Potential New Express Entry Categories in 2026: What You Need to Know
Date Posted:August 25, 2025
Last Updated:August 25, 2025
Index
The Canadian government is considering adding new occupational categories to the Express Entry system in 2026. The proposed categories are:
- Senior Managers
- Researchers and Scientists
- Military Personnel
These new categories could make it easier for candidates in these fields to receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence. The public consultation period for feedback is open until September 3, 2025.
A Closer Look at the Proposed Categories
1. Senior Managers
This category targets individuals with experience managing teams and overseeing company or organizational operations.
The Canadian government believes that senior managers can bring fresh perspectives, accelerate digital transformation, and improve productivity, contributing to economic growth.
2. Researchers and Scientists
Scientific research and innovation play a key role in Canada’s economic development. This category aims to attract highly skilled researchers and scientists. Specific priority fields have not yet been announced.
3. Military Personnel
Canada is considering prioritizing highly skilled military recruits from allied countries to strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces. Details about eligibility are still under consideration.
Continuing Priority Areas in 2026
In addition to the new categories, the following fields are expected to remain priority areas in 2026:
- French-language proficiency (outside Quebec)
- Healthcare and social services
- Skilled trades (including construction)
- Education
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Agriculture and agri-food
These categories reflect ongoing labor market needs and shortages.
Impact on International Students
Express Entry categories also influence Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. Since 2024, field-of-study requirements have been aligned with labor market needs. Changes to Express Entry categories in 2026 may result in adjustments to PGWP-eligible fields. The next announcement on this is expected in early 2026.
What Is Category-Based Selection?
Introduced in 2023, category-based selection allows Express Entry to focus on candidates with specific in-demand skills or language abilities to fill labor market gaps. Categories are updated annually to reflect evolving needs.
In 2025, the priority Express Entry categories are:
- French-language proficiency
- Healthcare and social services
- Agriculture and agri-food occupations
- STEM
- Trades occupations
- Education (added in 2025)
Candidates in these categories may receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) at lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-offs compared to general or Canadian Experience Class draws. For example, recent healthcare draws had a CRS cut-off of 475, compared with 534 for a typical CEC draw.
Conclusion
The potential new categories for 2026 reflect Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled professionals and meet labor market needs. Senior managers, researchers, scientists, and military personnel may have new pathways to permanent residence. Additionally, healthcare, education, STEM, trades, and agriculture will continue to be priority areas.
Stay updated with the latest changes to Express Entry and other immigration programs to make the most of new opportunities.
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