CRS Score
477
32 vs previous
ITAs Issued
3,000
750 vs previous
Program
Trades
Processing
IRCC times by programHow Draw #408 Compares
The round before this one was draw #407 on March 31, 2026, a Canadian Experience Class draw that invited 2,250 candidates with a cut-off of 509. Against that round, the CRS cut-off fell by 32 points, from 509 to 477, and invitations rose from 2,250 to 3,000. The last Trades draw before this one was #368 on September 18, 2025, 196 days earlier. Compared with that draw, the CRS cut-off fell by 28 points, from 505 to 477, and invitations rose from 1,250 to 3,000. In the 12 months up to and including this round, IRCC held 2 Trades draws with cut-offs from 477 to 505 and 4,250 invitations in total; 477 was the lowest cut-off in that period.
What This Draw Means
Express Entry Draw #408 was held on April 2, 2026, targeting Trade Occupations candidates. The minimum CRS score was 477 with 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued. This is the third trades-specific draw of 2026, continuing IRCC's focus on skilled tradespeople. The CRS cutoff of 477 is relatively accessible for trade workers with strong language scores and work experience. Candidates with a CRS score of 477 or above who submitted their Express Entry profile before February 14, 2026 at 20:53:54 UTC received an invitation.
Tie-Breaking Rule
Tie-break date and time: February 14, 2026 at 20:53:54 UTC. Candidates with exactly 477 points were invited only if they submitted their profile before this time.
What This Means For You
Category-Based Draw Advantage
Category-based draws often have lower CRS cut-offs than general draws. If you work in this field, focus on category-specific draws for better chances.
If Your Score is Higher
You likely would have received an ITA in this draw. Ensure your profile is complete and up-to-date to receive invitations in future draws.
If Your Score is Lower
Focus on improving your CRS score through better language tests, additional education, Canadian experience, or a provincial nomination.
How to Improve Your CRS Score
Improve Language Scores
Retake IELTS/CELPIP to achieve CLB 9+ in all abilities. Each band increase significantly boosts your score.
Provincial Nomination (+600 Points)
Apply for PNP programs in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta. An Express Entry-linked nomination adds 600 CRS points; 2026 Provincial Nominee Program rounds have cut off between 697 and 805.
Gain Canadian Experience
Work in Canada on a work permit to earn up to 80 CRS points for Canadian work experience.
Learn French (Up to 50 Points)
French proficiency (CLB 7+) adds bonus points and qualifies you for French-language draws with lower cut-offs.
Get Expert Help
Our RCIC consultants can calculate your exact CRS score, identify the best strategies to improve it, and help you navigate the Express Entry process.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Each case is unique and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) before making immigration decisions.