Canada’s immigration system has recently made strides in attracting skilled labor through a new Express Entry draw focused on trades. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for candidates in the Trades Occupations category.
Details of the Latest Trades Category Draw
The latest draw took place on April 2, 2026. To be eligible, candidates were required to meet specific criteria:
- A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 477.
- Creation of an Express Entry candidate profile before 8:53 p.m. UTC on February 14, 2026.
Significance of the Trades Category
This draw represents the first selection under the updated Trades category for the year and the twentieth Express Entry draw in 2026. The IRCC has identified Trades occupations as a priority, reflecting their high demand in the Canadian labor market. Recent changes to work experience requirements, implemented in February 2026, also contributed to this draw.
Summary of 2026 Express Entry Draws
The focus of IRCC’s Express Entry draws in 2026 has primarily been on candidates already in Canada, particularly those holding provincial nominations or Canadian work experience. Here is a summary of the draws held so far this year:
| Draw Type | Date | CRS Score | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trades | April 2 | 477 | 3,000 |
| Canadian Experience Class | March 31 | 509 | 2,250 |
| Provincial Nominee Program | March 30 | 802 | 356 |
| French-Language Proficiency | March 18 | 393 | 4,000 |
Overall ITAs Issued in 2026
So far in 2026, IRCC has issued a total of 58,830 ITAs across different categories:
- Canadian Experience Class: 30,250
- French-Language Proficiency: 18,000
- Healthcare and Social Services: 4,000
- Trades: 3,000
- Provincial Nominee Program: 2,939
- Physicians with Canadian Work Experience: 391
- Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 250
The growing focus on the Trades category underlines the importance of skilled workers in boosting Canada’s economy. As the demand for trades continues to rise, more opportunities will likely emerge for eligible candidates seeking to settle in Canada.
