Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, IRCC, has issued 955 Invitations to Apply to Express Entry candidates with provincial nominations.
The draw took place on June 22, 2026, and targeted candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program, also known as PNP. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System, CRS, score was 730.
Key draw details
- Draw type: Provincial Nominee Program
- Invitations issued: 955
- Minimum CRS score: 730
- Tie-breaking rule: March 9, 2026, at 1:02 a.m. UTC
This was a program-specific Express Entry draw for candidates who had received a provincial nomination.
Why the CRS score is still high
PNP-specific Express Entry draws usually have high CRS cut-off scores because a provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to a candidate’s Express Entry profile.
This means that many invited candidates may have had a much lower CRS score before receiving their nomination. The nomination itself significantly increases their ranking in the Express Entry pool.
What this means for candidates
This draw shows that provincial nominations remain an important pathway for candidates who may not have enough CRS points to receive an invitation through general or category-based Express Entry draws.
For many applicants, the stronger strategy may not be waiting for the CRS score to drop. A better strategy may be to check whether their profile fits a provincial nominee stream.
PNP options can depend on factors such as:
- occupation;
- work experience;
- job offer;
- province of residence;
- Canadian study history;
- language scores;
- connection to a province;
- employer support;
- settlement intention.
Provincial nomination is not automatic
A provincial nomination can greatly improve an Express Entry profile, but it is not guaranteed. Each province and territory has its own eligibility rules, selection priorities, and labour-market needs.
Candidates should not assume that one PNP stream fits everyone. The right pathway depends on the applicant’s actual profile and the province’s current priorities.
Final note
The June 22 draw is a reminder that Express Entry is not only about CRS score. Provincial nomination can change a candidate’s position dramatically.
If your CRS score is not competitive, it may be worth reviewing whether a Provincial Nominee Program could be a realistic option for you.
Need help reviewing your Express Entry or PNP options?
Contact Nextland Immigration to assess your pathway.
