Canada’s Express Entry system could be heading toward significant changes after a new report from the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) called for a major rethink of how economic immigrants are selected.
Published on September 1, 2026, RBC’s A Smarter Immigration Strategy argues that Canada should place greater emphasis on skills, experience and economic outcomes while reconsidering the growing role of category-based Express Entry draws.
Importantly, these are recommendations—not confirmed changes by IRCC. Candidates should continue following official Canada immigration updates before changing their immigration plans.
What Could Change Under the Proposed Express Entry Reforms?
1. Greater Focus on CRS Scores
One proposal is to return Express Entry closer to its original points-based immigration system, where candidates with the strongest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) profiles receive greater priority.
This could increase the importance of factors such as language ability, education, Canadian work experience and other CRS components.
2. Changes to Category-Based Express Entry Draws
RBC has questioned whether federal category-based selection should continue in its current form.
Currently, Express Entry category-based selection allows IRCC to invite candidates who meet specific economic objectives, including French-language proficiency, healthcare, STEM, trades, education and transport occupations.
If the proposed approach were adopted, candidates who currently benefit from lower category-based CRS cutoffs could face stronger competition based on their overall CRS ranking.
3. Possible Reconsideration of the 2022 Legislative Changes
Another, more significant proposal is to reconsider the legislative authority introduced in 2022 that enabled the creation of additional Express Entry categories.
Such a change would be much more complicated than simply modifying draw instructions and could require Parliamentary action. The supplied source also emphasizes that no such change has been announced by IRCC.
4. A Stronger Role for Express Entry in Economic Immigration
RBC also raises the possibility of guaranteeing a minimum share of economic immigration through Express Entry.
Canada’s current 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan targets 109,000 admissions through Federal High Skilled programs in 2026, within an overall economic immigration target of 239,800.
5. A Minimum CRS Threshold
Another proposal is establishing a minimum core CRS score based on factors such as human capital, potentially excluding the 600-point boost associated with a provincial nomination.
This could make CRS score improvement even more important for candidates who are relying primarily on federal Express Entry.
6. More Responsibility for Provincial Nominee Programs
Rather than eliminating targeted immigration completely, RBC suggests that provinces and territories could take a larger role in identifying workers for regional labour shortages.
That could increase the importance of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for healthcare workers, skilled tradespeople and other professionals whose occupations are in demand in particular provinces.
7. Regular CRS Reviews
RBC also recommends regularly reviewing the Express Entry CRS system so that the points structure keeps pace with Canada’s changing labour market.
This is particularly relevant as technology, artificial intelligence and changing occupational demand reshape the Canadian economy. RBC’s report also discusses using Canadian labour-market outcomes, including earnings, to improve immigration selection.
What Does This Mean for Immigrants?
For people planning to immigrate to Canada, the key message is that flexibility is becoming increasingly important.
Canada is still operating category-based Express Entry rounds. IRCC’s current categories include French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, STEM, trades, education, transport, physicians, senior managers, researchers and skilled military recruits.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that category-based selection is ending.
Instead, prospective immigrants should consider several possible Canada PR pathways, including Express Entry, PNPs, work permits, study permits and family sponsorship.
Why Choosing the Right PR Strategy Matters
An immigration strategy should be based on your individual profile rather than simply waiting for a particular Express Entry draw.
Factors such as your age, education, language scores, work experience, occupation, Canadian experience and family circumstances can significantly affect which Canadian immigration pathway may be appropriate.
For some applicants, improving their CRS score may be the best approach. Others may benefit from exploring a Provincial Nominee Program, gaining qualifying Canadian work experience or considering an appropriate study or work pathway.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
At ICC Immigration, we help prospective immigrants evaluate their options and develop a strategy based on their individual circumstances.
Our services include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Assistance with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs and other eligible Canada PR pathways.
- Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance for people looking to establish their careers or education in Canada and potentially transition toward permanent residence.
- Family Sponsorship: Support for eligible applicants seeking to reunite with family members in Canada.
- Professional Immigration Guidance: Help understanding changing Canadian immigration rules, eligibility requirements and application procedures.
Rather than depending on uncertain options, applicants should explore legitimate immigration pathways that may provide a clearer route toward Permanent Residency in Canada.
Whether you are already in Canada or planning your move, professional guidance can help you understand your options and prepare for changing immigration policies.
Final Thoughts
RBC’s September 2026 report has opened an important discussion about the future of Express Entry and Canadian immigration. However, the proposals remain recommendations, and IRCC has not announced that these reforms will become law or policy.
For now, candidates should continue using the existing Express Entry system, monitor official IRCC announcements and consider alternative Canada immigration pathways where appropriate.
The immigration landscape can change quickly. A well-planned strategy today can help you remain prepared for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Need help choosing the right pathway to Canada? Contact ICC Immigration to discuss your immigration options and build a strategy for your future in Canada.