
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will be conducting its second draw for this month, today through tomorrow, January 14, 2016.
- The number of invitations to apply for permanent residence for those who have submitted an Expression of Interest profile will be 1,518.
- The minimum qualifying score for this draw will be 453.
Points are based on a comprehensive ranking system that focuses on factors such as core human capital and skill transferability, among others.
The frequency and size of Express Entry draws are at the discretion of CIC, which continues to indicate its flexibility in the selection process. As in previous draws, CIC selected candidates who did not have a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a Provincial Nomination (PN) approval at the time their profile was selected.
What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
While an LMIA or PN approval will guarantee your employee’s selection and invitation for Permanent Residence, it is not always the case that such documents are required. This second draw for this year demonstrates that employees without an LMIA or PN approval continue to also be selected.
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 Bo Cooper explains the impact of wage‑weighted selection on H‑1B registration and compliance.
Media mentions
Partner K. Edward Raleigh highlights how recent H-1B changes are shaping employer compliance strategies.
Media mentions
Practice Leader Colm Collins explains that processing delays, shifting demand in information and communication technology (ICT) and renewal cycles contributed to last year’s drop in work permit approvals.
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.



