IRCC Issues 380 Invitations in Latest Express Entry Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, also known as IRCC, has conducted another Express Entry draw in 2026.

In the first Express Entry draw of May 2026, IRCC issued 380 Invitations to Apply to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program category.

This draw was held on May 11, 2026, and only candidates with a provincial nomination were considered.

CRS Score Required for the May 11 Express Entry Draw

To receive an Invitation to Apply in this draw, candidates needed to meet the following requirements:

• Have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 798
• Have created an Express Entry profile before 5:23 a.m. UTC on January 7, 2026
• Be eligible under the Provincial Nominee Program Express Entry stream

The CRS cut-off score remained high because candidates with a provincial nomination receive an additional 600 CRS points in their Express Entry profile.

Why PNP Candidates Have a Strong Chance of Receiving an ITA

The Provincial Nominee Program is one of the most important pathways for candidates who want to apply for Canadian permanent residence.

When a province or territory nominates a candidate through an Express Entry-linked PNP stream, the candidate receives 600 additional CRS points. This significantly increases their overall CRS score and gives them a strong chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply in a future Express Entry draw.

For many candidates, a provincial nomination can be the key step toward receiving Canadian permanent residence.

Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2026

Express Entry Draw Pattern in 2026

The May 11 draw was the tenth Provincial Nominee Program draw of 2026 and the twenty-seventh Express Entry draw of the year.

So far in 2026, IRCC has focused mainly on candidates who are already connected to Canada, especially those with:

• Provincial nominations
• Canadian work experience
• French-language proficiency
• Experience in selected priority occupations

This shows that Canada continues to use Express Entry to select candidates who can support labour market needs and settle successfully in the country.

Number of Express Entry Draws by Category in 2026

Total ITAs Issued in 2026

In 2026 so far, IRCC has issued 72,007 Invitations to Apply through different Express Entry draw categories.

What This Means for Express Entry Candidates

The latest PNP draw confirms that provincial nominations continue to play a major role in Canada’s Express Entry system.

Candidates with lower CRS scores may still improve their chances by exploring Provincial Nominee Program options. Each province has its own eligibility requirements, and some streams may target specific occupations, work experience, education, language ability, or connections to the province.

For candidates planning to apply for Canadian permanent residence, it is important to keep their Express Entry profile updated and review available PNP opportunities regularly.

Final Thoughts

The first Express Entry draw of May 2026 invited 380 Provincial Nominee Program candidates with a minimum CRS score of 798. With 600 additional CRS points available through a provincial nomination, the PNP route remains one of the strongest pathways to receive an Invitation to Apply for Canada PR.

Candidates interested in Canadian permanent residence should assess their Express Entry profile, review their CRS score, and explore suitable provincial nomination options.