In 2026, Canada aims to add three new occupational groups under the Express Entry system

The Government of Canada is exploring the introduction of three new categories within the Express Entry system, targeting senior managers, scientific researchers, and military professionals. If implemented, these additions would create new pathways for qualified foreign nationals in these occupations to obtain permanent residence.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) highlighted these potential categories in a recent consultation notice published on the federal government’s website. According to IRCC, the changes are under review for a possible rollout in 2026, though no specific timeline has been provided for when further updates will be shared. The consultation remains open until September 3, 2025.

IRCC is considering a dedicated stream for experienced senior managers—described as highly skilled professionals who direct company or organizational operations and lead employee teams. The department suggests that welcoming more leaders could drive digital transformation, increase productivity, and strengthen Canada’s global competitiveness.

Another category under review focuses on scientists and researchers. IRCC notes that innovation and scientific advancement can fuel economic growth, improve efficiency, and support national development. Details on which scientific fields would be prioritized have not yet been clarified.

The federal government is also evaluating the option of creating a stream for military personnel, particularly skilled recruits from allied nations, to help strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces.

IRCC has indicated that supporting French-speaking immigration outside Quebec will continue to be a priority. Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2025–2027 sets goals of 8.5% French-speaking newcomers in 2025, 9.5% in 2026, and 10% in 2027.

Express Entry in 2026 is also expected to continue prioritizing fields facing persistent workforce gaps, including:

IRCC is gathering additional feedback from industry stakeholders, including whether future draws should emphasize candidates already living in Canada or recruit more talent from abroad.

Express Entry categories play a role in shaping Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility by aligning programs of study with labour market demand. Since 2024, field of study requirements have been in place to ensure international students are trained in areas Canada needs most.

Currently, 119 study fields qualify for PGWP eligibility, while 178 were removed earlier this year. Updates to Express Entry categories in 2026 could lead to further revisions in eligible programs. IRCC has stated that the next list of PGWP-eligible fields will be released in early 2026. Importantly, graduates of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs remain exempt from field-of-study requirements.

Canada first introduced category-based selection rounds in 2023 to better address labour shortages. These targeted draws allow IRCC to invite candidates with specific skills or language abilities, in addition to regular Express Entry rounds for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

In 2025, the categories included:

Of these, the main priorities were French proficiency, healthcare, trades, and education. Category-based rounds often feature lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off scores than general draws. For example, a recent Canadian Experience Class draw required 534 points, while a healthcare-focused draw was set at 475—making it easier for in-demand professionals to secure an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.