Canada to Prioritize Three New Occupational Categories for Permanent Residence via Express Entry

Canada has introduced updates to its Express Entry system for 2026, adding priority categories to attract top global talent in strategic sectors. Announced by Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab on February 18, 2026, these changes emphasize candidates with Canadian work experience in leadership, research, and specialized fields, while supporting national priorities like the Defence Industrial Strategy.

A major update: The minimum work experience requirement for all occupational categories under category-based selection (CBS) has increased to one full year (within the past three years; it doesn't need to be continuous), up from the previous six months of continuous experience.

These additions build on existing priorities, including French-language proficiency, healthcare and social services, trades, education, and STEM occupations. Category-based draws target specific profiles, issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to eligible candidates—even those with lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores.

Key New Categories for 2026

1. Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience Targets experienced leaders in essential industries.
   • Requires at least one year of work experience in the past three years in eligible senior management roles, gained in Canada.
   • Key occupations (NOC codes):
     • Senior managers - financial, communications and other business services (00012)
     • Senior managers - health, education, social and community services and membership organizations (00013)
     • Senior managers - trade, broadcasting and other services (00014)
     • Senior managers - construction, transportation, production and utilities (00015) This helps retain and attract high-level talent for business leadership and sector growth.
2. Researchers with Canadian Work Experience Focuses on academic and research professionals driving innovation.
   • Requires at least one year of work experience in the past three years in eligible research or teaching roles, gained in Canada.
   • Key occupations (NOC codes):
     • University professors and lecturers (41200)
     • Post-secondary teaching and research assistants (41201) Perfect for those contributing to Canadian universities, research institutions, and knowledge-based advancement.
3. Skilled Military Recruits Designed for highly trained foreign military personnel recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
   • Requires:
     • At least 10 years of continuous service in a recognized foreign military.
     • A full-time job offer for at least three years from the CAF.
     • A post-secondary credential (minimum two-year program).
     • One year of work experience in the past three years in eligible CAF roles.
   • Key occupations (NOC codes):
     • Commissioned officers of the Canadian Armed Forces (40042)
     • Specialized members of the Canadian Armed Forces (42102)
     • Operations Members of the Canadian Armed Forces (43204) This pathway strengthens national defence by fast-tracking experienced recruits.

Additionally, a renewed Transport Occupations category has been introduced (distinct from the previous transport category retired in 2025):

• Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors (72600)
• Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors (72404)
• Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors (22313)
• Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics, and mechanical repairers (72410)

Other notes: The agriculture and agri-food category has been retired. The "Physicians with Canadian work experience" category (added December 8, 2025) will see its first draw soon. Ongoing priorities remain strong in French proficiency, healthcare, trades, education, and STEM.

These targeted federal updates align well with provincial programs, such as the revamped Nova Scotia Nominee Program's Express Entry stream (updated February 18, 2026), creating more opportunities for skilled workers in priority fields.

If your profile matches one of these categories—especially with Canadian experience, a CAF job offer, or expertise in management, research, transport, or defence—your chances of receiving an ITA are significantly boosted in 2026.

At Career Brick, our Delhi-based team specializes in Express Entry optimization, category-based strategies, profile creation, CRS boosting, and full PR pathways. We guide clients through these evolving 2026 changes to maximize success.

Contact us for personalized consultation on updating your Express Entry profile and securing your spot in Canada's targeted immigration draws!

Source: Official IRCC announcements, Minister Diab's February 18, 2026 speech, and reliable immigration updates.