Canada has announced major changes to its flagship immigration selection system, bringing new opportunities for skilled professionals seeking Permanent Residency in Canada. The federal government will now prioritize three new occupational categories under Express Entry, reshaping how candidates are selected through category-based draws.
The announcement was made by Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab during a speech at the Canadian Club in Toronto on February 18, 2026.
New Priority Categories Under Express Entry
Under the updated framework, the government will prioritize candidates with experience in the following three categories:
1️⃣ Researchers & Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience
This category targets high-level talent already contributing to Canada’s economy and innovation sector.
Key roles include:
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University professors and lecturers
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Post-secondary teaching and research assistants
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Senior managers across sectors such as finance, health care, construction, education, and social services
By prioritizing academic leaders and executive professionals, Canada aims to strengthen research output, institutional leadership, and economic productivity.
2️⃣ Transport Occupations
A newly redesigned transport category has been introduced to address labour shortages in aviation and mechanical transport services.
Eligible roles include:
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Air pilots, flight engineers, and flying instructors
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Aircraft mechanics and inspectors
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Automotive service technicians and heavy vehicle mechanics
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Avionics and aircraft instrument technicians
This move supports Canada’s supply chains, logistics networks, and aviation safety infrastructure.
3️⃣ Military Personnel (Skilled Military Recruits)
Canada is also opening immigration pathways for experienced foreign military professionals to support national defence priorities.
Eligible candidates may include members of the Canadian Armed Forces occupational streams such as:
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Operations personnel
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Specialized military members
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Commissioned officers
Additional Requirements
Unlike other categories, military applicants must also:
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Have 10+ years of continuous service in a recognized foreign military
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Secure a minimum 3-year job offer from the Canadian Armed Forces
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Hold a post-secondary credential of at least two years
This category aligns with Canada’s broader Defence Industrial Strategy and long-term security planning.
Higher Work Experience Requirement
One of the most significant updates is the increase in minimum work experience.
🔹 New requirement: 1 year
🔹 Previous requirement: 6 months
This applies across all occupational categories and must be gained within the past three years.
The change is designed to ensure candidates have deeper professional experience and are better prepared for Canada’s labour market.
Physician Draw Coming This Week
Minister Diab also confirmed that the first draw for the Physicians with Canadian Work Experience category — introduced in December 2025 — will take place this week.
This healthcare-focused stream aims to address Canada’s doctor shortages and improve patient access nationwide.
Categories That Continue — and One That Ends
Canada will continue prioritizing candidates in:
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French-language proficiency
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Health care and social services
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Trades occupations
However, the Agriculture and Agri-Food category has now been retired.
Notably, the newly introduced transport stream does not include occupations from the earlier transport category that was removed in 2025 — indicating a complete restructuring rather than a revival.
Why Category-Based Selection Matters
Category-Based Selection (CBS) allows Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with targeted skills instead of relying solely on CRS scores.
This has become especially important because:
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Most recent non-category draws focused on the Canadian Experience Class
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Candidates without Canadian work experience now rely heavily on CBS to receive invitations
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It supports sector-specific labour shortages
For many foreign nationals, CBS has become one of the most strategic routes to Canada PR through Express Entry.
Asylum Policy Reminder
During the Q&A session, Minister Diab also addressed asylum reforms under Bill C-12.
She emphasized that Canada has structured immigration pathways for skilled workers and that asylum should not be used as an alternative immigration route — particularly for individuals already residing in Canada long-term or visiting for major events.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating evolving immigration policies can be complex — especially with new Express Entry category changes and eligibility criteria.
ICC Immigration is committed to helping you choose the most reliable and strategic pathway toward Permanent Residency in Canada.
Our Key Services
🔹 Permanent Residency Applications
We manage PR applications through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other economic pathways — ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
🔹 Work Permits & Study Permits
We help you secure temporary status that can transition into long-term immigration success.
🔹 Family Sponsorships
Reunite with loved ones in Canada through structured sponsorship programs.
🔹 Expert Legal Guidance
Canadian immigration law is constantly evolving. Our professionals ensure your application meets the latest regulatory requirements while maximizing approval chances.
Choose Stability Over Uncertainty
Instead of relying on unpredictable immigration routes, applicants should pursue structured programs offering:
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Legal security
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Faster processing
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Long-term settlement opportunities
ICC Immigration supports you at every stage — from eligibility assessment to final PR approval.
Whether you are inside Canada or planning your move, our team provides personalized guidance to help you build a stable and successful future.