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CRS Cutoff Expected to Drop in 2026: What This Means for Express Entry Candidates

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > CRS Cutoff Expected to Drop in 2026: What This Means for Express Entry Candidates

Canada’s immigration landscape is evolving, and 2026 could be a year of opportunity for many Express Entry candidates. According to Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab, the category-based Express Entry draws will now require 12 months of work experience in a specific eligible occupation, doubling the previous requirement of 6 months. This policy change is expected to impact CRS cutoff scores and create a favorable environment for candidates who meet the new criteria.

Understanding the Change in Category-Based Draws

Previously, candidates with just 6 months of occupation-specific experience could participate in category-based draws. Starting in 2026, only candidates with 12 months or more of full-time work experience in a category-eligible occupation will qualify. While the minimum requirement to create an Express Entry profile—12 months in any TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation—remains unchanged, this update directly affects category-specific eligibility.

This change has two main implications:

  1. Reduced Competition: Candidates with 6–11 months of experience temporarily cannot participate, reducing the number of eligible applicants in category-specific draws.

  2. Lower CRS Scores Expected: With fewer candidates competing for a similar number of invitations, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cutoff scores are likely to drop, making it easier for qualified candidates to receive invitations.

Why CRS Cutoff Scores Could Decline

Historically, IRCC issued between 1,000 and 5,000 invitations per category-based draw. If this trend continues while the candidate pool shrinks due to the new 12-month experience requirement, CRS cutoffs will likely decrease.

For example, a STEM category draw with 50,000 eligible candidates for 3,000 invitations may see the eligible pool drop to 35,000 candidates under the new rule. IRCC would then need to go deeper into the CRS rankings to issue the same number of invitations, giving candidates with moderate scores a better chance.

However, if IRCC adjusts the number of invitations proportionally to match the smaller pool, CRS scores may remain stable. Candidates should closely monitor Express Entry draws throughout 2026 to track trends.

Who Benefits From This Change?

Candidates with 12+ months of category-specific experience stand to gain the most. With fewer competitors, these individuals may see lower CRS requirements and faster invitations. It’s essential for eligible candidates to ensure their Express Entry profiles are updated and accurately reflect their work experience.

Candidates with 6–11 months of experience need to wait until they reach the 12-month threshold before qualifying for category-based draws. During this period, they can:

  • Continue gaining work experience in their eligible occupation

  • Improve CRS scores through language tests, additional credentials, or securing a job offer

  • Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) as an alternative pathway

By maintaining a strategic approach, these candidates can maximize their chances once they meet the 12-month requirement.

Categories Likely to See the Biggest Impact

The effect of this change will vary by occupation:

  • Healthcare and STEM occupations: Significant drop in CRS cutoffs expected due to the large number of new entrants previously eligible under the 6-month rule.

  • Physicians and senior managers: Minimal impact as these candidates generally already exceed 12 months of experience.

  • Transport occupations: Requires 12 months of experience either in Canada or abroad.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but ICC Immigration provides expert guidance to help you achieve your Permanent Residency (PR) goals. Here’s how we assist:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: We guide you through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other PR pathways, ensuring a smooth and efficient application process.

  • Work and Study Permits: Explore temporary options to establish your career or education in Canada, eventually leading to PR eligibility.

  • Family Sponsorships: Reunite with family members in Canada while securing your PR status.

  • Expert Legal Advice: Our team offers professional legal guidance to help you navigate Canadian immigration policies, maximize your chances of success, and avoid pitfalls.

Instead of relying on uncertain pathways like asylum, ICC Immigration helps you take control of your future with stable, secure, and strategic immigration solutions. Whether you are already in Canada or planning to move, we are ready to provide the support needed to navigate the process confidently.

Key Takeaways

  • CRS cutoffs are expected to drop in 2026 due to the new 12-month occupation-specific experience requirement.

  • Candidates with 12+ months of experience benefit from reduced competition.

  • Candidates with 6–11 months of experience should focus on gaining experience, improving CRS scores, and exploring alternative pathways.

  • Healthcare and STEM sectors are most likely to see lower CRS thresholds.

  • ICC Immigration provides guidance for PR, work permits, study permits, and family sponsorships to secure your future in Canada.

By understanding these changes and preparing strategically, you can maximize your chances of success in Canada’s Express Entry system in 2026 and beyond.