Canada continues to support skilled immigration through the Express Entry system, with targeted draws that recognize candidates nominated by provinces. In the latest round of invitations, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw under Ministerial Instructions #395.
On February 16, 2026, IRCC issued 279 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 789, reflecting the highly competitive nature of PNP selections.
Express Entry Draw Results [ February 16, 2026 ]
- Program: Provincial Nominee Program (Category-based selection)
- Number of Invitations Issued: 279
- Minimum CRS Score: 789
- Rank Required: 279 or above
- Date & Time of Round: February 16, 2026 at 14:28:06 UTC
- Tie-Breaking Rule: September 05, 2025 at 00:59:13 UTC
Under IRCC’s tie-breaking rule, candidates with a CRS score of 789 were invited only if they had submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before September 05, 2025, at 00:59:13 UTC.
Why This PNP Draw Matters
PNP draws remain a cornerstone of Canada’s category-based selection strategy. They allow provinces to nominate skilled candidates who can meet local labour market needs and contribute to regional growth. This round helps to:
- Bring highly qualified, province-nominated candidates to Canada
- Address specific provincial labour market shortages
- Strengthen regional communities across the country
- Provide a pathway for skilled workers with strong CRS scores to gain permanent residence
Candidates nominated through provinces continue to benefit from this targeted Express Entry pathway, which offers a faster route to permanent residence.
Express Entry Snapshot (Provincial Nominee Program)
| Draw Date | Invitations Issued | Minimum CRS Score |
|---|---|---|
| February 16, 2026 | 279 | 789 |
🎉 Congratulations to the 279 candidates who received Invitations to Apply!
