The Express Entry Canada immigration landscape is evolving rapidly, and 2025 marks a pivotal year with key policy shifts that impact both prospective immigrants and immigration consultants.
If you’re planning your move to Canada or seeking guidance, connecting with a knowledgeable Canadian immigration consultant in Edmonton can be invaluable.
Understanding these changes is crucial to navigating the system effectively. Here’s an overview of the most important updates and how they may influence your immigration journey.
Increased Settlement Funds for Express Entry Applicants
Effective July 28, 2025, the minimum settlement funds required for Express Entry programs will increase. For single applicants, the amount rises from $14,690 to $15,263. These changes apply to those applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
This adjustment underscores the Canadian government’s intention to ensure new immigrants have sufficient financial resources to establish themselves successfully in the country.
New Immigration Targets and Focus Areas
Canada plans to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025. This number will gradually decrease to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027. The emphasis remains on economic immigration pathways, particularly those that support Canada’s labor shortages in healthcare and skilled trades.
In addition, a new cap will limit temporary residents to 5% of the total population, introducing stricter regulations for international students and temporary foreign workers.
Noteworthy Provincial and Federal Updates
Alberta own immigration system is also evolving. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) will begin accepting the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core starting April 1, 2025, broadening the language test options for applicants.
Additionally, the AAIP worker stream application fee will rise to $1,500, reflecting changes in administrative processes.
On a federal level, the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), which helps refugees and displaced persons gain permanent residency through employment, is ending in 2025. A new permanent pathway is expected to launch this year.
Other Essential Policy Updates
Some public policies, such as emergency measures for Ukraine and wildfire victims, are being extended or revised. Processing times across several application types—including PR cards, study and work permits, and Express Entry FSWP—may see delays starting July 2025.
Eligibility for Canadian citizenship still requires residents to live in the country for at least 1,095 days over the last five years.
Work With the Best Immigration Consultants Company in Edmonton
Navigating these changes can be overwhelming. For reliable, updated guidance, consider consulting Imperial Immigration, the best immigration consultant company in Edmonton. With in-depth knowledge of evolving immigration laws and extensive experience, Imperial Immigration helps clients make informed decisions and streamline their pathway to permanent residency.
Whether you’re applying through Express Entry or considering a provincial nominee program, an Imperial Immigration in Edmonton can make a world of difference in your success.
