Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Forward Regulatory Plan

Regulations amending the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations to modernize the federal high skilled classes (Federal Skilled Worker Class, Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Trades Class)

Enabling Acts: Immigration and Refugee Protection Act

Description

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.

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.

Regulatory cooperation efforts (domestic and international)

Regulatory cooperation efforts are not required.

Potential impacts on Canadians, including businesses

The proposed regulatory changes could positively impact the Canadian economy broadly, and businesses seeking skilled workers, by establishing a more diverse pool of international talent to fill a variety of labour market needs. Streamlined requirements would also ensure that the system is easier for clients, employers and partners to understand and navigate.

Consultations

The Department is planning to consult partners, stakeholders, and the public in Spring 2026.

Further information

Additional information about the regulatory proposal will be available on the Department’s public consultations and engagement webpage in Spring 2026.

Departmental contact information

Jonathan Joshi-Koop
Director, Permanent Economic Immigration
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Telephone: (613) 227-8177
Email: Jonathan.Joshi-Koop@cic.gc.ca

Date the regulatory initiative was first included in the Forward Regulatory Plan: April 1, 2026