On April 7, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) added to its forward regulatory plan new proposed amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations to modernize the federal high skilled classes for permanent residence.
The Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (Regulations) establish the criteria for the Federal Skilled Worker Class, the Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Trades Class. Since the launch of the Express Entry application management system in 2015, the criteria for these classes have become the minimum requirements for candidates to qualify under the Express Entry pool and be considered for an invitation to apply for permanent residence.
What to Expect
- Amendments are being proposed to the Regulations to introduce a new federal high skilled immigration class with streamlined eligibility requirements, and repeal the existing Federal Skilled Worker Class, Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Trades Class.
- The change is part of a raft of proposed amendments to study and work authorization rules which IRCC added to its forward regulatory plan on 1 April 2026. The forward regulatory plan includes initiatives planned or anticipated to be proposed or finalized between 2026 and 2028.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.