Big news could be coming for skilled workers hoping to immigrate to Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued a media advisory. It says the Minister will announce changes to Express Entry on Friday, October 16, 2026. Here's what we know so far, what we don't, and how to get ready.
What changed
On October 15, 2026, IRCC published a media advisory from Kitchener, Ontario. It says that the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will "announce changes to Express Entry to help Canada attract skilled talent, support economic growth and build a stronger Canada."
Announcement details (from IRCC):
- Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
- Time: 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time
- Location: Kitchener, Ontario
- A media availability will follow the announcement.
What the advisory doesn't tell us: it gives no details about what the changes will be. It doesn't say which programs, categories or Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) factors are affected, or when any changes would take effect. Be careful with social media posts that claim to know the details before the official announcement.
Update note: This article was written before the announcement. We'll update it once IRCC publishes the official details.
Who it affects
Express Entry is how Canada manages applications for its three main federal economic immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
Some Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams are also linked to Express Entry. Until IRCC releases the details, it's safest to assume the announcement could matter if you:
- Have an active Express Entry profile in the pool
- Are planning to create a profile soon
- Are an international graduate or temporary worker in Canada building Canadian work experience
- Are counting on a provincial nomination through an Express Entry-linked stream
- Have recently received an invitation to apply (ITA) and are preparing your application
What to do next
- Wait for the official details. Read IRCC's news release on canada.ca once it's published. Don't make big decisions based on rumours.
- Keep your profile accurate and current. Make sure your language test results, educational credential assessment (ECA) and work experience details are valid and correct. Expired documents can cost you points or your eligibility.
- Look for ways to raise your CRS score. These might include retaking a language test, adding French language results, or getting more qualifying work experience. Strategies that work today may change, so review your plan once the details are out.
- If you have an ITA, keep moving. Don't delay your application while you wait for news. Submit a complete application within your deadline.
- Book a profile review. Once the changes are announced, a professional review can show you how they affect your chances.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is changing in Express Entry? The IRCC media advisory doesn't say. Details are expected when the Minister speaks on October 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. ET in Kitchener, Ontario.
Should I remove or re-create my Express Entry profile? No. Don't change your profile because of this announcement until official details are published and you understand how they apply to you.
Will this affect my application if I've already submitted after an ITA? We don't know yet. Any transition rules will be in IRCC's official announcement and the related instructions.
Official sources
- IRCC media advisory – Minister Metlege Diab to make an announcement in Kitchener
- IRCC – Express Entry rounds of invitations
Find out what the changes mean for you
Once the details are public, R-Way Immigration Services Inc. can review your Express Entry profile and help you adjust your strategy. Book a consultation at r-wayimmigration.ca or call 647-803-1004.
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