IRCC has been prioritizing candidates based in Canada. In fact, they started the year by accepting applicants already in Canada. They are also a lot more considerate of candidates with significant Canadian labour market experience. Those who have been nominated by a province are also considered a priority by the IRCC. You will likely be included if you are already in Canada and are eligible to apply for the draw.
2026 has just started, but Immigration has already issued over 8,500 ITAs. This is already a lot, which is good news for the applications.
For the Canadian Experience Class draw type, the IRCC has already issued about 574 ITAs. For the Provincial Nominee Program, the IRCC has already issued about 574 ITAs.
The month of January is usually a busy period for Express Entry, as the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada works to issue more invitations that contribute to its annual admissions or landings target, which are under the federal immigration programs.
Because of the time required for application processing and other delays after an ITA is issued, admissions are usually expected at least six months after an invitation is received.
