On February 3, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry round of invitations targeting candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This draw was carried out in accordance with ministerial instructions governing Canada’s economic immigration system.
Key details of the February 3, 2026 Express Entry draw
According to official information published by the Government of Canada, Express Entry draw #393 included the following details:
- Draw type: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Invitations issued: 423
- Minimum CRS score: 749
- Draw date: February 3, 2026
The high CRS cut-off score reflects the impact of a provincial nomination, which automatically grants candidates 600 additional CRS points under the Comprehensive Ranking System.
Candidates targeted in this round
This round was limited to candidates who had received a valid provincial nomination through an Express Entry–aligned provincial nominee stream. These candidates are selected by provinces and territories to address specific regional labour market needs.
How Express Entry and provincial nominations work together
Express Entry is an application management system used by the Government of Canada to select candidates for permanent residence through federal economic immigration programs. Provinces and territories can nominate candidates through Express Entry–linked streams, significantly increasing their CRS scores.
Reference
Government of Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. “Express Entry Rounds of Invitations.” Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Government of Canada, updated 3 Feb. 2026, https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/policies-operational-instructions-agreements/ministerial-instructions/express-entry-rounds.html.
