Canada continues to prioritize Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates through targeted Express Entry draws. In the latest round, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited candidates with provincial nominations, reinforcing the importance of provincial pathways in Canada’s immigration system.

On March 2, 2026, IRCC issued 264 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence under Ministerial Instructions #399. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 710 to receive an invitation.

Express Entry Draw Results – March 2, 2026

  • Category: Provincial Nominee Program
  • Number of Invitations Issued: 264
  • Minimum CRS Score: 710
  • Rank Required: 264 or above
  • Date & Time of Round: March 2, 2026 at 14:18:39 UTC
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: August 7, 2025 at 18:02:56 UTC

Under the tie-breaking rule, candidates with a CRS score of 710 were invited only if they had submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before August 7, 2025, at 18:02:56 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 PNP Draw Matters

Provincial Nominee Program draws are significant because candidates receive an additional 600 CRS points through a provincial nomination. This effectively guarantees a high CRS score and significantly increases their chances of receiving an invitation under Express Entry.

This latest draw helps to:

  • Support provinces and territories in meeting regional labour market needs
  • Strengthen economic immigration across Canada
  • Provide a direct pathway to permanent residence for provincially nominated candidates
  • Align federal immigration selection with provincial workforce demands

Express Entry Snapshot (Provincial Nominee Program)

Draw Date: March 2, 2026
Invitations Issued: 264
Minimum CRS Score: 710

This round highlights IRCC’s continued commitment to working closely with provinces and territories under the Express Entry system. Candidates with a provincial nomination remain strongly positioned for permanent residence in 2026.

🎉 Congratulations to the 264 candidates who received Invitations to Apply!

If you have secured or are pursuing a provincial nomination, the Provincial Nominee Program remains one of the strongest pathways to Canadian permanent residence.