Canada’s Express Entry system is set for significant updates in 2026. These changes reflect the federal government’s plan to target skilled workers who can help fill critical labour shortages across the country. Below is a clear breakdown of what applicants can expect in the coming year. 

A New Express Entry Category for Physicians With Canadian Work Experience 

On December 8, the immigration minister announced a new Express Entry category specifically for physicians who have at least one year of Canadian work experience. This category is different from the existing healthcare and social services category in two key ways: 

Physicians must still meet the eligibility requirements of at least one Express Entry program and follow the instructions for the draw in which they are invited. Draws under this new category are expected to begin in early 2026. 

Category-based selection draws, introduced in 2023, allow IRCC to target candidates with in-demand skills. These categories are reviewed and updated each year to reflect labour market needs. 

Possible Introduction of Three New Occupational Categories 

The federal government is considering adding three new occupational categories to Express Entry in 2026. These proposed categories include: 

These proposals are not final. The exact occupations and timelines will only be confirmed once the government publishes updated instructions. 

Updates to Current Occupational Categories 

Apart from the upcoming physician-specific category, Express Entry currently includes five occupational categories: 

In 2025, IRCC identified healthcare and social services, trades, and education as priority categories, along with French-language proficiency. It is not yet clear whether these will remain priorities in 2026. 

It is notable that, so far in 2025, no draws have taken place under the STEM or Agriculture and Agri-food categories. 

Larger Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Allocations 

Each year, IRCC assigns provinces and territories a set number of nominations for their Provincial Nominee Programs. Many of these nominations are connected to Express Entry. 

The Immigration Levels Plan shows that PNP admissions will increase in 2026. As a result, provinces are expected to receive higher nomination allocations. While the exact increase is not yet known, this could lead to more PNP draws through Express Entry in 2026. 

Provinces are expected to receive their updated allocation numbers in early 2026. 

Continued Focus on Francophone Immigration 

Canada’s immigration plan continues to prioritize francophone immigration outside Quebec. The target for francophone admissions outside Quebec will rise to 9% in 2026, up from 8.5% in 2025. The goal is to reach 10.5% by 2028 and support long-term federal targets for francophone representation. 

To qualify for a French-language category-based draw, candidates must: 

Significant Updates Coming to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 

Canada is preparing a major update to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) in 2026. The NOC is used to determine eligibility for most skilled immigration programs, including Express Entry. 

The 2026 update is expected to bring significant changes to 165 occupational groups. These updates may include: 

The goal of this review is to ensure that the NOC reflects current labour market conditions. An official announcement is expected by the end of 2025, with implementation in 2026. 

A New English Language Test Option for PR Applicants 

A new English test may soon be accepted for Express Entry and other permanent residence programs. In August 2025, the government announced that the TOEFL would be added to the list of accepted English-language tests, which currently includes: 

IRCC is working with the organization that administers the TOEFL to finalize the steps required before the test becomes officially accepted. This change may take effect in 2026. 

A Quick Overview of Express Entry 

Express Entry is the main system used to manage skilled worker applications for permanent residence under three federal programs: 

The system ranks candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considers age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Those with the highest scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residence. 

Express Entry helps Canada respond quickly to labour market needs by selecting skilled workers who can contribute to the economy.