Key takeaways
- Draw #446 was held on September 29, 2026 for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- IRCC issued 2,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
- The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 518
- The previous CEC draw, #443 on September 15, 2026, had the same number of invitations and a minimum score of 519
- An invitation is not a guarantee of permanent residence
Draw #446 at a glance
| Detail | Result |
|---|---|
| Draw number | 446 |
| Date | September 29, 2026 |
| Program | Canadian Experience Class |
| Invitations to Apply | 2,000 |
| Minimum CRS score | 518 |
| Tie-breaking rule | February 13, 2026 at 20:48:08 UTC |
| Candidates in the pool (September 27, 2026) | 229,904 |
Source: IRCC rounds of invitations and IRCC’s published round data, checked September 30, 2026.
How it compares with the last CEC draw
The last CEC draw was #443 on September 15, 2026. It also invited 2,000 candidates. Its minimum score was 519, so the cut-off is 1 point lower this time.
The tie-breaking rule is the date and time used when several candidates have the same lowest score. Candidates with that score who submitted their profile before the tie-breaking date and time were invited.
What this means for you
- You are in the pool with a CEC-eligible profile: compare your CRS score with 518. A score at or above the cut-off does not guarantee an invitation in a future draw, because cut-offs change in every draw.
- You are in the pool but not CEC-eligible: this draw did not invite candidates from other programs. Other draws follow different rules.
- You are not in the pool yet: check whether you are eligible before you create a profile.
What to do next
- Check your score with the IRCC CRS tool.
- Keep your Express Entry profile up to date. Your language test results and documents must not be expired.
- If you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your application. Read your ITA carefully for the exact deadline.
Read our guide Express Entry, explained for the full process.
Frequently asked questions
What does CRS 518 mean?
It is the score of the lowest-ranked candidate who received an invitation in this draw. It is not a fixed minimum for future draws.
Does an ITA mean I will get permanent residence?
No. An ITA lets you apply. IRCC must still review and approve your application.
When is the next draw?
IRCC does not announce draws in advance. Check the official rounds of invitations page.
Sources
- IRCC: Express Entry rounds of invitations (checked September 30, 2026)
- IRCC: Express Entry round data (JSON) (checked September 30, 2026)
- IRCC: CRS grid (checked September 30, 2026)
- IRCC: Apply for permanent residence (checked September 30, 2026)
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. For your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
