Canada has conducted a new Express Entry draw targeting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), continuing its focus on individuals with valuable Canadian work experience.

On March 31, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 2,250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a CEC-specific round. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 509 to receive an invitation.

This draw highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to selecting candidates who have already demonstrated their ability to integrate into the workforce through prior Canadian experience.

Express Entry Draw Results – March 31, 2026

  • Category: Canadian Experience Class
  • Number of Invitations Issued: 2,250
  • Minimum CRS Score: 509
  • Rank Required: 2,250 or above
  • Date & Time of Round: March 31, 2026 at 10:53:56 UTC
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: March 18, 2026 at 08:27:11 UTC

Under the tie-breaking rule, candidates with a CRS score of 509 were invited only if they had submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before March 18, 2026 at 08:27:11 UTC.

If more than one candidate 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 play a key role in Canada’s immigration system. By selecting candidates with Canadian work experience, Canada aims to:

  • Retain skilled talent already contributing to the economy
  • Support faster labour market integration
  • Reduce settlement challenges for newcomers
  • Strengthen long-term economic growth

CEC candidates are often highly competitive due to their familiarity with Canada’s job market, language proficiency, and adaptability.

Express Entry Snapshot – Canadian Experience Class

  • Draw Date: March 31, 2026
  • Invitations Issued: 2,250
  • Minimum CRS Score: 509

This latest draw reflects IRCC’s continued emphasis on Canadian Experience Class selections, reinforcing its strategy to prioritize candidates already working and living in Canada.

🎉 Congratulations to the 2,250 candidates who received Invitations to Apply!

For candidates in the Express Entry pool, gaining Canadian work experience remains one of the most effective pathways to permanent residence in 2026.