If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, staying current on the requirements is part of the process. Immigration programs, selection priorities, processing times, and language requirements can change. Information that was accurate when you started researching may no longer apply by the time you submit your application.

Several 2026 developments involving Express Entry are worth watching. Here is what prospective newcomers should know, where to find reliable information, and how English-language testing—including CELPIP—fits in.

Canada’s Key Focus Areas for 2026

Category-based selection gives IRCC another way to invite candidates with particular skills, experience, or language abilities linked to economic priorities. 

For 2026, categories intended to address long-term labour shortages include healthcare and social services, education, trades, transport, and STEM occupations. Other categories focus on French-language proficiency; physicians, researchers, and senior managers with Canadian work experience; and skilled military recruits with a job offer from the Canadian Armed Forces. 

See the current categories: Express Entry category-based selection 

Monitoring Processing Times 

IRCC publishes estimated processing times for different immigration and citizenship applications and updates those estimates as conditions change. 

Processing times can be affected by factors such as application volumes, the type and complexity of an application, whether it is complete, and how easily information can be verified. 

These estimates can be useful for planning, but they are not a guarantee of how long an individual application will take.  Use IRCC’s processing-times tool  for up to date information. 

Check current processing times: IRCC processing-times tool 

The Role of English-Language Testing 

Many Canadian economic immigration programs require applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English or French. 

For English, CELPIP-General is one of the language tests approved by IRCC for Express Entry, alongside IELTS General Training and PTE Core. 

CELPIP-General assesses four skills: 

• Listening 
• Reading 
• Writing 
• Speaking 

The test is completed in one sitting and focuses on practical English communication. 

Language results can matter in different ways depending on the immigration pathway. For Express Entry, language proficiency is part of the CRS, while individual programs also have their own minimum language requirements. 

That means there is no single CELPIP score that applies to every Canadian immigration program. Always check the requirements for the specific pathway you are considering. 

Official CELPIP Test information: Learn more about CELPIP-General 

Watch for Expiring Test Results

For Express Entry, language test results must be less than two years old both when you complete your Express Entry profile and when you submit an application for permanent residence. 

If your results are approaching the two-year mark, check the dates carefully as you plan your next steps. 

Review IRCC’s language test requirements: Express Entry language test results 

Stay Current as You Plan Your Next Steps

Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve, and Express Entry priorities, processing conditions, and program requirements can change over time. 

If English-language testing is part of your immigration pathway, understanding the applicable requirements early gives you more time to prepare and make sure your results are current when you need them. 

Always verify current requirements directly with IRCC before submitting an application. 

Find Your Test Date

This article provides general information only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice.