First Express Entry Draw Of 2026 Issues 574 PR Invitations
The latest Express Entry draw by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) took place on January 5, 2026. A total of 574 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 711 or above. This draw highlights the competitiveness of Canada’s Express Entry system and the impact of strategic pathways like provincial nominations.
Detailed Breakdown of January 5 Express Entry Draw
- Program: Provincial Nominee Program
- Date and time: January 5, 2026
- CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 711
- Number of invitations issued: 574
- Rank needed: 574 or above
- Tie-breaking rule: October 06, 2025 at 01:54:31 UTC
If multiple candidates shared the lowest score, the invitations were given to those who submitted their profiles earliest, with the cutoff set at October 6, 2025, at 01:54:31 UTC.
Looking at the CRS score distribution in the Express Entry pool as of January 4, 2026, over 70,000 candidates fall in the 451-500 range, showing a competitive mid-tier. Candidates in the 601-1200 bracket, likely with nominations, benefit from an additional 600 points through the PNP.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate immigrants based on their economic needs. This program aims to address regional labor shortages and is a partnership between federal and provincial governments. Nominees gain a significant advantage in Express Entry with an additional 600 CRS points.
How to Get a Provincial Nomination: Step-by-Step Guide
- Research Provinces and Streams: Identify provinces where your skills align and explore programs.
- Check Eligibility: Review requirements such as skilled experience, language skills, and settlement funds.
- Choose Your Path: Decide between Express Entry-linked or non-linked streams.
- Apply to the Province: Submit an Expression of Interest or direct application.
- Await Nomination: Provinces review and nominate suitable candidates.
- Apply for PR: Submit a full application to IRCC upon receiving an ITA.
Success tips include tailoring applications to show economic impact, building connections, and monitoring streams for quick fillings. Nomination processing usually takes 1-6 months, followed by 1-6 months at the federal stage under Express Entry.
The recent Express Entry draw on January 5, 2026, issuing 574 ITAs at a CRS of 711, emphasizes the competitiveness of the system. While challenging, pathways like the PNP provide hope for candidates aiming to immigrate to Canada. Understanding the process and pursuing nominations can lead to success in Canada’s diverse community.