Canada issues 574 ITAs in latest Express Entry PNP draw with a minimum CRS score of 711

By Vicky

Jan 6, 2026 | 2 min read

Canada has conducted the first Express Entry draw of 2026, inviting 574 candidates to apply for permanent residence under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The draw, held on January 5, 2026, required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 711, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).The round of invitations, officially listed as Express Entry Draw 389, was exclusively for PNP-nominated candidates, reinforcing the Canadian government’s continued focus on provincial immigration pathways to meet regional labour market needs.

Key highlights of Express Entry Draw 389

Date: January 5, 2026
Number of ITAs Issued: 574
CRS Cut-off: 711
Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Tie-breaking Rule: October 06, 2025 at 01:54:31 UTC

This draw shows a notable decrease in CRS score requirements compared to the previous PNP-specific round (Draw #386, December 15, 2025), where 399 invitations were issued with a CRS cut-off of 731. The increase in ITAs and the 20-point CRS drop signal a positive trend for PNP candidates currently in the Express Entry pool.

The latest draw highlights the growing importance of provincial pathways for candidates seeking Canadian permanent residence. Applicants with competitive profiles but lower CRS scores may significantly improve their chances by securing a provincial nomination.

Individuals interested in immigrating to Canada through IRCC’s Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program are encouraged to assess their eligibility, explore province-specific streams, and improve their CRS scores where possible.

Expert guidance can help identify the most suitable PNP stream and enhance your chances of receiving an ITA.