Minister Lena Metlege Diab detailed Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's approach to prioritizing skilled immigrants through Express Entry in 2026. The government aims to maintain categories targeting French-speaking applicants, healthcare professionals, skilled trades, and STEM occupations to fill key labour gaps and support economic growth.
New Express Entry categories for 2026 will include researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience, transport workers such as pilots and aircraft mechanics, and skilled military recruits with eligible Canadian Armed Forces job offers. These additions align with national strategies to foster innovation, enhance supply chains, and strengthen defence capabilities.
The minister reaffirmed commitments to sustaining Francophone immigration outside Quebec, aiming for over 30,000 francophone newcomers annually for the next three years and reaching 12% of admissions by 2029. IRCC continues to refine its selection system to improve predictability and collaboration with provinces, employers, and stakeholders.
Overall, IRCC's plan underscores restoring balance in immigration levels while focusing on attracting highly skilled individuals to support Canada's labour market and long-term economic priorities.
Original Source
canada.ca