Canada Invites 8,000 CEC Candidates in Express Entry Draw – January 2026 Update
Canada has sent a strong message to skilled workers already living and working in the country. On January 7, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 8,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)—one of the largest CEC Express Entry draws to date.
This draw highlights Canada’s continued focus on in-Canada talent, including international graduates, temporary foreign workers, and professionals with Canadian work experience. With a minimum CRS score of 511, the draw demonstrates that candidates with Canadian education, strong language scores, and skilled work experience remain highly competitive.
The article explains:
Full details of the January 7, 2026 Express Entry CEC draw
Why IRCC is prioritizing Canadian Experience Class candidates
How the CRS tie-breaking rule works and why early profile submission matters
What to do after receiving an ITA
Strategies to improve CRS scores if you missed the draw
How Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) can boost your chances
With professional guidance from New Jain Immigration Services, candidates can optimize their Express Entry profiles, avoid costly mistakes, and take confident steps toward Canadian permanent residence in 2026.
New Jain Immigration 📍 Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada 📞 +1 (647) 676-1982 📧 [email protected]