Express Entry
Latest Express Entry Draw #399 Issues 264 ITAs in PNP Round With CRS 710
The Latest Express Entry Draw #399, held on March 2, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada invited 264 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program category. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score required was 710. If you are in the Express Entry pool, this draw matters. It signals how targeted and strategic Canada’s immigration system continues to be in 2026.
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Express Entry Latest Draw #399: Key Highlights
Here are the official details of the latest round:
| Detail | Information |
| Draw Number | #399 |
| Date | March 2, 2026 |
| Category | Provincial Nominee Program |
| ITAs Issued | 264 |
| CRS Cut Off | 710 |
| Tie Breaking Rule | August 07, 2025 at 18:02:56 UTC |
This was the 5th PNP draw of 2026. So far this year, the PNP category has issued 2,220 Invitations to Apply. A CRS score of 710 may appear high. But remember, Provincial Nominee candidates automatically receive 600 additional CRS points after nomination. That means many invited candidates originally had base scores around the low 100s or mid 100s before nomination.
Express Entry Latest Draw Trends In 2026
So far in 2026, Canada has conducted 11 Express Entry draws. Together, they have issued 35,112 ITAs. For comparison, 2025 saw 113,998 ITAs issued across 58 draws.
Here is a simple comparison:
| Year | Total Draws | Total ITAs |
| 2025 | 58 | 113,998 |
| 2026 | 11 | 35,112 |
While the year is still early, IRCC appears to be continuing a focused strategy. PNP and category-based draws remain central.
Why Is The CRS So High In 2026
Many candidates ask the same question. Why are CRS scores staying high? There are several reasons.
- First, Canada’s immigration levels are more targeted. Express Entry is being used strategically rather than broadly.
- Second, category-based draws are narrowing selection pools. French language, healthcare, STEM, education, and other specific groups are receiving focused invitations.
- Third, thousands of candidates in the pool currently hold scores above 500. As of March 1, 2026, the Express Entry pool includes 232,534 candidates. That is a large number competing for limited spots.
An Express Entry draw is how IRCC selects candidates from the pool and issues Invitations to Apply for permanent residence. Candidates are ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System. Those who meet or exceed the cut off score receive an ITA.
Key Elements Include
- Draw number
- Date of the draw
- Category targeted
- CRS cut off score
- Number of ITAs issued
- Tie-breaking rule
If multiple candidates share the same CRS score at the cut-off, IRCC uses the tie-breaking rule to prioritize those who submitted their profiles earlier.
Next Express Entry Draw Prediction
The next Express Entry draw is predicted to take place on March 3, 2026, and it is expected to target the Canadian Experience Class category. Based on recent trends, pool composition, and the steady focus on in Canada applicants, the projected CRS cut-off is likely to be 507 or higher. With IRCC continuing to prioritize candidates who already have Canadian work experience, this upcoming round could provide a valuable opportunity for eligible CEC candidates who have been waiting in the pool.
Applicants with CRS scores close to the predicted range should ensure their profiles are accurate and up to date, as even minor improvements in language scores or additional work experience could make a difference in receiving an Invitation to Apply. Based on current patterns, here is what we may see:
- Regular Provincial Nominee draws
- Continued French language-focused draws
- Ongoing Canadian Experience Class invitations
- Targeted occupation-specific rounds
The introduction of new occupation categories, including senior managers with Canadian work experience, signals that IRCC is refining its selection tools. If you are aiming for Express Entry in 2026, adaptability is essential.
How To Improve Your CRS Score
If your score is below recent cut-offs, here are proven strategies:
- Improve your language test scores
- Gain additional work experience
- Pursue a provincial nomination
- Complete further education
- Add a spouse’s credentials strategically
Even small improvements can shift your ranking significantly.
Express Entry Latest Draw Shows Strategic Focus
The Express Entry Latest Draw #399 demonstrates Canada’s continued emphasis on Provincial Nominee candidates and targeted immigration. With 264 ITAs issued at a CRS of 710, competition remains strong. But opportunities continue for well-prepared candidates.
If you want to maximise your chances in the next Express Entry Latest Draw, staying updated is the key! Stay connected with Canada Immigration News daily for the most accurate Express Entry updates.
FAQs About Express Entry Latest Draw #399
1. What was the CRS cut off in Express Entry Latest Draw #399
The CRS cut off was 710 in the March 2, 2026 PNP draw. This score reflects candidates who received a provincial nomination, which adds 600 CRS points to their base score.
2. How many ITAs were issued in this draw
A total of 264 Invitations to Apply were issued under the Provincial Nominee Program category.
3. Why is the CRS score so high in PNP draws
PNP candidates receive 600 additional CRS points. That is why CRS scores in PNP rounds often exceed 700.
4. How many Express Entry draws have been held in 2026
As of early March 2026, IRCC has conducted 11 Express Entry draws and issued 35,112 ITAs.
5. What is the tie breaking rule
The tie-breaking rule applies when multiple candidates have the same CRS score at the cut off. In this draw, profiles submitted before August 07, 2025 at 18:02:56 UTC were prioritized.
6. What is a Provincial Nominee Program draw
A PNP draw invites only candidates who have received a nomination from a Canadian province or territory through an Express Entry aligned stream.
7. How can I get a provincial nomination
Each province operates its own nomination streams. Eligibility depends on occupation, work experience, language ability, and local labour needs.
8. When is the next Express Entry draw
IRCC does not announce draw dates in advance. However, it is expected to take place on March 3.
9. Is there a minimum CRS score required to enter Express Entry
No. There is no minimum CRS score required to enter the pool, as long as you meet eligibility for one of the Express Entry programs.
10. What should I do after receiving an ITA
If invited, you have 60 days to submit your complete permanent residence application. Proper documentation and accuracy are critical at this stage.
