Canada Conducts Largest Category-Based Express Entry Draw in History

Canada has carried out its largest category-based Express Entry draw to date, issuing a significant number of invitations to candidates with French-language proficiency.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 8,500 candidates to apply for permanent residence in a draw held on February 6, 2026. This selection was specifically targeted at candidates who demonstrated strong French language skills, making it the biggest category-based draw since the Express Entry system was introduced.

Express Entry Draws Conducted in 2026

To be eligible for this draw, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 400. In addition, their Express Entry profile must have been created before 11:11 a.m. (UTC) on February 3, 2026.

Express Entry Draw Result – 6 Feb 2026

Click here to see the complete list of Express Entry draws until date

With this round, IRCC has now conducted six Express Entry draws in 2026. The selection pattern so far shows a clear focus on candidates already connected to Canada, particularly those with Canadian work experience, provincial nominations, or French-language ability. 

Express Entry Draw Types Used in 2026

So far this year, IRCC has limited Express Entry selections to three draw categories:

This approach highlights Canada’s continued preference for applicants who are either already working in the country, nominated by a province, or able to support Francophone communities outside Quebec. As of early February 2026, IRCC has issued a total of 24,178 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through Express Entry.

The record-breaking French-language draw signals Canada’s ongoing effort to strengthen Francophone immigration and balance population growth across regions, while maintaining a strong emphasis on candidates already established in the country.

Schedule Your Consultation Now

If you are planning to apply for Canada immigration or want to understand how these Express Entry draws affect your profile, now is the right time to act. Speak with our experts today by calling our Toll-Free number 78-18-000-777, or send your query by email to info@visasavenue.com and take the first step toward your Canada PR journey.

- Rajneesh Kumar