Canada Immigration Update – January 16 2026

Canada Immigration Update – January 16 2026 Snapshots: Fourth Express Entry Draw in December 2025; Nova Scotia Overhauls PNP with Expression of Interest; IRCC Signals Priority Sectors for 2026; CRS Boost Tips for Low‑Score Candidates.

TORONTO — January 16, 2026 — Canada’s federal and provincial immigration systems continue making headlines this week with another round of Express Entry invitations, significant provincial selection changes, and clear signals about the skills Ottawa will prioritize in 2026.

Fourth Express Entry Draw in December

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held its fourth Express Entry draw of the month on December 15, 2025:

• 399 ITAs issued to Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.

• Minimum CRS score: 731. CIC TIMES+1

This latest draw brings the total count of 2025 invitations close to the year’s earlier trend of multiple targeted and large draws — including big rounds for Canadian Experience Class and other PNP draws earlier in December. CIC News

Takeaway: Provincial nominations remain key for high‑scoring candidates — especially those focused on faster permanent‑residence selection into 2026.

Nova Scotia Overhauls PNP with Expression of Interest

Nova Scotia has transformed its provincial immigration selection process by introducing a formal Expression of Interest (EOI) model across all streams of its nominee program and associated Atlantic Immigration Program endorsements. CIC News+1

Under the new system:

• All submissions become EOI profiles.

• A case ID or previous application does not guarantee processing under the old intake model.

• Priority will be given to occupations and candidatesselected from the EOI pool. CIC News

Takeaway: Candidates targeting Nova Scotia should prepare EOI profiles and be ready to respond quickly to invitations — a shift that aligns Nova Scotia with most other PNPs in Canada.

IRCC Signals Priority Sectors for 2026

According to the latest IRCC overview, Canada’s immigration focus in 2026 will include candidates with experience in healthcare, research, and other priority sectors — reflecting continued labour‑market needs. CIC News

Takeaway: If your background aligns with healthcare, research, or other in‑demand sectors, your chances of selection in upcoming draws may improve — so keep your profile current and accurate.

CRS Boost Tips for Low‑Score Candidates

For Express Entry hopefuls struggling with a low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, education can be a practical way to gain points. Recent analysis shows that earning an additional post‑secondary credential (e.g., a master’s or second degree) can sometimes add up to 50+ CRS points, which may improve chances in future draws. CIC News

Takeaway: Strategic credentials — including higher education — remain one of the viable paths to increase CRS and compete in future draws.

What Applicants Should Do Next

• Active Express Entry candidates: review your CRS and ensure your profile reflects all valid credentials and experience.

• PNP applicants: focus on provincial streams, such as those in Nova Scotia, where EOI selection is now in place.

• Sector‑aligned workers: highlight healthcare, research, and priority skills in profiles, as IRCC’s recent signals suggest stronger selection emphasis.

• Low‑CRS candidates: consider ways to boost your points, such as additional education or professional credentials.

Canada Immigration Update – January 16 2026