Canada Proposes New Entry Categories for Skilled Workers in 2027

Canada is considering significant changes to its Express Entry immigration system, with proposed new entry categories aimed at attracting highly skilled professionals and addressing the country’s evolving labour market needs.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched public consultations to determine which immigration categories should be retained, modified or newly introduced for the 2027 Express Entry selection process.

The consultation began on August 4, 2026, and will remain open until September 1, giving individuals, employers, organisations and other stakeholders the opportunity to contribute to the review of Canada’s economic immigration programme.

According to IRCC, the proposed reforms are designed to tackle long-term labour shortages, attract global talent and strengthen Francophone immigration outside Quebec.

The department noted that category-based selection has become an increasingly important part of Canada’s immigration strategy since it was introduced in 2023.

Official data showed that candidates eligible under category-based selection accounted for 87 per cent of all Express Entry invitations issued in 2025, highlighting the growing importance of targeted immigration pathways.

The current categories under review include French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), skilled trades, education, transport occupations, as well as physicians, researchers and senior managers with Canadian work experience.

Among the proposed additions are four new talent-focused categories intended to attract professionals with expertise considered essential to Canada’s future economic development.

One proposal targets technology and artificial intelligence professionals through occupations covered by the Global Talent Stream, reflecting Canada’s continued investment in its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.

Another proposed category would focus on international researchers through the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative, which aims to strengthen scientific research and innovation.

IRCC is also considering a dedicated pathway for candidates who qualify under Canada’s International Talent Attraction Strategy, covering sectors such as emerging technologies, healthcare and skilled trades.

In addition, the department is exploring the creation of a specialised immigration pathway for H-1B visa holders currently working in the United States, offering eligible professionals an opportunity to obtain permanent residence in Canada.

The consultation also seeks public opinion on whether existing occupation-based categories should be narrowed to focus on fewer but more critical sectors experiencing persistent labour shortages.

French-language immigration remains a major priority, with IRCC reaffirming its commitment to increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec in the coming years.

The department encouraged interested individuals and organisations to submit feedback before the September 1 deadline, noting that the consultation will help shape Canada’s Express Entry categories for 2027 and support the country’s long-term economic and demographic objectives.