Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the 2026 category-based selection framework for the Express Entry system aimed at permanent residence. This updated approach confirms that targeted invitation rounds will continue for candidates working in specific, designated occupations and sectors, potentially allowing for lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score thresholds in these draws. 

New categories for 2026 include foreign-trained medical doctors and researchers with Canadian work experience, senior managers, transport professionals (such as pilots and aircraft mechanics), and certain highly skilled foreign military personnel recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces.  

IRCC has also confirmed that category-based draws will continue for candidates with strong French language proficiency, as well as those with experience in healthcare and social services, education, transport, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations, and skilled trades. 

These updates further align Express Entry selections with Canada’s labor market priorities. Employers and prospective applicants in the identified sectors should monitor upcoming draw announcements and evaluate their eligibility under the relevant category-based streams.