Canada's Minister of Immigration, Lena Metlege Diab, outlined plans to enhance the Express Entry system in 2026 to prioritize skilled candidates contributing to key economic sectors. Existing invitation rounds for candidates with strong French skills and work experience in health care, trades, and STEM fields will continue. New categories will target researchers, senior managers with Canadian experience, transport workers such as pilots and aircraft mechanics, and highly skilled military recruits with a job offer from the Canadian Armed Forces.
Express Entry remains central to Canada's strategy for selecting skilled workers through the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker, and Federal Skilled Trades programs. Candidates are ranked based on factors like skills, education, language, and work experience relevant to employer needs.
The government is committed to restoring stability and predictability to the immigration system, aligning intake targets with national and regional priorities. Efforts include supporting Francophone immigration growth and facilitating pathways for foreign credential recognition to help newcomers integrate into the Canadian workforce.
IRCC's talent attraction approach is part of a broader International Talent Attraction Strategy aiming to connect skilled immigrants to employers and address labour shortages across the country. Invitations for health professionals, including foreign-trained doctors with Canadian experience, are underway this year.
Original Source
canada.ca