Canada’s immigration landscape is evolving rapidly. As we move into 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is increasingly targeting candidates who can contribute to the Canadian economy and fill critical labour shortages. If you’re planning your move to Canada, understanding these trends can significantly boost your chances of success.

In-Canada Candidates: The Canadian Experience Advantage

Throughout 2025, IRCC has emphasized the importance of candidates with Canadian work experience, particularly under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This Express Entry program favors applicants who have at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience within the last three years.

In 2025 alone, 30,850 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued under CEC, making it the second most frequent draw after Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The federal government plans to transition up to 33,000 temporary foreign workers to Permanent Residency (PR) in 2026 and 2027, prioritizing individuals who have already established roots in Canada.

For applicants, this highlights the advantage of gaining Canadian experience before applying for PR.

Healthcare and Social Services: High-Demand Sectors

Healthcare and social services remain among Canada’s most in-demand sectors. IRCC expanded the Healthcare occupations category in 2025 to include social service roles, issuing 14,500 ITAs through these category-based draws.

Provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia continue to operate dedicated streams for healthcare professionals, including physicians and social workers. For example, up to 5,000 federal admission spaces have been reserved for licensed doctors with qualifying job offers, with expedited work permit processing within 14 days.

Immigration Minister Lena Diab has confirmed that category-based draws for healthcare professionals, especially doctors with Canadian work experience, are expected to begin early in 2026. This is a significant opportunity for internationally trained healthcare workers seeking PR.

French-Speaking Candidates: A Strategic Advantage

French-speaking candidates continue to enjoy priority under Express Entry. In 2025, 42,000 ITAs were issued through French-language proficiency draws — the largest cumulative number of any draw type.

Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan aims to increase Francophone admissions outside Quebec to 9% in 2026, up from 8.5% in 2025. Francophone immigration supports economic growth while strengthening minority communities, making language proficiency a valuable advantage for PR applicants.

Skilled Trades: Addressing Labour Shortages

Trades professionals — including carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and construction workers — remain a top priority. In 2025, IRCC added 19 occupations to the trades category, and plans were announced to admit up to 14,000 construction workers.

Provinces continue to offer dedicated streams for skilled trades, reflecting ongoing shortages in construction and infrastructure sectors. Category-based selection for 2026 confirms that trades workers remain crucial for Canada’s economic stability and long-term growth.

International Researchers and Tech Talent: Building Canada’s Innovation Economy

Canada is actively attracting top global talent in research, technology, and innovation-driven sectors. The federal government plans to recruit over 1,000 highly qualified researchers with investments up to $1.7 billion.

Priority areas include:

• Advanced digital technologies (AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity)

• Health and biotechnology

• Clean technology and climate resilience

• Food and water security

• Manufacturing and advanced materials

• Defence and dual-use technologies

These initiatives are not directly under Express Entry but can lead to PR eligibility through Canadian work experience.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, but ICC Immigration is committed to helping you succeed. Our team of experts will assess your profile and guide you through the most appropriate pathways for Permanent Residency.

We provide services including:

• Permanent Residency Applications: Smooth and efficient PR applications through Express Entry, PNPs, or other pathways.

• Work Permits & Study Permits: Temporary options to establish your career or education in Canada, paving the way for PR.

• Family Sponsorships: Reuniting with family members and securing PR status.

• Expert Legal Advice: Professional guidance to ensure your application meets current regulations and maximizes approval chances.

Instead of relying on uncertain asylum pathways, choose a stable and secure route to PR. ICC Immigration helps you every step of the way, whether you’re already in Canada or planning your immigration journey.