On October 1, 2026, Canada held an Express Entry draw for skilled trades workers. IRCC invited 3,500 candidates to apply for permanent residence.

The lowest score invited was 476.

This was the second trades draw this year. The first, in April, invited 3,000 people. That brings trades invitations to 6,500 so far in 2026.

Who this draw was for

Only candidates in the trades category could be invited. To qualify, you needed:

• An active profile in the Express Entry pool
• Recent work experience in an eligible trade occupation, such as electrician, plumber, welder, carpenter or heavy equipment operator
• A CRS score of 476 or higher

If your score was exactly 476, you were invited only if you created your profile before May 28, 2026 at 16:55:23 UTC. This is IRCC's tie-break rule.

Our take

In a trades draw, your job matters as much as your score. You only compete with other tradespeople, which is a much smaller group than the full pool.

IRCC is signalling demand. Two trades rounds and 6,500 invitations this year show tradespeople are a priority. We expect more trades draws, but IRCC never announces draws in advance. Be ready before the next one, not after.

If you were invited

You have 60 days to submit your full application. Start gathering documents now:

• Police certificates from every country where you lived 6 months or more since age 18
• Medical exam
• Reference letters that match your job duties
• Proof of funds, if your program requires it

Police certificates from some countries take weeks. Request them first.

If you missed it

1. Check your score with IRCC's official CRS tool.
2. Confirm your NOC code. If your profile lists the wrong occupation code, you can miss trades draws completely.
3. Look for points. A higher language test score, a French test, or a provincial nomination (worth 600 points) can change your outcome.
4. Keep your profile active. Profiles expire after 12 months.

Your trade is your advantage. Make sure your profile shows it.

Source: IRCC, Express Entry rounds of invitations.