Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, outlined plans to enhance the Express Entry system in 2026 to attract skilled workers in priority sectors. The Express Entry program will continue inviting candidates with strong French skills and relevant experience in health care, social services, trades, and STEM fields. New categories will be introduced for researchers, senior managers, transport workers, and skilled military recruits with Canadian job offers, reflecting evolving economic and security needs.
These adjustments are part of a broader strategy to restore balance and predictability in Canada's immigration system following pandemic-related pressures. The government aims to maintain permanent resident admissions at less than 1% of the population while reducing non-permanent residents and modernizing the asylum system. A dedicated category for foreign medical doctors with Canadian experience was also announced to support healthcare access.
IRCC emphasizes collaboration with provinces and territories and ongoing engagement with employers to ensure the system meets labour market demands efficiently. The goal is to sustain economic growth and labor force needs while expanding Francophone immigration outside Quebec, targeting over 30,000 newcomers annually to strengthen community vitality.
Original Source
canada.ca