Canada’s immigration department issued a fresh round of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) on 16 September 2026, targeting senior‑manager candidates who already have Canadian work experience.
What the draw required
- Category: Senior managers with Canadian work experience
- CRS cut‑off: 389 (the lowest score recorded for this category in 2026)
- ITAs issued: 250
- Profile deadline: 11:05 p.m. UTC on 1 September 2026
Only candidates who had created an Express Entry profile before the deadline and met the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score were eligible. Applicants must also have documented Canadian work experience in a senior‑manager role.
Implications for applicants in Canada
Foreign nationals already in Canada who have applied for permanent residence through Express Entry may be able to obtain a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). If their current work permit expires before the BOWP is processed, they can maintain status and continue working under the conditions of the expired permit, provided they remain in Canada. Qualifying family members are also eligible to apply for a BOWP.
Express Entry activity in 2026 (to date)
- Total draws: 56
- Total ITAs issued: 128,982
Breakdown of ITAs by draw type
| Draw type | ITAs issued |
|---|---|
| Canadian Experience Class | 53,250 |
| French‑Language proficiency | 50,500 |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 8,537 |
| Healthcare and social services | 11,500 |
| Trades | 3,000 |
| Transport | 300 |
| Physicians with Canadian work experience | 891 |
| Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience | 1,000 |
| Skilled Military Recruits | 4 |
Number of draws by category
- Provincial Nominee Program: 18
- Canadian Experience Class: 16
- French‑Language proficiency: 10
- Physicians with Canadian work experience: 3
- Healthcare and social services: 3
- Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 3
- Trades: 1
- Transport: 1
- Skilled Military Recruits: 1
The September 16 senior‑manager draw follows two earlier draws for the same category:
- 10 July 2026: 500 ITAs, CRS 392
- 5 March 2026: 250 ITAs, CRS 429
The current cut‑off of 389 marks the lowest threshold for senior‑manager candidates in 2026, reflecting IRCC’s continued emphasis on applicants with existing Canadian ties—particularly provincial nominees and those with Canadian work experience.
Key considerations for prospective applicants
- Ensure a CRS score of at least 389 and a valid senior‑manager role in Canada.
- Submit the Express Entry profile before the 11:05 UTC deadline on 1 September 2026.
- If already in Canada and awaiting a permanent‑residence decision, explore eligibility for a Bridging Open Work Permit to maintain legal status and work rights.
These details provide a concise snapshot of the latest senior‑manager draw and the broader Express Entry landscape for 2026.
Source article: www.cicnews.com
