Canada adds new immigration categories to Express Entry
Toronto: Canada has introduced five new categories to its flagship immigration program, Express Entry, to attract and retain highly skilled immigrants under its International Talent Attraction Strategy.
Announcing the changes during an event at the Canadian Club here, Immigration Minister Lena Diab outlined the new categories in the Express Entry system.
Canada will now accept permanent residency applications from researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience, as well as those in transport occupations — including pilots, aircraft mechanics and inspectors — and military personnel recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces in key roles such as military doctors, nurses and pilots.
Diab said the changes are aimed at strengthening the labour market, prioritizing provincial needs, and ensuring newcomers can contribute from day one.
“Canada’s future depends on a workforce ready to meet the challenges of a changing economy,” she said.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) also reiterated that it will continue to prioritize applicants with strong French-language skills and conduct Francophone Express Entry draws. In addition, Canada signalled that it will continue category-based draws in 2026 for candidates working in health care, social services and the skilled trades.
As part of the new measures, IRCC has made it mandatory for applicants in all occupation categories to have at least one year of work experience. Previously, the requirement was six months of continuous work experience.
The one year of work experience must have been gained within the past three years and does not need to be continuous.
Last year, Prime Minister Mark Carney, in his mandate letter, emphasized attracting top global talent while returning overall immigration levels to sustainable rates.
Under the Immigration Levels Plan, Canada has announced it will stabilize permanent resident admissions at 416,500 in 2026. The federal government has also said it intends to increase the French-speaking population outside Quebec.
Meanwhile, Canada has reduced the number of temporary residents, including international students and foreign workers, aiming to bring the non-permanent resident population to below five per cent of the total population.
With these changes, it is clear that IRCC is prioritizing skilled immigrants when offering permanent residency.
