Express Entry News: IRCC Prioritizes PNP Candidates in Third Draw of 2026
January 21, 2026
Canada continues to reinforce its commitment to attracting skilled talent through targeted immigration selection. In the latest Express Entry News, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, IRCC, issued the third Express Entry draw of 2026, where it once again targets Provincial Nominee Program candidates. This draw will again signal Canada’s ongoing strategy in addressing regional labor shortages while offering a more efficient pathway to permanent residence for qualified immigrants.
Third Express Entry Draw of 2026: Key Highlights
During this round, a total of 681 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued by IRCC to candidates who had already obtained a provincial nomination. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score used for this round was 746. The reason for this is that these candidates were granted 600 more points for obtaining a provincial or territorial nomination.
This is now the third Express Entry draw in 2026, and it reflects the pattern seen earlier in the year, in which IRCC has relied much more heavily on invitations linked to PNP than in general or category-based draws.
Quick summary of the draw:
- Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Invitations issued: 681
- CRS cut-off score: 746
- Draw type: Express Entry PNP draw
- Year: 2026
This Express Entry News is especially important for candidates aiming to strengthen their profiles through provincial pathways.
Why Is IRCC Prioritizing PNP Candidates?
The provinces and territories of Canada are very important in determining immigration selection. By giving priority to applicants under the PNP, IRCC makes sure that immigrants settle in provinces where their expertise is in highest demand.
Provincial nominations assist because:
- Address local labour market shortages
- Facilitate economic development in non-metropolitan spaces
- Enhance long-term settlement and retention rates
For applicants, a nomination by a province definitely gives them an added advantage in getting an ITA, making PNPs the most preferred immigration option in the Express Entry process.
What Does Express Entry News Means for Applicants?
If you already have a spot in the Express Entry pool, here is what this round is telling you: a provincial nomination is a potential game-changer. A candidate with a low core score can qualify for an invitation to apply by showing demographic compatibility with a province’s needs.
This Express Entry News also makes it apparent that the competition for regular general draws may continue to remain at its current level of intensity.
Growing Importance of Provincial Nominee Programs in 2026
By 2026, the Provincial Nominee Programs are also on the rise in Canada. The provinces of Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba also choose applicants from the Express Entry Pool on the basis of economic preferences.
PNPs are particularly useful for:
- Well-trained workers with experience in high-demand sectors
- International Graduates and Their Canada-Based Education
- Job offer holders among prospective candidates by the provinces
The increasing number of candidates drawn to Express Entry by nominations from provinces makes it critical to stay up-to-date and proactive.
Express Entry News 2026: 681 PNP Invitations Issued as Provinces Take Center Stage
The third Express Entry draw of 2026 continues to emphasize the overall focus of IRCC on provincial programs of immigration. With 681 invitations to PNP candidates and a cut-off CRS of 746, this Express Entry draw clearly identifies effectively dovetailing your immigration objectives to suit the needs of the province.
Backing up with updated Express Entry News is essential for individuals planning to move to Canada in 2026. One may be a skilled worker, an international graduate, or an international applicant. Learning how the system involving Express Entry and PNPs works could mean that you are a step closer to becoming a Canadian permanent resident.
To get appropriate advice and have an effective immigration strategy, it is always helpful to consult professionals.
If you want to know more details about “Which Jobs Are Eligible for a Canada Skilled Worker Visa?“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.
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