Canada has issued 5,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence in the latest Express Entry draw, continuing its strategy to attract skilled immigrants who can contribute to the country’s economy.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Express Entry Draw #401 took place on March 4, 2026, targeting candidates with strong French-language proficiency.
Key Results of Express Entry Draw #401
Here are the main details from the latest draw:
Category: French-language proficiency (2026 – Version 2)
Invitations issued: 5,500
Rank required to be invited: 5,500 or above
Date of draw: March 4, 2026
Candidates with strong French skills had a higher chance of receiving an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residence through the Express Entry system.
Why Canada Is Prioritizing French-Speaking Candidates
Canada continues to focus on attracting French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec to support Francophone communities and strengthen economic growth across the country.
The Express Entry system now uses category-based selection, allowing the government to invite candidates who meet specific economic goals or labour market needs.
This means draws can target applicants based on factors such as:
Language proficiency (French or English)
Work experience in high-demand occupations
Canadian work experience
Skills needed to fill labour shortages
What Is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s online immigration system used to manage applications for skilled workers seeking permanent residence.
The system manages applications for three major immigration programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program
Canadian Experience Class
Federal Skilled Trades Program
Candidates in the pool are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which evaluates factors such as age, education, work experience, and language ability.
Approximately every two weeks, Canada holds invitation rounds and selects the highest-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residence.
Canada’s Focus on Skilled Workers
Canada continues to use immigration to address labour shortages and economic needs. Category-based draws allow the government to bring in professionals with skills that are in high demand across the country.
In recent years, categories have included sectors such as:
Healthcare
Trades
Education
Agriculture and agri-food
STEM occupations
These targeted draws help ensure newcomers can integrate into the workforce and contribute to Canada’s long-term economic growth.
Final Thoughts
Express Entry Draw #401 highlights Canada’s ongoing effort to attract skilled immigrants with French-language abilities. For candidates who meet the criteria, this draw provides another opportunity to move closer to permanent residence in Canada.
As Canada continues to adjust its immigration system, future draws may focus on specific skills, languages, or industries needed to support the country’s labour market.