Key highlights of Express Entry Draw 390
- Date: January 7, 2026
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Invitations Issued: 8,000
- Minimum CRS Score: 511
- Tie-breaking Rule: June 10, 2025 at 15:59:25 UTC
Candidates who met or exceeded the CRS cut-off and submitted their Express Entry profile before the tie-breaking date received an ITA for Canadian permanent residence.
What This Express Entry CEC Draw Indicates
Issuing 8,000 ITAs in a single CEC draw highlights IRCC’s ongoing focus on:
- Retaining skilled workers already in Canada
- Supporting international graduates transitioning to permanent residence
- Meeting labour market demands through inland candidates
The high number of invitations also suggests a steady and positive trend for CEC candidates in 2026, especially when compared to recent draws held in late 2025.
Understanding the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is one of the three federal immigration programs managed under the Express Entry system. It is designed for individuals who:
- Have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada
- Meet language requirements in English or French
- Plan to live outside Quebec
CEC candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which awards points for age, education, work experience, language ability, and additional factors.
Express Entry Draws Held in 2026 So Far
| Draw | Date | Category | ITAs | CRS Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 390 | January 7, 2026 | CEC | 8,000 | 511 |
| 389 | January 5, 2026 | PNP | 574 | 711 |
What Should CEC Candidates Do Next?
Candidates with Canadian work experience should:
- Keep their Express Entry profile updated
- Improve CRS scores through language tests or additional experience
- Monitor upcoming Express Entry draws closely
With IRCC starting 2026 on a strong note, CEC candidates may see more opportunities in the months ahead.
The Express Entry CEC draw 390 reflects IRCC’s continued strategy to transition temporary residents into permanent residents. For skilled workers already in Canada, this draw reinforces the importance of staying prepared and proactive.