Canada continues to prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience through targeted Express Entry draws. In the latest round, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited thousands of candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), reinforcing its focus on transitioning temporary residents to permanent status.

On March 3, 2026, IRCC issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence under Ministerial Instructions #400. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 508 to receive an invitation.

Express Entry Draw Results – March 3, 2026

Category: Canadian Experience Class
Number of Invitations Issued: 4,000
Minimum CRS Score: 508
Rank Required: 4,000 or above
Date & Time of Round: March 3, 2026 at 11:41:00 UTC
Tie-Breaking Rule: June 24, 2025 at 22:35:48 UTC

Under the tie-breaking rule, candidates with a CRS score of 508 were invited only if they had submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before June 24, 2025, at 22:35:48 UTC.

If multiple candidates had the lowest CRS score, the cut-off was determined based on the date and time their profiles were submitted.

Why This CEC Draw Matters

Canadian Experience Class draws are significant because they prioritize candidates who already have skilled work experience in Canada. These applicants are often well-integrated into the Canadian labour market and can transition smoothly to permanent residence.

This latest draw helps to:

  • Retain skilled talent already working in Canada
  • Support labour market stability across provinces and territories
  • Strengthen economic immigration targets for 2026
  • Provide a streamlined pathway to permanent residence for eligible temporary residents

Express Entry Snapshot (Canadian Experience Class)

Draw Date: March 3, 2026
Invitations Issued: 4,000
Minimum CRS Score: 508

This round highlights IRCC’s continued focus on candidates with Canadian work experience under the Express Entry system. With 4,000 invitations issued, it marks one of the larger CEC-specific draws in recent months.

🎉 Congratulations to the 4,000 candidates who received Invitations to Apply!

If you are currently working in Canada and meet the eligibility criteria, the Canadian Experience Class remains one of the strongest pathways to Canadian permanent residence in 2026.