
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its 35th Express Entry draw.
- IRCC issued 762 invitations to those who have submitted an Expression of Interest to apply for permanent residence.
- The minimum qualifying score for this draw was 483.
The number of invitations remains low, as in the past few recent draws. The frequency and size of Express Entry draws are at the discretion of IRCC.
What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
While a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or Provincial Nomination (PN) approval will guarantee an employee’s selection and invitation for permanent residence, such documents are not required in all cases. This draw once again demonstrates that employees without LMIA or PN approvals continue to be selected in the Express Entry draw.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
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Media mentions
Partner Rick Lamanna examines current pressures on Canada’s immigration system, including processing delays, reduced admissions and policy uncertainty and the implications for applicants and employers.
Blog post
Manager Mihaela Dumitru outlines how Swiss authorities assess Employer of Record and body-leasing models, highlighting key compliance risks, licensing requirements and a regulatory update affecting EU and EFTA nationals effective 1 January 2026.

Media mentions
Partner Karolina Schiffter discusses how courts in Poland are reinforcing timely processing and constitutional protections for foreigners.
Blog post
Immigration Manager Alice Heron examines Ireland’s updated employment permit salary thresholds taking effect in March 2026, including the reintroduction of graduate-specific Minimum Annual Remuneration bands and what these changes mean for employers planning graduate recruitment in 2026 and 2027.
Media mentions
Partner Jill Bloom explains how the new wage-based H-1B selection rule may influence hiring decisions and prompt employers to reassess workforce planning and explore alternative visa options.
Media mentions
Partner K. Edward Raleigh discusses how companies are rethinking their H-1B strategies amid evolving policies.



