Canada Express Entry Draw #446: 2,000 CEC Candidates Invited at CRS 518
Canada continues to invite skilled workers through the Express Entry system, with the latest Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw providing another opportunity for candidates with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence.
On September 29, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #446, inviting 2,000 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class.
The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 518.
Express Entry Draw #446 – Key Details
Category
Details
- Draw Number #446
- Date September 29, 2026
- Program Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Invitations Issued 2,000
- Minimum CRS Score 518
- Tie-Breaking Rule
- February 13, 2026 at 20:48:08 UTC
Candidates who met the minimum CRS requirement and the applicable eligibility criteria received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for Canadian permanent residence.
CRS Cut-Off Continues to Decline
One of the notable developments is the gradual reduction in the CEC CRS cut-off over recent draws.
The previous CEC draws were:
- September 1, 2026: 2,000 ITAs – CRS 521
- September 15, 2026: 2,000 ITAs – CRS 519
- September 29, 2026: 2,000 ITAs – CRS 518
This represents a three-point decline from 521 to 518 across these three CEC draws.
While this trend is encouraging for candidates in the lower CRS range, applicants should remember that future cut-offs can change depending on the number and profile of candidates in the Express Entry pool and the number of invitations issued.
What Does This Mean for Express Entry Candidates?
The latest draw highlights the continued importance of Canadian work experience for candidates pursuing permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class.
Candidates whose CRS score is below the latest cut-off should not necessarily consider their profile ineligible. There may be several ways to strengthen an Express Entry profile, including:
- Improving IELTS/CELPIP language scores
- Obtaining additional eligible work experience
- Increasing educational qualifications
- Maximizing spouse-related CRS factors, where applicable
- Exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Checking eligibility for category-based Express Entry draws
- Exploring French-language proficiency pathways, if applicable
A provincial nomination can also significantly increase a candidate’s CRS score and may provide an alternative pathway toward an ITA.
Is CRS 518 Enough for Future Draws?
There is no guaranteed CRS score for future Express Entry draws.
The latest CEC draw at CRS 518 is a positive development for candidates with scores around this range, particularly those with Canadian work experience. However, candidates should avoid relying solely on the latest cut-off when planning their immigration strategy.
Express Entry draws are dynamic, and IRCC can change the draw type, number of invitations and selection criteria.
How Can You Improve Your CRS Score?
If your current CRS score is below the recent cut-off, consider conducting a detailed profile assessment to identify potential opportunities.
Depending on your circumstances, improving your language score, gaining additional skilled work experience, obtaining a higher educational credential, or pursuing a suitable PNP pathway could improve your chances.
It is also important to select the correct NOC/TEER classification based on your actual job duties rather than relying only on your job title.
Final Takeaway
Express Entry Draw #446 is encouraging news for candidates eligible under the Canadian Experience Class.
With 2,000 ITAs issued at a CRS cut-off of 518, the latest draw continues the recent downward movement in CEC CRS thresholds.
However, candidates should remember that a CRS cut-off is not a prediction or guarantee for the next draw. A complete assessment of eligibility, CRS, NOC/TEER classification and potential PNP options can help determine the most suitable immigration strategy.
If you are planning to apply for Canada Permanent Residence, getting your profile assessed before creating or updating an Express Entry profile can help you understand your available options and identify areas where your CRS score can be improved.
