In a significant update for immigration hopefuls, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw on February 17, 2026. This round targeted candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). As a result, 6,000 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score for this draw was 508. This score determines which candidates were eligible, based on the date and time of their Express Entry profile submission if multiple applicants shared the same score.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Draw Details:

  • Draw Date: February 17, 2026
  • Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Invitations Issued: 6,000
  • Minimum CRS Score: 508
  • Rank Required: 6,000 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: March 16, 2025 at 09:35:59 UTC

If multiple candidates had the same lowest CRS score of 508, IRCC applied the tie-breaking rule. Only candidates who submitted their profiles before the specified date and time were invited.

Understanding the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class is designed for skilled workers who have gained professional experience in Canada. This program allows candidates already familiar with the Canadian labor market to transition to permanent residency more easily.

Candidates are ranked using the CRS, which considers factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. For CEC draws, IRCC usually targets those with Canadian work experience, which improves their CRS score and eligibility.

What This Draw Means for Applicants

The CRS cut-off of 508 shows that IRCC continues to prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience and sufficient points to meet immigration targets. By issuing 6,000 ITAs, Canada is supporting its workforce needs while maintaining progress toward 2026 immigration goals.

If your CRS score is below the cut-off, improving language proficiency, gaining relevant Canadian work experience, or exploring other Express Entry streams can enhance your chances in future draws.

Next Steps After Receiving an ITA

Candidates who received an ITA now have 60 days to submit a 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 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:
    IRCC generally processes Express Entry applications within six months.

Looking Ahead

CEC draws remain a key part of Canada’s immigration system. Skilled workers with Canadian experience are in high demand across sectors, and targeted draws like this help meet labor market needs.

Candidates should focus on improving language scores, gaining relevant work experience, and exploring other Express Entry programs to strengthen their profiles.

For personalized guidance and profile evaluation, consider consulting experienced professionals like Apical Immigration Experts. They can help improve your CRS score and plan your pathway to Canadian permanent residency.

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