Canada conducted a new Express Entry draw for candidates with Canadian work experience

The passing score remained the same, while the number of invitations increased by 50% at once.

On August 5, 2026, Canada held a new Express Entry draw for the Canadian Experience Class category. 3,000 candidates with work experience in the country received invitations to apply for permanent residence.

The cut-off score was 516, unchanged from the previous draw on July 21. However, the number of invitations increased significantly: from 2,000 to 3,000.

The cut-off score for the Canadian Experience Class category remains stable, holding at 516 for the second draw in a row. At the same time, Canada increased the number of invitations by 1,000, or 50%. This has expanded opportunities for candidates with Canadian work experience whose scores are close to the current cut-off threshold.

In recent months, the minimum score in Canadian Experience Class draws has changed only slightly and remains within a narrow range. The increase in invitations while maintaining the same threshold may indicate that there were enough candidates in the pool with scores of 516 and above.

Invited candidates have 60 days to submit their complete application. The package includes language test certificates, proof of education and Canadian work experience, as well as other documents depending on the candidate's situation.

Check your score using our free points calculator and see how close you are to the cut-off threshold.

How Canadian work experience helps with immigration

The Canadian Experience Class program allows professionals already working in Canada to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry. Canadian work experience not only provides access to this program but can also earn you additional points when your profile is assessed.

In addition to Canadian Experience Class, candidates can consider the Federal Skilled Worker program or the Federal Skilled Trades program.

If you're working in Canada and want a professional assessment of your prospects, book a consultation with a licensed immigration consultant.