Shifting Immigration Priorities and What They Mean for Winnipeg Applicants

Canada’s immigration system continues to shift in response to labour market needs and regional priorities. Early 2026 has already delivered several notable developments, including the largest category-based draw ever held. For individuals in Winnipeg considering their pathway to permanent residence, staying up to date with Express Entry trends is essential. GH Immigration Svcs. follows these changes closely and helps applicants build strong profiles aligned with today’s selection criteria.

A Record-Breaking Category-Based Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently issued 8,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a French-language proficiency draw. This marks the largest category-based selection in the history of Express Entry. To qualify, candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 400 and an active profile created before 11:11 a.m. UTC on February 3, 2026.

This draw highlights how language skills particularly French continue to play an increasingly important role in Canada’s immigration strategy. While English remains widely used, applicants with strong French abilities may see additional pathways open through targeted rounds.

Overview of Express Entry Draws in 2026

So far, 2026 has seen six rounds of invitations under Express Entry. These draws have focused almost entirely on candidates already inside Canada, especially those with Canadian work experience or provincial nominations.

Here is a brief summary of selections this year:

• February 6 – French-language proficiency, CRS 400, 8,500 ITAs
• February 3 – Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), CRS 749, 423 ITAs
• January 21 – Canadian Experience Class (CEC), CRS 509, 6,000 ITAs
• January 20 – Provincial Nominee Program, CRS 746, 681 ITAs
• January 7 – Canadian Experience Class, CRS 511, 8,000 ITAs
• January 5 – Provincial Nominee Program, CRS 711, 574 ITAs

In total, IRCC has issued 24,178 ITAs through Express Entry during the first weeks of the year.

Why Canada Is Focusing on In-Canada Candidates

The strong emphasis on Canadian Experience Class and PNP draws reflects Canada’s desire to retain individuals who are already contributing to the economy. These candidates are often well-integrated, familiar with workplace expectations, and more likely to settle successfully.

For Winnipeg residents working on temporary permits or studying in Manitoba, this approach can create meaningful opportunities within Express Entry. Gaining local experience and building strong ties to the province can strengthen long-term immigration prospects.

The Role of the Provincial Nominee Program

Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) remains an important option for many applicants. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points to an Express Entry profile, often resulting in an invitation in the next PNP-focused draw.

Individuals working in high-demand occupations, graduates of Manitoba institutions, and those with family connections in the province may qualify under MPNP streams. Coordinating a provincial application with an Express Entry profile can open multiple pathways at once.

How French Proficiency Can Influence Selection

The February 6 draw demonstrates IRCC’s ongoing commitment to supporting francophone immigration outside Quebec. Candidates who meet French-language benchmarks may benefit from category-based rounds even if their CRS score is lower than general draw thresholds.

For Winnipeg applicants, investing time in improving French skills could improve competitiveness within Express Entry. Language testing results can be updated as proficiency improves, directly affecting CRS scores.

Building a Strong Express Entry Profile

Several factors influence ranking within Express Entry, including:

• Age
• Education
• Work experience
• Language ability in English and/or French
• Canadian education or employment
• Provincial nomination

Even small improvements such as retaking a language test or completing an additional credential—can raise CRS points.

Planning Ahead in a Changing System

Immigration policies evolve in response to labour shortages, regional growth, and demographic trends. The early months of 2026 show that targeted selections are likely to remain a central feature of Express Entry.

Applicants who rely solely on one pathway may face delays, while those who explore multiple options such as combining provincial nomination with federal programs often improve their chances.

How GH Immigration Svcs. Supports Winnipeg Applicants

GH Immigration Svcs. works with individuals and families in Winnipeg to evaluate eligibility, prepare documentation, and submit applications that meet current program criteria. Whether pursuing Express Entry, a provincial stream, or a work permit that leads to permanent residence, proper planning can make a significant difference.

Each case is different, and careful review of work history, education, and language results is key to selecting the most suitable pathway.

Moving Forward

The largest category-based draw in Express Entry history signals a continued shift toward targeted selections and in-Canada candidates. For Winnipeg residents, this environment offers promising possibilities especially for those gaining Canadian experience, exploring provincial options, or developing French-language skills.

Staying informed and preparing early can position applicants for success as Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve.