Canada has announced a comprehensive update to its Express Entry system for 2026, designed to attract highly skilled workers, fill critical labour shortages, and support economic growth.

According to a post obtained from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s website, the announcement was made by Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Diab, on Thursday, as part of the government’s International Talent Attraction Strategy.

Diab said the changes aim to “restore control and balance, and rebuild confidence in our immigration system,” while ensuring newcomers can contribute effectively from day one.

“Right now, my department is investing a great deal of focus and energy on attracting and retaining global talent—bringing in the right people to help build a stronger future.

“Getting this right largely depends on how we select newcomers.

“Across departments, our government has embarked on an ambitious International Talent Attraction Strategy. At Immigration, we are using the tools at our disposal to attract talent that grows our economy and fills key labour shortages.

“Our Express Entry system is at the core of our approach for attracting and retaining the skilled workers Canada needs.

“Express Entry is an online system that we use to manage applications for three permanent residence programs. These are the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Workers, and Federal Skilled Trades.

“In category-based rounds of invitations, we invite candidates in the Express Entry pool with the skills and experience we need to boost our capacity in key sectors and occupations,” Diab said.

The government has set clear immigration targets within a measured framework to align with labour market needs, provincial priorities, and Canada’s humanitarian objectives.

According to immigration, the Express Entry system will maintain priority streams for healthcare and social services professionals, including nurse practitioners, pharmacists, dentists, psychologists, and chiropractors. Skilled trades such as carpenters, plumbers, and machinists will also remain eligible, along with STEM occupations like engineers and cybersecurity specialists. French-language proficiency remains a key selection criterion, underscoring the vitality of Francophone communities outside Quebec.

Transport professionals, such as pilots, aircraft mechanics, and inspectors, are critical for trade, supply chains, and economic resilience.

Skilled military recruits, including doctors, nurses, and pilots with job offers from the Canadian Armed Forces, are supporting national defence and the government’s Defence Industrial Strategy.