Canada Passport Power: Know Full List Of Visa Free Countries

Canada is a dream country for a lot of people. Hundreds of people move to Canada each year for a better lifestyle. There are many benefits to being a Canadian citizen. And having one of the most powerful passports in the world is one of them. 

According to the Henley Passport Index 2022, Canada is the eighth-ranked most powerful passport in the world. The Henley Passport Index is one the most authoritative ranking of all the world’s passports.

It has been monitoring the world’s most travel-friendly passports for almost two decades now. Moreover, the company gets its data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

If you have a Canadian passport, you have access to total of 185 destinations. So, this means that you don’t need a visa, or visa on arrival, or an eTA.

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Canada Passport: Visa-Free Travel Countries

Below is latest status of Canadian passport in relation to mobility around the world.

Most Powerful Passports In The World

Japan has the highest-ranked passport in the world. You can visit 193 countries if you hold a Japanese passport. Singapore and South Korea ties for second place. Their score is 192.

Germany and Spain tied for third. They scored 190. The total score for each passport is equal to the number of destinations for which no visa is required. In 2014, the Canadian passport was in the second spot on the Henley Index.

However, in 2016, it fell to sixth place. But it stayed there for four years. During the pandemic, the passport lost its sixth place. This was because of the public health restrictions and border closures. This limited travel to other countries. Thus, the passport ranking lost its place.

Source: Henley & Partners and full list from passportindex.org

• 
  New Express Entry Draw On April 28 Sent 2,000 PR Invitations28 April 2026, 3:45 PM EDT

  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a new Canadian Experience Class Express Entry draw on April 28, 2026 that issued 2,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence.

  The Comprehensive Ranking System cutoff for the lowest-ranked candidate invited in this round was 514 points.

  This is a slight decrease from the 515 cutoff recorded in the previous CEC draw held on April 14, 2026, but it is still 5 points higher than the March 31st CEC draw.

  IRCC continues to issue 2,000 invitations per CEC round, making this round the third consecutive draw at this reduced volume.

  The shrinking draw sizes throughout 2026 have pushed CRS cutoffs from under 510 at the start of the year to now consistently above 510 since April.

  Candidates with scores between 500 and 513 remain stuck in the Express Entry pool with no realistic path to a CEC invitation at current draw volumes.

  Express Entry Draw Details For April 28, 2026

  The following table contains the official details of today’s Canadian Experience Class draw as published by IRCC.

  Draw Detail	Information
  Date and Time	April 28, 2026 at 10:36:46 UTC
  Draw Category	Canadian Experience Class
  Number of Invitations Issued	2,000
  CRS Score of Lowest Ranked Candidate	514
  Rank Required to Be Invited	2,000 or above
  Tie-Breaking Rule	September 24, 2025 at 14:18:43 UTC

  The tie-breaking rule determines which candidates receive invitations when multiple profiles share the same lowest CRS score.

  Candidates who had a CRS score of 514 only received an invitation if they submitted their Express Entry profile before September 24, 2025 at 14:18:43 UTC.

  The tie-breaking date of September 2025 is roughly seven months old, which signals a deep backlog of candidates sitting at the 514 CRS level.

  Anyone who entered the pool after that date with 514 points did not receive an invitation and must wait for upcoming rounds.

  CRS Cutoff Has Shifted From Under 510 To Around 515 In 2026

  The CRS cutoff trend in 2026 tells a clear story about how draw size directly controls the minimum score needed for an invitation.

  IRCC started the year with an 8,000-invitation CEC draw on January 7, at a CRS cutoff of 511.

  As draw sizes decreased from 8,000 to 6,000 to 4,000 throughout January, February, and March, the CRS cutoff dropped as low as 507 on March 17.

  That 507 cutoff was the lowest CEC score recorded since August 2024 and gave candidates in the 507 to 510 range a brief window of opportunity.

  The situation reversed in April when IRCC reduced CEC draws to just 2,000 invitations per round.

  The April 14 draw jumped to 515, and today’s draw settled at 514, confirming that small draw sizes lock the cutoff firmly above 510.

  The following table shows every Canadian Experience Class draw held in 2026 and illustrates this pattern.

  #	Date	Round type	Invitations issued	CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited
  413	April 28, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	2,000	514
  410	April 14, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	2,000	515
  407	March 31, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	2,250	509
  404	March 17, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	507
  400	March 3, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	508
  396	February 17, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	6,000	508
  392	January 21, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	6,000	509
  390	January 7, 2026	Canadian Experience Class	8,000	511

  The total number of CEC invitations issued in 2026 now stands at 34,250 across 8 draws.

  Draw volumes have declined by 75% from the January peak of 8,000 to the current level of 2,000.

  Unless IRCC increases draw sizes back to 4,000 or more, candidates should expect CRS cutoffs to hover around the 510-515 range for the foreseeable future.

  French Language Proficiency Draw Expected Later This Week

  IRCC typically follows CEC draws with a category-based selection round within the same week.

  Based on the 2026 pattern, a French language proficiency draw is the most probable category-based round expected in the coming days.

  French language proficiency has been one of the most active and generous categories in Express Entry this year.

  IRCC has held four French language draws in 2026 so far, issuing a combined 22,000 invitations at significantly lower CRS cutoffs than CEC rounds.

  The following table shows all French language proficiency draws conducted in 2026.

  #	Date	Round type	Invitations issued	CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited
  411	April 15, 2026	French-Language proficiency 2026-Version 2	4,000	419
  405	March 18, 2026	French-Language proficiency 2026-Version 2	4,000	393
  401	March 4, 2026	French-Language proficiency 2026-Version 2	5,500	397
  394	February 6, 2026	French-Language proficiency 2026-Version 2	8,500	400

  The most recent French draw on April 15 required a CRS cutoff of 419, which is dramatically lower than the 514 needed for today’s CEC round.

  Candidates with NCLC 7 or higher in all four French language abilities remain eligible for these targeted rounds regardless of their overall CRS score.

  The French language proficiency category requires candidates to have test results from the TEF Canada or TCF Canada showing at least NCLC 7 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

  French-speaking candidates outside Quebec continue to benefit from one of the most accessible pathways in the entire Express Entry system.

  Major Express Entry Overhaul Announced With Public Consultations Now Open

  IRCC launched a public consultation on April 23, 2026 on sweeping reforms that represent the biggest structural change to Express Entry since the system launched in 2015.

  The government is proposing to merge the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program into a single unified immigration class.

  The proposed changes would also overhaul the Comprehensive Ranking System to give more weight to higher earnings and genuine job offers.

  A new minimum eligibility standard would require CLB 6 language proficiency across all applicants and one year of skilled work experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations.

  IRCC is also considering a high-wage occupation factor that would award additional CRS points to candidates working in occupations where the median salary exceeds the national median.

  The consultation period runs until May 24, 2026, and anyone can participate through the official survey on Canada.ca.

  These are proposed changes under active consultation and no final decisions have been made at this time.

  Candidates currently in the Express Entry pool should continue preparing their applications under the existing rules while monitoring official IRCC announcements.

  What This Draw Means For Candidates In The Express Entry Pool

  Candidates with CRS scores of 515 or above are in a strong position to receive invitations in upcoming CEC draws at current volumes.

  Those with scores between 510 and 514 are in a competitive range where the outcome depends entirely on whether IRCC maintains or increases draw sizes.

  Candidates scoring below 510 should not rely on CEC draws as their primary pathway and must explore alternative strategies immediately.

  A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points and effectively guarantees an invitation in the next PNP specific draw, bypassing the CEC cutoff entirely.

  Improving French language proficiency to NCLC 7 opens access to French category draws where cutoffs have been as low as 393 in 2026.

  Candidates can also earn additional CRS points through a new Educational Credential Assessment, improved language test scores, or securing an additional year of skilled work experience.

  The Express Entry pool contained over 233,555 candidates as of April 26, 2026, and new profiles continue entering faster than draws can deplete existing inventory.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  Why did the CRS cutoff decrease from 515 to 514 between the April 14 and April 28 draws?

  The one-point decrease reflects minor fluctuations in the composition of the Express Entry pool rather than a meaningful shift in competitiveness. Both draws issued exactly 2,000 invitations, so the CRS difference is marginal. Candidates should not interpret this decrease as the beginning of a downward trend because draw size remains the primary factor controlling the cutoff.

  How does the tie-breaking rule of September 24, 2025 affect newer Express Entry profiles?

  The tie-breaking date means that candidates who created their profiles after September 24, 2025 with a CRS score of exactly 514 were not invited in this round. These candidates need either a higher CRS score or must wait until IRCC works through the existing backlog at the 514 level. Submitting your profile earlier provides you priority when scores are tied at the cutoff.

  Will IRCC increase CEC draw sizes back to 4,000 or more in the coming months?

  There is no official announcement from IRCC about future draw sizes. However, Canada’s 2026 and 2027 permanent residence target of 380,000 requires continued Express Entry activity throughout the year. If IRCC falls behind its allocation pace, it may increase draw volumes in the second half of 2026, which would push CRS cutoffs lower. The reverse is also possible if IRCC decides to maintain smaller, more targeted rounds.

  Can I participate in the Express Entry consultation even if I am not currently in the pool?

  Yes, the public consultation is open to everyone, including people living outside Canada with no prior Express Entry experience. IRCC is seeking input from candidates, employers, immigration professionals, and the general public. The survey closes on May 24, 2026, and all feedback submitted will help shape the direction of the proposed reforms.

  Is there a way to qualify for both CEC draws and French language draws at the same time?

  Yes, a single Express Entry profile is automatically evaluated against all draw types for which the candidate is eligible. If you have qualifying Canadian work experience and also hold NCLC 7 or higher French test results, your profile will be considered for both CEC- specific and French language proficiency draws. This dual eligibility significantly improves your chances of receiving an invitation because you are considered in more rounds per month.

  Fact Checked: All data in this article is sourced directly from official IRCC publications on Canada.ca. Draw details, CRS cutoffs, and invitation numbers are verified against the official Express Entry rounds of invitations page.

  Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or a licensed immigration lawyer for advice specific to your situation.

• 
  New Canada PR Fees Increase Effective April 3028 April 2026, 9:27 AM EDT

  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is raising permanent residence fees across every PR category effective April 30, 2026.

  Anyone preparing to submit a permanent residence application or pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) should verify the correct amount before making any payment.

  Paying the wrong amount can delay processing or require an additional payment to cover the difference between the old and new fee.

  The fee changes apply to all applications received by IRCC on or after April 30, 2026, regardless of when the applicant began preparing their file.

  This article provides the full updated fee table, explains who is affected, outlines transitional rules for mailed applications, and covers what applicants should do before the deadline.

  Canada Permanent Residence Fees Increasing Effective April 30

  The federal government is increasing fees for all permanent residence applications effective April 30, 2026.

  Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, IRCC adjusts permanent residence fees every two years to offset the cost of running the immigration program and to respond to growing demand.

  The last permanent residence fee increase took effect on April 30, 2024, when many categories increased by roughly 11% to 13%, depending on the fee type.

  The 2026 increases are more modest in dollar terms but still affect every PR category, from economic immigration and family sponsorship to protected persons, humanitarian cases, and the permit holders class.

  The official IRCC notice confirms that the updated fee schedule applies to all applications received on or after April 30, 2026.

  Applicants who submit online will have their applications received immediately, which means they must pay the correct fee before clicking submit.

  Applicants who mail paper applications should be aware that IRCC may still ask them to pay the fee difference if the fee changes while the application is in the mail, even if the department does not reject the application.

  Full List Of New Canada Permanent Residence Fees

  Application or Fee Category	New Fee (April 30, 2026)	Current Fee	Increase
  Right of Permanent Residence Fee (principal applicant and spouse/partner)	$600	$575	$25
  Federal High Skilled / PNP / Quebec Skilled Workers / Atlantic Immigration / Most Economic Pilots – Principal Applicant	$990	$950	$40
  Federal High Skilled / PNP / Quebec Skilled Workers / Atlantic Immigration / Most Economic Pilots – Spouse or Partner	$990	$950	$40
  Federal High Skilled / PNP / Quebec Skilled Workers / Atlantic Immigration / Most Economic Pilots – Dependent Child	$270	$260	$10
  Business (Federal and Quebec) – Principal Applicant	$1,895	$1,810	$85
  Business (Federal and Quebec) – Spouse or Partner	$990	$950	$40
  Business (Federal and Quebec) – Dependent Child	$270	$260	$10
  Family Reunification – Sponsorship Fee	$90	$85	$5
  Family Reunification – Sponsored Principal Applicant	$570	$545	$25
  Family Reunification – Sponsored Dependent Child (under 22, not a spouse/partner)	$90	$85	$5
  Protected Persons – Principal Applicant	$660	$635	$25
  Protected Persons – Spouse or Partner	$660	$635	$25
  Protected Persons – Dependent Child	$180	$175	$5
  Humanitarian and Compassionate / Public Policy – Principal Applicant	$660	$635	$25
  Humanitarian and Compassionate / Public Policy – Spouse or Partner	$660	$635	$25
  Humanitarian and Compassionate / Public Policy – Dependent Child	$180	$175	$5
  Permit Holders Class – Principal Applicant	$390	$375	$15

  This table summarizes the main permanent residence fee increases published by IRCC.

  Some family sponsorship totals combine sponsorship, processing, and RPRF components, so applicants should verify their exact total using IRCC’s official fee tool before paying.

  The exact amount each applicant owes depends on their program category, the number of accompanying family members, and whether the RPRF applies.

  For example, a principal applicant under Express Entry applying with a spouse and one dependent child would owe the processing fee for each person plus the RPRF for the principal applicant and spouse.

  Applicants should use the official IRCC fee list to calculate their exact total before making any payment.

  Who Will Be Affected By The New PR Fee Increase

  The fee increase affects permanent residence applicants who submit applications or pay applicable permanent residence fees on or after April 30, 2026.

  Economic immigration applicants under Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, the Atlantic Immigration Class, and most economic pilots will see their principal applicant processing fee rise from $950 to $990.

  Accompanying spouses and common-law partners in these economic categories will also see their processing fee rise from $950 to $990, while dependent child fees rise from $260 to $270.

  Family sponsorship applicants will see the sponsorship fee increase from $85 to $90 and the sponsored principal applicant fee rise from $545 to $570.

  Federal and Quebec business class applicants face the largest dollar increase, with the principal applicant fee climbing from $1,810 to $1,895.

  Protected persons, including convention refugees, will see their principal applicant fee increase from $635 to $660. Humanitarian and compassionate or public policy applicants are listed separately by IRCC, with the same principal applicant increase from $635 to $660.

  Dependent children in the protected persons and humanitarian categories will see a smaller increase from $175 to $180.

  Permit holders class applicants, who apply individually without accompanying family members, face an increase from $375 to $390.

  The Right of Permanent Residence Fee, which is separate from the processing fee and is paid by principal applicants and their spouses or common-law partners, increases from $575 to $600.

  This means a couple applying through Express Entry with the RPRF included will pay an additional $130 in combined fees under the new schedule.

  Who May Not Be Affected Immediately

  Applicants who have already submitted a complete application with the correct fee before April 30 will not be affected by the fee increase.

  Their application was received by IRCC before the new fee schedule took effect, so the old fee amount applies to their file.

  Applicants who mailed a complete application before the fee change date may be protected from having the application rejected only because they paid the old fee, but IRCC may still ask them to pay the fee difference.

  According to IRCC, the department will generally not reject a mailed application if the old fee was paid, the application was complete, and it was sent before the fee change.

  However, IRCC will ask these applicants to pay the difference between the old and new fees.

  Applicants who have already received an Invitation to Apply through Express Entry but have not yet submitted their full application should pay close attention to the deadline.

  An ITA provides you 60 days to submit a complete application, but the fee you owe is determined by the fee schedule in effect when IRCC receives your application.

  If you submit after April 30, you must pay the new fee amounts.

  The same rule applies to the RPRF specifically: the amount you owe is based on the fee in effect when you pay it, not when you applied.

  What Happens If You Pay The Old Fee

  Applicants who submit an online application with the old fee amount on or after April 30, 2026, may need to pay the difference before IRCC will continue processing their file.

  When you apply online, IRCC receives your application immediately, so the fee in effect at the time of submission determines what you owe.

  If you mail your application, there may be a delay between when you send it and when IRCC receives it.

  According to the official IRCC fee guidance, IRCC will generally not reject a mailed application if the applicant paid the old fee, the application was complete, and it was mailed before the fee change date.

  In that scenario, IRCC will contact the applicant with instructions on how to pay the fee difference using the online payment tool.

  Applicants must calculate the fee difference for each fee that changed, including fees for accompanying family members, and pay the total in a single transaction or multiple transactions through the additional payment category.

  IRCC will provide specific instructions on how to submit the receipt once payment is made.

  Right Of Permanent Residence Fee Explained

  The Right of Permanent Residence Fee is a separate fee from the application processing fee.

  It is paid by principal applicants and their accompanying spouses or common-law partners before they can become permanent residents.

  Dependent children do not pay the RPRF.

  Protected persons, including convention refugees, are exempt from the RPRF. Applicants in eligible humanitarian and compassionate categories are also exempt under IRCC fee rules.

  The RPRF can be paid at the same time as the application processing fee or at a later stage before permanent residence is finalized.

  IRCC encourages applicants to pay the RPRF upfront to avoid delays during processing.

  If an applicant pays the RPRF upfront and their application is not approved, the RPRF is refunded.

  The RPRF is the only fee that IRCC can refund after processing has begun.

  If you applied without paying the RPRF and the fee increases before you pay it, you must pay the new amount in effect at the time of payment, not the amount that was in effect when you applied.

  The RPRF is increasing from $575 to $600 on April 30, 2026, which means applicants who have not yet paid this fee should consider paying before the deadline to lock in the lower amount.

  Why Canada Immigration Fees Are Increasing

  Permanent residence fees are adjusted every two years under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

  The adjustments are designed to offset the cost of delivering immigration services and to keep pace with inflation.

  The 2024 increase was based on the cumulative percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index released by Statistics Canada during 2022 and 2023, rounded to the nearest five dollars.

  The 2026 increase follows the same regulatory framework.

  IRCC has not published a public statement attributing the 2026 increase to a specific CPI calculation, but the official notice confirms that the increase is consistent with the existing biennial adjustment schedule.

  Applicants should always check the latest official fee list on the IRCC website before paying any immigration fee, as amounts can change without extensive advance notice.

  What Applicants Should Do Before April 30

  Applicants who are ready or nearly ready to submit a permanent residence application should take several steps before the April 30 deadline.

  First, review the updated fee table on the official IRCC website to confirm the exact amount owed for your specific program and family composition.

  Second, calculate the total cost for all family members included in the application, including the processing fee for each person and the RPRF for the principal applicant and spouse or partner.

  Third, make the payment online through the official IRCC payment portal and save the receipt immediately after the transaction is confirmed.

  Fourth, upload the correct payment receipt with your application to avoid processing delays.

  Fifth, do not submit an application with an outdated payment amount, as this will require an additional payment and will likely delay your file.

  Sixth, if you plan to mail a paper application, send it before April 30 and make sure it is complete.

  IRCC generally will not reject a mailed application only because the old fee was paid if it was complete and mailed before the fee change, but the applicant may still be asked to pay the difference.

  The fee increase comes during a busy period for Canadian immigration policy, including Bill C-12 receiving royal assent in March 2026, ongoing Express Entry category and reform discussions, and the federal commitment to transition up to 33,000 work permit holders to permanent residence over 2026 and 2027.

  Why This Matters For Canadian Immigration Applicants

  The fee increase may appear modest in individual dollar terms, but the cumulative effect on families applying together is significant.

  A couple applying through Express Entry without dependent children will now pay $3,180 in combined processing fees and RPRF, compared to $3,050 under the old schedule.

  A family of four applying through the Provincial Nominee Program with two dependent children will see their total fees increase by $150 under the new schedule, assuming the principal applicant and spouse or partner both pay the RPRF.

  For applicants in the business class, the principal applicant processing fee alone is now $1,895, making federal and Quebec business immigration among the most expensive PR pathways in Canada.

  The fee increase also creates urgency for applicants who have been delaying their submissions.

  Those with complete or nearly complete applications may want to submit before April 30 to avoid paying the higher amounts.

  At the same time, rushing to submit an incomplete application just to beat the deadline is not advisable, as IRCC may return incomplete applications, causing further delays.

  Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan maintains permanent resident admission targets at 380,000 annually through 2028, meaning demand for PR processing is expected to remain significant.

  Processing times vary by immigration category, and applicants should check the latest IRCC processing times before making plans around travel, work, or landing timelines.

  Applicants currently in the Express Entry pool who receive an ITA should act quickly on their 60-day deadline while also factoring in the new fee schedule.

  Recent IRCC inventory data shows permanent residence inventory exceeded 1 million applications by the end of February 2026, underscoring the importance of submitting a complete and correctly paid application to avoid avoidable delays.

  Applicants Should Confirm Fees Before Submitting

  The April 30, 2026, permanent residence fee increase applies to every PR category in Canada’s immigration system.

  Principal applicants, spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children across economic, family, protected persons, humanitarian, and permit holders’ categories will all pay higher fees under the new schedule.

  The Right of Permanent Residence Fee is also increasing from $575 to $600, and the amount owed is based on the fee in effect at the time of payment, not the time of application.

  Applicants who pay the wrong amount may face processing delays and will need to pay the difference through IRCC’s online payment tool.

  The single most important step for any permanent residence applicant right now is to verify the correct fee amount on the official IRCC fee schedule before submitting any payment.

  Paying the correct fee upfront avoids unnecessary delays and keeps your application on track.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  When do the new Canada permanent residence fees take effect?

  The new permanent residence fees take effect on April 30, 2026. All applications received by IRCC on or after that date will be subject to the updated fee amounts. Online applications are received immediately upon submission, so applicants must pay the new fee if they submit on or after April 30.

  Which PR fees are increasing on April 30?

  Every permanent residence fee category is increasing on April 30, 2026. This includes the Right of Permanent Residence Fee, Express Entry and PNP processing fees, family sponsorship fees, business class fees, protected persons fees, humanitarian and compassionate fees, and permit holders class fees. Both principal applicant and accompanying family member fees are affected.

  What happens if I pay the old permanent residence fee?

  If you submit an online application with the old fee on or after April 30, IRCC will ask you to pay the difference between the old and new fee amounts. This will delay processing until the additional payment is received and the receipt is submitted. If you mailed a complete application before the fee change date, IRCC says it generally will not reject it only because the old fee was paid, but it will still tell you how to pay the difference.

  Is the Right of Permanent Residence Fee refundable?

  Yes, the RPRF is refundable if your application is refused, withdrawn, or cancelled before you become a permanent resident. It is the only fee that IRCC can refund after processing has begun. IRCC says the RPRF is refunded if an application is withdrawn or refused, but refund timing can vary.

  Do dependent children pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee?

  No, the dependent children are exempt from the Right of Permanent Residence Fee. Only principal applicants and their accompanying spouses or common-law partners are required to pay the RPRF. Protected persons, including convention refugees, are also exempt from the RPRF. Applicants in eligible humanitarian and compassionate categories are also exempt under IRCC fee rules.

  Should I pay my PR fees before April 30?

  If your application is ready to submit and you are confident it is complete, paying before April 30 will allow you to lock in the current lower fee amounts. However, you should not rush to submit an incomplete application solely to beat the deadline, as IRCC may return incomplete files, causing more significant delays. If you have already applied but have not yet paid the RPRF, you should pay the current $575 amount before April 30 to avoid the $600 charge that takes effect on that date.

  Fact-Checked: All fee amounts and regulatory information in this article have been verified against official Government of Canada sources, including the IRCC permanent residence fee increase notice published on March 27, 2026, and the IRCC fee changes page on ircc.canada.ca, as of April 28, 2026.

  Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. IRCC policies change frequently and individual circumstances vary. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or licensed immigration lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.

• 
  Canada’s Latest Express Entry Draw On April 27 Sent 473 PR Invitations27 April 2026, 5:01 PM EDT

  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw on April 27, 2026, targeting candidates who hold provincial nominations.

  The draw issued 473 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 795 points, an increase of 9 points.

  This is the ninth Provincial Nominee Program draw of 2026 and follows the April 13 PNP draw that invited 324 candidates at a CRS cutoff of 786.

  IRCC increased the invitation count from 324 to 473, reversing the downward trend in PNP invitation volumes observed since January 2026.

  Complete Details Of The April 27 Express Entry Draw

  The following table provides every official detail of this Provincial Nominee Program Express Entry draw.

  Draw Detail	Information
  Program	Provincial Nominee Program
  Number of Invitations Issued	473
  Date and Time of Round	April 27, 2026 at 10:47:44 UTC
  CRS Score of Lowest Ranked Candidate	795
  Tie-Breaking Rule	April 13, 2026 at 23:10:05 UTC
  Rank Required to Be Invited	473 or above

  The tie-breaking rule means that if more than one candidate had a CRS score of 795, only those who submitted their Express Entry profiles before April 13, 2026 at 23:10:05 UTC received invitations in this round.

  The April 27 draw recorded a CRS cutoff of 795, which is 9 points higher than the 786 cutoff recorded in the previous PNP draw on April 13.

  The CRS cutoff in PNP draws appears high because every provincial nominee automatically receives 600 additional points on top of their base CRS score.

  A candidate with a base score of 195 would reach 795 after receiving a provincial nomination.

  Every PNP Express Entry Draw In 2026

  The following table shows every Provincial Nominee Program draw conducted in 2026 and how the CRS cutoff and invitation count have changed throughout the year.

  #	Date	Round type	Invitations issued	CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited
  412	April 27, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	473	795
  409	April 13, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	324	786
  406	March 30, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	356	802
  403	March 16, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	362	742
  399	March 2, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	264	710
  395	February 16, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	279	789
  393	February 3, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	423	749
  391	January 20, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	681	746
  389	January 5, 2026	Provincial Nominee Program	574	711

  The CRS cutoff has ranged from 710 to 802 across the 9 PNP draws this year.

  The invitation count increased from 324 to 473 in the latest round, marking the upward reversal.

  CRS Score Distribution In The Express Entry Pool

  The Express Entry pool contained 234,452 candidates as of April 26, 2026, a day before this draw.

  The following table shows the complete CRS score distribution across every score band in the pool.

  CRS score range	Number of candidates
  601-1200	472
  501-600	13,860
  451-500	73,659
  491-500	13,209
  481-490	12,815
  471-480	16,487
  461-470	15,973
  451-460	15,175
  401-450	66,515
  441-450	14,305
  431-440	14,456
  421-430	12,613
  411-420	12,956
  401-410	12,185
  351-400	52,874
  301-350	18,733
  0-300	8,339
  Total	234,452

  The 451 to 500 CRS band holds 73,659 candidates, making it the most congested segment of the entire Express Entry pool.

  Only 472 candidates were above the 601 CRS threshold, which is the range where most provincial nominees land after receiving their 600 point boost.

  The small number of candidates above 601 explains why PNP draws have been issuing fewer invitations compared to the start of the year.

  How PNP Draws Fit In The 2026 Express Entry Landscape

  IRCC operates multiple types of Express Entry draws to manage the selection of permanent residence candidates across different programs and categories.

  The Canadian Experience Class draws have recorded CRS cutoffs between 507 and 515 throughout 2026, with the most recent CEC draw on April 14 reaching 515.

  French language proficiency draws have maintained the lowest CRS cutoffs of any category, with the March 18 French draw dropping to just 393.

  IRCC has issued over 65,000 invitations across more than 23 Express Entry draws since the beginning of 2026, putting the system on track to exceed the 2025 total of 114,000 invitations.

  The 2026 to 2028 Immigration Levels Plan sets the PNP admissions target at 91,500 for 2026, which is a 66% increase over the 55,000 target in 2025.

  Immigration Minister Lena Metlege-Diab has also launched public consultations on proposed Express Entry reforms that could reshape how Canada selects skilled immigrants in the coming years.

  The proposed changes include replacing the three existing Express Entry programs with a single unified pathway and overhauling the CRS scoring model.

  What Invited Candidates Should Do Next

  Candidates who received an invitation to apply in this draw have exactly 60 days from the date of notification to submit a complete permanent residence application.

  There are no extensions available under any circumstances.

  The application must include all supporting documents, including language test results, educational credential assessments, police clearance certificates, and medical examinations.

  Provincial nominations typically have expiration periods of six to 12 months depending on the issuing province.

  Candidates should verify that their nomination remains valid before submitting their permanent residence application to IRCC.

  Failure to submit a complete application within the 60 day window will result in the invitation being cancelled and the candidate being returned to the Express Entry pool.

  What Candidates Without A Nomination Can Do

  For candidates currently in the Express Entry pool without a provincial nomination, the most effective strategy is to pursue a PNP nomination from one of Canada’s active provinces.

  A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to an Express Entry profile, which effectively guarantees an invitation in the next PNP draw.

  Candidates should consider improving their language test scores, as higher CLB levels can add up to 160 CRS points.

  French language ability opens access to French proficiency Express Entry draws, where CRS cutoffs have been as low as 393 in 2026.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  Why is the CRS cutoff for PNP draws so much higher than for other Express Entry draws?

  Every provincial nominee receives an automatic 600 point boost added to their base CRS score when they enter the Express Entry pool. A CRS cutoff of 795 in a PNP draw means the lowest-ranked candidate had a base score of approximately 195 before their provincial nomination was applied. The high cutoff number reflects the nomination bonus, not the competitive difficulty of the draw itself.

  How long does it take to receive a provincial nomination after applying to a PNP stream?

  Processing times vary significantly by province and stream. Ontario’s Employer Job Offer streams can issue nominations within 30 to 90 days after a complete application is submitted. British Columbia’s Skills Immigration stream processes nominations within approximately 2 to 3 months. Saskatchewan and Alberta typically process within 1 to 3 months depending on the stream and application volume during the period.

  Can I apply to multiple provincial nominee programs at the same time?

  Yes, there is no federal restriction preventing candidates from applying to PNP streams in more than one province simultaneously. However, each province has its own eligibility criteria and some require a genuine intention to reside in that province. Accepting a nomination from one province creates an obligation to settle there, so candidates should only accept a nomination from a province where they genuinely plan to live and work.

  What happens if my provincial nomination expires before IRCC processes my permanent residence application?

  If a provincial nomination expires while a permanent residence application is still being processed, IRCC may refuse the application because the nomination is no longer valid. Candidates should confirm the expiry date of their nomination with the issuing province and coordinate their Express Entry application timeline accordingly. Some provinces allow nomination extensions under specific circumstances.

  Will the CRS cutoff for PNP draws continue to drop through the rest of 2026?

  The CRS cutoff in PNP draws depends on how many new nominations provinces issue between rounds. If provinces like Ontario and British Columbia issue large batches of new nominations, the cutoff could stabilize or increase. If provincial nominations slow down, the cutoff may continue to decline as the existing pool of nominees thins. IRCC’s draw frequency and invitation volume also play a role in determining where the cutoff lands in each round.

  Fact Checked: All data in this article has been verified against official IRCC Express Entry draw results published on canada.ca as of April 27, 2026.

  Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or licensed immigration lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.

• 
  New Ontario Laws and Rules Taking Effect in May 202625 April 2026, 9:11 AM EDT

  Ontario is entering May 2026 with one of the most significant batches of regulatory changes in recent months, touching everything from where residents can drink alcohol to how the province selects immigrants.

  Several major deadlines expiring on April 30, triggering enforcement actions and financial penalties that will land on households throughout May.

  Major immigration changes are also coming, with Ontario set to revoke all 9 current OINP streams on May 30.

  Meanwhile, new freedoms around public events, provincial parks, and retail holiday shopping are reshaping how Ontarians experience everyday life as summer approaches.

  Here is every major change Ontario residents need to know about in May 2026.

  Ontario Hydro Summer Rate Structure Begins May 1

  Ontario’s summer electricity rate structure takes effect on May 1, 2026, shifting on-peak hours from the late afternoon and evening window used in winter to a midday block running from 11 AM to 5 PM on weekdays.

  Residential customers on the Tiered pricing plan will see their Tier 1 threshold drop from 1,000 kilowatt hours in winter to 600 kilowatt hours in summer, meaning they will enter the more expensive Tier 2 rate band faster.

  These structural changes arrive while the per kilowatt-hour rates set on November 1, 2025, remain in effect through October 31, 2026.

  Households running air conditioning during midday hours will notice the biggest impact on their monthly electricity bills as those hours now fall within the most expensive pricing tier.

  Victoria Day Retail Store Openings on May 18

  Ontario’s legislature passed Bill 97, the Plan to Protect Ontario Act, on April 23, 2026.

  The omnibus budget bill includes amendments to the Retail Business Holidays Act that remove Victoria Day and Family Day from the list of holidays on which municipalities can force retail stores to close.

  Bill 97 received Royal Assent on April 24, 2026, and the change takes effect and is no longer a proposed measure.

  Under the new framework, retail businesses across Ontario would have the option to open or remain closed on Victoria Day.

  No store would be required to open.

  Eligible retail employees who choose to work on the holiday will earn premium pay at time and a half on top of their full public holiday pay under the Employment Standards Act.

  Workers who prefer to take the day off retain the legal right to refuse work on public holidays.

  The previous system varied by municipality, creating confusion for shoppers and an uneven playing field for businesses.

  Premier Doug Ford pushed for the change after receiving complaints about closed stores on Family Day, arguing that Ontarians should have the freedom to shop if businesses want to open.

  New Alcohol Rules for Events and Provincial Parks

  Ontario has introduced two landmark alcohol policy changes that will define the summer of 2026 across the province.

  The first is the new Bring Your Own (BYO) event permit system administered by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

  Starting April 30, 2026, eligible event organizers in participating municipalities can apply for BYO permits through the AGCO, making the system fully operational as May begins.

  Events that qualify include farmers’ markets, neighbourhood festivals, outdoor movie screenings, and community art shows in municipalities that have opted in by passing a local bylaw.

  Attendees aged 19 and older may bring their own alcoholic beverages for personal consumption within clearly defined areas managed by the permit holder.

  Consumption outside designated zones remains prohibited, and the AGCO retains full authority to attach conditions or revoke permits during an event if safety standards are breached.

  The second major change is the expansion of alcohol rules in Ontario’s provincial parks announced on April 15, 2026.

  For the first time, adults aged 19 and older can responsibly consume alcohol in day-use areas, beaches, and picnic spots at Ontario Parks.

  Previously, consumption was restricted exclusively to individual campsites at operating parks.

  The new rules apply to all 330 provincial parks that are open and staffed for the 2026 season.

  Parks will post clear signage identifying any areas that remain alcohol-free, such as sites of cultural or historical significance.

  Ontario’s Environment Minister Todd McCarthy said the government trusts adults to consume responsibly and noted that existing laws around public intoxication and rowdy behaviour still apply with enforcement from 550 park wardens.

  Key Details: BYO Permits vs. Provincial Park Alcohol Rules

  Feature	BYO Event Permits	Provincial Park Rules
  Start Date	April 30, 2026 (applications open)	2026 park season opening
  Where	Designated outdoor events	Beaches, picnic areas, day-use zones
  Who Can Drink	Adults 19+ with own alcohol	Adults 19+
  Municipality Action	Must pass opt-in bylaw	No action required
  Enforcement	AGCO and permit holder	Park wardens (550 across Ontario)

  Critical Financial Deadlines Hitting in May 2026

  CRA Interest on Outstanding Tax Balances

  The April 30 income tax filing deadline has now passed, and the Canada Revenue Agency begins charging compound daily interest on all outstanding balances starting May 1, 2026.

  The CRA’s prescribed interest rate for the second quarter of 2026 is 7% annually, calculated as compound daily interest on the unpaid amount plus any accumulated interest from previous days.

  Canadians who filed late and owe money face both the late filing penalty and these daily interest charges stacking on top of each other.

  Even self-employed individuals who have until June 15 to file their returns were required to pay any balance owing by April 30 to avoid interest.

  Anyone who has not yet filed should submit their return immediately to stop the late filing penalty from growing each month.

  Toronto Vacant Home Tax Notices

  Toronto homeowners who missed the April 30 declaration deadline for the vacant home tax will begin receiving VHT tax notices in May 2026.

  Properties where no declaration was submitted will be deemed vacant by the City, triggering a tax bill at the current rate of 3% of the assessed property value.

  For a property assessed at $1 million, the vacant home tax would amount to $30,000.

  Payments for the 2025 VHT will be due in three equal installments on September 15, October 15, and November 16, 2026.

  Homeowners who believe their property was incorrectly deemed vacant can submit a notice of complaint through the city’s online portal.

  May 2026 Financial Deadlines at a Glance

  Deadline	What Happens	Who Is Affected
  May 1, 2026	CRA daily compound interest starts on unpaid tax balances	All taxpayers with outstanding balances
  May 2026 (ongoing)	Toronto VHT notices mailed to non-declaring or vacant property owners	Toronto residential property owners
  May 30, 2026	All 9 current OINP streams revoked under program redesign	Immigration applicants and employers in Ontario

  OINP Immigration Program Overhaul on May 30

  The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program is undergoing the most significant structural change in its history on May 30, 2026.

  Ontario has confirmed through amendments to the Ontario Immigration Act and Ontario Regulation 421/17 that all nine existing OINP selection categories will be formally revoked on that date.

  9 OINP Streams Being Revoked on May 30, 2026

  Stream Name	Category Type
  Foreign Worker Category	Employer Job Offer
  International Student with a Job Offer	Employer Job Offer
  In-Demand Skills Category	Employer Job Offer
  Human Capital Priorities	Express Entry Linked
  French-Speaking Skilled Worker	Express Entry Linked
  Skilled Trades Category	Express Entry Linked
  Masters Graduate Category	Education Based
  PhD Graduate Category	Education Based
  Entrepreneur Category	Business Immigration

  The redesign will replace these streams with a more targeted, employer-driven system aligned with Ontario’s real-time labour market needs.

  Phase one, expected to coincide with the May 30 revocation, consolidates the three employer job offer streams into a single stream with two pathways covering skilled occupations at TEER 0 to 3 and essential occupations at TEER 4 to 5.

  Phase two, anticipated later in 2026, would introduce three entirely new streams focused on priority healthcare workers, exceptional talent, and a redesigned entrepreneur pathway.

  The amendments also give the OINP director formalized authority to conduct highly targeted draws based on criteria including education level, field of study, language proficiency, regional location outside the Greater Toronto Area, and specific labour market attributes.

  Additionally, new enforcement powers now allow authorities to impose penalties for misrepresentation on immigration applications rather than simply refusing them.

  A new mandatory employer portal requires employers offering job positions under the OINP to register with the program director before their candidates can submit applications.

  Candidates currently in the OINP Expression of Interest pool should monitor the OINP Program Updates page closely, as Ontario has not confirmed whether existing profiles will be migrated, require re-registration, or be withdrawn.

  Ontario’s 2026 OINP nomination allocation stands at 14,119, a 31% increase from 10,750 in 2025, giving the province more nominations to distribute across these new targeted pathways.

  Changes Coming Later in 2026 That Ontarians Should Prepare for Now

  Several major regulatory shifts landing in June and July 2026 require advance planning that residents and businesses should begin in May.

  Toronto Indoor Temperature Standards (June 1, 2026)

  Toronto City Council has approved a new indoor temperature standards bylaw that takes effect on June 1, 2026.

  Apartment buildings without in-unit air conditioning that have at least one existing amenity space must maintain a temperature of no more than 26 degrees Celsius in at least one shared space from June 1 through September 30.

  Landlords are required to inform tenants about the location and hours of any cooled amenity spaces available in their building.

  The bylaw replaces the previous heating bylaw and does not require property owners to install air conditioning where none currently exists.

  Ontario Auto Insurance Overhaul (July 1, 2026)

  On July 1, 2026, Ontario’s auto insurance system will shift from a standardized benefits package to an a la carte model that makes many previously mandatory benefits optional.

  Only medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits will remain mandatory in every auto insurance policy.

  Benefits that become optional include income replacement at up to $400 per week, caregiver benefits, non-earner benefits, housekeeping expenses, death benefits, and funeral benefits.

  Existing policyholders whose policies renew after July 1 will keep their current coverage unless they actively opt out in writing.

  New policies purchased after July 1 will include only the mandatory minimums by default, requiring drivers to specifically select and pay for any additional protections.

  The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario and the Insurance Bureau of Canada launched a consumer education campaign in April 2026 urging drivers to review their coverage before the transition date.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  Can I bring my own beer or wine to any outdoor event in Ontario starting May 2026?

  No, only events designated as community or cultural events by a participating municipality are eligible for BYO permits. The municipality must have passed a bylaw opting into the program, and the event organizer must obtain a permit from the AGCO. Drinking outside the designated event area is still prohibited.

  Will every retail store in Ontario be open on Victoria Day 2026?

  Not necessarily, Bill 97 gives stores the option to open but does not require any business to operate on Victoria Day. Each retailer decides independently. Workers retain the right to refuse holiday work under the Employment Standards Act and are entitled to premium pay if they choose to work.

  What happens to my OINP application if my stream is revoked on May 30, 2026?

  Ontario has not officially confirmed whether applications submitted before May 30 will be processed under the current rules or transferred to the new system. Candidates who already received invitations to apply should complete and submit their applications before the revocation date. Those still in the expression of interest pool should keep profiles updated and watch for transition announcements from the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

  How much does the CRA charge in interest on unpaid taxes starting May 1, 2026?

  The CRA charges compound daily interest at an annual rate of 7% for the second quarter of 2026, covering April 1 through June 30. This interest is calculated daily on the outstanding balance and on any accumulated interest from previous days. The interest applies on top of any late filing penalties, which are calculated separately.

  Does the new Ontario provincial park alcohol rule mean I can drink anywhere in any park?

  Not everywhere. The expanded rules cover most areas in Ontario’s 330 provincial parks that are open and staffed for the 2026 season, including beaches, picnic areas, and day-use spaces. However, specific locations such as sites of cultural or historical significance will remain alcohol-free and will be clearly marked with signage. All existing laws regarding public intoxication and underage drinking continue to apply.

  Fact Check: All information in this article has been verified against official Ontario government sources, the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, the City of Toronto, and the Canada Revenue Agency as of April 25, 2026.

  Disclaimer: This article is published by Immigration News Canada for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or immigration advice.

• 
  Major New Canada Express Entry Changes You Need To Know24 April 2026, 12:51 PM EDT

  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched a public consultation on proposed Express Entry reforms that could reshape how Canada selects skilled immigrants for permanent residence.

  The consultation period runs from April 23 to May 24, 2026, and is open to organizations and the general public.

  This is not a routine policy update.

  IRCC is proposing to replace the three existing Express Entry programs with a single unified pathway, overhaul the Comprehensive Ranking System scoring model, and introduce a new high-wage occupation factor that would fundamentally change how candidates are ranked.

  These proposed changes represent the most significant structural review of Express Entry since the system launched in 2015.

  An accompanying online survey asks the public to weigh in on every major element of the proposal, from minimum eligibility requirements to which CRS factors should receive more or fewer points.

  Three Programs To Become One

  Under the current system, candidates must qualify for one of three separate federal programs to enter the Express Entry pool.

  These programs are the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

  Each program has its own distinct eligibility criteria covering education, language ability, and work experience.

  IRCC is now proposing to merge all three into a single program with one set of minimum requirements, eliminating the need for candidates to determine which program they qualify for before creating a profile in the Express Entry system.

  If implemented, the proposal would be the most significant structural change to Express Entry since category-based selection was introduced in 2023.

  Proposed Minimum Eligibility Requirements

  The unified program would set a single baseline for entering the Express Entry pool.

  IRCC has proposed three minimum requirements that every candidate would need to meet.

  Requirement	Proposed Minimum
  Education	Canadian high school diploma or foreign equivalent
  Language	CLB/NCLC 6 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening (English or French)
  Work Experience	1 year of skilled work experience (TEER 0 to 3) in Canada or abroad within the past 3 years

  The education threshold would drop significantly compared to the current Federal Skilled Worker Program, which requires a minimum of a one-year post-secondary credential.

  The language requirement of CLB 6 is lower than the current FSWP minimum of CLB 7 but matches what the Canadian Experience Class already requires for TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations.

  The work experience requirement of one year within the past three years mirrors the existing CEC standard and is broader than the current FSWP requirement of one year within the past ten years.

  What This Means For Candidates

  Lowering the minimum eligibility bar would allow more candidates to enter the Express Entry pool.

  However, entering the pool does not guarantee an invitation to apply for permanent residence, and the competition inside the pool could intensify as more profiles are added.

  Selection would still be based on CRS scores, meaning that while more people could qualify for the pool, the actual invitations would continue going to the highest-ranked candidates.

  In practical terms, the door to enter the pool would open wider, but the path to an invitation could become narrower.

  Major CRS Scoring Changes Under Review

  The proposed CRS overhaul is arguably the most consequential part of this consultation because it would directly affect how candidates are ranked and selected.

  IRCC has reviewed the latest research on economic outcomes for newcomers and organized CRS factors into three tiers based on how strongly they predict employment and earnings success in Canada.

  Strongest Predictors	Moderate Predictors	Weaker Predictors
  Strong English language skills, or both English and French	Canadian work experience	University-level education
  High earnings as a temporary resident	A Canadian job offer	Younger age
  		Spousal points (education, language, Canadian work experience)
  		Sibling in Canada points
  		French bonus points
  		Education in Canada points

  This three-tier classification is significant because it signals the direction IRCC may take when recalibrating how many CRS points each factor is worth.

  Factors That Could Gain More Points

  Strong language ability in English, or bilingual ability in both English and French, is identified as the strongest predictor of economic success among Express Entry candidates.

  This suggests that language scores could receive a larger share of CRS points under a revised system.

  High earnings as a temporary resident in Canada are also identified as a top-tier predictor, which aligns with the proposed high-wage occupation factor discussed separately in this consultation.

  Canadian work experience and Canadian job offers are classified as moderate predictors, meaning they would likely retain significant weight in the CRS but may not increase as dramatically as language and earnings factors.

  Factors That May Lose Weight

  Several CRS factors currently worth meaningful points have been classified as weaker predictors of economic outcomes.

  Education at the university level, while still relevant, is ranked below language and earnings as a predictor of success in the Canadian labour market, which is worth noting for candidates who have been counting on educational credentials to boost their CRS score.

  Age is also classified as a weaker predictor, even though it currently carries substantial weight in the CRS formula.

  Spousal factors, sibling in Canada points, French bonus points, and education in Canada bonus points are all listed in the weakest predictor category.

  This does not mean these factors would be eliminated, but it does suggest they could receive fewer CRS points than they do today.

  It is important to note that the classification of French bonus points as a weaker predictor refers specifically to their role in predicting individual economic outcomes, not to the broader policy goal of supporting Francophone immigration outside Quebec.

  New High-Wage Occupation Factor Proposed

  One of the most notable proposals is the introduction of new CRS points for candidates with Canadian work experience or a job offer in a high-wage occupation.

  A high-wage occupation would be defined as one where the median wage exceeds the median wage of all Canadian workers.

  This means the threshold would be based on the midpoint of the national wage distribution, not on what any individual candidate earns.

  Everyone with work experience in the same occupation would receive the same CRS treatment regardless of whether their personal pay differs because of geographic location, gender, or other variables.

  Job Offer Points Could Return For High-Wage Roles

  IRCC removed job offer points from the CRS in March 2025 as part of its effort to combat LMIA fraud in the Express Entry system.

  The current proposal would bring job offer points back, but only for candidates with job offers in high-wage occupations.

  IRCC’s rationale is that high-wage roles typically require specialized skills and experience, making it easier to verify that a candidate genuinely qualifies for the position.

  This targeted approach would reduce the risk of fraudulent job offers while still rewarding candidates who have secured legitimate employment in occupations that produce strong economic outcomes.

  The return of job offer points on a limited basis represents a significant shift in policy direction after the blanket removal of LMIA-based CRS points just over a year ago.

  What the Government Is Asking the Public

  The accompanying online survey asks pointed questions that reveal just how seriously IRCC is considering these changes.

  The survey asks whether the three programs should be merged into one or kept separate.

  It asks whether a Canadian high school diploma is the right minimum education level for pool entry.

  It asks whether CLB 6 is the appropriate minimum language requirement.

  It asks whether one year of TEER 0 to 3 work experience within the past three years is the right work experience threshold.

  On the CRS side, the survey asks respondents to identify which factors should receive more points, which should receive fewer points, and which factors should be removed from the CRS entirely.

  The fact that IRCC is explicitly asking about removing CRS factors is noteworthy.

  It suggests the government is open to a fundamental restructuring of the scoring system rather than just adjusting point values within the existing framework.

  Survey Topic	What IRCC Is Asking
  Program merger	Should the three programs be combined into one?
  Education minimum	Is a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent the right minimum?
  Language minimum	Is CLB 6 in either of the official languages the right threshold?
  Work experience minimum	Is 1 year of TEER 0–3 experience in 3 years appropriate?
  High-wage CRS points	Should candidates in high-wage occupations get bonus points?
  Job offer points	Should job offer points return only for high-wage roles?
  CRS weighting	Which factors should get more, fewer, or zero points?

  Who Could Benefit and Who Could Be Affected

  If these proposals move forward, candidates with strong language scores and Canadian work experience in high-wage occupations would likely see their competitive position improve significantly.

  Bilingual candidates with high English and French proficiency would also benefit from a system that places greater emphasis on language as a predictor of economic success.

  Candidates who currently rely heavily on education credentials, age-related points, or spousal factors to reach competitive CRS scores may see their rankings shift if those factors receive less weight.

  Skilled trades workers who currently must qualify under the separate Federal Skilled Trades Program could benefit from the simplified eligibility requirements, particularly the lower education and language thresholds.

  Candidates with CRS scores in the competitive 500 to 515 range should monitor these developments closely because a recalibrated CRS could significantly change where their profiles land in the ranking order.

  A Clear Shift Toward Economic Outcomes

  The common thread running through every element of this consultation is a deliberate shift toward selecting immigrants based on their predicted economic contribution to Canada.

  Language ability, earnings history, and occupation-level wage data are being elevated as selection criteria because IRCC’s research shows they are the strongest predictors of whether a newcomer will find employment and earn competitive wages after arriving.

  This approach aligns with the broader direction of Canadian immigration policy under the 2026 to 2028 Immigration Levels Plan, which has set permanent residence targets at 380,000 for 2026 and 365,000 for 2027.

  With reduced immigration targets and growing emphasis on economic integration, IRCC appears to be redesigning Express Entry to maximize the economic return from every permanent residence invitation issued through the system.

  What Happens Next

  The consultation is open until May 24, 2026, and IRCC has stated that feedback will help develop options for how to implement changes to Express Entry programs and the CRS.

  Any program changes would need to be published in the Canada Gazette before taking effect.

  IRCC has also indicated that separate consultations on category-based selection priorities are expected later in 2026.

  These are proposed changes under active consultation.

  No final decisions have been made, and implementation would require formal regulatory approval.

  Candidates currently in the Express Entry pool should continue preparing their applications under the existing rules while monitoring announcements from IRCC as the consultation period closes.

  Organizations, employers, immigration consultants, and members of the public can submit their feedback through the official survey form on Canada.ca before the May 24 deadline.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  Will candidates already in the Express Entry pool need to create new profiles if the programs are merged?

  IRCC has not specified transition details yet, but historically when Express Entry rules have changed, existing profiles in the pool have been reassessed under the new criteria automatically rather than requiring candidates to start over.

  How would the high-wage occupation threshold be determined, and would it change over time?

  The threshold would be based on the median wage of all Canadian workers as reported in national wage data, and it would likely be updated periodically as wages shift across industries and regions.

  Could provincial nominee programs also be affected by this Express Entry overhaul?

  Provincial nominee programs operate under their own criteria, but provinces that align their selection with Express Entry could adjust their streams to reflect the new unified program structure and CRS weighting if implemented.

  Would the consultation results be made public before any changes are finalized?

  The survey form states that responses may be published anonymously in a final consultation report expected later this year, and any formal changes would be published in the Canada Gazette before taking effect.

  If French bonus points are classified as a weaker predictor, does that mean Francophone immigration will receive less priority?

  The weaker predictor classification refers specifically to individual economic outcomes, not to Canada’s broader policy commitment to Francophone immigration, and IRCC has confirmed that separate consultations on category-based selection priorities, including French-language categories, will continue later in 2026.

  Fact Checked: All information in this article has been verified against the official IRCC consultation page and survey form published on Canada.ca on April 23, 2026.

  Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.

• 
  Latest Ontario OINP Draw On April 23 Issues 2,102 PR Invitations24 April 2026, 9:51 AM EDT

  The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued a combined total of 2,102 invitations to apply for provincial nomination on April 23, 2026, through four separate region-specific draws.

  These draws covered three streams: the Foreign Worker stream, the International Student stream, and the In-Demand Skills stream.

  Candidates must currently reside in Canada with a valid work or study permit and have a job offer in one of the targeted regions.

  Southwestern Ontario received the highest number of invitations at 797, followed by Eastern Ontario with 539, Central Ontario (excluding the Greater Toronto Area) with 463, and Northern Ontario with 303.

  These draws continue the aggressive pace of OINP activity throughout April 2026, which has now produced well over 7,000 invitations in a single month.

  April 23, 2026, OINP Draw Overview

  The following table provides a snapshot of all four regional draws issued on April 23, 2026, including stream-level invitation counts and minimum score thresholds.

  Region	FW (Score / ITAs)	IS (Score / ITAs)	IDS (Score / ITAs)	Total ITAs
  Eastern Ontario	63 / 318	87 / 173	34 / 48	539
  Northern Ontario	60 / 57	87 / 167	35 / 79	303
  Southwestern Ontario	60 / 194	84 / 173	34 / 430	797
  Central Ontario (excl. GTA)	60 / 128	85 / 173	34 / 162	463
  Stream Subtotals	697	686	719	2,102

  The In-Demand Skills stream accounted for the largest share of invitations at 719, driven primarily by Southwestern Ontario’s 430 invitations under this stream.

  The Foreign Worker stream followed with 697 invitations across all four regions, while the International Student stream contributed 686.

  Eastern Ontario: 539 Invitations

  On April 23, 2026, Ontario issued 539 invitations to apply to candidates who may qualify under the Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker, International Student, or In-Demand Skills streams with a job offer in Eastern Ontario.

  Eastern Ontario includes the following Census Divisions: Frontenac, Hastings, Kawartha Lakes, Lanark, Leeds and Grenville, Lennox and Addington, Northumberland, Ottawa, Ottawa-Carleton, Peterborough, Prescott and Russell, Prince Edward, Renfrew, and Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.

  • Foreign Worker stream: 318 invitations (minimum score: 63)
  • International Student stream: 173 invitations (minimum score: 87)
  • In-Demand Skills stream: 48 invitations (minimum score: 34)

  Foreign Worker Stream (Minimum Score: 63)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 63 and above received an invitation under the Foreign Worker stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 00013 – Senior managers – health, education, social and community services and membership organizations
  • NOC 10029 – Other business services managers
  • NOC 11101 – Financial and investment analysts
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21101 – Chemists
  • NOC 21102 – Geoscientists and oceanographers
  • NOC 21109 – Other professional occupations in physical sciences
  • NOC 21110 – Biologists and related scientists
  • NOC 21120 – Public and environmental health and safety professionals
  • NOC 21202 – Urban and land use planners
  • NOC 21211 – Data scientists
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
  • NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21233 – Web designers
  • NOC 21234 – Web developers and programmers
  • NOC 21300 – Civil engineers
  • NOC 21301 – Mechanical engineers
  • NOC 21310 – Electrical and electronics engineers
  • NOC 21311 – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
  • NOC 21390 – Aerospace engineers
  • NOC 21399 – Other professional engineers, n.e.c.
  • NOC 22110 – Biological technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22210 – Architectural technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22222 – Information systems testing technicians
  • NOC 22232 – Occupational health and safety specialists
  • NOC 22301 – Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
  • NOC 31103 – Veterinarians
  • NOC 31120 – Pharmacists
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 33100 – Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 41220 – Secondary school teachers

  International Student Stream (Minimum Score: 87)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 87 and above received an invitation under the International Student stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 11100 – Financial auditors and accountants
  • NOC 11101 – Financial and investment analysts
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12111 – Health information management occupations
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 13201 – Production and transportation logistics coordinators
  • NOC 21101 – Chemists
  • NOC 21110 – Biologists and related scientists
  • NOC 21202 – Urban and land use planners
  • NOC 21210 – Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries
  • NOC 21211 – Data scientists
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21233 – Web designers
  • NOC 21234 – Web developers and programmers
  • NOC 21300 – Civil engineers
  • NOC 21301 – Mechanical engineers
  • NOC 21311 – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
  • NOC 21322 – Metallurgical and materials engineers
  • NOC 22110 – Biological technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22210 – Architectural technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22214 – Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22222 – Information systems testing technicians
  • NOC 22233 – Construction inspectors
  • NOC 22301 – Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
  • NOC 31204 – Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 32101 – Licensed practical nurses
  • NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 33100 – Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33103 – Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41220 – Secondary school teachers
  • NOC 41320 – Educational counsellors
  • NOC 41321 – Career development practitioners and career counsellors (except education)
  • NOC 41403 – Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • NOC 70010 – Construction managers
  • NOC 72014 – Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers
  • NOC 72021 – Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews

  In-Demand Skills Stream (Minimum Score: 34)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 34 and above received an invitation under the In-Demand Skills stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 14400 – Shippers and receivers
  • NOC 44101 – Home support workers, housekeepers and related occupations
  • NOC 94104 – Inspectors and testers, mineral and metal processing
  • NOC 94124 – Woodworking machine operators
  • NOC 94132 – Industrial sewing machine operators
  • NOC 94141 – Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers
  • NOC 94143 – Testers and graders, food and beverage processing

  Northern Ontario: 303 Invitations

  On April 23, 2026, Ontario issued 303 invitations to apply to candidates who may qualify under the Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker, International Student, or In-Demand Skills streams with a job offer in Northern Ontario.

  Northern Ontario includes the following Census Divisions: Algoma, Cochrane, Greater Sudbury, Haliburton, Kenora, Manitoulin, Muskoka, Nipissing, Parry Sound, Rainy River, Sudbury, Thunder Bay, and Timiskaming.

  • Foreign Worker stream: 57 invitations (minimum score: 60)
  • International Student stream: 167 invitations (minimum score: 87)
  • In-Demand Skills stream: 79 invitations (minimum score: 35)

  Foreign Worker Stream (Minimum Score: 60)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 60 and above received an invitation under the Foreign Worker stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 00015 – Senior managers – construction, transportation, production and utilities
  • NOC 10010 – Financial managers
  • NOC 11100 – Financial auditors and accountants
  • NOC 11109 – Other financial officers
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 12203 – Assessors, valuators and appraisers
  • NOC 13102 – Payroll administrators
  • NOC 13110 – Administrative assistants
  • NOC 13201 – Production and transportation logistics coordinators
  • NOC 21102 – Geoscientists and oceanographers
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21301 – Mechanical engineers
  • NOC 21321 – Industrial and manufacturing engineers
  • NOC 22101 – Geological and mineral technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22214 – Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 31204 – Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 33101 – Medical laboratory assistants
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41221 – Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
  • NOC 70010 – Construction managers
  • NOC 72600 – Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors
  • NOC 73201 – General maintenance workers and building superintendents
  • NOC 92101 – Water and waste treatment plant operators

  International Student Stream (Minimum Score: 87)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 87 and above received an invitation under the International Student stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 10010 – Financial managers
  • NOC 10029 – Other business services managers
  • NOC 11100 – Financial auditors and accountants
  • NOC 11102 – Financial advisors
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12013 – Supervisors, supply chain, tracking and scheduling coordination occupations
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 12203 – Assessors, valuators and appraisers
  • NOC 13110 – Administrative assistants
  • NOC 13112 – Medical administrative assistants
  • NOC 13201 – Production and transportation logistics coordinators
  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21101 – Chemists
  • NOC 21102 – Geoscientists and oceanographers
  • NOC 21120 – Public and environmental health and safety professionals
  • NOC 21202 – Urban and land use planners
  • NOC 21203 – Land surveyors
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21233 – Web designers
  • NOC 21234 – Web developers and programmers
  • NOC 21300 – Civil engineers
  • NOC 21301 – Mechanical engineers
  • NOC 21321 – Industrial and manufacturing engineers
  • NOC 22100 – Chemical technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22101 – Geological and mineral technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22112 – Forestry technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22210 – Architectural technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22213 – Land survey technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22214 – Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22301 – Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
  • NOC 22313 – Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors
  • NOC 31103 – Veterinarians
  • NOC 31204 – Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 32101 – Licensed practical nurses
  • NOC 32103 – Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists
  • NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
  • NOC 32129 – Other medical technologists and technicians
  • NOC 32201 – Massage therapists
  • NOC 33100 – Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
  • NOC 33101 – Medical laboratory assistants
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41101 – Lawyers and Quebec notaries
  • NOC 41221 – Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
  • NOC 42201 – Social and community service workers
  • NOC 42202 – Early childhood educators and assistants
  • NOC 70010 – Construction managers
  • NOC 70012 – Facility operation and maintenance managers
  • NOC 72410 – Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
  • NOC 72411 – Auto body collision, refinishing and glass technicians and damage repair estimators
  • NOC 73400 – Heavy equipment operators
  • NOC 92101 – Water and waste treatment plant operators
  • NOC 93100 – Central control and process operators, mineral and metal processing

  In-Demand Skills Stream (Minimum Score: 35)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 35 and above received an invitation under the In-Demand Skills stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 14400 – Shippers and receivers
  • NOC 44101 – Home support workers, housekeepers and related occupations
  • NOC 74205 – Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers
  • NOC 75101 – Material handlers
  • NOC 75110 – Construction trades helpers and labourers
  • NOC 94105 – Metalworking and forging machine operators
  • NOC 94111 – Plastics processing machine operators

  Southwestern Ontario: 797 Invitations

  On April 23, 2026, Ontario issued 797 invitations to apply to candidates who may qualify under the Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker, International Student, or In-Demand Skills streams with a job offer in Southwestern Ontario.

  Southwestern Ontario includes the following Census Divisions: Brant, Bruce, Chatham-Kent, Elgin, Essex, Haldimand-Norfolk, Hamilton, Hamilton-Wentworth, Huron, Lambton, Middlesex, Niagara, Oxford, and Perth.

  • Foreign Worker stream: 194 invitations (minimum score: 60)
  • International Student stream: 173 invitations (minimum score: 84)
  • In-Demand Skills stream: 430 invitations (minimum score: 34)

  Foreign Worker Stream (Minimum Score: 60)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 60 and above received an invitation under the Foreign Worker stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 00012 – Senior managers – financial, communications and other business services
  • NOC 00013 – Senior managers – health, education, social and community services and membership organizations
  • NOC 00014 – Senior managers – trade, broadcasting and other services, n.e.c.
  • NOC 10010 – Financial managers
  • NOC 10011 – Human resources managers
  • NOC 10012 – Purchasing managers
  • NOC 11101 – Financial and investment analysts
  • NOC 11102 – Financial advisors
  • NOC 11109 – Other financial officers
  • NOC 11200 – Human resources professionals
  • NOC 11201 – Professional occupations in business management consulting
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12011 – Supervisors, finance and insurance office workers
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 12202 – Insurance underwriters
  • NOC 13201 – Production and transportation logistics coordinators
  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21101 – Chemists
  • NOC 21120 – Public and environmental health and safety professionals
  • NOC 21200 – Architects
  • NOC 21203 – Land surveyors
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
  • NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21233 – Web designers
  • NOC 21234 – Web developers and programmers
  • NOC 21300 – Civil engineers
  • NOC 21311 – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
  • NOC 21390 – Aerospace engineers
  • NOC 22211 – Industrial designers
  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22213 – Land survey technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22222 – Information systems testing technicians
  • NOC 22230 – Non-destructive testers and inspectors
  • NOC 22231 – Engineering inspectors and regulatory officers
  • NOC 22300 – Civil engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 22310 – Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
  • NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
  • NOC 31102 – General practitioners and family physicians
  • NOC 31103 – Veterinarians
  • NOC 31120 – Pharmacists
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41101 – Lawyers and Quebec notaries
  • NOC 41200 – University professors and lecturers
  • NOC 41302 – Ecclesiastical occupations
  • NOC 41402 – Business development officers and marketing researchers and consultants
  • NOC 51100 – Librarians
  • NOC 51110 – Editors
  • NOC 51121 – Conductors, composers and arrangers
  • NOC 70010 – Construction managers
  • NOC 70012 – Facility operation and maintenance managers
  • NOC 70020 – Managers in transportation
  • NOC 72600 – Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors
  • NOC 72602 – Deck officers, water transport
  • NOC 72999 – Other technical trades and related occupations
  • NOC 92012 – Supervisors, food and beverage processing

  International Student Stream (Minimum Score: 84)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 84 and above received an invitation under the International Student stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 00012 – Senior managers – financial, communications and other business services
  • NOC 00014 – Senior managers – trade, broadcasting and other services, n.e.c.
  • NOC 00015 – Senior managers – construction, transportation, production and utilities
  • NOC 11101 – Financial and investment analysts
  • NOC 11200 – Human resources professionals
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12013 – Supervisors, supply chain, tracking and scheduling coordination occupations
  • NOC 12102 – Procurement and purchasing agents and officers
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 12201 – Insurance adjusters and claims examiners
  • NOC 13100 – Administrative officers
  • NOC 13101 – Property administrators
  • NOC 13110 – Administrative assistants
  • NOC 13112 – Medical administrative assistants
  • NOC 13201 – Production and transportation logistics coordinators
  • NOC 21101 – Chemists
  • NOC 21120 – Public and environmental health and safety professionals
  • NOC 21200 – Architects
  • NOC 21202 – Urban and land use planners
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
  • NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
  • NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
  • NOC 21234 – Web developers and programmers
  • NOC 21300 – Civil engineers
  • NOC 22211 – Industrial designers
  • NOC 22212 – Drafting technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22213 – Land survey technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22214 – Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22232 – Occupational health and safety specialists
  • NOC 22300 – Civil engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 22310 – Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
  • NOC 31103 – Veterinarians
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 32101 – Licensed practical nurses
  • NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 32123 – Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists
  • NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
  • NOC 33100 – Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41200 – University professors and lecturers
  • NOC 41300 – Social workers
  • NOC 41301 – Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies
  • NOC 41321 – Career development practitioners and career counsellors (except education)
  • NOC 42201 – Social and community service workers
  • NOC 42203 – Instructors of persons with disabilities
  • NOC 70010 – Construction managers
  • NOC 70020 – Managers in transportation
  • NOC 72201 – Industrial electricians
  • NOC 72405 – Machine fitters
  • NOC 72410 – Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
  • NOC 72422 – Electrical mechanics
  • NOC 72423 – Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics
  • NOC 73100 – Concrete finishers
  • NOC 73112 – Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
  • NOC 73201 – General maintenance workers and building superintendents
  • NOC 92012 – Supervisors, food and beverage processing
  • NOC 92100 – Power engineers and power systems operators
  • NOC 92101 – Water and waste treatment plant operators

  In-Demand Skills Stream (Minimum Score: 34)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 34 and above received an invitation under the In-Demand Skills stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 14400 – Shippers and receivers
  • NOC 14402 – Production logistics workers
  • NOC 44101 – Home support workers, housekeepers and related occupations
  • NOC 75110 – Construction trades helpers and labourers
  • NOC 94100 – Machine operators, mineral and metal processing
  • NOC 94101 – Foundry workers
  • NOC 94103 – Concrete, clay and stone forming operators
  • NOC 94104 – Inspectors and testers, mineral and metal processing
  • NOC 94107 – Other metal products machine operators
  • NOC 94110 – Chemical plant machine operators
  • NOC 94111 – Plastics processing machine operators
  • NOC 94112 – Rubber processing machine operators and related workers
  • NOC 94124 – Woodworking machine operators
  • NOC 94132 – Industrial sewing machine operators
  • NOC 94201 – Electronics assemblers, fabricators, inspectors and testers
  • NOC 94202 – Assemblers and inspectors, electrical appliance, apparatus and equipment manufacturing
  • NOC 94203 – Assemblers, fabricators and inspectors, industrial electrical motors and transformers
  • NOC 94211 – Assemblers and inspectors of other wood products
  • NOC 94212 – Plastic products assemblers, finishers and inspectors
  • NOC 94219 – Other products assemblers, finishers and inspectors
  • NOC 95100 – Labourers in mineral and metal processing
  • NOC 95102 – Labourers in chemical products processing and utilities
  • NOC 95104 – Labourers in rubber and plastic products manufacturing

  Central Ontario (Excluding GTA): 463 Invitations

  On April 23, 2026, Ontario issued 463 invitations to apply to candidates who may qualify under the Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker, International Student, or In-Demand Skills streams with a job offer in Central Ontario (excluding GTA).

  Central Ontario (excluding GTA) includes the following Census Divisions: Dufferin, Grey, Simcoe, Waterloo, and Wellington.

  • Foreign Worker stream: 128 invitations (minimum score: 60)
  • International Student stream: 173 invitations (minimum score: 85)
  • In-Demand Skills stream: 162 invitations (minimum score: 34)

  Foreign Worker Stream (Minimum Score: 60)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 60 and above received an invitation under the Foreign Worker stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 00013 – Senior managers – health, education, social and community services and membership organizations
  • NOC 00015 – Senior managers – construction, transportation, production and utilities
  • NOC 11100 – Financial auditors and accountants
  • NOC 11200 – Human resources professionals
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 13110 – Administrative assistants
  • NOC 20010 – Engineering managers
  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21101 – Chemists
  • NOC 21110 – Biologists and related scientists
  • NOC 21120 – Public and environmental health and safety professionals
  • NOC 21202 – Urban and land use planners
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
  • NOC 21233 – Web designers
  • NOC 21311 – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
  • NOC 22100 – Chemical technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22222 – Information systems testing technicians
  • NOC 22230 – Non-destructive testers and inspectors
  • NOC 22233 – Construction inspectors
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
  • NOC 22313 – Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors
  • NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
  • NOC 31202 – Physiotherapists
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41200 – University professors and lecturers
  • NOC 41301 – Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies
  • NOC 41320 – Educational counsellors
  • NOC 41405 – Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • NOC 41406 – Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • NOC 51112 – Technical writers

  International Student Stream (Minimum Score: 85)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 85 and above received an invitation under the International Student stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 00015 – Senior managers – construction, transportation, production and utilities
  • NOC 10010 – Financial managers
  • NOC 11100 – Financial auditors and accountants
  • NOC 11101 – Financial and investment analysts
  • NOC 11102 – Financial advisors
  • NOC 11200 – Human resources professionals
  • NOC 11201 – Professional occupations in business management consulting
  • NOC 11202 – Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
  • NOC 12200 – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers
  • NOC 13102 – Payroll administrators
  • NOC 13110 – Administrative assistants
  • NOC 13112 – Medical administrative assistants
  • NOC 13201 – Production and transportation logistics coordinators
  • NOC 20012 – Computer and information systems managers
  • NOC 21102 – Geoscientists and oceanographers
  • NOC 21202 – Urban and land use planners
  • NOC 21220 – Cybersecurity specialists
  • NOC 21221 – Business system specialists
  • NOC 21222 – Information systems specialists
  • NOC 21223 – Database analysts and data administrators
  • NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
  • NOC 22100 – Chemical technologists and technicians
  • NOC 22214 – Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
  • NOC 22220 – Computer network and web technicians
  • NOC 22221 – User support technicians
  • NOC 22222 – Information systems testing technicians
  • NOC 22230 – Non-destructive testers and inspectors
  • NOC 22233 – Construction inspectors
  • NOC 22303 – Construction estimators
  • NOC 22311 – Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
  • NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • NOC 32100 – Opticians
  • NOC 32101 – Licensed practical nurses
  • NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
  • NOC 32201 – Massage therapists
  • NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • NOC 41200 – University professors and lecturers
  • NOC 41210 – College and other vocational instructors
  • NOC 41220 – Secondary school teachers
  • NOC 41321 – Career development practitioners and career counsellors (except education)
  • NOC 41403 – Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
  • NOC 42201 – Social and community service workers
  • NOC 51112 – Technical writers
  • NOC 72400 – Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
  • NOC 92020 – Supervisors, motor vehicle assembling

  In-Demand Skills Stream (Minimum Score: 34)

  Candidates with an Expression of Interest score of 34 and above received an invitation under the In-Demand Skills stream. The following NOC codes were eligible:

  • NOC 14400 – Shippers and receivers
  • NOC 44101 – Home support workers, housekeepers and related occupations
  • NOC 94106 – Machining tool operators
  • NOC 94107 – Other metal products machine operators
  • NOC 94111 – Plastics processing machine operators
  • NOC 94124 – Woodworking machine operators
  • NOC 94132 – Industrial sewing machine operators
  • NOC 94201 – Electronics assemblers, fabricators, inspectors and testers
  • NOC 94211 – Assemblers and inspectors of other wood products
  • NOC 95104 – Labourers in rubber and plastic products manufacturing

  Key Eligibility Conditions

  All candidates invited in these Ontario immigration draws must meet the following requirements:

  • Must currently reside in Canada with a valid work or study permit
  • Must have a job offer from an employer in the targeted region for one of the eligible NOC codes listed in the draw
  • Must have an active Expression of Interest profile created and attested to by April 21, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
  • Must meet all eligibility requirements specific to the Foreign Worker, International Student, or In-Demand Skills stream
  • The employer must be registered through the OINP Employer Portal and the job offer must meet all stream requirements

  What Candidates Should Do Next

  Candidates who received an invitation in any of the four regional draws must act quickly because the application deadlines are firm and cannot be extended under any circumstances.

  • Review the Employer Job Offer stream page on the Ontario government website to confirm you meet all eligibility requirements and have all mandatory documents
  • Your employer must review the employer guide and submit their application within 14 calendar days of the invitation date
  • Log in to the OINP e-Filing Portal and click the newly created file number with the prefix JOXX
  • You must submit your complete application and payment within 17 calendar days from the date the invitation was issued
  • Do not confuse the new application file number with the original EOI file number, as the EOI profile will appear greyed out in the portal once the invitation has been issued
  • Contact your employer immediately upon receiving the invitation to ensure both parties meet the deadlines

  These four regional draws reflect Ontario’s strategy of distributing immigration activity across the province rather than concentrating it in the Greater Toronto Area.

  The Regional Economic Development through Immigration pilot and these targeted regional draws are designed to address labour shortages in smaller communities where employers face the greatest difficulty attracting qualified workers.

  Southwestern Ontario received the largest share of invitations at 797, with the In-Demand Skills stream alone contributing 430 of those invitations.

  This reflects the region’s strong manufacturing, agricultural processing, and industrial employment base spanning communities from Hamilton and Niagara to Essex and Chatham-Kent.

  The In-Demand Skills stream cutoffs across all four regions were among the lowest possible, ranging from 34 to 35, confirming that Ontario is casting a wide net for essential workers in occupations such as home support workers, shippers, and machine operators.

  With Express Entry CRS cutoffs climbing to 515 in recent Canadian Experience Class draws, the OINP Employer Job Offer streams continue to provide an alternative pathway for candidates whose occupations and scores would not be competitive at the federal level.

  April 2026 OINP Cumulative Activity

  April 23rd’s 2,102 invitations bring the total number of OINP invitations issued in April 2026 to well over 7,000.

  Ontario has now conducted draws on April 1 targeting the mining sector; April 8 covering healthcare and regional development; April 15 under the In-Demand Skills stream; April 22 under the Masters and PhD Graduate streams; and now April 23 across four regional Employer Job Offer draws.

  This pace makes April 2026 one of the busiest months in OINP history, as the province works to maximize its 14,119 nomination allocation for the year before the anticipated program redesign on May 30, 2026.

  Key Takeaways

  • Ontario issued 2,102 invitations on April 23, 2026, across four regional Employer Job Offer draws
  • Foreign Worker stream: 697 total invitations (Eastern 318, Northern 57, Southwestern 194, Central 128)
  • International Student stream: 686 total invitations (Eastern 173, Northern 167, Southwestern 173, Central 173)
  • In-Demand Skills stream: 719 total invitations (Eastern 48, Northern 79, Southwestern 430, Central 162)
  • Foreign Worker stream cutoffs ranged from 60 to 63 depending on the region
  • International Student stream cutoffs ranged from 84 to 87
  • In-Demand Skills stream cutoffs ranged from 34 to 35, among the lowest in OINP history
  • Eligible profiles must have been created and attested to by April 21, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
  • Employers must submit their application within 14 calendar days and candidates within 17 calendar days

  The employer deadline of 14 calendar days and the candidate deadline of 17 calendar days are the most critical steps in the process and cannot be extended for any reason.

  Candidates should contact their employers immediately to ensure both sides are aware of the timelines and have all mandatory documents ready for submission through the OINP e-Filing Portal.

  With nine OINP selection categories set to be revoked on May 30, 2026, the current Employer Job Offer streams may also face restructuring under the new program design.

  Candidates in the Expression of Interest pool should keep their profiles updated and monitor the OINP Program Updates page daily for any new draw announcements.

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  Can I apply if my job offer is in the Greater Toronto Area?

  No, the April 23 draws were region-specific and excluded the Greater Toronto Area entirely. Candidates with job offers in the GTA were not eligible for any of the four regional draws. Ontario has conducted separate GTA-specific draws in previous rounds, and candidates should monitor the OINP Program Updates page for future GTA draws.

  What happens if my employer misses the 14-day submission deadline?

  If your employer does not submit their application within 14 calendar days of the invitation date, your application file may be closed and the invitation could expire. There are no extensions available under any circumstances. This is one of the most common reasons applications are abandoned, so candidates should coordinate with their employers immediately upon receiving the invitation.

  Can I receive an invitation under more than one stream in the same draw?

  No, your Expression of Interest profile is registered under a specific stream based on your occupation, job offer, and qualifications. You can only receive an invitation under the stream your profile is registered in. If you believe you may qualify under a different stream, you would need to submit a separate EOI profile under that stream’s requirements.

  Will these Employer Job Offer streams continue after the OINP program redesign on May 30, 2026?

  Ontario has confirmed that nine categories of applicants currently eligible for provincial nomination will be formally revoked on May 30, 2026. The proposed redesign plans to merge the three existing Employer Job Offer streams into a single unified stream with two tracks, one for TEER 0 to 3 skilled workers and one for TEER 4 to 5 essential workers. The final structure has not been confirmed, and candidates should monitor official Ontario government announcements for updates.

  Fact-checked: All information in this article has been verified against official Ontario government sources, including the OINP Program Updates page, as of April 23, 2026.

  Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a licensed immigration professional for guidance specific to your situation.