On January 20, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 681 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to candidates in the Express Entry pool who had received a nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This targeted draw highlights Canada’s continued focus on using provincial nominations to meet regional labour market demands and support economic growth across provinces and territories.

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was 746, reflecting the additional 600 CRS points awarded to candidates with a provincial nomination. Without the nomination, candidates would have required a much higher core CRS score, underlining how valuable a PNP nomination is for securing an ITA.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Draw Details:

  • Draw Date: January 20, 2026
  • Total Invitations Issued: 681
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 746
  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Rank Required: 681 or above
  • Tie-breaking Rule: November 19, 2025, at 04:09:11 UTC
  • Type of Draw: Targeted Express Entry – PNP only

This was a program-specific draw, meaning only candidates who had already received a provincial nomination were considered. In such draws, the 600 bonus CRS points from a nomination significantly boost a candidate’s ranking in the Express Entry pool.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Provincial Nomination

If your CRS score is lower than the usual cut-offs in general draws, consider these steps:

  • Research Provincial Programs: Each province offers different nomination streams based on occupations, skills, or employer needs.
  • Create an Express Entry Profile: This is essential for enhanced PNP nominations.
  • Keep Your Profile Updated: Ensure your language scores, work experience, and education details are accurate.
  • Apply Directly to Provinces: Some base PNP streams allow direct applications without Express Entry.
  • Watch for Notifications of Interest (NOIs): Provinces regularly select suitable candidates from the Express Entry pool.

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