Key takeaways
- Draw #449 was held on October 15, 2026 for the Canadian Experience Class
- IRCC issued 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
- The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 519
- It came two days after draw #448 on October 13, 2026 (Provincial Nominee Program, 752 invitations, CRS 772)
- The previous CEC round, #446 on September 29, 2026, invited 2,000 candidates at CRS 518
- An invitation is not a guarantee of permanent residence
Draw #449 at a glance
| Detail | Result |
|---|---|
| Draw number | 449 |
| Date and time | October 15, 2026 at 10:02:33 UTC (6:02:33 a.m. ET) |
| Category | Canadian Experience Class |
| Invitations to Apply | 2,500 |
| Minimum CRS score | 519 |
| Tie-breaking rule | September 21, 2026 at 19:00:47 UTC (3:00:47 p.m. ET) |
| Candidates in the pool (October 12, 2026) | 229,456 |
Source: IRCC’s published round data and IRCC rounds of invitations.
How it compares with recent draws
The last round, draw #448 on October 13, 2026, was for the Provincial Nominee Program. It invited 752 candidates at a minimum score of 772. Before that, draw #447 on October 1, 2026 invited 3,500 Trades Occupations candidates at a minimum score of 476.
The last CEC round before this one was draw #446 on September 29, 2026. It invited 2,000 candidates at a minimum score of 518. Draw #449 invited 500 more candidates, and its minimum score was 1 point higher.
The tie-breaking rule is the date and time used when several candidates have the same lowest score. Candidates with a score of 519 were invited only if they submitted their profile before the tie-breaking date and time.
What this means for you
- You are in the pool under the Canadian Experience Class: compare your CRS score with 519. Cut-offs change in every draw, so a score at or above this number does not guarantee a future invitation.
- You score exactly 519: the tie-breaking rule decides. Your profile must have been submitted before September 21, 2026 at 19:00:47 UTC.
- You are in the pool but not in the CEC: this draw was for the CEC only. 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, read it carefully for the exact deadline to submit your application.
Read our guides Express Entry, explained and use our CRS calculator for the full process.
Frequently asked questions
What does CRS 519 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 round data (JSON) (checked October 15, 2026)
- IRCC: Express Entry rounds of invitations
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. For your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
