Maple News reports that Canada’s Express Entry overhaul could prioritize higher-earning workers for permanent residence sooner than previously expected, according to a senior official from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
While the full set of reforms is expected to be implemented over the next 12 to 18 months, the High-Wage Occupation factor may be rolled out sooner as part of the government’s talent-attraction efforts. This push was outlined during an April 21 IRCC webinar for immigration lawyers.
IRCC clarified that changes to CRS-based rules will come through Ministerial Instructions, while broader program changes will go through regulatory changes. The agency also confirmed that age-related CRS points will not be altered.
Planned adjustments include a tiering of trade points, with greater weight given to full licensure than to apprenticeships, and a restriction on Certificate of Qualification points to Red Seal-designated trades.
Other elements remain under consideration, including whether the High Wage Occupation factor could roll out ahead of the full program merge and whether Studies-in-Canada points will be retained in a reduced form (essentially limited to higher education credentials).
Clarifications on earlier proposals include that candidates who have already received ITAs, or who have already submitted or will submit applications, will be assessed under the rules in place at the time of their ITA. Additionally, pool CRS scores will be recalculated when changes take effect, and Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) candidates with only foreign experience will remain viable.
Looking ahead, officials indicated the accelerated High Wage Occupation factor would support Canada’s talent-attraction strategy sooner, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for permanent residence among higher-earning workers while preserving pathways for other skilled entrants.