IRCC invites 6,000 CEC candidates with a CRS of 508. Plus, new data shows a massive drop in temporary resident arrivals and an update on the 2.1 million application backlog.
Canada’s 2026 Shift: Big Wins for In-Country Workers, Tightening Borders for New Arrivals
As of February 18, 2026, the divergence in Canada’s immigration strategy is becoming clear. While the federal government is aggressively inviting candidates already living and working in Canada through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), it is simultaneously clamping down on new temporary resident arrivals to meet its population targets.
Express Entry Draw #396: 6,000 CEC Candidates Invited
On February 17, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a massive draw targeting the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Draw Highlights:
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Invitations Issued (ITAs): 6,000.
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CRS Cut-off Score: 508 points (a decrease of 1 point from the previous CEC draw).
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Tie-breaking Rule: March 16, 2025, at 09:35:59 UTC.
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Pool Status: The Express Entry pool currently holds 235,695 profiles.
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2026 Total: Canada has issued 30,457 ITAs so far this year.
This draw reinforces the government’s priority: transitioning temporary residents currently in Canada to permanent status.
Policy Impact: 53% Drop in Temporary Resident Arrivals
New data from IRCC reveals the sheer scale of Canada’s policy shift. In 2025, the country saw 53% fewer international student and temporary worker arrivals compared to the previous year.
Key Statistics:
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December 2025 Figures: Only 9,665 study permits and 9,735 work permits were issued.
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The Goal: Ottawa aims to reduce the temporary resident population to less than 5% of the total population.
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The Reason: Easing pressure on housing, infrastructure, and essential services while ensuring sustainable growth.
IRCC Inventory Update: 2.1 Million Applications
IRCC has released its latest inventory data, showing a total of 2,127,500 applications across all lines of business (permanent residence, temporary residence, and citizenship).
Backlog Breakdown:
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Service Standards: Only 52.3% of applications are currently being processed within service standards (the goal is 80%).
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Temporary Residence: 47% of requests are in backlog.
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Permanent Residence: 54% of applications are behind schedule.
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Citizenship: 24% of applications exceed processing time targets.
IEC Update: Nearly 7,000 Young Foreigners Invited
Between February 7 and February 13, IRCC conducted significant rounds under International Experience Canada (IEC), inviting 6,986 candidates to apply for open work permits.
Top Inviting Countries:
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Germany: 1,832 ITAs
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United Kingdom: 1,435 ITAs
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France: 1,013 ITAs
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Korea: 470 ITAs
Total IEC invitations for 2026 have now reached 34,660, offering a prime route for youth mobility despite broader cuts to other temporary streams.
Why Choose Go Canada Services?
Go Canada Services (est. 2004) is the only Canadian Incorporation providing holistic Academic, Immigration, Integration, and Legal Services. We help you navigate the “two-speed” immigration system—whether you are a CEC candidate inside Canada or an IEC applicant abroad.
Our Core Services:
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Permanent Residence Canada: Strategic advice for CEC candidates with scores near 508.
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Study Permits: Navigating the stricter 2026 approval landscape.
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Family Sponsorship: Expert legal help for reuniting families amidst backlogs.
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Free Immigration Assessment: Evaluate your 2026 eligibility for Express Entry or IEC.
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Contact Our Experts: Personalized consultation for work permit extensions and PR transitions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What was the CRS score for the latest Express Entry draw? The cut-off score for the CEC-specific draw on February 17, 2026, was 508 points.
2. How many candidates were invited in Draw #396? IRCC issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to Canadian Experience Class candidates.
3. Is the number of international students in Canada decreasing? Yes, data shows a 53% drop in international student and temporary worker arrivals in 2025 compared to the previous year.
4. What is the current size of the IRCC application backlog? As of the latest update, there are 2,127,500 applications in inventory, with roughly half failing to meet service standards.
5. How many IEC invitations have been issued in 2026? Canada has invited 34,660 candidates under the International Experience Canada program so far this year.
6. Who is eligible for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)? Candidates who have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years and meet the language requirements.
7. Can I still get a work permit for Canada in 2026? Yes, but the approval rate is lower due to the new cap. Programs like the IEC (Working Holiday) remain open and active. You should Contact Our Experts to review your best pathway.
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Secure Your Status Before Policies Change
With the government actively reducing temporary residents but inviting those already here (CEC), your strategy matters more than ever. Let Go Canada Services help you secure your Permanent Residence.