6,233 Express Entry invitations this week

Hi Reader,

Happy Sunday!

Today turned out to be an absolutely gorgeous day in Vancouver. It's sunny and the fall colours in downtown Vancouver was beautiful. As we move into October, I hope you’re also making time to enjoy the changing colours around you.

If you checked Tuesday’s CEC result and immediately calculated how many points you’re still short, this week’s update is for you. A lower cut-off is welcome news, but it doesn’t tell you how long your own wait will be.

Grab a cup of coffee. Let’s go through it together.

⚡ This Week in Canadian Immigration (30-second summary)

IRCC issued 6,233 Express Entry Invitations to Apply through three draws.
733 PNP candidates were invited on September 28 at CRS 725.
2,000 CEC candidates were invited on September 29 at CRS 518.
3,500 trades candidates were invited on October 1 at CRS 476.
IRCC’s processing-time tool now has a separate option for work permit extensions in Canada.
Canada announced approximately $1.2 million for new Francophone immigration projects.
Manitoba reported technical issues affecting some MPNP processes on September 28.

Express Entry Draws, September 28 to October 2

Draw #445: Provincial Nominee Program | September 28

✅ Invitations issued: 733
✅ CRS cut-off: 725
✅ Tie-breaking rule: September 17, 2026 at 01:36:17 UTC

📌 This round was for provincial nominees.

Draw #446: Canadian Experience Class | September 29

✅ Invitations issued: 2,000
✅ CRS cut-off: 518
✅ Tie-breaking rule: February 13, 2026 at 20:48:08 UTC

📌 The cut-off fell by one point, from 519 on September 15. Invitation numbers remained at 2,000. If your CRS score is less than 500, it is time to explore other possibilities.

Draw #447: Trade Occupations | October 1

✅ Invitations issued: 3,500
✅ CRS cut-off: 476
✅ Tie-breaking rule: May 28, 2026 at 16:55:23 UTC

Official IRCC draw records.

📌 The trades category requires at least 12 months of qualifying work experience within the past three years, in one eligible occupation. That experience can be in Canada or abroad and doesn’t need to be continuous. You must also meet Express Entry and round-specific requirements. Here is a list of the in-demand jobs for 2026 category based draws.

IRCC Updates

Waiting for a work permit decision?

IRCC’s processing-time tool now separates “Work permit extension in Canada” from other in-Canada work permit applications. The extension option also includes new PGWP applications, bridging open work permits and changes to permit conditions. Select the appropriate option and indicate whether you’ve already applied. Remember, the estimate isn’t a guaranteed decision date or confirmation of your authorization to work.

New support for Francophone recruitment

On September 29, IRCC announced approximately $1.2 million for projects supporting Francophone recruitment in Newfoundland and Labrador and Saskatchewan. It also announced the implementation of a promotional strategy for Northern Ontario. This is recruitment and community support funding. The announcement doesn’t create a new PR application stream or change your eligibility. Read IRCC’s announcement.

PNP Updates, September 28 to October 2

Manitoba

Manitoba posted a technical issues notice on September 28, advising that its database was experiencing problems affecting some MPNP processes. If you encounter an error, keep screenshots and a record of your attempts. Don’t assume a technical problem automatically extends your deadline.

What You Should Do This Week

If you received an invitation → Check the deadline in your account and make sure your documents support the information and points claimed.
If you’re significantly below the CEC cut-off → Review realistic ways to improve your score. Don’t build your plans around a predicted invitation date.
If you have trades experience → Compare your duties and experience dates with the current category requirements.
If you’re waiting for a work permit → Check the appropriate processing estimate and review your work authorization separately.
If you’re considering French → Assess the study commitment alongside your immigration timeline before choosing a program.

Keen to Learn French as Part of Your Canada PR Strategy?

French may open additional pathways including Francophone programs across Canada, but the requirements differ. The Express Entry French category requires NCLC 7 in all four abilities.

Our French Prep 7-Day Demo lets you try: