania	No processing time available
3	Algeria	4 weeks
4	Andorra	No processing time available
5	Angola	No processing time available
6	Anguilla	No processing time available
7	Antigua and Barbuda	No processing time available
8	Argentina	No processing time available
9	Armenia	No processing time available
10	Aruba	No processing time available
11	Australia	3 weeks
12	Austria	No processing time available
13	Azerbaijan	4 weeks
14	Bahamas	No processing time available
15	Bahrain	No processing time available
16	Bangladesh	4 weeks
17	Barbados	11 weeks
18	Belarus	No processing time available
19	Belgium	2 weeks
20	Belize	No processing time available
21	Benin	9 weeks
22	Bermuda	No processing time available
23	Bhutan	No processing time available
24	Bolivia	No processing time available
25	Bonaire	No processing time available
26	Bosnia and Herzegovina	No processing time available
27	Botswana	No processing time available
28	Brazil	5 weeks
29	British Virgin Islands	No processing time available
30	Brunei	No processing time available
31	Bulgaria	No processing time available
32	Burkina Faso	3 weeks
33	Burma (Myanmar)	4 weeks
34	Burundi	18 weeks
35	Cambodia	4 weeks
36	Cameroon	9 weeks
37	Cabo Verde	No processing time available
38	Cayman Islands	No processing time available
39	Central African Republic	No processing time available
40	Chad	6 weeks
41	Chile	4 weeks
42	China (People’s Republic of)	4 weeks
43	Colombia	4 weeks
44	Comoros Island	No processing time available
45	Costa Rica	No processing time available
46	Côte d’Ivoire	7 weeks
47	Croatia	No processing time available
48	Cuba	No processing time available
49	Cyprus	No processing time available
50	Czech Republic	No processing time available
51	Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)	5 weeks
52	Denmark	No processing time available
53	Djibouti	No processing time available
54	Dominica	No processing time available
55	Dominican Republic	No processing time available
56	Ecuador	7 weeks
57	Egypt	15 weeks
58	El Salvador	No processing time available
59	Equatorial Guinea	No processing time available
60	Eritrea	No processing time available
61	Estonia	No processing time available
62	Eswatini	No processing time available
63	Ethiopia	16 weeks
64	Fiji	No processing time available
65	Finland	No processing time available
66	France	2 weeks
67	Gabon	No processing time available
68	Gambia	11 weeks
69	Georgia	No processing time available
70	Germany	3 weeks
71	Ghana	21 weeks
72	Greece	No processing time available
73	Grenada	No processing time available
74	Gautemala	No processing time available
75	Guinea	9 weeks
76	Guinea-Bissau	No processing time available
77	Guyana	No processing time available
78	Haiti	5 weeks
79	Holy See	No processing time available
80	Honduras	No processing time available
81	Hong Kong SAR	12 weeks
82	Hungary	No processing time available
83	Iceland	No processing time available
84	India	3 weeks
85	Indonesia	4 weeks
86	Iran	17 weeks
87	Iraq	No processing time available
88	Ireland	No processing time available
89	Israel	No processing time available
90	Italy	6 weeks
91	Jamaica	4 weeks
92	Japan	1 weeks
93	Jordan	7 weeks
94	Kazakhstan	No processing time available
95	Kenya	11 weeks
96	Kiribati	No processing time available
97	Kosovo	No processing time available
98	Kuwait	5 weeks
99	Kyrgyzstan	No processing time available
100	Laos	No processing time available
101	Latvia	No processing time available
102	Lebanon	10 weeks
103	Lesotho	No processing time available
104	Liberia	14 weeks
105	Libya	4 weeks
106	Liechtenstein	No processing time available
107	Lithuania	No processing time available
108	Luxembourg	No processing time available
109	Macao SAR	No processing time available
110	Macedonia	No processing time available
111	Madagascar	20 weeks
112	Malawi	No processing time available
113	Malaysia	9 weeks
114	Maldives	No processing time available
115	Mali	9 weeks
116	Malta	No processing time available
117	Marshall Islands	No processing time available
118	Martinique	No processing time available
119	Mauritania	No processing time available
120	Mauritius	14 weeks
121	Mexico	4 weeks
122	Micronesia (Federated States of)	No processing time available
123	Moldova	No processing time available
124	Monaco	No processing time available
125	Mongolia	5 weeks
126	Montenegro	No processing time available
127	Morocco	7 weeks
128	Mozambique	No processing time available
129	Namibia	No processing time available
130	Nauru	No processing time available
131	Nepal	4 weeks
132	Netherlands	No processing time available
133	New Caledonia	No processing time available
134	New Zealand	No processing time available
135	Nicaragua	No processing time available
136	Niger	7 weeks
137	Nigeria	5 weeks
138	North Korea	No processing time available
139	Norway	No processing time available
140	Oman	2 weeks
141	Pakistan	5 weeks
142	Palestinian Authority (Gaza)	No processing time available
143	Palestinian Authority (West Bank)	No processing time available
144	Panama	No processing time available
145	Papua New Guinea	No processing time available
146	Paraguay	No processing time available
147	Peru	6 weeks
148	Philippines	4 weeks
149	Poland	No processing time available
150	Portugal	No processing time available
151	Puerto Rico	No processing time available
152	Qatar	4 weeks
153	Romania	No processing time available
154	Republic of Congo (Brazzaville)	4 weeks
155	Russia	5 weeks
156	Rwanda	21 weeks
157	Samoa	No processing time available
158	San Marino	No processing time available
159	Sao Tome and Principe	No processing time available
160	Saudi Arabia	4 weeks
161	Senegal	6 weeks
162	Serbia	No processing time available
163	Seychelles	No processing time available
164	Sierra Leone	No processing time available
165	Singapore	5 weeks
166	Slovakia	No processing time available
167	Slovenia	No processing time available
168	Solomon Islands	No processing time available
169	Somalia	No processing time available
170	South Africa	20 weeks
171	South Korea	2 weeks
172	South Sudan	No processing time available
173	Spain	2 weeks
174	Sri Lanka	11 weeks
175	St. Kitts and Nevis	No processing time available
176	St. Lucia	No processing time available
177	St. Vincent and Grenadines	No processing time available
178	Sudan	No processing time available
179	Suriname	No processing time available
180	Sweden	No processing time available
181	Switzerland	No processing time available
182	Syria	No processing time available
183	Tahiti	No processing time available
184	Taiwan	4 weeks
185	Tajikistan	No processing time available
186	Tanzania	11 weeks
187	Thailand	4 weeks
188	Timor-Leste (Timor oriental)	No processing time available
189	Togo	8 weeks
190	Tonga	No processing time available
191	Trinidad and Tobago	No processing time available
192	Tunisia	5 weeks
193	Turkiye	4 weeks
194	Turkmenistan	No processing time available
195	Turks and Caicos Islands	No processing time available
196	Tuvalu	No processing time available
197	Uganda	10 weeks
198	Ukraine	No processing time available
199	United Arab Emirates	4 weeks
200	United Kingdom	6 weeks
201	United States of America	6 weeks
202	Uruguay	No processing time available
203	US Virgin Islands	No processing time available
204	Uzbekistan	5 weeks
205	Vanuatu	No processing time available
206	Venezuela	No processing time available
207	Vietnam	6 weeks
208	Yemen	No processing time available
209	Zambia	No processing time available
210	Zimbabwe	18 weeks

Canada is set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the United States and Mexico. Toronto, one of the host cities will hold six matches during the tournament, including some group stage fixtures, marking the first time the men’s World Cup is played on Canadian soil. This historic event (running from June 11 to July 19, 2026) is expected to draw millions of visitors from around the world.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Whether you’re applying for a visitor visa, submitting a work permit or visa application, creating an Expression of Interest (EOI), setting up an Express Entry or Provincial Nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your self-prepared application, we’re here to assist you.

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

January 8, 2026

Why studying in Canada makes sense: Jan 7 Express Entry Draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

If you’re an international student thinking about studying in Canada or you’re already in Canada working toward your future, Canada just sent you a very encouraging signal.

On January 7, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held one of the largest Express Entry draws in recent years, and it strongly favored people with Canadian education and work experience. For students planning a long-term future in Canada, this draw is more than just immigration news – it’s a roadmap.

Let’s break down what happened and, more importantly, why it matters to you.

What happened in the January 7 Express Entry Draw?

In this draw, IRCC invited 8,000 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) to apply for permanent residence.

These are the key details in simple terms:

Program: Canadian Experience Class
Number of invitations issued: 8,000
Rank required to be invited to apply: 8,000 or above
Date and time of round: January 7, 2026
CRS score cutoff: 511
Tie-breaking rule: June 10, 2025

This wasn’t just a routine draw. It was a clear statement: Canada wants people who are already part of its workforce and society.

See below summary of Express Entry draws in 2026

Draw date	Draw Type	CRS cut-off score	ITAs issued
January 7	Canadian Experience Class	511	8,000
January 5	Provincial Nominee Program	711	574

Why this is big news for International Students

If you’re considering studying in Canada, this draw highlights something extremely important:

Studying in Canada can be a direct pathway to permanent residence.

This is how the journey typically looks and how this draw supports it:

You study in Canada at a designated learning institution
You graduate and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
You gain Canadian work experience (usually one year)
You enter Express Entry under CEC
You get invited for PR just like thousands did on January 7

This draw proves that Canada is actively rewarding this exact pathway.

The real message behind the numbers

A CRS score of 511 may sound high at first but for international students, it’s very achievable.

Why?

Because Canadian education and work experience give you major advantages:

Extra CRS points for Canadian study
Stronger English or French scores from living in Canada
Skilled Canadian work experience
Easier access to employers willing to provide references

In other words, Canada is designing its system around people like you, for students who integrate, contribute, and grow here.

What if you’re still outside Canada?

If you’re currently researching study options from abroad, this draw should influence how you plan:

Choose programs with strong job outcomes
Pick fields aligned with Canada’s labor market
Select provinces and institutions that support international graduates
Think beyond the degree, think PR from day one

Studying in Canada is no longer just about education. It’s about building a future in one of the world’s most immigrant-friendly countries.

What Canada is really trying to do with immigration

Just days before this draw, IRCC held a smaller Provincial Nominee draw with a much higher CRS score. Together, these draws show a clear strategy:

Provinces select niche talent through nominations
CEC draws welcome large numbers of people already in Canada

This balance ensures Canada keeps attracting international students and keeps them after graduation.

What you should do as an International Student

If Canada is part of your plan, start preparing early:

Choose the right study program, not just any program
Invest in strong language skills
Gain relevant work experience during and after studies
Keep your documents organized from day one
Monitor Express Entry trends regularly

The students who plan early are the ones celebrating PR later.

Planning your Canadian journey and not sure where to start?

Canada’s January 7 Express Entry draw wasn’t just about numbers but about priorities.

For international students dreaming of a stable, welcoming future abroad, Canada continues to stand out as a place where education truly leads to opportunity.

Whether you’re exploring study options, applying for a visitor or work permit, setting up your Express Entry or Provincial Nominee profile, responding to an Invitation to Apply, or simply want a professional review of your application, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

January 6, 2026

Canada kicks off 2026 with its first Express Entry draw

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Canada has officially launched the first Express Entry draw of 2026, marking the beginning of a new year for skilled immigrants hoping to secure permanent residence. On January 5, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 574 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system in a draw focused on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.

Key Highlights of the January 5 Express Entry Draw

Draw date: January 5, 2026
ITAs issued: 574
Program targeted: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Minimum CRS score: 711
Tie-breaker cutoff: Candidates had to have submitted profiles before October 6, 2025 to be considered if tied at the cut-off score.

This draw represents the first round of Express Entry invitations for the year and continues Canada’s trend of programme-specific and category-based draws. In this case, priority was given to candidates who hold a provincial nomination – a powerful CRS booster that adds 600 points to an applicant’s score and greatly improves their chances of receiving an ITA.

Trends and Changes in the CRS Score Distribution

To help put things into perspective, here’s the CRS score distribution in the Express Entry pool as of January 4, 2026, just one day before the draw and comparison.

CRS score range	Number of candidates (Jan 4, 2026)	Number of candidates (Dec 14, 2025	Change
601-1200	559	390	169
501-600	21,013	21,792	-779
451-500	70,523	68,700	1,823
491-500	12,873	12,315	558
481-490	12,499	12,149	350
471-480	15,435	14,859	576
461-470	14,881	14,535	346
451-460	14,835	14,842	-7
401-450	65,120	66,948	-1,828
441-450	14,139	13,992	147
431-440	14,285	14,244	41
421-430	12,816	12,750	66
411-420	12,442	12,367	75
401-410	11,438	13,595	-2,157
351-400	52,469	52,574	-105
301-350	18,745	18,829	-84
0-300	8,125	8,069	56
Total	236,554	237,302	-748

What This Means for Immigration Candidates

The high CRS cutoff of 711 reflects the competitive nature of PNP-specific draws where candidates nominated by a province already have a significant advantage. Securing a provincial nomination remains one of the strongest strategies to receive an invitation under Express Entry, especially for skilled workers whose core scores might otherwise fall below typical thresholds.

Candidates invited in this draw now have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application. IRCC aims to process most complete applications within the standard six-month timeframe once an ITA is issued.

What to Expect in 2026

This first draw sets the tone for the year ahead. While this round focused exclusively on PNP candidates, future draws may include:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws – likely with lower CRS thresholds for those with Canadian work experience.
Potential French-language focused draws, reflecting Canada’s francophone immigration priorities.
New categories such as targeted streams for specific occupations, including health professionals.

Whether you’re already in the Express Entry pool or planning to create a profile, 2026 looks set to remain competitive – with multiple pathways and programme streams shaping the year’s selections.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

January 2, 2026

Canada’s big immigration updates that took effect on January 1, 2026

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

Canada kicked off 2026 with several important shifts in its immigration policies. Whether you’re planning to study, work, start a business, or settle permanently in Canada, these new rules might make a real difference in your plans.

Let’s break them down in simple terms.

1. Easier path for graduate students

If you’re dreaming of a master’s or PhD in Canada, there’s good news.

Starting January 1, master’s and doctoral students at public Canadian universities no longer need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) when applying for a study permit. This requirement used to be part of how the government counted students under provincial caps, but now graduate applicants are exempt from that cap altogether.

What this means:

You can apply even if the study permit cap has been met.
No upfront costs related to PAL/TAL deposits.
Doctoral applicants may see processing times as short as two weeks.

2. Start-Up visa program paused

Entrepreneurs hoping to move to Canada through the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program faced a surprise change.

As of midnight on December 31, 2025, IRCC stopped accepting new applications under this program.

Good news if you already have a commitment certificate, you still have until June 30, 2026 to submit your permanent residence application. But if you hadn’t started, the door is effectively closed for now.

The government says this pause makes space for a new targeted pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs coming later in 2026.

3. Faster credential recognition in Ontario

Ontario introduced a new rule called the “As of Right” framework.

This helps professionals who earned a certification in another province work in Ontario without long delays:

If your credentials are valid and recognized, you could start working in Ontario within 10 business days while your full license is processed.

This applies to over 50 regulated professions, everything from architects and engineers to select healthcare roles giving newcomers a smoother path into the workforce.

4. Job Ads in Ontario can’t require Canadian experience

Starting in 2026, Ontario banned job postings that demand “Canadian work experience”, a change many newcomers will welcome.

Why?
Because requiring Canadian experience has been a major barrier for new immigrants trying to land their first job in Canada.

Now, employers must remove that box from job listings. In addition:

They have to be clear if artificial intelligence tools are used in screening applications.

This opens doors for newcomers who are qualified but haven’t worked in Canada before.

5. Alberta adjusts its rural immigration stream

If you were considering settling in rural Alberta, the rules just got a bit tougher.

Here’s what changed in the Rural Renewal Stream:

You must have a valid work permit both when you apply and when IRCC assesses your application (maintained status doesn’t count).
People in lower-skilled jobs (TEER 4 and 5) now need to physically live in Alberta before applying.
There’s a cap on community endorsements, and support letters are only valid for 12 months.

This means planning your move carefully including timing your permit and residency is more important than ever.

What this all adds up to

Canada continues to adjust its immigration system in ways that try to balance labour needs, local community priorities and long-term population goals. Graduate students and skilled workers may find new opportunities opening, while entrepreneurs and rural applicants face more targeted rules.

No matter your immigration goal, staying informed about changes like these will help you plan smarter, avoid surprises, and maximise your chances of success.

Need help with your Canadian immigration process?

Schedule a 30-minute / 60- minute consultation or contact us at:
info@eseumohimmigration.com

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