Overview
The Government of Canada announced key updates to its Express Entry immigration system, introducing new priority categories to attract highly skilled workers to help address critical labour shortages in the Canadian economy.
The February 18, 2026 announcement is part of Canada’s broader strategy to attract and retain highly skilled talent, which focuses economic immigration on workers with the experience and skills Canada needs most.
What is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s main system for managing applications for permanent residence under economic immigration programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program. Invitations to apply (ITAs) are issued through targeted rounds based on a candidate’s qualifications and alignment with priority categories.
New Priorities for 2026
For 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will hold category-based invitation rounds that focus on the following new groupings of candidates:
- Foreign medical doctors with Canadian work experience — including physicians already working in Canada.
- Researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience — recognizing advanced leadership and innovation roles.
- Transport occupations — including pilots, aircraft mechanics and inspectors.
- Highly skilled foreign military applicants — those recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces in key roles such as military doctors, nurses and pilots.
These categories reflect Canada’s strategic emphasis on addressing labour gaps in sectors with acute shortages.
Continuing Priorities
In addition to the new categories, IRCC will continue invitation rounds for existing priority areas, including:
- Candidates with strong French language skills.
- Professionals in health care and social services (e.g., nurses, dentists, pharmacists).
- Skilled trades workers (e.g., carpenters, plumbers, machinists).
How Prospective Applicants Can Take Action
For individuals considering permanent residence through Express Entry, understanding these new categories can help in planning eligibility and timing strategies. Prospective applicants should evaluate how their work experience and qualifications align with the updated categories.
Fillmore Riley’s Immigration & Global Mobility Practice
If you would like assistance evaluating your eligibility under the new 2026 Express Entry categories or planning an immigration strategy, our firm can help guide you through the process with up-to-date legal insight, detailed drafting assistance, and personalized practical advice.
Immigration policies and invitation categories are subject to change. Selection under Express Entry remains discretionary and based on eligibility criteria set by IRCC.