Canada has conducted a new Express Entry draw targeting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), continuing its focused and category-based approach to immigration selection. In this round, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 2,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs), with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 509. The draw reflects Canada’s ongoing preference for candidates who are already working and contributing within the country.
This latest round reinforces a broader immigration strategy that prioritises in-Canada applicants with proven work experience. By selecting candidates who are already familiar with the labour market and social systems, Canada is aiming to ensure faster economic integration and reduce settlement challenges, making immigration outcomes more efficient and predictable.
Details of the Draw
✅ Invitation Round: #407
✅ Date of Round: March 31, 2026
✅ Type of Draw: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
✅ Number of ITAs Issued: 2,250
✅ CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 509
✅ Tie-Breaking Rule: March 18, 2026, at 8:27 am UTC
Purpose and Overview of the Draw
This draw prioritises candidates already working in Canada under the Canadian Experience Class, ensuring that individuals contributing to the economy are given preference in permanent residence selection
It helps address immediate labour market needs by selecting applicants who are already familiar with Canadian workplace standards and require minimal adjustment
The approach supports faster economic and social integration, as candidates with local experience generally face fewer settlement challenges
It also allows Canada to retain skilled temporary residents, including international graduates and foreign workers, by offering them a pathway to permanent residency
Overall, the draw strengthens the in-Canada immigration system by focusing on candidates already embedded in the workforce
Impact on Immigration
The draw reinforces the Canadian Experience Class as a key and dependable pathway to permanent residence within the Express Entry system
It encourages international students and temporary workers to gain Canadian work experience, as this significantly improves their chances of selection
The trend shows a continued shift towards targeted, category-based draws rather than broad, general invitations
This approach provides more structured and predictable opportunities for candidates already residing in Canada
The selection criteria underline the increasing importance of Canadian work experience in improving success within the Express Entry pool
Overall, the latest draw highlights Canada’s continued focus on selecting candidates who can contribute immediately to the economy. The emphasis on in-Canada experience suggests a more practical and outcome-driven immigration approach.
Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2026
Total ITAs issued in 2026: 55,830