Learn how to adapt your approach during the slowdown in Express Entry draws to improve your chances of success.
Reporting by Moving2Canada link has revealed a slowdown in Express Entry draws throughout May and June 2026, causing concern among candidates waiting for an Invitation to Apply (ITA). During this period, the number of competitive candidates in the pool has increased, leading to higher thorough Ranking System (CRS) scores.
Historical Context of Express Entry Draws
The Express Entry system has historically experienced cycles of varying draw sizes and frequencies. A notable example occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, when from December 2020 to July 2022, no general draws were held for Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) candidates. Instead, only provincial nominees and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates received invitations. This hiatus saw the CRS score cut-off jump from 468 points in December 2020 to 557 points when draws resumed in July 2022. However, the cut-off fell back to 481 points within a year, close to pre-pause levels.
Current CRS Score Trends
CRS score cut-offs for CEC draws have remained within a 40-point range. For instance, in 2026, the highest and lowest CEC CRS scores recorded were 518 and 507 respectively. This stability suggests that while CRS scores may rise during a slowdown, they often return to previous levels when draw frequency increases.
Strategies for Candidates
Candidates can take several proactive steps to improve their chances of receiving an ITA. These include enhancing language test results, gaining additional skilled work experience, completing further education, or obtaining a provincial nomination. Each of these actions can potentially increase a candidate's CRS score, though they may require time to achieve.
Category-Based Selection Draws
A significant change has been the introduction of category-based selection draws. In the first half of 2026, more than 30,000 invitations were issued through French-language proficiency draws, often at lower CRS scores than CEC draws, with some as low as 393 points. Other targeted categories include healthcare, senior management, and trades. Candidates with experience in these fields may benefit from these specialized draws, provided they meet the required criteria.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each Canadian province (except Quebec) operates a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), offering multiple streams with varying selection criteria. Many PNP streams align with Express Entry, and securing a nomination adds 600 CRS points to a candidate's profile, virtually ensuring an invitation. This makes exploring PNPs a viable strategy for candidates during periods of slower Express Entry activity.
Looking Ahead
While the current slowdown in draws might seem daunting, historical data suggests that these fluctuations are part of the system's natural cycle. Candidates are encouraged to focus on long-term strategies and explore all available pathways to improve their chances of securing an ITA. As the situation evolves, staying informed about changes to Express Entry and related immigration policies remains important.