Canada has conducted a new Express Entry draw targeting candidates in trade occupations, continuing its category-based selection approach to address labour shortages in key sectors.
On April 2, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under a trades-specific round (2026 Version 3). Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 477 to receive an invitation.
This draw highlights Canada’s increasing focus on skilled trades professionals, who play a vital role in supporting infrastructure, construction, and industrial growth across the country.
Express Entry Draw Results – April 2, 2026
Category: Trades Occupations (2026-Version 3)
Number of Invitations Issued: 3,000
Minimum CRS Score: 477
Rank Required: 3,000 or above
Date & Time of Round: April 2, 2026 at 13:39:04 UTC
Tie-Breaking Rule: February 14, 2026 at 20:53:54 UTC
Under the tie-breaking rule, candidates with a CRS score of 477 were invited only if they had submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before February 14, 2026 at 20:53:54 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 Trades Draw Matters
Trades-focused Express Entry draws are essential to Canada’s economic strategy. By selecting candidates in skilled trades, Canada aims to:
- Address ongoing labour shortages in construction and technical sectors
- Support major infrastructure and housing projects
- Strengthen the skilled workforce across provinces
- Boost economic productivity and long-term growth
Candidates in trades occupations are increasingly in demand, making category-based draws like this a key pathway to permanent residence.
Express Entry Snapshot – Trades Occupations
Draw Date: April 2, 2026
Invitations Issued: 3,000
Minimum CRS Score: 477
This latest draw reflects IRCC’s continued emphasis on category-based selection, ensuring that candidates with in-demand trade skills are prioritized for immigration.
🎉 Congratulations to the 3,000 candidates who received Invitations to Apply!
For those in the Express Entry pool, having experience in skilled trades occupations can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation in 2026.