February 2026 marked a milestone for Canada PR with IRCC issuing 25,722 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across multiple Express Entry draws, far surpassing prior months amid policy shifts like PNP caps. This surge targets category-based selections in high-demand fields—STEM (IT, engineering), healthcare (nurses, doctors), and trades (electricians, welders)—lowering CRS cutoffs to 480-530 for qualified Indians.
Frequent draws (up to 6 in the month) stabilized scores, making now ideal for pool entry before March tightening. Indian professionals with 3+ years experience, IELTS CLB 9+, and age under 35 hit 500+ CRS easily, boosting ITA odds by 40%.
Key Draw Highlights 2026
| Draw Focus | ITAs | Min CRS | Ideal Indian Profiles |
|---|---|---|---|
| STEM/IT | 8,500 | 510 | Software devs, data analysts |
| Healthcare | 7,200 | 485 | Nurses, physicians |
| Trades | 5,000 | 495 | Skilled mechanics |
| CEC/General | 5,022 | 522 | All-rounders with Canadian ties |
Actionable Steps for Indians in 2026
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Check Eligibility First – Use IRCC’s online tool or 67-point grid to confirm FSWP/CEC/FSTP fit (min 67 points: language, education, experience). This scans your profile against draws; Indians often qualify via IT/healthcare NOC codes like 21231 (software devs).
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Gather Core Documents – Get ECA (WES for degrees), language tests (IELTS/PTE CLB 9+ target), passport, and 1-year funds proof (CAD 14,690 single). Prep early—ECA takes 4-8 weeks, language boosts CRS by 72 points from CLB 7 to 10.
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Create IRCC Profile – Log into secure account (GCKey/bank login), enter details (NOC-matched jobs, family, skills), submit for CRS auto-calc and pool entry. Accuracy matters—mismatched NOC/dates lead to ITA rejection; update anytime for improvements.
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Maximize CRS Score – Retake language for CLB 10 (+24 core points), add French TEF (up to 50 bonus), gain spouse points, or secure PNP (+600). Track via calculator; Feb 2026 cutoffs averaged 500—STEM Indians hit this with 3 years exp.
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Secure ITA and Submit PR – Monitor draws; if CRS meets cutoff, get 60-day ITA—upload police/medical/funds. Post-submission: Biometrics (CAD 85), expect 6-month processing; 80% approval for complete apps.
February 2026’s record 25,722 ITAs through Express Entry underscore a golden window for Indian PR aspirants in STEM, healthcare, and trades, with CRS cutoffs stabilizing around 500 amid category-based draws. By meticulously following these actionable steps—from eligibility checks and document prep to profile creation and CRS optimization—you position yourself ahead of tightening PNP caps and policy shifts, turning intent into an approved PR within 6-12 months.
Future Fly Immigration Services streamlines this journey with free CRS audits, 98% ITA success, and end-to-end support, ensuring your profile shines in upcoming March draws. Don’t delay , contact +91-8750165551 today to launch your Canada PR path before competition intensifies, securing a brighter future Down Under.