What is the Latest CRS Score for the Express Entry Trades Draw?

On April 2, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a targeted Express Entry draw for candidates in Trades Occupations, issuing 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to individuals with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 477.

Summary:

• Draw Date: April 2, 2026

• Draw Type: Trades Occupations (Category-Based)

• ITAs Issued: 3,000

• Minimum CRS Score: 477

• Tie-breaking Rule: Profiles must have been created before February 14, 2026, at 20:53:54 UTC. (If multiple candidates share the 477 cutoff score, only those who submitted their profile before this exact date and time received an invitation.)

• YTD Trend: This is the third dedicated trades draw of 2026, signaling a sustained federal commitment to addressing skilled labour shortages in Canada.

What is a Category-Based Trades Occupations Draw?

Since 2023, IRCC has utilized category-based draws to target candidates based on specific occupational experience rather than their overall CRS score alone.

To qualify for an Express Entry trades draw April 2026, your primary National Occupational Classification (NOC) code—the main occupation you claim for your qualifying work experience—must fall within the eligible categories. Secondary work experience in these fields does not qualify you for the draw. Eligible trades include:

• NOC 72: Industrial, electrical, and construction trades

• NOC 73: Maintenance and equipment operation trades

• NOC 82: Supervisors and technical occupations in natural resources

• NOC 83: Workers in natural resources, agriculture, and related production

• NOC 632 / 633: Chef and cook occupations

• NOC 6321: Butchers and bakers

What Does a CRS Score of 477 Mean for Trades Workers?

A cutoff of 477 is competitive but highly accessible for trades candidates, especially compared to general Express Entry draws which often demand scores well into the 500s. Category-based draws consistently feature lower cut-offs.

A CRS of 477 is achievable for candidates who possess a combination of solid language scores, Canadian work experience (through the CEC), and post-secondary education. Furthermore, candidates with a valid Canadian job offer receive an additional 50 or 200 points, providing a massive advantage in reaching this threshold.

The Critical Importance of Accurate NOC Classification

One of the most consequential mistakes in Express Entry applications is an incorrect NOC code. Your primary occupation must be accurately represented based on your actual, day-to-day duties, not just your job title.

A candidate who classifies themselves under the wrong NOC code—even with years of legitimate trades experience—can face a refusal on the basis that they do not qualify for the category they claimed. Misrepresentation findings can result in multi-year bans on future applications.

What Happens After Receiving an ITA?

If you received an ITA in this draw, you have exactly 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application. Missing this firm deadline means your ITA expires and you return to the pool.

Your application must include strict documentation, including:

• Proof of work experience matching your claimed NOC code

• Valid language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada)

• Educational credential assessment (ECA), if applicable

• Police certificates and medical examinations

• Proof of funds (exempt if you have a valid job offer or are currently working in Canada)

Secure Your Trades Immigration Strategy

If you received an ITA today, the 60-day clock is already ticking. If your score is currently below the 477 cutoff, you are not out of options—improving language scores, securing a job offer, or pursuing a provincial nomination can dramatically shift your CRS.

Contact the immigration team at Cambria Law Firm in Mississauga today. Whether you need full PR application preparation, NOC classification guidance, or a strategy to improve your score for the next draw, we offer expert, strategic counsel.