Express Entry 2026: New Category and Draws for Senior Managers

This exclusive category was launched a few months ago, on March 5, 2026, and the government recently held the second drawing on July 10. The most interesting aspect of both drawings is the low minimum score required.

To be eligible for permanent residency through this route, you must know the NOC code for your job and make sure it is classified correctly.

In this blog, you'll find the technical details for this category, the two rounds in March and July, and recommendations to help you correctly identify your NOC code and successfully apply.

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First drawings: March and July 2026

Opening Round

Date: March 5, 2026

Invitations sent (ITA): 250

Minimum CRS score: 429

Second round

Date: July 10, 2026

Invitations sent: 500

Minimum CRS score: 392

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Analysis of the Draws

If we compare the scores from the first two rounds for this new category, we can see a significant drop compared to other categories, such as the Canadian Experience Class or provincial nominations, which exceed 500 points. 

The scores from the two tests for Senior Executives are quite close to what we see in the "Proficiency in French" category, where the average score ranges from 392 to 420 points.

As for the invitations, it is clear that the number issued in the first round reflects a strategic approach, with 250 ITAs to start; however, in this second round, the number of invitations doubled, and now more managers with 12 months of cumulative work experience in Canada will be able to apply for permanent residency. 

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IMPORTANT! Experience gained over a 12-month period in your home country does not count. Nor does it count if the position you hold at the company does not correspond to "Major Group 00" in the NOC classification.

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Who is the Senior Managers category intended for?

This drawing is open to candidates who hold very high-level management positions ( TEER 0), specifically the following NOCs:

00012 – Senior Executives – Financial, Communications, and Other Business Services

00013 – Senior Executives – Health, Education, Social, and Community Services, and Membership Organizations

00014 – Senior Executives – Trade, Broadcasting, and Other Services

00015 – Senior Executives – Construction, Transportation, Manufacturing, and Public Services

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What do they need to prove to be eligible?

To be eligible in this category, candidates must primarily demonstrate:

• At least 12 months of qualified work experience in Canada, gained within the last 3 years, in one of the positions covered by these NOC codes.

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• It is not enough to simply hold the title of "manager." Codes 00012 through 00015 are reserved for senior executives who are involved in the company's strategic direction, make decisions at the highest level, and supervise other managers.

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• If you hold an executive position in Canada, it is essential to verify that your actual duties, your NOC code, and your Express Entry profile meet the criteria established by IRCC.

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Recommendations 

How can you find your specific occupation in the NOC? 

On the official website: https://noc.esdc.gc.ca/, you will find a search bar where you should enter the position you held or currently hold at the company.

There are two ways to find your occupation: 

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1. Search by job title; in this case, enter keywords related to your job responsibilities (Manager, President, etc.) in English. If you enter them in Spanish, you may not get any results.

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2. Search by NOC code. In this case, you must enter the full code, and the search tool will display a list of positions.

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For example:

- 00012: Senior managers—financial, communications, and other business services.

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If you are not familiar with the NOC structure or need help identifying your job title, seek professional assistance.

If you have already received your invitation to apply (ITA), you have 60 days to submit a flawless application. At this stage, the most common and dangerous mistake for an executive-level candidate is a discrepancy in the“Main Duties” section.

Take note of these key points to ensure a smooth process:

• Your Letter of Reference should not be merely a summary of business achievements. IRCC requires that the job duties align with those of code 00 (planning, organizing, and directing through other managers).

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• Verify that your salary is consistent with the average for senior management in your province, as reported by the Job Bank. A low salary for a "Senior Manager" will trigger a review by the officer.

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• Keep LinkedIn verification in mind. In 2026, data cross-referencing with professional networks is constant. Make sure your job title and responsibilities on LinkedIn match exactly what you listed on your Express Entry profile to avoid any suspicion of misrepresentation.

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Would you like us to work together to find the exact 00 code that corresponds to your industry sector so you can verify its functions? 

At Immiland Canada, we're here to help you settle in the country through the immigration pathways that best suit your profile.