Canada updates minimum fund requirements for Express Entry programs
On July 7, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced an update to the financial requirements for foreign nationals applying for permanent residence through certain Express Entry programs. Individuals applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) must now demonstrate at least $500 more in available settlement funds. For example, a single applicant must now show they have a minimum of $15,263, up from the previous requirement of $14,690. This increase applies to all eligible applicants, who must provide written proof of these funds. To remain eligible, candidates must update their proof of funds in their Express Entry profile by July 28, 2025
Applicants are not required to show proof of funds if they are applying under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or if they are authorized to work in Canada and have a valid job offer, even if they are applying through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). However, it is still strongly recommended to keep the proof of funds section in the Express Entry profile up to date. This is because the Express Entry system may determine that an applicant is eligible for more than one program, and having accurate financial information can help ensure continued eligibility across all applicable streams.