If you’ve been sitting on the fence about applying for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry — this is your sign to move now.
IRCC has officially proposed one of the biggest structural changes to the Express Entry system since it launched in 2015. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s Being Proposed?
IRCC’s Forward Regulatory Plan (2026–2028) outlines plans to retire three existing Express Entry programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
These three streams would be replaced by a single new Federal High-Skilled Immigration Class — one unified pathway with streamlined eligibility requirements.
The goal, according to IRCC, is to make the system simpler for applicants, employers, and partners to navigate, while attracting a more diverse pool of international talent.
What Else Is Changing?
Beyond the class restructuring, IRCC has also signalled changes to how CRS points are awarded:
- Return of job offer points — CRS bonus points for valid job offers are expected to come back, but only for high-wage occupations
- New points for Canadian work experience — candidates with multiple years of high-wage Canadian experience may receive stronger recognition
- New points for Canadian professional certifications — regulated professionals who’ve completed Canadian licensing/credentialing before applying will be rewarded
Has This Happened Yet?
No — these changes are still in the proposal and consultation stage. IRCC has announced plans for public consultations in Spring 2026, and no regulatory amendments have been made yet. All three current Express Entry programs remain fully active.
But here’s the thing: regulatory change in Canada moves slowly. By the time the new class launches, requirements could shift — and there’s no guarantee the transition will be smooth or that your current profile will carry over automatically.
What Should You Do Right Now?
If you are eligible for Express Entry today under FSW, CEC, or FSTP — apply now, under the current rules you already know.
Waiting for the “new and improved” system is a gamble. The current system has clear, established criteria. You know what’s required. You know what your CRS score is. Don’t wait for an uncertain new framework when you may already qualify under an existing one.
Enter the pool. Get your profile in. Let IRCC do the rest.
Have questions about your Express Entry eligibility or CRS score? Contact Immiquest Immigration — we’re here to guide you through every step.