Canada’s immigration system is undergoing major updates in 2026. With the introduction of Bill C‑3, Bill C‑12, and the release of IRCC’s 2026–2027 Departmental Plan, several important reforms are being developed that will affect skilled workers, permanent residence applicants, and individuals preparing to submit new immigration applications.
Below is an overview of the key reforms under consideration and how they may impact the immigration process.
Express Entry Changes 2026: IRCC Proposes a Unified Program
IRCC is currently consulting on substantial reforms to the Express Entry system. These changes aim to simplify eligibility, improve consistency, and better align immigration selection with Canada’s labour market needs.
Replacing the Three Existing Programs
Under the proposed model, IRCC would eliminate the current Express Entry programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
These would be replaced with one unified Express Entry stream with standardized requirements.
Proposed Eligibility Criteria
To qualify under the new system, candidates would need:
- Education: Minimum of a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent
- Language: At least CLB/NCLC 6
- Work Experience: One year of skilled work experience (Canadian or foreign) within the last three years
This change would streamline the process and remove confusion about which program an applicant should select.
CRS Changes 2026: New High‑Wage Occupation Factor
IRCC is also considering a major update to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) by reintroducing points for job offers and Canadian work experience — but only for high‑wage occupations.
Why This Matters
- CRS points for job offers were removed in March 2025.
- IRCC now proposes bringing them back in a more targeted way.
- Research shows that applicants in higher‑earning occupations tend to have stronger long‑term economic outcomes in Canada.
How IRCC Will Define High‑Wage Occupations
IRCC has indicated that:
- Eligible occupations will be those with median wages above the national median.
- All applicants in the same occupation will receive the same CRS points, regardless of regional wage differences or individual salary variations.
Three‑Tier CRS System
IRCC is proposing three tiers of CRS points based on how far above the national median wage an occupation falls.
The list of eligible occupations and tier assignments has not yet been released.
When Will These Express Entry Changes Take Effect?
IRCC has not announced a specific implementation date.
The reforms may be introduced in phases, and IRCC has committed to providing advance notice so applicants can adjust their strategies.
IRCC Fee Increases 2026: Updated Costs for Immigration Applications
IRCC adjusts immigration fees annually, and several increases took effect in spring 2026.
Important Fee Increase Dates
- March 31, 2026: Increase to the Right of Citizenship Fee
- April 30, 2026: Increase to permanent residence application fees
Applications will only begin processing once the correct fee has been paid.
How the 2026 Fee Increases Affect Submitted Applications
Applications Signed Before April 30
If an application was signed and mailed before April 30, IRCC will generally accept the previous fee amount, even if the application arrives after the increase.
Permanent Residence Applications
IRCC has stated that:
- Applications will usually not be refused solely because the old fee was paid, as long as the application was complete and mailed before the fee change.
- Applicants may be asked to pay the difference between the old and new fee.
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
Applicants who have not yet paid the RPRF must pay the updated amount, even if the processing fee was paid earlier.
Programs Impacted by the 2026 IRCC Fee Increases
The updated fees apply to multiple immigration categories, including:
- Permanent residence (various streams)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Business immigration
- Family class sponsorship
- Protected persons
- Humanitarian and compassionate applications
- Permit holders
Fee increases vary:
- Business immigration: +$85
- Most permanent residence categories: +$25
- Different increases may apply to spouses/partners and dependent children
New applications must include the updated fees to avoid being returned.
With ongoing policy changes and evolving requirements, preparing a strong immigration application is more important than ever. If you have questions about how these updates may affect your eligibility or your current application, consider contacting our office at lawoffice@fridman.ca