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Canada Proposes Major Express Entry Reform with Single Immigration Program
Canada is considering a major overhaul of its flagship immigration system, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), by proposing to replace the current Express Entry programs with a unified and streamlined pathway.
The proposal was outlined in IRCC’s Forward Regulatory Plan for 2026–2028, which highlights upcoming regulatory changes the department aims to introduce or finalize over the next two years.
Key Proposed Changes
According to the plan, IRCC intends to:
- Repeal three existing federal immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC)
- Replace them with a single, consolidated immigration class featuring simplified eligibility requirements
While details about the new program remain limited, the proposed system is expected to modernize and simplify Canada’s economic immigration framework.
Objectives Behind the Reform
IRCC states that the new approach will help build a broader and more diverse pool of international talent to meet Canada’s evolving labour market demands. The department also aims to make the system more transparent and easier for applicants, employers, and stakeholders to navigate.
Consultation Process
The proposed changes are currently in the early stages. IRCC has announced plans to conduct consultations with stakeholders, partners, and the public in Spring 2026. Additional information will be released through official consultation platforms during that time.
If implemented, this reform would mark one of the most significant updates to Canada’s high-skilled immigration system since the launch of Express Entry in 2015.
Express Entry System Overview
Express Entry is Canada’s primary system for managing permanent residence applications under key economic immigration programs. In 2025, Canada issued 117,998 invitations to apply (ITAs) across various Express Entry draw categories.
How the System Works
To enter the Express Entry pool, candidates must first meet eligibility criteria for one of the participating programs. Once in the pool, candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assesses factors such as age, education, work experience, and language ability.
Candidates with the highest scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) during periodic draws. They are then given 60 days to submit a complete application with supporting documentation. IRCC aims to process most applications within six months.
Current Immigration Pathways Under Express Entry
At present, Express Entry manages three federal programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Designed for individuals with at least one year of recent skilled work experience in Canada.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Targets skilled professionals with foreign or Canadian work experience, along with required qualifications.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Focused on skilled trades workers with relevant work experience, language proficiency, and job offers or certifications.
Outlook
The proposed transition to a single immigration program reflects Canada’s intent to modernize its immigration system and better align it with economic priorities. As consultations move forward in 2026, stakeholders and prospective immigrants are advised to monitor updates closely.