Canada updates immigration process for skilled workers and new categories
Canada has announced significant changes to its Express Entry system for foreign professionals. Lena Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, outlined new categories and stricter requirements to better align with economic and labour market needs. The updates aim to attract highly skilled workers, address critical shortages, and support long-term economic growth. The reforms also emphasize French-language proficiency and new pathways for medical, research, and military professionals.
What we know
- Lena Diab announced the updates as part of the International Talent Attraction Strategy.
- The Express Entry system will continue to prioritize healthcare, social services, skilled trades, and STEM occupations, while adding new categories for medical doctors, researchers, transport professionals, and military recruits.
- Minimum work experience requirements have increased from six to 12 months for most categories, and cooks have been removed from eligibility.
- Canada has exceeded its francophone immigration targets for the fourth consecutive year, with nearly 9% of admissions outside Quebec in 2025, and plans to welcome over 30,000 francophone newcomers annually, aiming for 12% by 2029.
- The first Express Entry draws under the new categories will begin soon, focusing initially on foreign medical doctors and healthcare professionals.
