Canada is planning a significant restructuring of its flagship immigration system, Express Entry. Under a proposal outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the current program structure could be replaced with a single, streamlined pathway.
The proposal, included in IRCC’s Forward Regulatory Plan for 2026 to 2028, suggests eliminating the three existing programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
These would be replaced by one unified class with simplified eligibility requirements. IRCC has not yet released detailed criteria for the new system, but it states the goal is to create a more flexible and diverse talent pool that better responds to labour market needs.
The department also emphasizes that a streamlined structure would make the system easier to understand and navigate for applicants, employers, and provincial partners.
At this stage, the changes are not final. IRCC plans to launch consultations with stakeholders and the public in Spring 2026, with further details expected afterward. If implemented, this would represent one of the most significant reforms to Canada’s high-skilled immigration framework since Express Entry was introduced in 2015.
Currently, Express Entry manages applications for permanent residence by ranking candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System. Top-ranked candidates receive invitations to apply and typically have 60 days to submit a complete application. Most applications are processed within six months.
In 2025, Canada issued 117,998 invitations through Express Entry across all draw types, highlighting the system’s central role in economic immigration.
