Canada plans to introduce new Express Entry categories for 2026

The Canadian government is planning to add three new occupational categories to its Express Entry immigration system in 2026. The proposed categories target senior managers, scientists and researchers, and military personnel, aiming to simplify permanent residence applications for foreign nationals in these fields, as per a CIC News report.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced these proposals in a public consultation notice on the government’s website. The consultation will remain open until September 3, 2025, and the government has not yet shared further details about the implementation timeline.

Leadership category for senior managers


The proposed Leadership category is aimed at senior managers. IRCC defines senior managers as “highly skilled workers who oversee the operations of a company or organization and who lead a team of employees.” The government expects this category to “boost the country’s competitiveness and advance economic growth and prosperity” by bringing new perspectives, accelerating digital transformation, and enhancing productivity.

Research and innovation category for researchers and scientists

The Research and Innovation category focuses on certain researchers and scientists. As per CIC News report, IRCC believes that scientific research and innovation can “enhance productivity and performance” and “stimulate economic growth.” However, the consultation did not specify which types of researchers or scientists would be prioritized.

National security and defence category for military personnel

The National Security and Defence category proposes prioritizing highly skilled military recruits from allied countries. This move aims to support the Canadian Armed Forces and national security objectives.

Impact on international students

Express Entry categories influence eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) for international students. According to CIC News report, since 2024, 119 fields of study remain eligible, while 178 were removed. Changes to Express Entry categories in 2026 could lead to updates in PGWP field of study requirements, with announcements expected early next year.

Continued priorities for 2026

Along with these new categories, IRCC plans to maintain existing priorities in Express Entry. Francophone immigration outside Quebec remains a focus, with targets to increase French-speaking permanent residents to 10% by 2027.

The government will also continue prioritizing sectors facing labour shortages, including healthcare, skilled trades, education, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), and agriculture and agri-food.

Introduced in 2023, category-based selection helps fill labour gaps by issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with in-demand skills or language abilities. Category rounds often have lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off scores compared to general draws, giving certain skilled workers an advantage. For instance, a recent healthcare and social service draw had a CRS cut-off of 475, compared to 534 in a general Canadian Experience Class draw.