Canada’s Express Entry system, which helps skilled workers apply for permanent residency (PR), is getting some important updates in 2026. These changes aim to make it easier for Canada to fill jobs where workers are needed most. If you are thinking about moving to Canada, here’s what you should know in simple terms.
New Express Entry Category for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
Starting in early 2026, Canada will have a special Express Entry category just for physicians who have worked in Canada for at least one year. This is different from the general healthcare category, which allowed candidates with six months of Canadian or international experience. Only three specific jobs will be eligible in this new category.
If you are a physician who meets these requirements, you can already create or update your Express Entry profile to be ready for the new draws. This category is part of Canada’s plan to attract skilled workers in jobs that are in high demand.
New Occupation Categories Under Consideration
The Canadian government is also thinking about adding three more job categories to Express Entry in 2026:
- Leadership (Senior Managers): For highly skilled managers who lead teams and run operations.
- Research and Innovation (Scientists & Researchers): For people whose work drives innovation and helps Canada’s economy grow.
- National Security and Defence (Military Personnel): To prioritize skilled military recruits from partner countries.
These are still proposals and could change. Final details will be announced after the government review.
Updates to Existing Categories
Currently, Canada has five Express Entry occupational categories:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Trades
- Healthcare and social services
- Education
- Agriculture and agri-food
In 2025, the priority categories were healthcare, trades, education, and French-language speakers. STEM and Agriculture didn’t have any draws last year, and it’s unclear if priorities will change in 2026.
More Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Opportunities
Canada works with provinces to allow them to nominate skilled workers for PR. In 2026, provinces are expected to get more nominations, which could mean more chances for people to get PR through provincial programs. Provinces will learn about their allocations early in 2026.
Focus on French-Language Immigrants
Canada is continuing to encourage French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec. In 2026, the target is for 9% of new immigrants to be francophone, up from 8.5% in 2025. Candidates with strong French skills may get priority in Express Entry draws. To qualify, you must:
- Meet Express Entry program requirements
- Be in the candidate pool
- Have French language test results at NCLC level 7 in all four skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing)
- Follow all instructions for the draw
Major Updates to Canada’s Job Classification System (NOC)
Canada is updating its National Occupational Classification (NOC) in 2026. This system decides which jobs qualify for immigration programs. There will be new job titles, updated descriptions, and changes to main duties. About 165 job groups could be affected. This is important because it can change who qualifies for Express Entry or other programs.
New English Test Option
Canada may allow a new English test, TOEFL, for PR applications, including Express Entry. The government is working with the test administrators, and it may be accepted sometime in 2026. Currently, the accepted tests are:
- CELPIP
- IELTS
- PTE Core
About Express Entry
Express Entry is the main system for skilled workers applying for PR in Canada. It manages three programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
Candidates are scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which considers age, education, work experience, and language skills. High-scoring candidates are invited to apply for PR in regular draws.
Q: Who can apply under the new physician category?
A: Physicians with at least one year of Canadian work experience in one of the three eligible jobs.
Q: What is a priority category?
A: Priority categories are jobs or skills that Canada wants to fill quickly. Candidates in these categories may get faster or more frequent invitations.
Q: Can provinces nominate me for PR?
A: Yes. Provinces have programs called Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). In 2026, provinces may have more spots available, which is good news for candidates.
Q: Do I need to speak French?
A: French is not required for all draws, but strong French skills can give you extra points and make it easier to get invited in certain draws.
Q: Will my job still qualify after the NOC update?
A: You’ll need to check the new NOC codes once the update is published. Some job titles, duties, or requirements may change.
Q: Can I take the TOEFL for Express Entry?
A: Possibly. TOEFL is expected to become an accepted English test in 2026, in addition to CELPIP, IELTS, and PTE Core.
