IRCC Issues 2,000 Express Entry ITAs for Canadian Experience Class

Express Entry update — CEC draw: 2,000 ITAs at CRS 518

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 2,000 invitations to apply (ITAs) in a targeted Express Entry draw for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates. To be eligible, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 518 and an Express Entry profile created before 8:48 p.m. UTC on February 13, 2026. The draw underscores IRCC’s continued focus on candidates with Canadian work experience.

If you’re in Canada and have submitted an Express Entry-based permanent residence application, you may qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). If your current work permit expires before your BOWP is finalized, you can continue to work under maintained status while remaining in Canada, subject to the conditions of your previous permit. IRCC also notes eligible family members may be able to get an open work permit in some cases.

How this fits into 2026’s pattern
– So far in 2026 IRCC has held 58 Express Entry draws, favoring candidates with ties to Canada (provincial nominees and those with Canadian work experience).
– IRCC’s cumulative issuance through Express Entry in 2026 totals 131,715 ITAs. Breakdown by draw type:
– Canadian Experience Class: 53,250 ITAs
– French-language proficiency: 50,500 ITAs
– Provincial Nominee Program: 9,270 ITAs
– Healthcare and social services: 11,500 ITAs
– Trades: 3,000 ITAs
– Transport: 300 ITAs
– Physicians with Canadian work experience: 891 ITAs
– Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 1,000 ITAs
– Skilled Military Recruits: 4 ITAs

What this means for applicants
– CRS thresholds vary by draw type. A 518 cut-off applied to this CEC round; other categories have had very different thresholds.
– Timestamps matter. This draw required profiles created before 8:48 p.m. UTC on February 13, 2026.
– Canadian work experience and provincial nomination remain valuable. Track CEC and PNP rounds if those apply to you.
– If you’re in Canada with a work permit, plan BOWP timing carefully to avoid gaps in authorization.

Practical next steps
– Keep your Express Entry profile up to date (employment, language results, education, etc.).
– Monitor draw types and CRS cut-offs relevant to your profile.
– If you may need a BOWP, prepare documentation and submit on time to maintain work authorization.
– Consider household planning if family members may qualify for open work permits.

For personalized support with your Canadian immigration pathway, contact GTR Immigration. Call us: +91-8810-686-447

#ExpressEntry #CanadianExperienceClass #CRSscore #BridgingOpenWorkPermit #IRCC #PermanentResidence #ProvincialNomineeProgram #ImmigrationCanada