Proposed Express Entry reforms may prioritize higher earnings and job offers over Canadian work experience

Canada is considering major changes to its Express Entry system that could shift how candidates are selected for permanent residence. Under the proposed reforms, higher earnings may carry more weight than Canadian work experience—marking a significant change in how applicants are ranked.

New details suggest that candidates with strong income potential, particularly those in high-paying occupations, could have a competitive advantage. At the same time, the system may begin treating foreign work experience on par with Canadian experience, giving more opportunities to applicants outside Canada.

Key proposed changes

One of the biggest proposals is to merge the three current immigration programs—Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)—into a single stream with consistent eligibility criteria. These would include:

• At least one year of cumulative work experience (Canadian or foreign) within the past three years
• A minimum language score of CLB 6 for all applicants
• A high school diploma or equivalent, verified through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

In addition, IRCC is proposing a major overhaul of the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), including:

• Reintroducing job offer points, but only for high-wage occupations
• Adding a new “High Wage Occupation” factor based on national wage levels
• Removing or adjusting factors such as having a sibling in Canada, Canadian education, and French language ability
• Eliminating the 67-point eligibility grid currently used for FSWP

Focus on high-paying jobs

A key highlight of the proposal is the introduction of a High Wage Occupation category. Candidates working in jobs that pay above the national median wage could receive additional CRS points, with tiers based on how much higher the salary is compared to the median.

Job offer points, which were removed in 2025, may return—but only for these high-paying roles. Interestingly, points would be based on the typical wage for the occupation rather than the individual’s actual salary.

Other notable changes

• Work experience requirements would shift from “continuous” to “cumulative,” allowing applicants to combine shorter periods of work
• Trade certifications, especially Red Seal qualifications, may receive greater recognition
• Category-based draws (e.g., for French speakers or in-demand occupations) are expected to continue

What could be removed or reduced

IRCC is also considering reducing or removing several existing CRS factors, including:

• French language bonus points
• Canadian education points
• Points for having a sibling in Canada
• Spousal factors
• Even provincial nominations (currently worth 600 points) may be adjusted

What’s next?

These changes are still in the proposal stage. IRCC plans to hold public consultations in Spring 2026 before making any final decisions, and no implementation timeline has been confirmed yet.

While the department has already acted on other items in its regulatory plan—such as recent fee increases—the scale of these Express Entry reforms is much larger. If implemented, they would represent one of the most significant transformations of Canada’s immigration system in recent years.

Common Work Permit Pathways in Canada: A General Guide

Canada offers several pathways that allow foreign nationals to work legally in the country. These work permits are designed to address labour shortages, support international collaboration, and provide opportunities for students and skilled professionals. Most work permits are issued through programs managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Understanding the different work permit pathways can help applicants choose the best option based on their qualifications, work experience, and long-term immigration goals.

1. LMIA-Based Work Permits

LMIA stands for Employment and Social Development Canada Labour Market Impact Assessment.

An LMIA is a document that a Canadian employer must obtain before hiring a foreign worker. It confirms that:

• There are no qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents available for the job.
• Hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market.

How it works

1. A Canadian employer applies for an LMIA through, the federal department of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)
2. If approved, the employer sends the LMIA and job offer to the foreign worker. The worker applies for a closed work permit tied to that specific employer.

These permits are usually employer-specific (closed work permit) and may require renewing if the worker changes jobs.

2. LMIA-Exempt Work Permits

Some work permits do not require an LMIA. These are issued under programs where hiring a foreign worker provides broader economic, cultural, or international benefits to Canada.

These permits fall under the International Mobility Program (IMP).

Who may qualify

LMIA-exempt permits may apply to:

• Professionals under international trade agreements (e.g: CUSMA)
• Researchers and academics
• Religious workers
• Certain entrepreneurs and investors

3. Intra-Company Transfer Work Permits

Large international companies sometimes move employees from their offices abroad to their Canadian branches. This pathway is called an Intra-Company Transfer (ICT).

Eligibility

To qualify, the employee must:

• Work for a multinational company
• Have worked for the company for at least one year
• Be transferred to a Canadian branch, affiliate, or subsidiary

Common roles transferred

• Executives
• Senior managers
• Specialized knowledge workers

This pathway helps companies expand into Canada and bring experienced staff to manage operations.

4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduation Work Permit allows international students who graduate from eligible Canadian institutions to work in Canada after finishing their studies.

Key features

• No job offer required
• Open work permit (can work for almost any employer)
• Valid for up to three years, depending on the length of the study program

Many graduates use the PGWP to gain Canadian work experience and later apply for permanent residence through programs like Express Entry.

5. Open Work Permits

An open work permit allows foreign nationals to work for almost any employer in Canada without being tied to a specific job.

Who can get open work permits

Common groups include:

• Spouses of skilled workers
• Spouses of international students
• Applicants for permanent residence waiting for approval
• Refugees and protected persons
• Certain nationalities facing crisis situations may benefit from temporary public policies introduced by the government.

Open work permits provide more flexibility because workers can change jobs without applying for a new permit.

6. Working Holiday and Youth Mobility Programs

Young people from certain countries can work and travel in Canada through programs under International Experience Canada.

Popular streams

• Working Holiday
• Young Professionals
• International Co-op Internship

These programs usually allow participants to work in Canada for 1–2 years, depending on their country of citizenship.

Why Work Permit Pathways Matter

Canada faces labour shortages in many industries, including healthcare, construction, transportation, and technology. Work permit pathways allow the country to attract skilled workers from around the world while supporting economic growth.

For many foreign nationals, working in Canada is also the first step toward permanent residency through immigration programs such as:

• Express Entry
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

In Summary

Canada offers multiple work permit pathways to accommodate different types of workers, including skilled professionals, international students, business employees, and young travelers. Whether through LMIA-based permits, open work permits, or post-graduation opportunities, these pathways provide valuable ways for foreign nationals to gain Canadian work experience and potentially build a long-term future in the country.

Part-Time Study and Its Impact on PGWP Eligibility in Canada

For international students in Canada, maintaining proper study status is essential when planning to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Under the rules set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), students are generally required to maintain full-time enrollment throughout their academic program, with the exception of their final semester, in order to remain eligible for a PGWP.

According to IRCC's eligibility requirements, failing to maintain full-time status during regular academic sessions can put PGWP eligibility at risk. Officers carefully review whether students have complied with the conditions of their study permit and maintained continuous and active studies.

The Final Semester Exception

There is an important exception that often applies. If a student only needs a reduced course load in their final academic semester to complete program requirements, studying part-time during that last term is acceptable. IRCC recognizes that the student has already maintained full-time status throughout the rest of the program and only requires a lighter course load to graduate.

Risks of Part-Time Studies Outside the Final Semester or Leave of Absence

Part-time enrollment or an unauthorized leave of absence during required academic terms may lead to refusal of a PGWP application. In recent years, IRCC has applied stricter scrutiny when reviewing student compliance

Applications may face higher risk if there are:

• Part-time semesters outside the final term
• Unexplained gaps in enrollment (off-terms)
• Unauthorized breaks from studies

Officers will assess whether the applicant respected all study permit conditions during their stay in Canada.

Authorized Leaves

Authorized leaves may be considered in certain situations. A temporary leave of up to 150 days (typically one academic semester), if formally approved by the institution, does not automatically result in ineligibility. However, students must still comply with all study permit conditions during that period.

For example, students are not authorized to work while on a leave from their studies.

Proper documentation from the institution, along with a clear explanation letter outlining the reason for the leave of absence, is essential.

When Part-Time Studies or a Leave Have Already Occurred

If part-time studies or a leave of absence occurred outside the final semester, it is often necessary to provide:

• A detailed explanation of the circumstances
• Supporting documentation from the institution
• Evidence showing continued compliance with study permit conditions

A well-prepared submission can significantly influence how the application is assessed.

Because PGWP eligibility is strictly evaluated, students should carefully review their academic history before applying. Each case depends on its specific facts, including the timing, duration, and reasons for any part-time studies or leave periods. Proper planning and documentation can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.

Study Permit Application Refusals: What to Do Next

A refusal of your Canadian study permit can feel overwhelming, but it is not necessarily the end of your academic plans. Many applicants successfully reapply or pursue a legal review after understanding why their application was refused and addressing the concerns properly.

When a study permit is refused, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) typically issues a refusal letter explaining the reasons behind the decision. That letter is the most important document moving forward. Before taking any action, you need to carefully review and understand the officer's concerns.

Common Reasons for Refusal

Most refusals fall into a few recurring categories.

• Insufficient proof of financial capacity: One of the most frequent reasons is insufficient proof of financial capacity. Applicants must demonstrate that they can pay tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation costs for themselves and any accompanying family members. If documentation is unclear, inconsistent, or insufficient, the application may be refused.
• Questionable study intent: Another common issue is failing to satisfy the officer that the primary purpose of travel is to study. If the study plan appears weak, inconsistent with prior education or career history, or lacks a clear academic progression, officers may question the applicant's genuine intent.
• Inability to prove temporary stay: Officers must also be convinced that the applicant will leave Canada at the end of the authorized stay. If ties to the home country are not clearly demonstrated-such as employment, property, family responsibilities, or future career plans-this can result in refusal.
• Inadmissibility: Inadmissibility due to Medical or security concerns can also result in a study permit refusal if required examinations or documentation are incomplete or unsatisfactory. In such cases, your application may face additional challenges, and it is highly recommended to seek guidance from a professional RCIC or an immigration lawyer.

Understanding Study Permit Eligibility

To qualify for a study permit, applicants must meet several core requirements. They must have:

• a valid letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution.
• must demonstrate sufficient financial resources,
• be law-abiding with no serious criminal history,
• and be in good health if a medical exam is required.
• Most importantly, applicants must satisfy the officer that they are temporary residents who will comply with the conditions of their stay. Even if all documents are submitted, the burden remains on the applicant to prove eligibility.

Reapplying After a Refusal

In many cases, the most practical option is to submit a stronger, better-prepared application. This means directly addressing the refusal reasons with improved documentation and clearer explanations.

For example, if financial proof was weak, updated bank statements, clearer source-of-funds explanations, or additional financial guarantees may be necessary. If intent was questioned, a more detailed statement of purpose with a clear academic and career plan can make a significant difference.

Simply resubmitting the same documents without correcting the issues will likely lead to another refusal. A strategic and well-documented approach is critical.

decision unreasonable, it may send the application back for reconsideration by a different officer.

Moving Forward Strategically

A study permit refusal is serious, but it is often correctable. The key is not to react emotionally or rush into a reapplication. Instead, carefully analyze the refusal reasons, identify weaknesses in the original submission, and prepare a stronger case.

Professional guidance can be especially valuable if the refusal relates to intent, financial sufficiency, or credibility concerns. With proper strategy and documentation, many applicants successfully move forward after a refusal.

If your study permit has been refused, the most important step is understanding why-and building a clear, evidence-based plan for what comes next.

Judicial Review as an Option

If you believe the refusal was unreasonable or procedurally unfair, you may consider applying for judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada. This is not a new application but a legal challenge of the officer's decision.

In most situations, a lawyer must file the judicial review on your behalf. The Court does not reassess your eligibility directly but determines whether the officer's decision was reasonable and legally sound. If the Court finds the decision unreasonable, it may send the application back for reconsideration by a different officer.

Study Permit Extension in Canada (2026): Complete Document Checklist

Extending your study permit inside Canada requires more than just filling out a form. Missing documents, incorrect financial proof, or biometrics issues can delay your application --- or result in refusal.

Here's the complete 2026 document checklist explained clearly.

1️⃣ IMM5709 Form (Required)

You must complete IMM5709 -- Application to Change Conditions, Extend My Stay or Remain in Canada as a Student.

Important:

• Download from your IRCC document checklist

• Open using Adobe Acrobat Reader

• Validate and re-save before uploading

• No handwritten signature required (online applications)

2️⃣ Proof of Enrolment (Upload Under Letter of Acceptance Placeholder)

Must confirm:

• Current registration

• Past academic terms

• Program length

• Expected completion date

If changing level or DLI, upload your Letter of Acceptance instead.

3️⃣ Passport File (Merged, Under 4MB)

Include:

• Biographical page

• All stamped/visa pages

• Current study permit

• Co-op permit (if applicable)

• Old passports (if renewed)

Merge everything into one PDF.

4️⃣ PAL/TAL (If Required)

Upload a valid Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter.

If exempt:

Upload your valid study permit + written explanation confirming exemption. You can refer to the IRCC website for the exemption list and include it in your Letter of Explanation when claiming an exemption. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/get-documents/provincial-attestation-letter.html

5️⃣ Proof of Financial Support (2026 Requirement)

You must show:

• Tuition payment receipt

• 4 months of bank statements

• Minimum living funds

⚠️ As of September 1, 2025:
$22,895 CAD (1 year living cost for an individual)

If funds are insufficient, include:

• Scholarship or proof of fund letters

• Job letters

• Family support letter + their bank statements

6️⃣ Digital Photo

Taken within the last 6 months and meeting IRCC requirements.

7️⃣ Co-op Letter (If Applying for Co-op Work Permit with your study permit)

Required if co-op is mandatory in your program.

8️⃣ Medical Exam (If Required)

Required if:

• You lived 6+ months in a designated country

• You plan to work in certain occupations

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/medical-police/medical-exams/requirements-temporary-residents.html

9️⃣ Additional Forms (If Requested)

• Family Information Form may request for certain nationalities

• Schedule 1

• Letter of Explanation

🔟 Biometrics

If never provided → Pay $85 and complete biometrics.

If previously provided → Check validity. https://ircc.canada.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp

If expiring soon → It's safer to redo them.

Final Tip

IRCC can request additional documents at any time.

Small errors = big delays.

Before submitting your study permit extension, make sure your file is complete and consistent.

👉 Visit ApplyAway for guided support.

If you are accepted into a co-op program, do you need two applications, one for a Co-op Work Permit and one for a Study Permit?

One of the common questions we receive is:

"If my university or college program is a co-op program, do I need to submit two separate applications --- one for a study permit and one for a co-op work permit?"

The short answer is:

👉 No, you do NOT need two separate applications.

However, if you already have a valid study permit for that specific DLI but have not received your co-op work permit, you will need to apply for the co-op work permit separately.

Let's break this down clearly.

First: What Is a Co-op Work Permit?

If your academic program includes a mandatory co-op, internship, or work placement, you must hold a valid co-op work permit before you start working.

Important:

• The co-op must be a required part of your program.

• The work must be part of your academic curriculum.

• Any job outside your program requirements is NOT considered co-op.

⚠️ Do not confuse this with your regular student work authorization (such as working part-time during studies). That is a different topic, and we will cover it in a separate blog post.

Do You Need Two Applications?

If your program is officially a co-op program, you do NOT need to submit:

• One application for a study permit

• AND another separate application for a co-op work permit

Instead:

You submit ONE study permit application.

During the IRCC online application process, you will answer questions about whether your program includes a mandatory co-op or internship.

If you answer "Yes," the system will automatically add the co-op work permit requirement to your document checklist.

What Documents Will IRCC Ask For?

If your program includes co-op, IRCC will request:

✔️ Proof of Co-op Requirement

This is usually:

• A Letter of Acceptance stating that co-op is mandatory

OR

• A separate co-op letter issued by your school

Some schools include the co-op confirmation directly in your Letter of Acceptance.
Other schools issue a separate letter.

👉 Always check with your university or college.

What Happens After You Submit?

Once you submit your study permit application with proof of co-op:

IRCC will review everything together.

If approved, IRCC will issue:

• ✅ Your Study Permit

• ✅ Your Co-op Work Permit

Both permits are issued under one application.

You do not need to apply separately.

Very Important Reminder

Make sure you hold a valid co-op work permit before starting your co-op placement.

Working in a co-op position without the proper permit can cause:

• Status issues

• Future immigration problems

• PGWP complications

Common Mistake

Some students think:

"My program is co-op, so I can just work."

That is incorrect.

Even though co-op is part of your academic program, you must still receive the official co-op work permit from IRCC.

If you're unsure whether your program qualifies, or you're confused about work authorization vs. co-op requirements, it's better to clarify before applying.

👉 Visit ApplyAway for guided support before submitting your application.

Study Permit Extension Inside Canada: Why It's Important and When It's Necessary

International students in Canada must always hold a valid study permit while pursuing their studies. If your study permit is approaching its expiry date and you plan to continue studying, applying for a study permit extension from inside Canada is not just recommended, it is essential.

Failing to extend your study permit on time can lead to serious consequences, including loss of legal status, interruption of studies, and future immigration complications. This article explains why extending your study permit is important, when it is necessary, and how to do it correctly.

What Is a Study Permit Extension?

A study permit extension is an application submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to extend the validity of your current study permit so you can continue studying legally in Canada.

You must apply before your current permit expires if:

• Your program takes longer than expected
• You changed programs or institutions
• You failed or withdrew from courses and need extra time
• You are starting a new academic level (e.g., Bachelor's to Master's)
• Your passport expiry shortened your original permit

Why Is It Important to Extend Your Study Permit?

1. Maintain Legal Status in Canada

A valid study permit allows you to legally remain in Canada as a student. If your permit expires and you have not applied for an extension, you are out of status, which can affect your future applications.

2. Continue Your Studies Without Interruption

Most schools will not allow registration or course enrollment if your study permit is expired. An extension ensures you can continue your program smoothly.

3. Protect Future Immigration Opportunities

Applications for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), work permits, and permanent residence require a history of maintaining valid status. Gaps or violations may lead to refusals.

4. Benefit From Maintained Status (Implied Status)

If you apply for an extension before your permit expires, you can remain in Canada and continue studying under the same conditions while waiting for a decision.

When Should You Apply?

IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before your study permit expires. However, applying 4-6 months in advance is safer to avoid last-minute issues.

Check your study permit expiry date carefully-it may differ from your program end date.

Common Reasons Students Need an Extension

• Program length increased
• Academic probation or failed courses
• Change of institution or program
• Leave of absence approved by school
• Passport renewal
• Delayed graduation

Each situation requires proper explanation and documentation.

Documents Usually Required

While requirements vary, most applicants need:

• IMM 5709
• Letter of Acceptance or Proof of Enrollment
• Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL or TAL) or Proof of PAl or TAL exception
• Valid passport
• Official transcripts or academic records (if applicable)
• Proof of funds
• Digital photo
• Explanation letter (if applicable)

Providing clear and complete documents reduces the risk of refusal.

Can You Work While Waiting?

If you applied before your study permit expired and remain eligible, you may continue working according to your previous conditions while waiting for a decision.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

If your study permit expires and you did not apply:

• You have 90 days to apply for restoration of status
• You must stop studying and working during this period
• Additional fees apply
• Approval is not guaranteed

Restoration is more complex and risky than timely extension.

Final Thoughts

Extending your study permit inside Canada is a critical step in protecting your legal status, education, and future immigration plans. Planning ahead, understanding your obligations, and submitting a strong application can prevent serious problems.

If you are unsure about your eligibility or documents, ApplyAway can help ensure your application is prepared correctly.

The Challenges of Navigating Canada's Online Immigration System

Canada's immigration process has shifted heavily toward online applications in recent years, with nearly all major application types—from study permits to work permits and permanent residence—now submitted through digital portals. While this change has made it possible to apply from almost anywhere in the world, it has also introduced a new set of challenges that applicants frequently underestimate.

Lack of Clarity

One of the biggest frustrations is the lack of clarity in the system. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides information across multiple web pages, PDFs, and instruction guides, but the guidance is often broad and not tailored to an applicant's specific situation. For first-time users, it can be difficult to know exactly which forms, supporting documents, and additional explanations are required. The language used in official instructions is often formal and technical, making it challenging for non-native speakers—or even fluent English and French speakers unfamiliar with legal terminology—to fully understand.

Multiple Portals

Compounding the problem is the existence of multiple application portals. Depending on the type of application, users may have to work with the IRCC secure account, the newer Permanent Residence (PR) portal, or even separate systems for certain programs like Express Entry or employer-driven work permits. Applicants who are applying for more than one immigration process at the same time—such as a work permit extension alongside a permanent residence application—may find themselves juggling multiple accounts and sets of instructions, each with its own rules and login requirements.

Technical Issues

Then there are the technical issues. Applicants often report difficulties uploading documents due to strict file size and format limits, error messages that appear without explanation, or sudden system outages that occur just as they are about to submit. For time-sensitive applications, such glitches can cause significant stress. Even after submission, applicants may encounter problems accessing their accounts to check for updates or respond to requests for additional information.

The Impact

These challenges can lead to incomplete applications, missed deadlines, or even refusals—outcomes that could have been avoided with clearer guidance and more user-friendly systems. Unfortunately, IRCC's official help channels can be slow to respond, and applicants are often left to troubleshoot issues on their own.

How ApplyAway Can Help

This is where ApplyAway offers a practical alternative. Rather than forcing applicants to decipher dense instructions and navigate multiple portals without support, ApplyAway's platform guides users through the process with a sequence of adaptive questions that change depending on their previous answers. The platform ensures that only relevant questions appear, reducing confusion and the risk of missing important steps. Detailed explanations from licensed Canadian immigration consultants are built into each stage, helping users understand exactly what is being asked and how to provide it.

While the government's online system is unlikely to become less complex in the near future, applicants are not without options. Tools like ApplyAway can make the process more manageable, helping users focus on providing strong, complete applications rather than wrestling with unclear instructions or technical glitches. For many, that clarity can make all the difference between a smooth application and an unnecessarily stressful one.

The Hidden Challenges of Applying for a Study Permit from Within Canada

Applying for a Canadian study permit can be a complex process—but for those already inside Canada, it often comes with a unique set of challenges that aren’t always obvious at first glance. Many applicants assume that being physically present in the country will simplify the process. In reality, the in-Canada study permit application route can be just as confusing, if not more so, than applying from abroad.

In-Canada applicants face challenges related to document preparation and eligibility criteria. For example, proving financial support is a key requirement, but the types of evidence expected—and the level of detail required—can be difficult to understand without professional guidance. Applicants who are relying on family support from outside Canada, or who recently changed their immigration status (such as from visitor/worker to prospective student), may find it especially difficult to present their case clearly.
Another common issue is a change of intent. Individuals who enter Canada as visitors and later decide to study must undergo an additional process, provide supporting documentation, and clearly explain why their goals have changed. They must also demonstrate that the decision to study is genuine and well-planned. Failure to do so may result in a refusal.

Language barriers, uncertainty about which documents to include, and confusion over immigration terminology all contribute to the stress of the process. Unfortunately, many applicants attempt to navigate this process alone, often relying on informal advice or outdated online resources. Even small errors—like uploading an incomplete form or missing a key explanation—can lead to delays or rejections.

In response to these challenges, ApplyAway offers a new way to approach the study permit application process from within Canada. Rather than expecting users to interpret legal forms and immigration policies on their own, ApplyAway’s platform presents a series of clear, adaptive questions that change depending on the user’s responses. This helps applicants focus only on what’s relevant to their situation. Each step includes practical, multilingual guidance developed in collaboration with licensed Canadian immigration consultants—offering clarity and confidence to those who may be unsure of how to proceed.

For in-Canada applicants, the path to a study permit is rarely straightforward. But with the right tools and information, it’s possible to avoid many of the common pitfalls. ApplyAway is one of several emerging resources that aim to make the process more accessible, especially for those who are ready to study but unsure how to take the next step.