IRCC Issues 4,000 ITAs in Express Entry CEC Draw with a Minimum CRS Score of 516

By Vicky
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a new Express Entry draw 420, inviting 4,000 candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), one of the key economic immigration pathways within Canada’s Express Entry system.This draw, held on June 23, 2026, continues Canada’s focus on candidates with skilled Canadian work experience. To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in this round, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 516.

Key Highlights – Express Entry Draw 420

  • Draw Type: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Date and time of Round: June 23, 2026 at 12:52:12 UTC
  • Invitations to Apply (ITAs): 4,000
  • Minimum CRS Score: 516
  • Rank Needed: 4,000 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: Candidates with the same CRS score had to have submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before April 14, 2026 at 00:03:10 UTC to be invited.

This draw follows a series of CEC-specific rounds conducted throughout 2026 and reflects IRCC’s continued commitment to transitioning temporary residents with Canadian work experience into permanent residents.

Continued Focus on Candidates with Canadian Experience

The Canadian Experience Class remains a significant component of Canada’s immigration strategy. By prioritizing candidates who have already gained skilled work experience in Canada, the program supports the retention of talent that is familiar with the Canadian labour market and workplace environment.

CEC draws continue to provide dedicated opportunities for skilled workers already contributing to Canada’s economy and seeking a pathway to permanent residence.

CEC Draw Trends in 2026

Draw Number Date Invitations Issued CRS Score
#420 June 23, 2026 4,000 516
#417 May 27, 2026 3,000 518
#413 April 28, 2026 2,000 514
#410 April 14, 2026 2,000 515
#407 March 31, 2026 2,250 509
#404 March 17, 2026 4,000 507
#400 March 3, 2026 4,000 508
#396 February 17, 2026 6,000 508
#392 January 21, 2026 6,000 509
#390 January 7, 2026 8,000 511

The latest CEC draw issued 4,000 invitations, an increase from the 3,000 invitations issued in the previous CEC round on May 27. At the same time, the CRS cut-off decreased slightly from 518 to 516, indicating a modest easing in competition compared to the previous draw.

Overall, CEC CRS scores have remained relatively stable throughout 2026, generally ranging between 507 and 518. While invitation volumes have fluctuated, IRCC continues to conduct regular CEC-specific draws, reinforcing the importance of Canadian work experience within Canada’s economic immigration strategy.

Looking Ahead

As Express Entry draws continue throughout 2026, candidates with Canadian work experience are expected to remain a key focus of Canada’s immigration system. Maintaining updated profiles, valid language test results, and accurate employment records can help strengthen eligibility for future CEC invitations.

With invitation numbers increasing in the latest round and CRS requirements remaining within recent trends, eligible candidates may continue to find opportunities through future Canadian Experience Class draws.

Share your love