Express Entry 2026 Categories Announced: What You Need to Know
On February 18, 2026, the Government of Canada announced major updates to the Express Entry 2026 categories, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable immigration levels while addressing critical labour shortages across key sectors.
The announcement, made by the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, outlines how Canada will refine its selection system to prioritize highly skilled immigrants who can immediately contribute to the economy.
As global competition for talent intensifies, Canada continues to position itself as a top destination for skilled professionals.
What Is Express Entry?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) manages Express Entry, Canada’s flagship permanent residence system. It oversees applications under:
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Federal Skilled Worker Program
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Federal Skilled Trades Program
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
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A portion of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Express Entry plays a crucial role in Canada’s labour market strategy. Immigration now accounts for nearly 100% of Canada’s labour force growth.
New Express Entry 2026 Categories
For 2026, Canada is introducing new category-based selection streams designed to target individuals with specific work experience and Canadian ties.
1. Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
A new category for foreign medical doctors who already have Canadian work experience will launch shortly, with the first round of invitations expected in the coming days.
2. Researchers with Canadian Work Experience
This category supports Canada’s innovation and research ecosystem by retaining global talent contributing to academic and scientific advancement.
3. Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience
Designed to retain leadership-level professionals who are already driving growth in Canadian businesses.
4. Transport Occupations
- Pilots
- Aircraft mechanics
- Aircraft inspectors
5. Skilled Military Recruits
Highly skilled foreign military applicants recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces in key roles such as:
- Military doctors
- Nurses
- Pilots
Categories Continuing from 2025
IRCC will continue invitation rounds for:
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French-language proficiency
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Healthcare and social services (e.g., nurse practitioners, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, chiropractors)
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Trades (e.g., carpenters, plumbers, machinists)
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STEM occupations
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Education occupations
Additionally, Canadian Experience Class draws and French-proficiency category draws continued into early 2026.
How Category-Based Selection Works
Category-based rounds supplement general and program-specific rounds. However, if enough top-ranking candidates already qualify under general draws, IRCC may not conduct a category-specific round.
To qualify under a category-based round, candidates must:
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Meet the minimum criteria for Express Entry
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Be eligible under one of the three federal programs
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Meet all requirements listed in that specific category’s instructions
When a round occurs, IRCC:
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Ranks eligible candidates within the category
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Invites top-ranking individuals to apply for permanent residence
What This Means for Skilled Workers
The Express Entry 2026 categories signal a clear shift toward:
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Retaining talent already working in Canada
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Strengthening priority sectors like healthcare, research, transport, trades, and defense
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Supporting provincial labour market needs
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Enhancing Canada’s long-term economic resilience
If you have Canadian work experience in one of the targeted occupations, your chances under Express Entry may significantly improve.
Consult with EV Immigration
With the introduction of new Express Entry 2026 categories, now is the time to assess your eligibility.
At EV Immigration, our licensed professionals can:
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Evaluate your Express Entry profile
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Determine if you qualify under a new category
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Improve your CRS score strategy
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Guide you through category-based or general draws
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Prepare and submit a complete PR application
Don’t leave your future to chance.
Book a consultation with EV Immigration today and find out if you qualify under the Express Entry 2026 categories.
