The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, outlined plans to enhance Canada's Express Entry system in 2026 to better attract skilled workers. The system will maintain current targeted invitation rounds for candidates with strong French abilities and work experience in sectors such as health care, skilled trades, and STEM fields. New categories will be introduced to include researchers, senior managers with Canadian work experience, transport workers like pilots and aircraft mechanics, and skilled military recruits with job offers from the Canadian Armed Forces.
These changes support government priorities in innovation, economic resilience, and national security, aligning with broader federal initiatives including a recent investment of $1.7 billion to attract world-leading researchers. The Minister also highlighted Express Entry's role in promoting Francophone immigration outside Quebec, with targets to increase francophone newcomers to 12% of admissions by 2029.
IRCC continues to work with provinces and territories to improve candidate selection, reduce barriers, and speed up credential recognition for newcomers. This effort is part of a broader International Talent Attraction Strategy aimed at filling labour shortages and supporting Canada's long-term economic needs while restoring balance and predictability in the immigration system.
Original Source
canada.ca