2 hours ago
Last Updated:August 13, 2025, 19:54 IST
The changes could benefit Indian professionals with experience in leadership roles, especially in IT, finance, and engineering
The Express Entry system is an online application management system used to process immigration under economic programs. (AP file photo)
Canada is set to introduce three new occupational categories to its Express Entry immigration system in 2026, with a focus on senior managers, scientists and researchers, and military personnel.
The move, announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) through a public consultation notice, aims to simplify the permanent residence application process for highly skilled foreign workers in these sectors.
The public consultation will remain open till 3 September 2025. However, the Canadian government has not yet provided a detailed timeline for implementation.
The Express Entry system is an online application management system used to process immigration under economic programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class. Applicants are ranked through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and those with the highest scores are invited to apply for permanent residency.
What The New Categories Include
The Leadership category will focus on senior managers who oversee operations and lead teams. According to IRCC, these roles are essential to boosting Canada’s competitiveness and economic growth.
The Research and Innovation category is intended for select scientists and researchers. While the specific disciplines have not yet been disclosed, the government believes that attracting talent in these fields will drive innovation and improve overall productivity.
The Security and Defence category will prioritise skilled military professionals from allied countries, aiming to support the Canadian Armed Forces and broader security needs.
What It Means For Indian professionals
The changes could benefit Indian professionals with experience in leadership roles, especially in IT, finance, and engineering, where India has a strong talent pool.
Indian researchers and scientists in STEM fields may also have increased opportunities. If recognised, Indian defence professionals could explore new immigration pathways under the proposed defence category.
Other Key Updates
IRCC will continue to prioritise Francophone immigration outside Quebec and sectors like healthcare, trades, education, STEM, and agri-food. These areas are already part of the category-based selection system introduced in 2023, which helps fill labour shortages with skilled foreign workers.
Category-based draws often have lower CRS cut-offs than general rounds, giving targeted applicants a better chance.
students may also be affected, as changes in Express Entry can impact Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. More updates on this are expected in early 2026.
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...
Read More
Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!
view commentsLocation :Canada
First Published:August 13, 2025, 19:54 IST
News world Canada to Launch New Express Entry Categories for Skilled Workers in 2026
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Read More
