Canada Proposes Three New Express Entry Occupational Categories for 2026

Canada is once again shaping its immigration policies to meet evolving labour market demands. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has proposed the addition of three new occupational categories to Express Entry in 2026:

• Senior Managers (Leadership Roles)

• Scientists and Researchers (Research & Innovation)

• Military Personnel (National Security & Defence)

This move, currently under public consultation until September 3, 2025, highlights Canada’s ongoing strategy to attract global talent and strengthen its economy, research ecosystem, and defence sector.

Why These New Categories Matter

1. Leadership – Senior Managers

Canada aims to attract senior managers who can lead organizations, drive innovation, and oversee complex business operations. IRCC believes that bringing in professionals at the executive level will:

• Accelerate digital transformation across industries.

• Enhance productivity and competitiveness.

• Support Canada’s economic growth and global positioning.

Real-Life Example:
A Chief Technology Officer (CTO) from India leading a fintech startup could immigrate under this category. With proven expertise in scaling operations and managing digital solutions, they could join a Canadian bank or startup hub, fostering innovation in AI-driven financial services.

2. Research & Innovation – Scientists and Researchers

Recognizing the role of research in boosting productivity, IRCC is considering giving priority to international scientists and researchers. While specific disciplines are not yet defined, this category could cover fields like biotechnology, artificial intelligence, clean energy, and medical sciences.

Real-Life Example:
A cancer researcher from the UK working on breakthrough immunotherapy could be fast-tracked into Canada’s healthcare system, collaborating with universities and hospitals to enhance cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes.

3. National Security & Defence – Military Personnel

To support the Canadian Armed Forces, IRCC is evaluating a category dedicated to recruiting skilled military professionals from allied nations. This would strengthen Canada’s security infrastructure and defence readiness.

Real-Life Example:
An experienced military engineer from an allied NATO country could immigrate to Canada to work on advanced defence technologies, contributing expertise in cyber security and aerospace engineering.

Other Categories Likely to Continue in 2026

Apart from these new proposals, Canada plans to continue prioritizing sectors facing long-term labour shortages, including:

• Healthcare

• Skilled Trades (especially construction to support housing needs)

• Education

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

• Agriculture & Agri-food

Additionally, Francophone immigration will remain a top priority outside Quebec. The government’s immigration targets are:

• 8.5% French-speaking newcomers in 2025

• 9.5% in 2026

• 10% in 2027

Impact on International Students

Express Entry categories also influence Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. Since 2024, specific fields of study have been tied to Canada’s labour market needs. Currently:

• 119 programs remain PGWP-eligible.

• 178 programs were removed earlier this year.

Changes in Express Entry categories for 2026 could further adjust which study programs qualify. However, graduates of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees remain exempt from these restrictions.

Student Example:
An international student completing a master’s in Data Science in Toronto may find stronger PR opportunities under the STEM-focused Express Entry categories.

New Medical Exam Requirements (Effective August 21, 2025)

Starting August 21, 2025, all Express Entry applicants must undergo upfront medical exams before submitting their PR application. This change aims to speed up application processing.

Applicants will need to schedule exams with IRCC-approved panel physicians. Costs typically range from $140–$280 per person, plus additional fees for lab tests or specialist referrals.

Category-Based Selection in Express Entry

Introduced in 2023, category-based draws allow IRCC to invite candidates with specific in-demand skills, often at lower CRS scores compared to general draws.

For example:

• A recent CEC (Canadian Experience Class) draw had a cutoff of 534 CRS.

• A Healthcare category draw had a cutoff of 475 CRS, giving nurses, doctors, and social workers a significant advantage.

Practical Example:
A social worker from Sri Lanka with a master’s degree and strong English proficiency received an ITA at 481 CRS in a healthcare draw — a score that wouldn’t have cleared the cutoff in a general draw.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s proposal to add senior managers, researchers, and military personnel to Express Entry in 2026 underscores its long-term vision of building a stronger, more resilient nation. These categories are not just about filling jobs — they’re about driving innovation, boosting leadership capacity, and ensuring national security.

For skilled professionals, international students, and even military experts, these upcoming changes could open new pathways to Canadian permanent residence.

If you’re considering immigration to Canada, now is the time to align your career and education plans with these proposed categories.