Canada Express Entry: Provincial Nominee Draw Issues 356 ITAs in Latest Round

Canada’s immigration system continues to move at a steady pace in 2026, with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada conducting another targeted Express Entry draw. In the latest round held on 30th March, the department issued 356 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

This draw again shows a clear trend—Canada is focusing more on candidates who already have some form of connection to the country, especially through provincial nominations or local work experience.

Key Eligibility Criteria for This Draw

To be considered in this round, candidates had to meet specific requirements. A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 802 was required, which is expected in PNP draws due to the additional points from nomination. Along with this, candidates must have created their Express Entry profile before 3:54 a.m. UTC on February 12, 2026. Even a slight delay beyond this timestamp meant missing out on this round.

Express Entry Draw Result – 30th March 2026

Click here to see the complete list of Express Entry draws until date

2026 Draw Trends So Far

This was the 18th Express Entry draw of 2026, and the pattern this year is quite clear. Instead of broad, all-program draws, the focus has shifted to smaller, category-based selections.

From this breakdown, it’s evident that most invitations are going to candidates already inside Canada or those meeting very specific criteria.

Total ITAs Issued in 2026

Canada has already issued a significant number of ITAs this year across different categories. The distribution highlights where the country’s priorities lie.

These numbers clearly show that candidates with Canadian work experience and French-language skills are leading the way in 2026.

What This Means for Applicants

If you are planning to apply for Canada PR, this trend cannot be ignored. Simply being in the Express Entry pool may not be enough anymore. You need a focused approach—either by improving your CRS score, gaining Canadian experience, or exploring provincial nomination options. The system is becoming more selective, but at the same time, opportunities are still strong for those who plan strategically.

Plan Your Canada PR Journey with the Right Guidance

Applying for Canada PR today requires more than just eligibility—it needs the right direction. Choosing between Express Entry categories or targeting a Provincial Nominee Program can directly impact your chances. Visas Avenue can guide you with a clear and practical approach based on your profile, helping you take the next step with confidence. To begin your process with better clarity, you can connect with their team for an evaluation. Call Toll-Free at 78-18-000-777 or email info@visasavenue.com.

- Rajneesh Kumar