First Express Entry draw of July sees lowest PNP cut-off score this year
The first Express Entry draw of July has seen the lowest PNP cut-off score this year, with a score of 708. This draw is significant for applicants who have created an Express Entry profile and are waiting for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. A total of 534 ITAs were issued to candidates who created an Express Entry profile before June 4, 2026. Applicants with a CRS score of 708 or higher may be eligible for permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program. The latest draw is part of a series of Express Entry draws held in 2026, with a focus on candidates already in Canada, specifically those with Canadian work experience or provincial nominations.
The latest Express Entry draw, held on July 6, 2026, saw 534 ITAs issued to candidates who met the eligibility criteria, according to CIC News. This decrease in the number of ITAs issued, from 955 in the previous draw, may indicate a shift in the selection process.
changes in the latest express entry draw
The PNP cut-off score decreased from 730 in the previous draw to 708. For applicants who have been waiting for an ITA, this decrease is a positive development, as it means more candidates may be eligible for permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program.
who is eligible for permanent residence
Applicants who created an Express Entry profile before June 4, 2026, and have a CRS score of 708 or higher may be eligible for permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program. These applicants should check their email for an ITA and follow the instructions to submit their application for permanent residence. The IRCC website provides more information on how Express Entry draws work, and the Express Entry guide on this site offers additional guidance.
how the comprehensive ranking system works
The Comprehensive Ranking System is a points-based system used to rank Express Entry candidates. It assigns points to candidates based on their skills, experience, and other factors, such as language proficiency and education. A higher CRS score increases a candidate's likelihood of receiving an ITA for permanent residence. More information on the CRS can be found on the CRS guide on this site, and the CRS calculator can help estimate a candidate's score.
next steps for express entry applicants
Applicants who received an ITA in the latest draw should submit their application for permanent residence as soon as possible. Those who did not receive an ITA should continue to update their Express Entry profile and wait for the next draw. The Express Entry guide on this site and the IRCC website provide more information on creating an Express Entry profile.
Official current rules are at canada.ca/immigration; this guide is independent reference content.