Canada may fast track high earning workers in Express Entry

Canada may soon give priority to higher-earning workers in its immigration system. Officials say the country could introduce this change earlier than expected through its Express Entry program.

The plan forms part of a broader effort to reshape how Canada selects skilled immigrants. While the full set of changes may take up to 18 months, some updates could appear much sooner.

Focus on High-Wage Jobs

The government plans to introduce a new “high-wage occupation” factor. This change would give extra points to candidates who work in jobs that pay above the national average wage.

Officials explained that they will base these wages on national job data, not on what an individual earns. The system will likely divide jobs into levels, with higher-paying roles earning more points.

A job offer will still need to meet current rules. It must include full-time work and meet labour market requirements or qualify for an exemption.

Timeline and Process

Authorities estimate that the full reform process will take between 12 and 18 months. They plan to make some changes faster through special instructions from the minister.

This approach allows certain updates, such as the high-wage factor, to take effect before the entire system changes.

What Happens to Current Applicants

Officials clarified how these updates will affect people already in the system. Applicants who already received invitations will continue under the rules in place at that time.

Those still waiting in the pool may see their scores change once the new rules begin. The system will recalculate scores using the updated factors.

Other Changes Under Review

The government also plans several other updates. It may adjust how it awards points for studying in Canada. These points could remain but may apply only to higher education levels.

Officials confirmed that age-related points will stay the same. Younger applicants will continue to receive more points, as before.

For skilled trades, the system may soon reward full certification more than apprenticeships. It may also limit certain points to trades that meet national standards.

No Disadvantage for Foreign Experience

Workers with only foreign experience will still qualify under the new system. Officials confirmed that the program will remain open to candidates with either Canadian or international work experience.

This assurance addresses concerns that the new system might favour only those already working in Canada.

What Comes Next

Officials plan to release more details soon, including a public survey and discussion paper. They have not set firm dates for these changes.

Still, early signs suggest that the first updates could appear within the next year, especially those that do not require full legal changes.