Canada Starts 2026 with Massive CEC Draw: 8,000 ITAs Issued
- January 12, 2026
Canada held a new Express Entry draw on January 7, 2026. This round targeted candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 8,000 invitations to apply. If you received an invitation, you can now apply for permanent residence.
Draw #390 Highlights
Here are the key details from this CEC round of invitations:
- Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Invitations Issued: 8,000
- Minimum CRS Score: 511
- Date and time: January 7, 2026 at 15:20:33 UTC
- Tie-Breaking Rule: June 10, 2025 at 15:59:25 UTC
To receive an invitation in this draw, you needed a CRS score of 511. CRS stands for the Comprehensive Ranking System used in Express Entry. It ranks candidates based on age, language, work, and other factors.
The tie-breaking rule applies to candidates who had the lowest invited score. In this draw, the cut-off score was 511 for the final invited profiles. IRCC invited those candidates only if they submitted earlier than June 10, 2025. This rule helps IRCC control the number of invitations issued.
Next steps if you got an ITA
If you received an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have 60 days to apply. Start early, because some documents can take time to collect. Make sure your details match what you claimed in Express Entry.
Use this quick checklist to stay on track:
- Download your ITA letter and review every requirement carefully.
- Gather work proof, including letters, pay stubs, and tax records.
- Check that your passport and tests are valid for submission.
- Upload documents, pay fees, and submit before the deadline.
If your CRS score was below 511
If your score was below 511, do not lose hope today. CRS cutoffs change based on the number of candidates invited. A large draw like this can still help future rounds improve.
Here are practical ways to raise your CRS score:
- Retake IELTS or CELPIP to improve key language bands.
- Add more Canadian work months, then update your profile fast.
- Include your spouse details correctly, because points can change.
- Explore a Provincial Nominee Program, since it adds 600 points.
Looking Ahead
IRCC continues to hold Express Entry draws through the year. Some rounds target specific programs like CEC and PNP. Other rounds may have different CRS score ranges and sizes.
Keep your profile updated and avoid expired documents in your account. If you missed this draw, focus on steps that raise points quickly. A future CEC draw may invite candidates at a lower score.
Need help with your Express Entry application? UmberApp helps you understand your CRS score and next steps.