The three programs
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada (TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3) in the three years before applying, gained with proper authorization, and language scores of CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs or CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs. Work done while a full-time student does not count.
Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
At least one year of continuous skilled work experience in the past ten years, CLB 7 in English or French, education (with an Educational Credential Assessment for foreign credentials), proof of settlement funds, and at least 67 points on the FSW selection grid.
Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
At least two years of experience in a skilled trade in the past five years, a job offer or a Canadian certificate of qualification in the trade, and CLB 5 speaking and listening and CLB 4 reading and writing.
CRS points and draws
The Comprehensive Ranking System awards points for age, education, language, Canadian work experience, a spouse’s factors, and combinations of skills. Additional points come from a provincial nomination (600), French ability, Canadian study and a sibling in Canada. Since March 2025, a job offer no longer earns points. IRCC holds regular draws, some for all programs, some for CEC or provincial nominees, and some for categories.
2026 category-based selection
For 2026, IRCC is running ten categories. Five continue from 2025: French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, STEM, trades, and education. Five are new, including physicians, researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience, transport occupations, and certain military recruits. Most occupation categories now require at least 12 months of experience in an eligible occupation. Category draws often have much lower CRS cut-offs than general draws.
After an invitation
- 60 days to applySubmit a complete application with police certificates, medical exam, proof of funds (where required) and reference letters.
- Consistency checksIRCC compares the application with your profile. Overstating experience, language or education can be misrepresentation.
- Bridging open work permitEligible applicants in Canada can keep working while the PR application is processed.
- Confirmation of PRLanding in Canada, or completing it from inside Canada.
How ATWORLD IMMIGRATION helps
We check eligibility and occupation codes against the categories, improve your CRS score where possible, and prepare reference letters that match the NOC duties. We submit a complete application within the 60 days and answer IRCC requests and fairness letters.
Last reviewed November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration law and IRB procedure change often; we confirm the current rules for your file at your consultation.