For the second time in 2026, Canada has once again invited candidates to apply for permanent residence through its Express Entry system.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a major Express Entry draw on March 4, 2026, issuing 5,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates seeking Canadian permanent residence. This round specifically targeted applicants with strong French-language proficiency, and the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score dropped to 397, making it one of the lowest cutoffs seen in recent Express Entry draws. The large number of invitations and relatively low score highlight Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract French-speaking immigrants, just as indicated by the last Express Entry draw.

The draw, which was Express Entry draw number 401, used a tie-breaking rule set at October 10, 2025, at 18:18:20 UTC. When multiple candidates have the same CRS score, IRCC prioritises those who submitted their profiles earlier in the Express Entry pool. This means candidates with a score of exactly 397 and who submitted their profile before the tie-breaking time received invitations first.

This draw is particularly notable because it represents the first time Canada introduced a dedicated category for senior managers under the Express Entry system. The move signals Canada’s interest in attracting experienced professionals who can contribute to leadership and management roles in the economy.

The relatively low CRS score in this draw can be explained by Canada’s category-based selection system, which focuses on specific groups of candidates. French-language proficiency draws typically have lower CRS cutoffs because they target a smaller group of applicants who meet specific language requirements. Canada has been prioritising French speakers as part of its broader strategy to support bilingualism and strengthen Francophone communities across the country.

To qualify under the French-language proficiency category, candidates must demonstrate strong French skills. Applicants need a minimum score of NCLC 7 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. These results must come from approved language tests such as TEF Canada or TCF Canada. In addition, candidates must also be eligible under one of the three Express Entry immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class.

In conclusion, the March 4, 2026, Express Entry draw shows Canada’s strong commitment to attracting skilled immigrants, especially French-speaking candidates. By issuing 5,500 invitations with a CRS cutoff of 397, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada continues to create new opportunities for qualified applicants seeking permanent residence. With more draws expected in the coming weeks, candidates with strong French skills may have an even better chance of receiving an invitation.