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Canada Express Entry: IRCC Invites 3,000 Candidates in First-Ever Trades Draw
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its first Express Entry draw under the newly introduced Trades category on April 2, 2026, issuing 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to eligible candidates.
To qualify for this round, candidates were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 477. Additionally, applicants needed to have created their Express Entry profile before February 14, 2026, at 8:53 p.m. (UTC).
Express Entry Draws in 2026
| Date | Draw Type | Minimum CRS | ITAs Issued |
| April 2 | Trades | 477 | 3,000 |
| March 31 | Canadian Experience Class | 509 | 2,250 |
| March 30 | Provincial Nominee Program | 802 | 356 |
| March 18 | French Language Proficiency | 393 | 4,000 |
| March 17 | Canadian Experience Class | 507 | 4,000 |
| March 16 | Provincial Nominee Program | 742 | 362 |
| March 5 | Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience | 429 | 250 |
| March 4 | French Language Proficiency | 397 | 5,500 |
| March 3 | Canadian Experience Class | 508 | 4,000 |
| March 2 | Provincial Nominee Program | 710 | 264 |
| February 20 | Healthcare and Social Services | 467 | 4,000 |
| February 19 | Physicians with Canadian Work Experience | 169 | 391 |
| February 17 | Canadian Experience Class | 508 | 6,000 |
| February 16 | Provincial Nominee Program | 789 | 279 |
| February 6 | French Language Proficiency | 400 | 8,500 |
| February 3 | Provincial Nominee Program | 749 | 423 |
| January 21 | Canadian Experience Class | 509 | 6,000 |
| January 20 | Provincial Nominee Program | 746 | 681 |
| January 7 | Canadian Experience Class | 511 | 8,000 |
| January 5 | Provincial Nominee Program | 711 | 574 |
This marks the 20th Express Entry draw of 2026 and the first selection held under the revised Trades category, following recent updates to eligibility criteria.
Growing Focus on Skilled Trades
The introduction of a dedicated Trades draw highlights Canada’s increasing demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and maintenance. By targeting this category, IRCC aims to address critical labour shortages and support economic growth across the country.
Recent updates to work experience requirements have also made it easier for qualified trades professionals to access permanent residence through Express Entry.
Focus on In-Canada Candidates Continues
In 2026, IRCC has largely prioritized candidates already residing in Canada, particularly those with Canadian work experience or provincial nominations. The addition of category-based draws, such as Trades, further reflects a targeted approach to meet specific labour market needs.
What This Means for Applicants
The latest draw presents a significant opportunity for skilled trades professionals looking to immigrate to Canada. With targeted selection rounds now in place, candidates in high-demand occupations may benefit from improved chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply.
For prospective applicants, maintaining a strong Express Entry profile and aligning with in-demand categories can play a key role in securing permanent residence in Canada.