Recently, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, announced new categories under the Express Entry system for 2026. These updates aim to fill urgent labour shortages in important sectors across Canada.
This means that Canada is adjusting its immigration system to keep it balanced and sustainable. At the same time, the country wants to continue supporting its economy by attracting skilled workers.
Furthermore, as global competition for talent increases, Canada is focusing on bringing in highly skilled professionals. A key part of this effort is the International talent attraction strategy, which helps attract and retain top workers from around the world.
New Express Entry Categories for 2026
Starting in 2026, as confirmed by the government through official announcement, Canada will introduce new categories to invite candidates with specific skills and Canadian work experience, which we have discussed below:
1. Foreign Medical Doctors
A new category has been created for foreign medical doctors who already have Canadian work experience. The first invitation round under this category will take place in the coming days.
2. Researchers and Senior Managers
Canada will invite researchers and senior managers who have gained work experience in Canada. These professionals play a key role in strengthening innovation and business leadership.
3. Transport Occupations
Candidates with experience in transport-related jobs will also be eligible. This includes:
- Pilots
- Aircraft mechanics
- Aircraft inspectors
These roles are important to support Canada’s aviation and transport sectors.
4. Skilled Foreign Military Applicants
Highly skilled foreign military applicants recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces will also be included. Key roles include:
- Military doctors
- Military nurses
- Military pilots
This supports Canada’s defence and security needs.
Categories Continuing from 2025
IRCC will continue inviting candidates under categories that were introduced in 2025.
Health Care and Social Services
Canada will keep selecting professionals such as:
- Nurse practitioners
- Dentists
- Pharmacists
- Psychologists
- Chiropractors
These roles are essential to meet healthcare demands across the country.
Skilled Trades
Candidates with experience in trades will also continue to receive invitations. Examples include:
- Carpenters
- Plumbers
- Machinists
Skilled trades workers are critical to infrastructure and construction projects nationwide.
Why Immigration Matters to Canada
Immigration now accounts for nearly 100% of Canada’s labour force growth. It plays a major role in addressing labour shortages in healthcare, trades, transport, research, defence, and other key industries.
By targeting specific occupations, Canada aims to ensure immigration supports economic growth while keeping overall levels sustainable.
What Is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s main system for managing permanent residence applications. It covers:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Part of the Provincial Nominee Program
Through regular invitation rounds, Canada selects candidates who meet labour market needs.
The Canadian Experience Class continues into early 2026 to prioritise individuals already contributing to the economy. Draws for candidates with strong French-language skills also continued.
Strengthening Canada’s Economic Future
These new updates are part of a broader plan to improve Canada’s economic resilience. The government is focusing on attracting medical doctors, graduate students, researchers, and skilled defence professionals.
Furthermore, by targeting high-demand occupations and experienced workers, Canada aims to remain competitive in the global race for talent while supporting long-term economic stability.