Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 5,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a March 4 Express Entry draw focused on French-language proficiency. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 397 and had to have created an Express Entry profile before 6:18 p.m. UTC on October 10, 2025.
This draw marks the second French-language category invitation of the year and the thirteenth Express Entry draw of 2026. The department continues to emphasize French-language entrants while drawing from streams such as provincial nominees and candidates with Canadian work experience.
Across 2026 to date, IRCC has issued 39,112 ITAs across Express Entry streams. A breakdown shows five Provincial Nominee Program draws, four Canadian Experience Class draws, two French-language proficiency draws, one draw for physicians with Canadian work experience, and one healthcare and social services draw.
The March 4 draw follows February activity that included a Physicians with Canadian work experience draw with a notably low CRS cut-off of 169, illustrating IRCC’s willingness to invite highly skilled professionals even at lower scores in demand occupations.
Analysts say 2026 Express Entry results reflect a focus on candidates already in Canada and those with provincial nominations, aligning with labor-market needs and regional immigration plans. This trend continues to shape how applicants prepare and where they pursue opportunities.
For prospective applicants, Maple News recommends keeping profiles current, monitoring CRS trends, and exploring provincial nomination routes to improve odds. Express Entry remains the fastest path to permanent residence for skilled workers in Canada.