The latest Express Entry draw has issued 362 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) specifically for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. This draw, held on March 16, 2026, marks the fifteenth Express Entry selection of the year and the sixth focused on PNP candidates.
To be eligible for this draw, candidates were required to have created their Express Entry profiles before October 5, 2025, at 8:35 p.m. UTC. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score needed to receive an ITA in this round was set at 742.
Provincial nominees benefit significantly from the process, as they receive an additional 600 CRS points upon nomination. This substantial boost in points is designed to encourage immigration from candidates who have already been recognized by Canadian provinces.
After receiving an ITA, candidates have a window of 60 days to submit their applications for permanent residence. This timeline is crucial for applicants as it allows them to prepare their documentation and ensure compliance with immigration requirements.
The tie-breaking rule, which was implemented on October 5, 2025, at 20:35:25 UTC, plays a role in determining which candidates are invited when multiple applicants have the same CRS score. This rule adds a layer of complexity to the selection process, emphasizing the importance of timely profile creation.
In 2026, Express Entry draws have predominantly focused on candidates already residing in Canada, particularly those with provincial nominations and relevant Canadian work experience. This trend reflects the Canadian government’s ongoing strategy to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the economy.
Notably, there has been a draw specifically for Physicians with Canadian work experience, as well as draws targeting Healthcare and social services professionals, and Senior Managers with Canadian work experience. These targeted draws indicate a tailored approach to meet specific labor market needs.
As the year progresses, further developments in the Express Entry system are anticipated, but details remain unconfirmed. The evolving landscape of immigration policies and procedures will continue to shape the experiences of prospective immigrants to Canada.
