Canada has revamped its immigration strategy for 2026, focusing on sustainability while stepping up efforts to attract skilled global talent. As competition for qualified workers intensifies, Ottawa is recalibrating its Express Entry system to address critical labour shortages and enhance economic resilience.
Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the 2026 categories under the Express Entry program, aimed at inviting candidates with skills and experience needed in key sectors across the country. New categories include foreign medical doctors with Canadian work experience, researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience, candidates with experience in transport occupations such as pilots, aircraft mechanics, and inspectors, as well as highly skilled foreign military applicants recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces in roles like military doctors, nurses, and pilots.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue draws for candidates with strong French language skills and those in categories maintained from 2025, including healthcare and social services positions such as nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, and chiropractors, as well as skilled trades like carpenters, plumbers, and machinists.
Express Entry remains Canada’s flagship system for applicants seeking permanent residence through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class, and certain streams of the Provincial Nominee Program. The first invitation round for foreign medical doctors with Canadian work experience is expected soon. The Canadian Experience Class will continue through early 2026, prioritizing candidates already contributing to the economy, alongside draws for the French-proficiency category.
The government emphasized that these updates are part of broader efforts to strengthen economic resilience, support critical sectors such as healthcare, research, and defence, and align with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy.
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