IRCC announced new Express Entry points for eligible Canadian work experience and qualifying high-wage job offers, effective November 3, 2026.
What was announced
IRCC says existing profiles will be recalculated under the new system, with invitation rounds paused during a recalculation period of up to two weeks. Candidates seeking qualifying job-offer points should update the required profile information before November 3.
Additional high-wage Canadian-experience points will be 20, 40 or 70, depending on the occupation’s wage level and qualifying experience. Qualifying high-wage job offers may receive 50, 70 or 100 points. The work-experience and job-offer options are not added together: the higher result applies.
High-wage classification depends on the occupation’s median wage, not the individual’s salary. IRCC will remove LMIA requirements for qualifying Express Entry job offers under the announced rules; officers will still assess genuineness and eligibility. This is not a blanket removal of LMIA requirements for work permits.
What this may mean for applicants
Check your NOC, eligible experience and job-offer information against IRCC’s instructions. Do not assume every job offer qualifies or that additional points guarantee an invitation.