I. Introduction: Round #409 PNP Draw – 324 ITAs Issued

On April 13, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the 409th Express Entry draw. This is the second draw of April, and the category was Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) targeted draw.

Key results: 324 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 786. The tie-breaking rule was set to November 19, 2025 at 18:53:59 UTC — candidates who submitted their profiles on or before this date with a CRS score of 786 or above received invitations.

Express Entry is Canada’s primary economic immigration pathway, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST). PNP targeted draws are specifically for candidates who have already received a provincial nomination. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, which virtually guarantees an invitation in a PNP draw. For a detailed breakdown of 2026 PNP no-job-offer programs and multi-province EOI strategy, check our complete guide.

This draw reflects the stable frequency and moderate volume adjustments of 2026 PNP draws, providing valuable insights for applicants who hold or plan to apply for provincial nominations.

II. Round #409 Detailed Results

Draw Date and Category
The draw took place on April 13, 2026 at 10:51 AM UTC. Category: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This marks the 9th PNP targeted draw of 2026.

Key Data Summary

• ITAs Issued: 324 (rank required within top 324 or above)
• Minimum CRS Score: 786
• Tie-breaking Rule: November 19, 2025 at 18:53:59 UTC
• Draw Category: PNP Targeted

The 600-Point PNP Advantage
A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points. This means even if a candidate’s core human capital score (age, education, language, work experience) is in the 200-300 range, the total score reaches 800-900 after nomination — almost guaranteeing an invitation in a PNP draw. This is why PNP draw CRS scores are significantly higher than general draws (CEC typically 500-510). For more on Express Entry 2.0 and why work experience is now more valuable than education, read our full analysis.

Source: IRCC official “Rounds of invitations” page.

III. Recent and 2026 Trend Comparison

Recent PNP Draw Comparison
The previous PNP draw (#406 on March 30) issued 356 ITAs with a minimum CRS of 802. Compared to that round, this draw saw a decrease of 32 ITAs (-9%) and a CRS drop of 16 points. Compared to #403 on March 16 (CRS 742, 362 ITAs), the CRS rebounded but ITA volume declined.

2026 Overall Trends
As of April 13, 2026, Express Entry has issued approximately 59,000+ ITAs, with PNP accounting for about 3,263. PNP draw CRS scores range between 710-802, with this round’s 786 on the higher end but not at the peak. Key observable trends include:

• PNP targeted draw frequency is stable (approximately every two weeks)
• Single-round ITA volumes show a moderate downward trend
• CRS scores fluctuate based on provincial nomination issuance rhythm

For a comprehensive overview of March 2026 immigration updates including TR to PR and Express Entry 2.0 categories, check our monthly roundup.

IV. Policy and Market Background

The Role of PNP in Express Entry
PNP allows provinces to nominate candidates based on local labor market needs. Nominated candidates enter the EE pool with a 600-point boost, making it one of the most reliable fast tracks to permanent residence. Popular provinces like Ontario, BC, and Alberta have competitive streams, while some provinces have occupation-specific draws.

Impact of the 2026 Immigration Levels Plan
Canada continues to maintain high economic immigration targets, with PNP quotas significantly increased from 2025. However, IRCC manages system balance through small-batch, high-frequency PNP targeted draws. The 324 ITAs in this round reflect IRCC’s precise inventory management of PNP candidates. For a detailed Canada PR application document checklist for every pathway, visit our complete guide.

Positive Signal: Backlog Reduction
The decreasing number of nominated candidates in the pool means that newly nominated applicants may face improved competition. However, the high CRS threshold still requires strong core qualifications — age, education, language scores, and Canadian work experience remain decisive factors.

V. Practical Advice and Forward Outlook

If You Already Have a PNP Nomination
Candidates with CRS 786+ and profile submission before November 19, 2025 have a high probability of receiving an ITA. If not yet invited, focus on improving language scores (CLB), accumulating Canadian work experience, or obtaining higher education credentials.

If You Are Planning to Apply for PNP
Prioritize provinces that match your occupation profile. Tech workers should consider BC’s Tech Pilot or Ontario’s OINP Tech draws. Trades workers should look at Alberta and Saskatchewan. Submit your provincial nomination application as early as possible — PNP remains one of the most deterministic pathways to Canadian PR. Check our complete list of 2026 PNP no-job-offer programs for multi-province EOI strategies.

If You Do Not Have a Nomination
Monitor CEC or category-based draws (much lower thresholds, typically 500-510 CRS) while preparing PNP as a backup. Strategies to improve core CRS include:

• Improve IELTS/CELPIP scores (CLB 9+ provides significant points)
• Accumulate at least 1 year of Canadian work experience (CEC pathway)
• Obtain higher education credentials (dual degrees or a master’s degree)
• Maximize spouse factors (language, education, work experience)

For newcomers planning their landing, our 2026 Canada Newcomer’s Master Guide: From PR to Homeownership covers everything from PR timelines to tax implications and settlement services.

Outlook
PNP draws are expected to continue at a bi-weekly pace with small-batch volumes. CRS scores will likely fluctuate between 720-800. The remainder of April may see CEC draws, with projected scores in the 500-510 range. Long-term, if backlogs continue to clear, PNP round volumes may see a modest increase, but the high-CRS characteristic will remain unchanged.

Action Items
Regularly check the IRCC “Rounds of invitations” page and monitor provincial immigration websites for updates. Immigration policies adjust with economic and labor market needs. Consult a licensed immigration consultant for personalized advice.

Conclusion

Round #409 PNP draw closed with 324 ITAs at 786 CRS, reflecting 2026 Express Entry’s characteristics of stable frequency and precise regulation. The reduction in backlog brings some benefits for new applicants, but competition remains.

Provincial nomination remains the most reliable accelerator within Express Entry. Early planning of a PNP plus EE combination is key to successful immigration. Canada’s immigration doors remain open — the key is matching policy with personal qualifications.

Stay informed about latest updates, actively improve your competitiveness, and achieve your immigration goals.

—— IRCCGUIDE · Data-Driven Immigration Insights

Source: IRCC Official “Rounds of invitations” page · Canada 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan

This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed immigration consultant for specific applications.

© 2026 IRCCGUIDE · Data-Driven Immigration Insights