Express Entry raised the passing score for provincial nominees

After the July low of 708 points, the threshold rose to 744, remaining below spring levels.

On July 20, 2026, the Express Entry system held another draw for candidates with a provincial nomination. Invitations to apply for permanent residence were sent to 511 candidates.

The cut-off score in this draw was 744. This is 36 points higher than the previous draw on July 6, when the threshold dropped to 708 and became the lowest for this category in 2026. The number of invitations remained roughly the same: 511 versus 534.

The cut-off score trend for provincial nominees in 2026 has been unstable. Until June, the threshold consistently stayed above 780 points and even reached 805. Then came a sharp drop: 730 at the end of June, 708 at the beginning of July. This draw showed a rebound to 744, which is still significantly lower than the spring numbers.

With the 600-point bonus for a provincial nomination, candidates only needed to score 144 points based on core factors to pass this draw: age, education, language skills, and work experience. This is still a fairly low threshold, giving most candidates with an active nomination a good chance.

Candidates with the same score of 744 points were ranked by profile submission date. Priority was given to those who registered in the system before May 26, 2026.

After receiving an invitation, candidates have 60 days to submit their complete application. The package includes language test results, proof of education and work experience, as well as provincial nomination documents.

Want to know if you have enough points? Use our free points calculator and check your score.

Provincial Nomination as a Path to Permanent Residence

Despite fluctuations in the cut-off score, a provincial nomination remains one of the most reliable ways to get an invitation through Express Entry. The 600-point bonus practically guarantees passing the draw at current thresholds. Each Canadian province and territory runs its own programs tailored to local economic needs, and requirements for candidates vary. To participate, you need to have an active profile in Express Entry and meet the conditions of one of the federal programs.

If you want to figure out which provincial program is right for you, book a consultation with a licensed immigration consultant.