Canada Proposes Three New Occupational Categories for Express Entry in 2026
The Government of Canada is exploring the creation of three new Express Entry occupational categories that could make it easier for certain professionals to obtain permanent residence starting in 2026.
According to a public consultation notice from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the proposed categories include:
Senior Managers (Leadership).
Scientists and Researchers
Military Personnel
If implemented,these categories would join Canada’s growing list of targeted immigration streams under Express Entry, aimed at addressing labour shortages in priority sectors.
Public Consultation Open
The proposal was posted on the Government of Canada’s official website, and public feedback is being accepted until 3 September 2025.
No launch date has been confirmed, and IRCC has not provided a timeline for when more details will be announced.
Why These Categories?
1. Leadership – Senior Managers
This proposed category would target highly skilled leaders who:
Oversee the operations of a company or organization
Manage teams of employees
Drive strategic decision-making and long-term planning
IRCC’s Rationale:
Attracting experienced leaders can bring fresh perspectives, speed up digital transformation, improve productivity, and help Canadian organizations achieve their strategic objectives. This could, in turn, boost Canada’s global competitiveness and promote economic growth.
2. Scientists and Researchers
Although details have not yet been published, this category would likely focus on professionals advancing innovation, technology, and scientific discovery. Candidates in this category could play a key role in supporting Canada’s tech sector, healthcare advancements, and climate research initiatives.
3. Military Personnel
This category would aim to attract trained service members with valuable skills in leadership, logistics, engineering, emergency response, and national security. Military professionals often have specialized training that could be applied in civilian roles, as well as the ability to work in high-pressure environments.
What This Means for Express Entry?
If adopted, these categories would join existing targeted draws such as healthcare, STEM, trade occupations, transport, agriculture, and French language proficiency that allow IRCC to invite candidates based on sector-specific needs rather than purely on CRS score rankings.
For candidates in these proposed professions, the changes could significantly increase the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) once the categories go live in 2026.
Next Steps:
Submit feedback to the public consultation before 3 September 2025
Stay informed for official updates on eligibility criteria and launch timelines.
Prepare your Express Entry profile so you can apply quickly if the categories are approved.