ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Canada expands Express Entry for labor gaps
IRCC highlighted the need for additional categories and said that Canada is working to attract and retain the best talent to the country.
-
Jeffin T. Kaleekal - Thu, 19, Feb 2026
- 01:01 EST
- 17
A Canadian dollar coin, commonly known as the "Loonie," is pictured in this illustration picture taken in Toronto, January 23, 2015. / REUTERS/Mark Blinch/File Photo
After months of intensifying immigration cutbacks, Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Lena Metlege Diab announced five new Express Entry draw categories for 2026, allowing Canada to invite candidates with the skills and experience needed to fill critical labor gaps in key sectors and occupations.
On Feb. 18, the minister declared that Canada will introduce new categories for foreign medical doctors with Canadian work experience; researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience; candidates with work experience in transport occupations, including pilots, aircraft mechanics and inspectors; and highly skilled foreign military applicants recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces in key roles such as military doctors, nurses and pilots.
ALSO READ: Canada starts testing digital visas
Additionally, the country will continue holding invitation rounds for the 2025 categories of health care and social services, and trades such as carpenters, plumbers and machinists.
Highlighting the significance of bringing in necessary talent, Minister Diab said, “Canada’s future depends on a workforce ready to meet the challenges of a changing economy.”
She added, “By refining Express Entry to focus on the skills our communities truly need, we are strengthening our labour market, supporting provincial priorities and ensuring newcomers can contribute from day one.”
The first round for foreign medical doctors with Canadian work experience will be held in the coming days, IRCC said in a statement.
Canadian Experience Class draws continued through early 2026 to prioritize candidates already contributing to Canada’s economy. Draws for the French-proficiency category also continued.
IRCC further highlighted the need for such additional categories and said that Canada is working to attract and retain the best talent to the country. The announcement builds on ongoing efforts to strengthen Canada’s economic resilience through targeted measures for medical doctors, graduate students and researchers, as well as Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login