03/20/2026
Express Entry Weekly Update
March 16–18, 2026
Canada continues to use targeted Express Entry draws to prioritize candidates who meet specific economic and labour needs. This week’s selections highlight the value of French-language proficiency, Canadian work experience, and provincial nominations.
March 18, 2026 – French-Language Proficiency Draw
* CRS Cut-Off: 393
* Invitations Issued: 4,000
This was the seventeenth Express Entry draw of 2026 and the third focusing on French-speaking candidates. So far, French-language draws have issued 18,000 ITAs in 2026, making this category the second most prioritized after CEC.
A CRS score under 400 demonstrates the strong advantage the French can provide. IRCC’s focus on targeted selection and in-Canada applicants makes bilingual skills increasingly strategic.
March 17, 2026 – Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
* CRS Cut-Off: 507
* Invitations Issued: 4,000
This was the sixteenth draw of 2026 and the fifth specifically for CEC candidates. With 28,000 ITAs issued to date, CEC continues to be the largest pathway for Express Entry candidates, reflecting IRCC’s emphasis on individuals with Canadian work experience.
For CEC candidates, this remains a prime opportunity to secure permanent residence.
March 16, 2026 – Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
* CRS Cut-Off: 742
* Invitations Issued: 362
This was the fifteenth Express Entry draw of 2026 and the sixth for PNP candidates. Provincial nominations provide an additional 600 CRS points, which explains the higher cut-off score.
PNP draws highlight the ongoing importance of aligning with provincial labour market needs, making this an effective pathway for candidates with provincial support.
Overall Trends in 2026:
* Total ITAs issued so far: 53,604
* Priority rounds of invitations:
- Provincial nominations
- Canadian work experience
- French-language proficiency
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