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June 26, 2026
June 26, 2026

Canada just held its biggest healthcare draw since february inviting 4,000 candidates

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On June 25, 2026, Canada’s immigration department sent out 4,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence through a Healthcare and Social Services Express Entry draw. The minimum CRS score to qualify was 475, and only candidates who had created their Express Entry profile before May 21, 2026 were considered for selection.

See below details from the draw:

Draw Detail Value
Category Healthcare and Social Services Occupations (2026 – Version 3)
Date and Time June 25, 2026
Invitations Issued 4,000
Minimum CRS Score 475
Tie-Breaking Date May 21, 2026

This was the third healthcare draw of the year and the largest since the first one back in February which also sent out 4,000 invitations. This is how all three healthcare draws in 2026 compare:

Draw Date Version Invitations CRS Cutoff
February 20 Version 1 4,000 467
April 15 Version 2 3,000 430
June 25 Version 3 4,000 475

Why this draw matters more than you might think

The 475 CRS cutoff is significant because it reaches into one of the most crowded parts of the Express Entry pool. As of June 21, there were 75,938 candidates sitting between 451 and 500 CRS points with about 17,318 of them clustered specifically between 471 and 480.

The Canadian Experience Class draw held just two days earlier on June 23 had a cutoff of 516. That’s a 41-point gap. What that means practically: a nurse, pharmacist, or social worker with a CRS of 475 would have received an invitation through this healthcare draw but would have needed at least 516 to get in through CEC. For thousands of healthcare professionals who have been waiting in the pool, this draw offered a route that simply wasn’t available to them any other way.

Four draws in four days: a burst of activity after a long wait

The June 25 draw was actually the fourth in a row after IRCC went 25 days without holding a single draw. Between June 22 and June 25, a total of 9,226 invitations went out across four different categories:

Date Category Invitations CRS
June 22 Provincial Nominee Program 955 730
June 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 516
June 24 Physicians with Canadian Work Experience 271 223
June 25 Healthcare and Social Services 4,000 475

IRCC has now issued a total of 89,067 Express Entry invitations since January 1, 2026.

Who qualifies for the healthcare draw?

To be eligible, candidates must have at least 12 months of full-time work experience, gained in the past three years in one of 37 eligible occupations. That 12-month requirement was updated earlier in 2026 from the previous 6-month threshold. The experience can have been gained inside or outside Canada, as long as it falls within the three-year window.

Eligible occupations span a wide range, including:

Occupation NOC Code
General practitioners and family physicians 31102
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100
Specialists in surgery 31101
Dentists 31110
Optometrists 31111
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists 31112
Veterinarians 31103
Pharmacists 31120
Dietitians and nutritionists 31121
Psychologists 31200
Chiropractors 31201
Physiotherapists 31202
Occupational therapists 31203
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating 31209
Nursing coordinators and supervisors 31300
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301
Nurse practitioners 31302
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals 31303
Social workers 41300
Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies 41301
Social and community service workers 42201
Licensed practical nurses 32101
Paramedical occupations 32102
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists 32103
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians 32104
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment 32109
Dental hygienists and dental therapists 32111
Medical laboratory technologists 32120
Medical radiation technologists 32121
Medical sonographers 32122
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists 32123
Pharmacy technicians 32124
Other medical technologists and technicians 32129
Massage therapists 32201
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations 33101
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates 33102
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants 33103

Your Canadian Dream Doesn’t Have to Wait: Let’s Make It Happen

Whether you’re a nurse, pharmacist, social worker, or any other healthcare professional looking at permanent residence in Canada, the path forward is clearer now than it’s been in months. But navigating Express Entry, understanding your CRS score, or figuring out which category gives you the best shot can be overwhelming on your own. That’s where we come in. At Ese Umoh Immigration, we help people like you take confident, informed steps toward their Canadian goals, from Express Entry and provincial nomination to work permits, postgraduate work permits, spousal sponsorship, visitor visas, super visas, citizenship applications, and school admissions. Send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

June 25, 2026
June 25, 2026

Canada issues 271 invitations to Physicians in latest Express Entry Draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Canada, Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Canada took another step toward welcoming more doctors into the country on June 24, 2026, when Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sent out 271 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence through the Express Entry system. This round was specifically targeted at physicians who already have Canadian work experience.

See below details of the draw:

  • Draw Date: June 24, 2026
  • No. of invitations issued: 271
  • CRS Score: 223
  • Tie-breaking Rule: May 31, 2026

This is only the second time Canada has run a draw exclusively for physicians under this category. The first took place on February 19, 2026, when 391 invitations went out at a much lower CRS cut-off of 169. The jump to 223 in this latest round shows that more competition is building in the pool as awareness grows.

With this draw, Canada has now held a total of 33 Express Entry rounds in 2026, issuing 85,067 invitations altogether. See below breakdown of how those draws have been distributed by type:

Draw Type Number of Draws
Provincial Nominee Program 12
Canadian Experience Class 10
French-Language Proficiency 6
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience 2
Healthcare and Social Services 1
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience 1
Trades 1

And here’s how the total ITAs issued so far in 2026 break down across those categories:

Draw Type ITAs Issued
Canadian Experience Class 41,250
French-Language Proficiency 30,500
Provincial Nominee Program 5,405
Healthcare and Social Services 4,000
Trades 3,000
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience 662
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience 250

The pattern is clear, Canada is strongly favouring people who are already on the ground. Whether through provincial nominations or Canadian work experience, those already living and working in the country are getting the most invitations. Below is the full record of every Express Entry draw held in 2026 so far:

Date Draw Type CRS Cut-Off Score ITAs Issued
June 24 Physicians with Canadian Work Experience 223 271
June 23 Canadian Experience Class 516 4,000
June 22 Provincial Nominee Program 730 955
May 28 French-Language Proficiency 409 4,500
May 27 Canadian Experience Class 518 3,000
May 25 Provincial Nominee Program 805 334
May 11 Provincial Nominee Program 798 380
April 29 French-Language Proficiency 400 4,000
April 28 Canadian Experience Class 514 2,000
April 27 Provincial Nominee Program 795 473
April 15 French-Language Proficiency 419 4,000
April 14 Canadian Experience Class 515 2,000
April 13 Provincial Nominee Program 786 324
April 2 Trades 477 3,000
March 31 Canadian Experience Class 509 2,250
March 30 Provincial Nominee Program 802 356
March 18 French-Language Proficiency 393 4,000
March 17 Canadian Experience Class 507 4,000
March 16 Provincial Nominee Program 742 362
March 5 Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience 429 250
March 4 French-Language Proficiency 397 5,500
March 3 Canadian Experience Class 508 4,000
March 2 Provincial Nominee Program 710 264
February 20 Healthcare and Social Services 467 4,000
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

Your Path to Canada Permanent Residence Starts Here

Whether you’re a physician, a skilled worker, a French speaker, or a provincial nominee candidate, Canada’s Express Entry system is actively moving and the window won’t stay open forever. We help clients navigate every step of the process, from Express Entry and provincial nomination to work permits, postgraduate work permits, spousal sponsorship, visitor visas, super visas, citizenship applications, and school admissions.

Book a consultation with us today and let’s figure out exactly where you stand and what your next move should be.

 

June 24, 2026
June 24, 2026

Canada issued 4,000 Express Entry invitations in latest Canadian Experience Class draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Canada, Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On June 23, 2026, IRCC held a new Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw and sent out 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. The minimum CRS score required was 516 which was down 2 points from the previous CEC draw in May. Simple numbers on the surface, but the story behind them matters a lot if you’ve been waiting in the pool.

This is the largest CEC draw since March 2026, and it’s the first time this year that both the draw size increased and the cutoff dropped at the same time. For candidates who’ve been watching the numbers move in the wrong direction all year, that’s genuinely good news.

See below full details of draw:

Draw Detail Value
Program Canadian Experience Class
Draw Date June 23, 2026
Number of Invitations Issued 4,000
CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate 516
Rank Required 4,000 or above
Tie-Breaking Rule April 14, 2026

Quick note on the tie-breaking rule: if your CRS was exactly 516, you only received an invitation if your profile was submitted before April 14, 2026 at 00:03:10 UTC. Anyone at 516 who submitted after that date was not selected. The fact that this date goes back over two months tells us just how crowded that score band is right now.

How did we get here?

IRCC started 2026 issuing 8,000 CEC invitations per draw. By April, that had been cut down to 2,000, and the CRS cutoff climbed steadily from 511 all the way to 518 in May. The June 23 draw, with 4,000 invitations and a cutoff of 516 is the clearest sign yet that IRCC is reversing that trend.

See below every CEC draw held in 2026:

Draw Round Date Invitations CRS Cutoff
420 June 23, 2026 4,000 516
417 May 27, 2026 3,000 518
413 April 28, 2026 2,000 514
410 April 14, 2026 2,000 515
407 March 31, 2026 2,250 509
404 March 17, 2026 4,000 507
400 March 3, 2026 4,000 508
396 February 17, 2026 6,000 508
392 January 21, 2026 6,000 509
390 January 7, 2026 8,000 511

The pattern speaks for itself; smaller draws push the cutoff up, larger draws bring it down. This draw also came just one day after IRCC issued 955 PNP invitations on June 22, restoring the back-to-back draw pattern that had been missing for weeks.

What this means depending on your score

If you’re at 516 or above, you were in range. Get your documents ready and don’t delay your application.

If you’re between 510 and 515, you’re closer than you’ve been in months. If IRCC keeps draws at 4,000+, the cutoff could ease toward 512–514 over the next few rounds.

If you’re between 500 and 509, CEC draws aren’t reaching you yet. A language retest, adding a spouse’s scores, or completing a Canadian credential could add 20–50 points to your CRS.

If you’re below 500, French-language category draws (cutoffs as low as 393 in 2026) and provincial nominations (which add 600 CRS points) are your strongest pathways right now.

The next CEC draw is expected around the week of July 6–7, 2026, based on the usual biweekly schedule; though IRCC hasn’t confirmed a date. A French-language or occupation-based category draw could also appear within the next few days if the cluster pattern holds.

Your Next Step Toward Canada Starts Here

Whether you’re in the Express Entry pool, working on boosting your CRS, or just figuring out where to start; we’re here to help you build the right strategy. From Express Entry and provincial nominations to work permits, spousal sponsorship, visitor visas, super visas, and more, our team covers every path to Canada. Book your consultation today and let’s plan out your next move.

June 23, 2026
June 23, 2026

Canada issues 955 invitations in first Express Entry Draw of June 2026

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

After a quiet stretch with no draws since late May, Canada’s Express Entry system came back to life on June 22, 2026. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the first Express Entry draw of the month and it was specifically targeted at Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.

See below details of latest Express Entry draw:

  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program
  • Date of Draw: June 22, 2026
  • Number of invitations: 955
  • CRS Score: 730
  • Tie-breaking Rule : March 9, 2026

This marks the 31st Express Entry draw of 2026 overall.

One thing worth noting is the pattern IRCC has been following this year. The draws have largely focused on people already connected to Canada in some way whether through a provincial nomination or Canadian work experience. If you’ve been watching the draws closely, that trend has been pretty consistent throughout 2026.

See below a full breakdown of every Express Entry draw held so far this year:

Date Draw Type CRS Cut-off Score ITAs Issued
June 22 Provincial Nominee Program 730 955
May 28 French-Language Proficiency 409 4,500
May 27 Canadian Experience Class 518 3,000
May 25 Provincial Nominee Program 805 334
May 11 Provincial Nominee Program 798 380
April 29 French-Language Proficiency 400 4,000
April 28 Canadian Experience Class 514 2,000
April 27 Provincial Nominee Program 795 473
April 15 French-Language Proficiency 419 4,000
April 14 Canadian Experience Class 515 2,000
April 13 Provincial Nominee Program 786 324
April 2 Trades 477 3,000
March 31 Canadian Experience Class 509 2,250
March 30 Provincial Nominee Program 802 356
March 18 French-Language Proficiency 393 4,000
March 17 Canadian Experience Class 507 4,000
March 16 Provincial Nominee Program 742 362
March 5 Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience 429 250
March 4 French-Language Proficiency 397 5,500
March 3 Canadian Experience Class 508 4,000
March 2 Provincial Nominee Program 710 264
February 20 Healthcare and Social Services 467 4,000
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

Looking at the numbers by draw type, this is how 2026 has shaped up so far:

Draw Type Number of Draws
Provincial Nominee Program 12
Canadian Experience Class 9
French-Language Proficiency 6
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience 1
Healthcare and Social Services 1
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience 1
Trades 1

And in terms of total ITAs issued per category, this is where things stand:

Draw Type ITAs Issued
Canadian Experience Class 37,250
French-Language Proficiency 30,500
Provincial Nominee Program 5,405
Healthcare and Social Services 4,000
Trades 3,000
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience 391
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience 250

Across all 31 draws, IRCC has issued a total of 80,796 invitations in 2026. The Canadian Experience Class leads the way, followed closely by the French-language category. Provincial nominees have had the highest number of dedicated draws, 12 in total, which tells you something about where Canada’s immigration priorities are sitting right now.

What does all of this mean for you? If you hold a provincial nomination, your chances through Express Entry remain strong. The CRS score for PNP draws can vary quite a bit as this latest one sat at 730, while some earlier ones went as high as 805. Getting your profile in the best shape possible matters.

Your Canadian Dream Doesn’t Have to Wait

Whether you’re aiming for Express Entry, a provincial nomination, or exploring other routes like work permits, spousal sponsorship, or a super visa for a family member, the right guidance can make all the difference. Our team works with clients across a range of immigration needs – from school admissions and postgraduate work permits to citizenship applications and visiting visas. Book a consultation today and let’s figure out the best route for your situation.

June 17, 2026
June 17, 2026

Could your job title give you extra points in Express Entry?

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Canada, Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

Canada keeps updating its immigration rules, and the latest buzz is about a change that could work in your favour especially if you work in a high-paying field. IRCC just finished asking the public what they think about a possible update to Express Entry, and one idea has people talking: giving extra CRS points based on what your occupation typically pays.

In plain terms, 37 jobs could soon come with a built-in CRS boost which will be separate from your language score, education, or how long you’ve worked. If your job is on that list, your chances of getting an invitation for Canadian permanent residence could go up significantly.

Now, nothing is set in stone yet. This is still a proposal being worked through, not a rule you need to follow today. But knowing what’s coming before it arrives? That’s always a good place to be.

So, how would this work?

IRCC is considering a new CRS factor that rewards candidates who have Canadian work experience or a valid job offer – in what they’re calling “high-wage occupations.” The key benchmark is Canada’s national median hourly wage, which Statistics Canada pegs at $30.77.

Under the proposal, occupations would fall into one of three tiers based on how far their median wage sits above that national figure:

  • Tier 1 (2.0x): Occupations with a median wage of at least $61.54/hour – the highest bonus
  • Tier 2 (1.5x): Occupations reaching at least $46.16/hour – a mid-level advantage
  • Tier 3 (1.3x): Occupations at or above $40.00/hour – a smaller but still meaningful boost

One important detail: this isn’t about what you personally earn. It’s about what the typical worker in your occupation makes nationally. That means two people in the same role, whether they’re in Toronto or a smaller city, would receive the same CRS treatment regardless of their individual pay.

IRCC says it designed the system this way deliberately to prevent salary inflation or manipulation on applications.

The 6 Top-Tier Occupations (2.0x the National Median)

Six occupations sit at the highest tier, and four of them are in medicine. Surgical specialists top the list at $201.52/hour – more than six times the national median which tells you a lot about how heavily IRCC is prioritizing healthcare talent.

Occupation NOC Category Median Hourly Wage Most Recent Category CRS Cut-off
Specialists in surgery 31101 Healthcare $201.52 467 / 169
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100 Healthcare $149.66 467 / 169
General practitioners and family physicians 31102 Healthcare $111.64 467 / 169
Senior managers, financial, communications and other business services 00012 Senior Management $96.15 429
Architecture and science managers 20011 STEM $62.56 N/A
Nurse practitioners 31302 Healthcare $61.54 467

It’s worth noting that physicians already benefit from some of the lowest CRS cut-offs in Express Entry history. Back in February 2026, a draw for physicians with Canadian work experience accepted candidates with scores as low as 169 which is the lowest cut-off the program has ever recorded. Adding a wage-based bonus on top of that would make these roles even more competitive.

The 15 Mid-Tier Occupations (1.5x the National Median)

This group is the most diverse of the three tiers, covering healthcare, engineering, skilled trades, aviation, military, and research roles.

Occupation NOC Category Median Hourly Wage Most Recent Category CRS Cut-off
Veterinarians 31103 Healthcare $60.00 467
University professors and lecturers 41200 Researchers $58.89 N/A
Pharmacists 31120 Healthcare $55.49 467
Commissioned officers of the Canadian Armed Forces 40042 Military $55.03 N/A
Dentists 31110 Healthcare $52.88 467
Psychologists 31200 Healthcare $52.88 467
Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors 72600 Transport $52.00 N/A
Electrical and electronics engineers 21310 STEM $50.67 N/A
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services 82021 Trades $50.00 477
Geological engineers 21331 STEM $49.81 N/A
Cybersecurity specialists 21220 STEM $49.52 N/A
Construction managers 70010 Trades $48.72 477
Civil engineers 21300 STEM $48.56 N/A
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals 31303 Healthcare $46.81 467
Nursing coordinators and supervisors 31300 Healthcare $46.43 467

For candidates already qualifying under category-based draws in healthcare or trades, where CRS cut-offs typically range from 467 to 477 – a wage-based bonus stacked on top could make a real difference in general draws too.

The 16 Entry-Tier Occupations (1.3x the National Median)

The third tier covers 16 occupations, again led by healthcare, but also including teachers, engineers, and transport technicians.

Occupation NOC Category Median Hourly Wage Most Recent Category CRS Cut-off
Physiotherapists 31202 Healthcare $46.15 467
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists 31112 Healthcare $46.15 467
Senior managers, construction, transportation, production and utilities 00015 Senior Management $46.04 429
Occupational therapists 31203 Healthcare $46.00 467
Mechanical engineers 21301 STEM $45.67 N/A
Secondary school teachers 41220 Education $45.67 462
Dental hygienists and dental therapists 32111 Healthcare $45.00 467
Industrial and manufacturing engineers 21321 STEM $44.23 N/A
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers 41221 Education $43.27 462
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301 Healthcare $43.27 467
Industrial electricians 72201 Trades $42.00 477
Medical sonographers 32122 Healthcare $42.00 467
Senior managers, trade, broadcasting and other services 00014 Senior Management $42.38 429
Dietitians and nutritionists 31121 Healthcare $41.63 467
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists 32103 Healthcare $41.00 467
Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors 22313 Transport $40.47 N/A

Registered nurses stand out in this tier – not just because of the numbers, but because they represent one of the largest single occupation groups in the entire Express Entry pool. Any shift in how their CRS score is calculated would have a widespread impact on healthcare draws.

What about everyone else?

There are 89 total occupations eligible for category-based selection draws in Canada. That means 52 of them including nurse aides, home support workers, certain construction trades, and various social service roles – wouldn’t qualify for the wage bonus under this proposal.

These occupations would still benefit from category-based draws at lower CRS cut-offs. But IRCC’s proposal effectively creates a two-speed system within those draws, where some candidates would carry a hidden CRS advantage that others in the exact same draw would not.

A specialist physician and a nurse aide could both receive an invitation through a healthcare draw at CRS 467 but in general Canadian Experience Class (CEC) rounds, the physician would have additional points working in their favour. That’s a gap worth paying attention to.

The Bigger Picture: What IRCC is really after

This wage factor isn’t being introduced in isolation. It’s part of a broader overhaul of how the CRS calculates a candidate’s overall competitiveness. Through its 2026 consultation, IRCC identified strong English proficiency or English-French bilingualism – as the single strongest predictor of long-term economic success for newcomers.

High earnings as a temporary resident came second.

Meanwhile, factors like university-level education, younger age, spousal points, and having a sibling in Canada were classified as weaker predictors of economic outcomes.

That signals a shift. If these reforms are implemented as proposed, the CRS could start putting significantly more weight on language ability and occupation-based scoring, and less on some of the factors many candidates have historically relied on. For someone in one of these 37 high-wage occupations who also holds a strong language score, the combined advantage could be substantial.

The proposal also brings back job offer points

One more piece of this puzzle: IRCC is also floating the idea of restoring job offer points to the CRS, something that was removed back in March 2025. Under the current proposal, those points would only apply to job offers in high-wage occupations. The reasoning is that verifying qualifications in these roles is more straightforward, reducing the risk of fraudulent offers inflating CRS scores.

What you should do right now

To put it simply: don’t make any major immigration decisions based on these proposals just yet. The public consultation period closed in May 2026, but IRCC hasn’t announced how many CRS points each tier would actually be worth. The regulatory process, including publication in the Canada Gazette  could still take many months, and the final rules may look different from what was outlined in the consultation.

What you can do is keep your application as strong as possible under the current system. That means improving language scores, getting your educational credentials properly assessed, and documenting your work experience thoroughly. And if you’re in one of these 37 occupations, it’s worth watching closely because the direction of travel is clear: Canada wants workers in these roles, and is building a system to actively reward them.

 

Your Occupation Could Be Your Biggest Immigration Asset – Let’s Make Sure You’re Using It

Whether you’re a nurse, an engineer, a teacher, a physician, or a skilled tradesperson, understanding how your job fits into Canada’s immigration system can change everything about your strategy. Our team helps clients navigate Express Entry, provincial nomination programs, work permits, postgraduate work permits, spousal sponsorship, visitor visas, super visas, citizenship applications, school admissions, and more. Book a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation today and let’s discuss the clearest path to your Canadian permanent residence.

April 9, 2026
April 9, 2026

Canada’s immigration system is changing in 2026 – Are you prepared?

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Canada, Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been eyeing Canada as your next home, now is the time to pay close attention. Canada’s immigration system is about to go through one of its biggest shake-ups in over a decade and it directly affects how skilled workers and professionals like you can apply for permanent residence.

So, What’s Happening?

Canada’s immigration authority, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada), has put forward a plan to shut down the three programs currently running under the Express Entry system and replace them with a brand new, single program. This was revealed in their regulatory plan covering 2026 to 2028.

The three programs on the chopping block are:

  • The Federal Skilled Worker Program – for skilled workers with overseas or Canadian work experience
  • The Canadian Experience Class – for people who already have work experience inside Canada
  • The Federal Skilled Trades Program – for tradespeople in qualified occupations

All three would be replaced by one unified program with simpler entry requirements.

Why Is Canada Doing This?

The honest answer? The current system can be confusing. Different programs have different rules, and many applicants aren’t sure which one applies to them. Canada wants to fix that.

According to IRCC, the new program is designed to make things “easier for applicants, employers, and partners to understand and navigate.” It’s also expected to pull in a wider range of talent to help fill labour shortages across the country.

In plain terms, Canada still wants you. They just want the process of getting there to make more sense.

Is This Happening Now?

Not yet. The changes are still in the proposal stage. IRCC says they’ll be talking to the public, partners, and stakeholders in Spring 2026 before anything is finalized. So while nothing has changed today, the direction is clear and if you’re planning to apply, this is not the time to sit on the fence.

For context, Express Entry has been running since 2015. In 2025 alone, Canada sent out nearly 118,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence through the system. It’s one of the most used pathways to Canadian PR and it’s about to look very different.

What Should You Do Right Now?

Here’s the thing about immigration – timing matters. When systems change, people who are already in the process or have their paperwork in order tend to have an advantage. Waiting until the new program launches to start preparing could mean starting from scratch under rules that haven’t even been finalized yet.

The smartest move? Understand where you currently stand under the existing programs, and start building your case now.

Whether you qualify under the current Express Entry streams, are considering a Provincial Nomination, or are exploring school admissions as a pathway into Canada, getting expert guidance today puts you ahead of the crowd tomorrow. Our team helps people navigate exactly these kinds of moments – Express Entry, Provincial Nomination Programs, school admissions, and more. Don’t let this change catch you off guard. Book a consultation with us today using the link below and let’s map out the best route to Canada for you.

Also, follow us on Instagram @eseumohimmigration for more insight on your immigration journey.

 

February 20, 2026
February 20, 2026

What if your CRS score was actually enough all along?

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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) :
30-minute consultation (Quick and focused) :

 

February 18, 2026
February 18, 2026

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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
February 16, 2026

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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.

January 8, 2026
January 8, 2026

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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:

  1. You study in Canada at a designated learning institution

  2. You graduate and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

  3. You gain Canadian work experience (usually one year)

  4. You enter Express Entry under CEC

  5. 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

 

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