In a major update for immigration hopefuls, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a new Express Entry draw on February 16, 2026. This round targeted candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). As a result, 279 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score reached 789. Notably, this high score reflects the extra 600 points that candidates receive after securing a provincial nomination. Therefore, only nominees qualified in this round.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Draw Details:

  • Draw Date: February 16, 2026

  • Draw Type: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

  • Invitations Issued: 279

  • Minimum CRS Score: 789

  • Rank Required: 279 or above

  • Tie-Breaking Rule: September 05, 2025 at 0:59:13 UTC

If multiple candidates had the same lowest CRS score of 789, IRCC applied the tie-breaking rule. In that case, officers invited only those who submitted their Express Entry profiles before the specified date and time.

Understanding the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to select skilled workers who meet local labor market needs. In other words, provinces choose candidates who can fill specific skill gaps in their regions.

Once a candidate secures a nomination through an Express Entry–aligned stream, they automatically gain 600 additional CRS points. As a result, their chances of receiving an ITA increase significantly.

Because of these extra points, PNP-specific draws usually have much higher CRS cut-offs. However, they also offer one of the most reliable pathways to permanent residency.

What This Draw Means for Applicants

The 789 CRS cut-off clearly shows that IRCC focused only on provincially nominated candidates. Since a nomination adds 600 points, most selected applicants likely had base CRS scores above 180 before receiving their nomination.

Moreover, by issuing 279 invitations, Canada continues to work closely with provinces to meet regional workforce demands. At the same time, the government stays on track with its 2026 immigration targets.

If your CRS score is currently low, you should consider applying through a PNP stream. In many cases, a provincial nomination can transform your profile and improve your selection chances in upcoming draws.

Next Steps After Receiving an ITA

If you received an ITA in this round, you now have 60 days to submit your complete permanent residency application. To avoid delays, follow these steps carefully:

1. Accept the ITA:
Log in to your IRCC account and confirm your invitation.

2. Gather Required Documents:
Prepare your work experience letters, language test results, educational credential assessments, police clearance certificates, and medical exam reports.

3. Submit Your Application:
Upload accurate documents and submit your file within the 60-day deadline.

4. Wait for Processing:
In most cases, IRCC processes Express Entry applications within six months.

Looking Ahead

PNP draws continue to play a central role in Canada’s immigration system. As provinces face shortages in healthcare, construction, technology, and skilled trades, targeted nominations will likely remain a priority.

Therefore, candidates should focus on improving language scores, gaining relevant experience, and exploring provincial streams that match their profiles.

For personalized immigration guidance and profile evaluation, consider speaking with trusted professionals like Apical Immigration Experts, who can help you strengthen your CRS score and plan your pathway to Canadian permanent residency.

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