Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw on April 13, 2026. This draw specifically targeted candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). As a result, IRCC invited 324 candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence.

To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 786. This high cut-off reflects the additional points awarded to candidates with provincial nominations.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Key Highlights of the April 13, 2026 Draw

  • Draw Name: Provincial Nominee Program
  • Date and Time: April 13, 2026 at 10:51:11 UTC
  • CRS Score: 786
  • Invitations Issued: 324
  • Rank Required: 324 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: November 19, 2025 at 18:53:59 UTC

If more than one candidate had the lowest CRS score, IRCC selected profiles based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles. Therefore, candidates who applied earlier received priority.

Understanding Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate skilled workers based on local labour market needs. Candidates who receive a provincial nomination get an additional 600 CRS points, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Understanding Express Entry Programs

IRCC manages three main economic immigration programs through the Express Entry system:
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Along with these, PNP draws play a key role in selecting candidates with provincial nominations.

How CRS Scores Work

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) ranks candidates based on several factors, including:
  • Age
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Language proficiency

Additionally, candidates can earn extra points through provincial nominations, job offers, or Canadian education and experience.

Steps to Receive an ITA

If you are planning to apply through Express Entry, here’s how the process works:
  • Check your eligibility under FSWP, FSTP, or CEC
  • Create your Express Entry profile
  • Receive your CRS score
  • Wait for a draw and get an ITA if your score meets the cut-off

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s online system used to manage applications for skilled immigration. It helps IRCC select candidates efficiently based on their CRS scores and labour market needs.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

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