In a major update for immigration aspirants, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a new Express Entry draw on February 20, 2026. This round focused on candidates in the Healthcare and Social Services Occupations category. IRCC issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this draw was 467. When multiple candidates had the same lowest score, IRCC applied a tie-breaking rule based on profile submission time: December 09, 2025 at 18:22:06 UTC.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Draw Details

  • Draw Date and Time: February 20, 2026

  • Invitations Issued: 4,000

  • Minimum CRS Score: 467

  • Rank Required: 4,000 or above

  • Tie-Breaking Rule: December 09, 2025 at 18:22:06 UTC

Candidates with the minimum CRS score were invited only if they submitted their Express Entry profiles before the tie-breaking date and time.

About the Healthcare and Social Services Category

This draw targets skilled professionals in healthcare and social services roles, including nurses, therapists, social workers, and other essential workers. By inviting qualified candidates, Canada continues to address labor shortages and meet the growing demand for healthcare and community services.

IRCC ranks candidates using the CRS, which considers age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Category-based draws help Canada quickly select professionals who can contribute immediately to the workforce.

What This Draw Means for Applicants

A CRS cut-off of 467 shows strong competition within this pool. By issuing 4,000 ITAs, IRCC demonstrates its commitment to strengthening Canada’s healthcare system.

Candidates who did not meet the cut-off can improve their chances by:

  • Enhancing language test scores

  • Gaining more relevant work experience

  • Securing a provincial nomination

  • Upgrading educational credentials

Steps After Receiving an ITA

Applicants have 60 days to submit their permanent residency application. Follow these steps:

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

  2. Prepare Documents: Collect employment reference letters, language test results, educational assessments, police clearance certificates, and medical exam reports.

  3. Submit Application: Upload all documents accurately before the deadline.

  4. Wait for Processing: Most Express Entry applications are processed within six months.

Looking Ahead

Category-based draws for healthcare and social services occupations will continue to play a key role in Canada’s immigration strategy in 2026. Skilled professionals in this sector have strong opportunities under Express Entry.

Stay Updated on Canadian Immigration News