Express Entry work rules have been updated for all categories, i.e., to qualify under an occupational category, Express Entry applicants must now have at least 12 months of work experience in an eligible occupation within the past three years.

This experience does not need to be continuous.

Previously, applicants needed only 6 months of continuous work experience within the past three years to qualify for an occupational category. The new rule doubles the required duration while also removing the need for continuous employment.

This update applies to all Express Entry occupational categories as of February 18, 2026.

Applicants who meet category-based selection requirements generally have stronger chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence, especially when their occupation matches Canada’s labour needs.

What Hasn’t Changed Re: Work Experience Requirements

The following factors for work experience for category-based draws remain unchanged:

  • The work experience must have been gained within the past three years.
  • The work experience must be within a single eligible occupation.
  • The required duration of work experience is for full-time work experience, which is defined as a minimum of 30 hours per week.
  • The duration requirement can be met through an equivalent amount of part-time work experience over a longer period (e.g., 15h per week for 24 months).
  • Any hours worked in excess of 30h/week do not count as additional work experience.

The work experience can have been gained in Canada or abroad, with the exception of categories that specifically require Canadian work experience.

For Canadian work experience, candidates cannot count work experience gained while enrolled as a full-time student (even on a co-op work term).

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