The federal government has announced new and updated category-based selection priorities under its Express Entry system as part of the International Talent Attraction Strategy, outlined in Budget 2025. The changes are intended to address labor shortages in key sectors while supporting long-term economic growth and sustainability in Canada’s immigration system.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue to use category-based selection to invite candidates with skills aligned to priority labor needs. The total number of invitations will remain within the targets set out in the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan.
New Express Entry Categories for 2026
IRCC has introduced the following new categories:
- Medical doctors with Canadian work experience
- Researchers with Canadian work experience
- Senior managers with Canadian work experience
- Transport occupations
- Skilled military recruits with a job offer from the Canadian Armed Forces
These additions reflect Canada’s focus on attracting highly specialized talent and strengthening critical sectors such as innovation, infrastructure, and national defence.
Renewed Priority Categories
The government has also renewed and refined existing categories, including:
- French-language proficiency
- Health care and social services
- Education
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
- Skilled trades
Notably, the minimum work experience requirement for these categories has increased from six months to one year, gained either in Canada or abroad over the previous three years. This change aims to improve long-term retention and workforce integration.
Organizations should consider:
- Reviewing workforce planning and recruitment strategies to align with priority categories
- Supporting foreign workers in gaining Canadian work experience
- Identifying employees who may qualify under updated Express Entry pathways
- Monitoring evolving immigration trends and sector priorities
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
