Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada issued 250 invitations to apply for permanent residence. The invitations went to senior managers with Canadian work experience through the Express Entry system. This draw recorded the lowest cut off score for this category in 2026.
Candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 389. Their Express Entry candidate profiles had to be created before 11:05 p.m. Universal Coordinated Time on September 1, 2026. The invitations were issued on September 16.
This was the 56th Express Entry draw in 2026. It brought the total invitations issued this year to 128,982. Express Entry selections in 2026 have consistently favored candidates with existing ties to Canada, including provincial nominees and individuals with Canadian work experience.
Foreign nationals in Canada who have applied for permanent residence through Express Entry may qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit. If their current work permit expires before the Bridging Open Work Permit application is finalized, they can benefit from maintained status. This allows them to continue working under the conditions of the expired permit, provided they remain in Canada. Qualifying family members may also apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit.