Canada has started 2026 with a strong focus on in-Canada immigration, and the latest Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draw clearly reflects this strategy. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a major CEC draw, bringing renewed hope for skilled workers already contributing to the Canadian economy.
Key Highlights of the Latest CEC Draw
In this Express Entry draw, candidates were required to meet the following criteria:
- Minimum CRS score: 509
- Profile creation deadline: Before 4:35 a.m. (UTC) on October 29, 2025
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
This draw marks the third Express Entry draw of 2026 and the second large-scale CEC selection this year, confirming IRCC’s aggressive approach toward inviting experienced candidates already in Canada.
Lowest CRS Cut-Off in Recent History
One of the most significant takeaways from this draw is the drop in the CRS cut-off score to 509, one of the lowest CEC cut-offs since September 2024. This downward trend signals a major opportunity for temporary foreign workers, international graduates, and professionals with Canadian work experience.
Within just the first month of 2026, IRCC has already issued 14,000 ITAs to CEC candidates across two large draws. These high-volume invitations have rapidly changed the composition of the Express Entry pool, making it more favorable for candidates with Canadian experience.
CRS Cut-Off Drops: Why This Is a Big Deal
The drop in CRS score to 509 is a significant moment for Express Entry candidates. Over the past year, CRS scores had remained relatively high due to competitive draws and limited invitations. However, the recent CEC-focused selections have changed the trend.
Both this draw and the previous CEC draw recorded the lowest CRS cut-offs in over a year, signaling that IRCC is intentionally creating more accessible pathways for in-Canada candidates. Larger draw sizes naturally reduce CRS thresholds, allowing more candidates from the Express Entry pool to receive invitations.
This is especially encouraging for candidates who may not have extremely high CRS scores but possess valuable Canadian work experience.
IRCC’s 2026 Immigration Strategy: In-Canada Focus
Express Entry draws in 2026 have so far focused exclusively on candidates inside Canada, especially those who fall under:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
So far this year, IRCC has issued 15,255 ITAs across two draw types, clearly prioritizing candidates who are already integrated into the Canadian labor market. This approach helps Canada meet workforce shortages while ensuring faster economic integration.
What This Means for CEC Candidates
For candidates working or studying in Canada, this trend is extremely positive. Lower CRS cut-offs combined with large draw sizes mean:
- Higher chances of receiving an ITA
- Faster pathways to permanent residence
- Reduced dependence on high CRS scores alone
Candidates with 1–3 years of Canadian work experience, valid job offers, or provincial support stand to benefit the most.
How World Overseas Services Can Help
At World Overseas Services, we closely monitor Express Entry trends and CEC draw patterns to help candidates plan strategically. From profile creation and CRS improvement strategies to PR application filing, our experts guide you at every step of your Canada immigration journey.
If you are currently working in Canada or planning to transition from a temporary status to permanent residence, now is the right time to act.
The latest CEC draw proves that Canada’s immigration from India 2026 is more inclusive for in-Canada talent. With CRS scores dropping and thousands of ITAs being issued, skilled professionals should not miss this opportunity.
Staying updated and applying with expert guidance can make all the difference — and World Overseas Services is here to help you move closer to your Canadian PR dream.