Express Entry Draw 408 | 3,000 Invited in Trades Occupations Draw

The latest Canadian Express Entry draw #408 was held earlier this week for the new Trades category. This impressive first round issued 3,000 ITAs for permanent residence to candidates who had a CRS score of 477.

Express Entry Draw #408

Date of Draw: April 2, 2026

Number of Invitations Issued: 3,000

Minimum CRS: 477

Program Specified: Trades Occupations, 2026-Version 3

Tie-breaking rule: February 14, 2026 at 20:53:54 UTC

First-Ever 2026 Draw for Trade Workers

Express Entry draw 408 issued 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITA) to candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) of 477. Today’s draw was the first ever category-specific draw for trade occupations in 2026. Meaning that all candidates for this draw were selected from a select number of NOC codes within the Express Entry pool, related to trade occupations.

In general, category-specific draws have had a lower CRS cut-off score than the recent all-program draws.

What are the Eligible Trade Occupations For This Draw?

To be eligible for the trade occupation category, you must:

• have accumulated, within the past 3 years, at least 12 months of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time work experience).
  • in a single occupation listed in the table below (no matter your primary occupation)
  • in Canada or abroad
• meet all of the requirements in the instructions for each round

How Can I Apply for Express Entry?

Express Entry is a system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for Canadian permanent residency. Express Entry uses a point-based system, the CRS, to rank candidates’ profiles.

Applying to Express Entry is a two-step procedure. The first step is to submit your profile with the required documents. Required documents usually consist of language test results, educational credentials, and passport or travel documentation.

After you submit a profile and receive an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residence, you can submit your complete application for the IRCC to review. Your complete application should include supporting documents such as reference letters, additional identity documents, police clearance certificates, and results of a medical examination.

Interested in learning more about your options to enter the Express Entry pool? Complete our free online assessment form today!