As of February 18, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced an important update to the Express Entry system that affects all category-based draws.
If you are planning to apply for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry, this change could significantly impact your eligibility and strategy.
At Rio Immigration, we’re breaking down what has changed, what remains the same, and what you should do next.
What Has Changed?
Under the new rule, candidates must now have:
At least 12 months of work experience in an eligible occupation within the past three years.
This work experience:
- Does not need to be continuous
- Must be in one single eligible occupation
- Must fall within the last three years
Previously, candidates only required six months of continuous work experience within the past three years to qualify for an occupational category.
This update effectively doubles the required duration of experience, while removing the continuity requirement.
Why This Matters
Express Entry candidates who qualify under category-based selection are generally more likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. With the new 12-month requirement, competition may narrow, favoring applicants with stronger professional experience.
If you were planning to apply based on six months of experience, you may need to reassess your eligibility immediately.
What Has NOT Changed?
While the duration requirement has increased, several key criteria remain the same:
1. Work Experience Must Be Recent
The experience must still have been gained within the last three years.
2. Single Occupation Requirement
All 12 months must be within one eligible occupation. You cannot combine different occupations to meet the duration requirement.
3. Full-Time Definition
Full-time work experience is defined as:
- Minimum 30 hours per week
4. Part-Time Equivalent Allowed
You may meet the requirement through part-time work over a longer period. For example:
- 15 hours per week for 24 months equals 12 months of full-time equivalent experience.
However:
- Any hours worked beyond 30 hours per week do not count as additional experience.
5. Canadian or Foreign Experience
Work experience may be gained:
- In Canada
- Or abroad
Unless the category specifically requires Canadian work experience.
6. Canadian Study Limitation Still Applies
For Canadian work experience:
- Experience gained while enrolled as a full-time student does not count
- This includes work completed during co-op terms
What This Means for Applicants
This policy change raises the bar for eligibility in category-based draws under Express Entry.
If You Have Less Than 12 Months
You may:
- Need to continue working until you complete the full 12 months
- Consider alternative immigration pathways
- Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
If You Already Have 12+ Months
This could strengthen your profile and increase your competitiveness in upcoming category-based rounds.
Strategic Advice from Rio Immigration
With the evolving nature of Express Entry, strategy is now more important than ever. The removal of the continuity requirement provides flexibility, but the increased duration requirement means planning ahead is critical.
At Rio Immigration, we recommend:
- Conducting a professional eligibility review
- Verifying your NOC classification carefully
- Calculating your full-time equivalent hours accurately
- Reviewing alternative immigration streams if needed
Every profile is unique. A small technical error in documenting work experience can lead to refusal or missed opportunities.
To Conclude, the Express Entry system continues to evolve, and the February 18, 2026 update marks a significant shift in category-based selection requirements. The new 12-month work experience rule applies across all occupational categories and immediately affects new and existing candidates.
If you are unsure how this impacts your application, now is the time to seek expert guidance.
Rio Immigration is here to help you navigate these changes with confidence and clarity.
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and ensure your Canadian immigration journey stays on track.
