IRCC Issues 380 ITAs in Express Entry PNP Draw with a Minimum CRS Score of 798

By Vicky

May 11, 2026 | 2 min read

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a new Express Entry draw 415, inviting 380 candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), one of the core pathways within Canada’s Express Entry system.

This draw was held on May 11, 2026, at 11:06:08 UTC, and continues Canada’s focus on candidates who have already received a nomination from a province or territory. To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in this round, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 798, reflecting the significant points advantage provided by a provincial nomination.

Key Highlights – Express Entry Draw 415

Draw Type: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Date of Round: May 11, 2026
Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 380
Minimum CRS Score: 798
Rank Needed: 380 or above
Tie-Breaking Rule: Candidates with the same CRS score had to have submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before January 07, 2026 at 05:23:31 UTC to be invited.

This round follows IRCC’s established pattern of conducting PNP-specific draws, which typically record higher CRS cut-offs due to the additional 600 CRS points awarded to provincially nominated candidates.

Continued Importance of the Provincial Nominee Program

The Provincial Nominee Program remains a central pillar of Canada’s immigration strategy, enabling provinces and territories to select candidates who meet local labour market and economic priorities. Applicants who secure a provincial nomination gain a substantial competitive advantage within the Express Entry pool.

For candidates with otherwise moderate CRS scores, PNP pathways continue to offer one of the most reliable routes to receiving an ITA.

Express Entry Trends in 2026

In 2026, Canada’s Express Entry system has continued to operate through a combination of program-specific and category-based draws, including selections for PNP candidates, Canadian Experience Class applicants, and language- or occupation-focused groups.

The regular issuance of PNP draws highlights IRCC’s ongoing emphasis on regionally driven immigration selection.

Looking Ahead

As Express Entry draws continue throughout the year, candidates aligned with provincial nomination criteria are expected to remain strongly positioned. Exploring PNP opportunities, keeping Express Entry profiles updated, and monitoring provincial requirements will remain key steps for candidates aiming to secure an invitation in upcoming rounds.