On March 5, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the first-ever Express Entry draw targeting senior managers with Canadian work experience. IRCC issued 250 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the fourth draw of the week.

In round #402, the cut-off score was 429 points. The tie-breaking rule for this round was August 19, 2025, at 15:10:18 UTC.

As of March 1, 2026, 232,534 profiles were registered in the Express Entry pool. So far in 2026, the Government of Canada has issued 44,862 invitations across 14 Express Entry draws.

This draw is notable as the first of its kind — a category-based selection round specifically designed for senior managers who have already gained work experience in Canada. Category-based draws allow IRCC to target candidates whose skills and experience align with Canada’s specific economic and labour market priorities, beyond the general Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score competition. Candidates in management occupations who have built their careers in Canada are now being recognized through a dedicated pathway within Express Entry.

For more information on Express Entry draws and eligibility, visit the Government of Canada’s official Express Entry page.

Join us at our upcoming course Express Entry Applications 2026 on July 29, 2026 for an in-depth look at the Express Entry system and mastering federal applications for skilled workers.

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