Canada Rolls Out New Express Entry Streams to Attract Top Researchers and Skilled Talent

In a significant overhaul of Canada’s economic immigration framework, the federal government announced on February 18, 2026, that it will expand its Express Entry system by adding several new targeted permanent‑residence streams aimed at addressing critical labour shortages in key sectors of the economy.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Lena Metlege Diab unveiled the changes as part of what officials are calling the International Talent Attraction Strategy, a broader effort to ensure Canada remains competitive in the global race for high‑skill talent while keeping immigration at “sustainable levels.”

Under the updated framework, Canada will introduce three new Express Entry priority streams for 2026:

• Researchers and Senior Managers with Canadian work experience — recognizing long‑term contributors to innovation and leadership.

• Transport Occupations including pilots, aircraft mechanics and inspectors — roles that support trade, supply chains and national infrastructure.

• Highly Skilled Foreign Military Applicants recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces — covering critical positions such as military doctors, nurses and pilots.

These additions are in addition to existing priority categories — including health care professionals, skilled trades, and individuals with strong French language abilities — which will continue to receive invitations through Express Entry draws.

In remarks prepared for delivery, Minister Diab said the changes are designed to “attract and retain the global talent Canada needs to grow our economy and support communities across the country.”

The government also stated that the 2026 Immigration Levels Plan will continue to prioritize economic class permanent residents while reducing the admission of temporary residents, particularly international students.

Experts say the move reflects the government’s efforts to tailor immigration policy to labour‑market realities, particularly in sectors facing chronic worker shortages. Prioritizing workers with Canadian experience and specialised skills may also help newcomers integrate faster into the labour force — a long‑standing objective of Canadian immigration strategy.

Disclaimer

This article was generated using publicly available information from reputable government releases and multiple independent news reports. While all efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, immigration policy details can change rapidly and applicants should consult official government sources or licensed immigration professionals before making decisions.

Sources

1. CKOM News – Ottawa Expands Express Entry to Researchers, Military Applicants. https://www.ckom.com/2026/02/18/ottawa-extends-express-immigration-entry-to-researchers-military-applicants/

2. Government of Canada – Express Entry Priority Streams Announcement. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2026/02/canada-prioritizes-top-talent-in-2026-immigration-express-entry-categories.html

3. Government of Canada – Minister Diab’s Speaking Notes on Express Entry. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-and-citizenship/news/2026/02/speaking-notes-for-the-honourable-lena-metlege-diab-minister-of-immigration-refugees-and-citizenship-prioritizing-top-talent-in-2026-express-entry.html

4. InfoNews.ca – Express Entry Expansion for Researchers and Skilled Workers. https://infonews.ca/news/7542075/ottawa-extends-express-immigration-entry-to-researchers-military-applicants/