Express Entry Draw #393 Issues 423 ITAs, Signals Strong Provincial Focus in Canada Immigration

Canada has entered 2026 with a clear immigration direction, and the latest Express Entry draw #393, February 2026, confirms that provinces continue to play a central role in selection. On February 3, 2026, Immigration authorities conducted the new Express Entry draw, issuing 423 Invitations to Apply to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program.

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score stood at 749 points. While this score may appear high, it reflects the added value of a provincial nomination, which contributes an additional 600 points to a candidate profile. This draw reinforces how provincial alignment has become a decisive factor in Canada’s permanent residence system. For candidates and employers alike, the Express Entry draw in February 2026 offers important insights into where opportunities currently lie.

Provincial Nominees Take Priority in Express Entry Draw February 2026

This draw focused exclusively on Provincial Nominee Program candidates. Such program-specific rounds allow provinces to address regional labour needs while supporting balanced population growth across Canada.

A tie-breaking rule was applied using a timestamp of December 16, 2025, at 22:30:36 UTC. This means that candidates who met the minimum CRS score but created their profiles after this date were not invited. Timing continues to matter as much as score strength.

Invited candidates now have 60 days to submit their complete applications for permanent residence. Processing times typically remain within six months, keeping Express Entry one of the fastest pathways to Canadian permanent residence.

What Recent Express Entry Trends Reveal About Canada Immigration

The Express Entry draw February 2026 aligns with patterns seen throughout January. Over 6,000 Canadian Experience Class invitations were issued earlier in the year, highlighting continued support for candidates with Canadian work experience. Now, the focus has temporarily shifted toward provinces.

Provincial nominee draws consistently maintain CRS cutoffs above 700 points. This is expected due to the bonus points attached to nominations. In contrast, general draws usually fall within the 490 range or lower. Immigration analysts anticipate that all program draws may resume shortly, offering renewed opportunities for Federal Skilled Worker and Canadian Experience Class candidates.

Strategic Options for Employers Across Canada

Canadian employers continue to play a vital role in immigration outcomes. As the Express Entry draw for February 2026 shows, provincial nomination remains one of the most reliable tools for long-term workforce planning.

Employers facing labour shortages may consider

 • Supporting candidates through provincial nomination streams
 • Exploring Labour Market Impact Assessment based job offers
 • Retaining international graduates through provincial pathways

These options help employers secure skilled talent while aligning with provincial workforce strategies.

What Express Entry Candidates Should Do Next

Candidates not invited in the Express Entry draw February 2026 should focus on strengthening their profiles rather than waiting passively.

Some practical steps include

 • Improving language scores
 • Gaining Canadian work experience
 • Seeking provincial nomination opportunities
 • Securing valid job offers

Each of these actions can significantly improve CRS outcomes and increase selection chances in upcoming rounds. Canada’s immigration system continues to reward preparation, accuracy, and timely strategy.

Why Professional Immigration Guidance Matters More Than Ever

With program-specific draws and shifting priorities, applicants benefit from latest updates, advice tailored to real-time immigration trends. The Express Entry draw #393 confirms Canada’s continued reliance on provinces to address regional labour needs while maintaining efficient permanent residence processing. Provincial nomination remains one of the most powerful tools in the Express Entry system, offering candidates a clear path to success when aligned correctly. Stay updated with Canada Immigration News for real time Express Entry news, draw analysis, and professional insights that help you plan your Canadian immigration journey with confidence.