Canada Issues 4,000 Invitations in Latest CEC Express Entry Draw; CRS Cut-off Drops to 516

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a new Express Entry draw 

Canada Conducts Major CEC Express Entry Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a new Express Entry draw under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) category on June 23, 2026, inviting 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residence.

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in this round was 516. Candidates with a CRS score of 516 or higher were considered, provided they had submitted their Express Entry profile before the tie-breaking date of April 14, 2026, at 00:03:10 UTC.

Key Highlights of the Draw

• Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Date: June 23, 2026

• Invitations Issued: 4,000

• CRS Cut-off Score: 516

• Tie-Breaking Rule: April 14, 2026, at 00:03:10 UTC

Positive News for Candidates in Canada

The latest CEC draw is encouraging for candidates already working and living in Canada, as it continues to provide a direct pathway to permanent residence. The issuance of 4,000 invitations demonstrates Canada's ongoing commitment to retaining skilled workers with Canadian work experience.

The CRS requirement of 516 may also offer hope to candidates who have been waiting in the Express Entry pool and are actively working to improve their scores.

What Should Invited Candidates Do Next?

Candidates who have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) should begin preparing and submitting their complete permanent residence application within the deadline specified by IRCC. Ensuring that all supporting documents are accurate and up to date is crucial for a smooth application process.

Need Help with Your Canada PR Application?

Visas Avenue provides professional guidance for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other Canadian immigration pathways. Our experts can assess your eligibility, help improve your CRS score, and assist throughout the PR application process.

- Rajneesh Kumar