Major Changes Set to Transform Express Entry in 2026

Express Entry is preparing for major updates as Canada continues refining its skilled immigration system to better match labour market needs. Several significant changes are expected in 2026, ranging from new occupational categories to updates in eligibility requirements.

New category for physicians with Canadian work experience

On December 8, Immigration Minister Lena Diab announced a dedicated Express Entry category for physicians who have at least one year of Canadian work experience.

This new category differs from the existing healthcare and social services stream because:

• It requires a minimum of one year of work experience (instead of six months).
• That experience must have been gained in Canada, not internationally.

Eligible physicians can now create or update their profiles, with draws for this category expected to begin in early 2026. As with all categories, applicants must still meet all program requirements.

Category-based draws were first introduced in 2023 to help the government target candidates with skills in high demand. These categories are reviewed annually to ensure they align with evolving labour market needs.

Possible new occupational categories in 2026

The government is also studying the introduction of three new occupational categories next year:

• Leadership (senior managers): individuals who manage operations and lead teams.
• Research and innovation (scientists and researchers): experts contributing to innovation and economic growth.
• National security and defence (military personnel): skilled recruits from partner nations who can support the Canadian Armed Forces.

These proposals may change and final details will be confirmed once the federal review is complete.

Updates to existing categories

As of 2025, Canada has five occupational categories under category-based selection:

• STEM
• Trades
• Healthcare and social services
• Education
• Agriculture and agri-food

Earlier this year, IRCC identified healthcare and social services, trades and education as priority categories, in addition to French-language proficiency. It is not yet known whether these will remain priorities in 2026. Notably, no draws have been held for the STEM and Agriculture categories so far in 2025.

Higher PNP allocations expected

The 2026 immigration plan includes higher provincial nominee admissions, meaning provinces will receive increased nomination allocations. This could lead to more PNP draws through Express Entry, benefiting candidates seeking permanent residency through PNP-linked streams. Provinces are expected to receive their updated allocation figures in early 2026.

Continued focus on francophone immigration

The Immigration Levels Plan continues to emphasize francophone immigration outside Quebec.

• The target for 2026 is 9%, up from 8.5% in 2025.
• The broader goal is 12% by 2029.

To qualify for French-language category draws, candidates must meet Express Entry program requirements, be in the pool, have NCLC level 7 in all abilities and meet the specific instructions for the draw.

Major NOC update coming in 2026

Canada is preparing a major update to the National Occupational Classification (NOC), which plays a central role in determining immigration eligibility.

The 2026 update will include large-scale structural and content changes affecting 165 unit groups. Expected updates include:

• Revised job titles and descriptions
• Changes to lead statements, duties, requirements and exclusions

The government is expected to announce these changes in December 2025, with implementation in 2026.

New English language test option coming

A new English test, TOEFL, is expected to become eligible for certain permanent residence applications, including Express Entry. It would join existing tests:

• CELPIP
• IELTS
• PTE Core

IRCC is currently working with ETS, the administrator of TOEFL and the test may become accepted sometime in 2026.

About Express Entry

Express Entry manages applications under the:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

The system uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to score candidates on factors such as age, education, work experience and language skills. Those with the highest scores receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Connect with us