Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 3,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class on May 27, marking the program's first category-specific draw since the department paused them in September 2021. The invitations went to candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System score of 507 or higher.

The resumption represents a significant policy shift after nearly four years during which IRCC conducted only all-program draws or category-based selection rounds targeting specific occupations like healthcare workers and tradespeople. Between September 2021 and May 2026, Canadian Experience Class candidates could receive invitations only if they qualified under those broader categories or scored competitively in general Express Entry draws, where CRS cutoffs frequently exceeded 530 points.

Candidates eligible for the Canadian Experience Class must have at least 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada within the three years before applying, obtained through a valid work permit. The experience must fall under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3. Language test results showing Canadian Language Benchmark 7 in English or French for NOC 0 and 1 occupations, or CLB 5 for NOC 2 and 3 roles, remain mandatory. Educational credentials assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment are required for applicants who studied outside Canada.

"IRCC is committed to welcoming skilled workers who have already contributed to Canada's economy," the announcement states.