Why Express Entry Draws May Slow Down in 2026

Introduction

The first half of 2026 saw a record number of Express Entry invitations. However, this fast pace is unlikely to continue. Here’s what candidates should know.

IRCC Has Already Issued Most of Its Invitations

In the first half of 2026, IRCC issued around 97,000 Express Entry invitations. This is very close to the 114,000 invitations issued during all of 2025.

As a result, there is less room for large invitation rounds in the remaining months of 2026.

CEC Draws Have Become Smaller

Earlier this year, Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws invited up to 8,000 candidates at a time.

However, recent CEC draws have dropped to around 2,000 invitations, which is a 75% decrease.

Because fewer people are being invited, the CRS score requirement has increased from around 507 to 517.

Why Did IRCC Invite So Many Candidates Early?

IRCC increased invitations in the beginning of 2026 for two main reasons:

• To make up for fewer CEC invitations issued in 2025.
• To prepare for upcoming Express Entry system changes expected later in 2026 or early 2027.

Therefore, the high number of invitations in the first half was part of a planned strategy rather than a long-term trend.

CRS Scores Are Expected to Stay High

Since draw sizes are now smaller and many high-scoring candidates remain in the Express Entry pool, CRS cut-off scores are expected to stay between 515 and 520.

In other words, candidates with CRS scores below 515 should not expect scores to drop significantly under the current draw pattern.

French-Language Draws Will Continue

Unlike some other categories, French-language draws are expected to continue throughout the year.

This is because Canada has a goal of increasing French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec.

So, candidates with strong French language skills still have a good chance of receiving an invitation.

Several Categories Have Seen No Draws

So far in 2026, there have been no Express Entry draws for:

• STEM occupations
• Transport occupations
• Education occupations
• Canadian Researchers

As a result, candidates in these categories may need to explore other options, such as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Express Entry Reforms May Temporarily Pause Draws

The Canadian government plans to update the Express Entry system by merging existing immigration programs and changing how CRS points are awarded.

Because of these technical updates, Express Entry draws may pause for several weeks later in 2026 or early 2027. However, the Express Entry system itself is not ending.

What Can Candidates Expect for the Rest of 2026?

For the remainder of the year, candidates should expect:

• Smaller CEC draws (around 2,000–3,000 invitations)
• CRS scores remaining high
• Continued French-language and PNP draws
• Limited Healthcare and Trades draws
• Possible pause in draws during Express Entry reforms

Overall, invitation rounds are expected to be less frequent and more targeted than they were earlier this year.

Final Thoughts

The first half of 2026 offered record numbers of Express Entry invitations, but that pace is unlikely to continue.

Instead, candidates should focus on improving their CRS score, learning French, or applying through category-based draws and Provincial Nominee Programs. Staying prepared and keeping an updated Express Entry profile will improve the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive advice on any of your questions regarding immigration. Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).