Canada invites 2,500 CEC candidates to apply for permanent residence

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued more invitations to apply (ITA) through the Express Entry system.

The immigration department issued 2,500 ITAs in a draw for Canadian Experience Class candidates.

To be considered in this draw, candidates needed to have:

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Express Entry applicants residing in Canada may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) after submitting their application for permanent residence.

Those facing the expiry of their existing work permit while awaiting a BOWP decision may benefit from maintained status, which can allow them to continue working under their previous permit conditions, provided they remain in Canada.

Qualifying family members may also be able to obtain open work permits.

The latest selection round represents Canada's 61st Express Entry draw of the year.

A key trend throughout the year has been the prioritization of candidates with ties to Canada, including provincial nominees and applicants with Canadian work experience.

Over the course of 2026, IRCC has issued 138,467 ITAs through the following Express Entry draw types: