Canada conducted a large-scale Express Entry draw with a minimum score
The passing score in the new selection was 511, which is the lowest it's been in almost a year and a half.
On January 7, Canada held a major Express Entry draw, inviting candidates with work experience under the Canadian Experience Class category.
8,000 people received invitations to apply for permanent residence. The minimum passing score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) was 511. This is the lowest score for Canadian Experience Class since September 19, 2024, when the passing score was 509 and 4,000 candidates received invitations.
Compared to the previous draw on December 16, 2025, the passing score dropped by 4 points, while the number of invitations increased by 3,000. This makes the current round more accessible for candidates with Canadian work experience and confirms the high pace of invitations at the start of the year.
Want to know how many points you would score? Use our free CRS calculator to assess your chances of immigrating to Canada.
How does the Express Entry system work?
Express Entry is an online platform through which Canada selects candidates for permanent residence under three federal programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program for skilled professionals;
- Canadian Experience Class for those who have already worked in Canada;
- Federal Skilled Trades Program for skilled trades workers.
CRS points are awarded for various factors: age, education, knowledge of English or French, professional and Canadian experience, marital status, and adaptability.
Stay updated on Express Entry draw updates so you don't miss important news and immigration opportunities.
