Canada is updating its immigration system in 2026, shifting from broad intake to a more targeted Express Entry selection, focusing on skilled professionals who can fill immediate labor market gaps while stabilizing overall immigration levels.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed new category-based draws emphasizing candidates with Canadian work experience, particularly in healthcare, research, aviation, and defense sectors.
New Express Entry Categories for 2026
The most notable addition is a dedicated pathway for foreign medical doctors with Canadian work experience, addressing physician shortages and long healthcare wait times in multiple provinces. The first invitation round for this category is expected soon.
Other prioritized groups include:
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Researchers and Senior Managers
Professionals with Canadian experience in research or senior management roles will receive targeted consideration as Canada focuses on innovation and global competitiveness. -
Transport and Aviation Workers
Eligible occupations include pilots, aircraft mechanics, and aircraft inspectors. This category aims to stabilize the aviation sector amid staffing shortages. -
Skilled Foreign Military Recruits
Highly skilled recruits for key roles in the Canadian Armed Forces will have a dedicated pathway aligned with long-term defense workforce planning.
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Categories Continuing in 2026
Canada will maintain draws for candidates with:
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Strong French-language proficiency
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Experience in healthcare and social services
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Skilled trades experience
Healthcare roles cover nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, and chiropractors, while skilled trades include carpenters, plumbers, and machinists.
A More Targeted Immigration Strategy
Immigration accounts for nearly all of Canada’s labor force growth. The new approach prioritizes candidates who can immediately fill workforce shortages while continuing to welcome skilled workers in critical sectors.
Candidates apply under programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class, and portions of the Provincial Nominee Program.
Applicants are scored through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and invitations are issued based on ranking or targeted categories.
What It Means for Skilled Workers
Canada is not reducing immigration but refining its focus. Candidates with Canadian work experience, especially doctors, researchers, aviation professionals, and French-speaking applicants, may have improved chances in 2026.
Healthcare professionals, skilled tradespeople, and researchers should closely monitor category-based draws, as competition may increase outside priority sectors. Understanding sector priorities and the latest Express Entry updates will be essential for prospective immigrants.
