Canada is considering major changes to its Express Entry system that would place more weight on earnings and job offers, while reducing the importance of Canadian work experience.
According to new details shared during consultations, candidates with higher-paying occupations could receive more points under a redesigned ranking system. Foreign work experience may also be treated equally to Canadian experience, marking a significant shift in how candidates are assessed.
The proposal includes merging the current three immigration programs into a single pathway with unified eligibility criteria. Applicants would need at least one year of cumulative work experience within the past three years, which could be gained either in Canada or abroad. Language requirements would also be standardized at CLB 6 across all applicants.
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a new “high wage occupation” factor. Candidates working in jobs that pay above the national median wage could receive additional points, with higher tiers for occupations earning significantly more. Job offer points, which were previously removed, may return but only for high-wage roles.
At the same time, several current scoring factors are being reviewed for removal or reduction. These include points for having a sibling in Canada, studying in Canada, and French language bonuses. Provincial nomination points may also be adjusted, despite currently being one of the strongest factors in the system.
Education requirements would be simplified, requiring at least a high school diploma for all applicants. The current Federal Skilled Worker selection grid would also be eliminated under the new model.
These changes are still in the proposal stage. Public consultations are expected in Spring 2026, and no final decisions or timelines have been confirmed yet. If implemented, this would represent one of the most significant reforms to Canada’s economic immigration system in years.
