Express Entry: Canada Invites 2,250 CEC Candidates in Last Draw of March

Canada’s immigration department has continued its steady pace of invitations, selecting thousands of skilled workers already living in the country. In the latest Express Entry draw, officials invited 2,250 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

This draw took place on March 31 and marked another step in the country’s effort to bring in workers with Canadian job experience.

Score Requirement and Profile Deadline

Candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 509 to receive an invitation. They also had to submit their Express Entry profile before 8:27 a.m. UTC on March 18, 2026.

These requirements ensured that only the most competitive applicants received invitations in this round.

Strong Focus on In-Canada Candidates

So far in 2026, immigration draws have mostly focused on candidates who already live and work in Canada. Many selected applicants either hold provincial nominations or have gained work experience within the country.

This approach reflects Canada’s effort to keep skilled workers who have already adapted to life and work in the country.

March Sees Multiple Draws Across Categories

March remained a busy month for Express Entry selections. Along with the latest CEC draw, the department held several rounds targeting different groups.

Earlier draws in March included invitations for provincial nominees, French-speaking candidates, and individuals with Canadian work experience. One of the largest draws invited 5,500 French-language candidates, while several others targeted CEC applicants with 4,000 invitations each.

A smaller draw also focused on senior managers with Canadian work experience, showing a mix of targeted and broader selections.

Express Entry Activity in 2026

The March 31 draw marked the nineteenth Express Entry round this year and the sixth draw specifically for Canadian Experience Class candidates.

In total, Canada has issued 55,830 invitations so far in 2026. Most of these have gone to CEC candidates, who received 30,250 invitations. French-language candidates followed with 18,000 invitations.

Other categories, such as healthcare workers, provincial nominees, and physicians with Canadian experience, also received invitations, though in smaller numbers.

Breakdown of Draw Types

This year, the department has held seven draws for the Provincial Nominee Program and six for the Canadian Experience Class. It also conducted three draws for French-language candidates.

Smaller, targeted draws included healthcare workers, physicians, and senior managers.

A Clear Direction for Immigration

The pattern of draws in 2026 shows a clear direction. Canada continues to prioritize candidates who already contribute to the workforce and economy.

By selecting applicants with local experience or provincial support, the country aims to strengthen its labour market while helping newcomers settle more easily.