How has Express Entry really changed recently? The reality for Japanese applicants and future strategies
A question that arises while researching future Canadian immigration policies is whether applying for PR through Express Entry might not be as straightforward as one might think.
Until a little while ago, it was possible to apply for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) category while working in Canada as a restaurant cook or hairstylist, provided you achieved a solid English score.
In fact, there was a time when ITAs were issued even with CRS scores around 450,
and the path of 'working in Canada -> improving English skills -> PR' was within reach for many Japanese people.
※Please see the blog above for an easy-to-understand explanation of Express Entry (EE), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), ITAs, etc.
However‼️
The reality is that if you think the same way as you did back then, it is quite difficult.
In the 2025-2026 CEC draws, the minimum score for ITA issuance has exceeded 500, and cases where you cannot reach the target by simply competing on points are increasing.
Furthermore, in 2025, the additional points for job offers were abolished,
and the strategy of 'field work + LMIA,' which was advantageous until now, no longer functions as it once did.
And what made this trend definitive was
the policy review announced on February 18, 2026.
What happened in the 2026 policy revision?
I feel that this revision is not just a rule change, but rather
a clearer indication of 'what kind of talent Canada is looking for.'
Looking at the newly added categories,
Senior managers
Researchers
Transport occupations
Skilled Military recruits occupations
are the focus, representing so-called 'highly skilled professionals.'
Also, regarding work experience,a minimum of 12 monthsis now required,
making it harder to be evaluated with short-term experience. (Previously, 6 months of work experience within the past three years was sufficient.)
On the other hand,
French language
IT / STEM
Healthcare
Education (ECE, etc.)
Construction trades
While existing categories like
cooks and the agricultural sector have been excluded continue to be supported.
What we can see from this is a clear shift from “just work and get PR” to “selecting necessary talent for PR”.
So, what does this mean for Japanese applicants right now?
I believe this is the most important point.
It is no exaggeration to say that the current Express Entry has changed from a game of
“competing with a total score” to a game of “which category you fall into.”
In other words, it’s not about “doing your best in English,” but rather that you need to
“decide which route you will compete in from the start.”‼️
The “alternative route” of French
What I’ve been feeling especially lately is the presence of the French language.
IRCC continues to favor French-speaking talent, and draws for the French-language category are still ongoing.
What’s interesting here is that in some cases, it is more realistic to add French and enter a separate category than to aim for 500 points with English alone.
For example, even with around English CLB 7 ➕️ French B2 level,
you can suddenly enter a realistic range.
In reality, it is quite difficult to exceed 500 points with English alone,
but by adding French, you can imagine entering a “different game.”
Of course, since French is difficult to master in the short term,
a plan of six months to a year or more is necessary, but
it is a very strong option for those who “definitely want to obtain PR.”
The IT / STEM route is still strong
The IT sector is still the royal road.
It is a category target,
demand is high, and it is a field that is actually easy to lead to PR.
However, there is a common misunderstanding here.
➡️ "Anyone can get PR if they go into IT"—honestly, this is not true.
In reality, those with practical experience + those who have obtained an educational credential in Canada tend to be stronger.
Conversely, cases of "switching to IT just for the sake of it" can land you in a highly competitive zone, so be careful.
Therefore, this route is for those who already have an IT industry background or are prepared to seriously build a career.
Childcare (ECE) is a "designed route"
ECE is also a popular route for permanent residency applications.
It is included in the education category, and it has the potential to be eligible for target draws.
The characteristic of this ECE route is that "the path is visible based on qualifications."
1. Attend school
2. Obtain a diploma
3. License (you need a provincial license to work in ECE)
4. Work in Canada
5. Register for Express Entry
This flow is relatively clear.
However, there is also the reality that
it takes time,
it requires tuition,
and it is highly dependent on whether you are suited for the job.
In particular, since it is work involving children,
it is physically demanding,
and there are aspects of mental suitability that are often overlooked.
Therefore, it is a bit risky to "choose it only for permanent residency." But it is positioned as a fairly stable route for those who are suited for it.
To sum up the current system in one word...
To summarize the recent changes,
👉 it has completely shifted from "PR that anyone can aim for" to
👉 "PR that you must go after strategically."
It has changed completely.
Also, moving away from an era where you compete based on English and work experience,
it is becoming
especially important to have a specific occupation, such as
French language,
IT,
education, healthcare, or construction/transportation.
etc. are becoming particularly important.
That is precisely why for those aiming for permanent residency in Canada from now on,
rather than "just coming over," initial plan design has become extremely important.
In short, those who prepare before arriving are stronger than those who plan to work hard after arriving in Canada.
The system is definitely changing. And it will continue to change.
That is why, from now on, those who can think about how to compete within the current rules are the ones who will get closer to permanent residency in this era.
📅 This article was created in April 2025.
Canada's visa system and application requirements are subject to change without notice. For the latest and most accurate information, please be sure to check the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.🔗 IRCC Official Website:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
📝 This article is based on information from the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website.