Canada Express Entry 2026: Key PNP & Immigration Updates

Major Changes Coming to Canada’s Express Entry System in 2026

Canada’s Express Entry system is getting a fresh update in 2026—one that skilled workers and immigration hopefuls around the world have been eagerly anticipating. The federal government is rolling out several new features and adjustments to better align immigration with labour market needs, help provinces meet their admissions targets, and encourage diversity, including a continued focus on Francophone immigration.

Whether you’re a physician with Canadian work experience, a tech-savvy researcher, or someone hoping to qualify through a provincial nomination, there’s a lot to unpack. Let’s take a look at the major Express Entry changes you can expect in 2026.

Key Highlights

• New Express Entry category for physicians with Canadian work experience begins in early 2026.
• Three new occupational categories proposed: Leadership, Research & Innovation, and National Security.
• Increased allocations for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), potentially resulting in more PR invitations.
• Strong focus on Francophone immigration, with admissions targets increasing annually.
• Major update to Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) to reflect current job market demands.
• TOEFL to join the list of accepted language tests for Express Entry-managed PR applications.

New Express Entry Category for Physicians

In an effort to address healthcare labour shortages, Canada is launching a new Express Entry category specifically for physicians with Canadian work experience. Starting in early 2026, doctors who have worked in Canada for at least one year will have a dedicated selection stream.

This differs from the existing healthcare category in a couple of important ways:

• It requires a minimum of one year of Canadian work experience (compared to six months of Canadian or international experience).
• Only three physician-specific occupations will be eligible, rather than 37 broader healthcare and social service roles.

Eligible candidates can update or create their Express Entry profiles now to get ready. As always, applicants must meet the baseline requirements for one of the three Express Entry programs.

Proposed New Categories for Skilled Workers

Canada is also considering creating three new occupational categories under the Express Entry system to better capture high-demand professionals:

• Leadership – geared towards senior managers with experience leading teams and overseeing operations.
• Research & Innovation – aimed at scientists and researchers driving innovation and economic growth.
• National Security & Defence – to support Canadian Armed Forces recruitment by facilitating immigration for skilled military personnel from friendly nations.

These categories are still in the proposal stage, with final details expected following a government review. Once confirmed, the exact occupations and eligibility criteria will be published.

Updates to Existing Occupational Categories

In addition to the new physician stream, 2026 may also bring changes to the existing category-based selection draws. The five categories currently active in 2025 include:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
• Trades
• Healthcare and Social Services
• Education
• Agriculture and Agri-food

IRCC has highlighted healthcare, trades, and education as “priority categories,” along with French-language proficiency. However, STEM and Agriculture categories have seen no draws in 2025 so far. It’s still uncertain whether these priorities will carry over into 2026 or shift based on evolving workforce needs.

Boosted PNP Allocations and More PR Invitations

One of the most welcome developments is the increase in Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations. Each year, IRCC sets a quota that determines how many nominations provinces and territories can issue—many of which are aligned with the Express Entry system.

In 2026, the federal government plans to raise this allocation, though exact numbers haven’t been released yet. This means we could see more PNP draws through Express Entry, opening more opportunities for skilled workers looking to settle in specific regions of Canada.

If you’re exploring PNP options, now is a great time to check where you might qualify. You can use our Manitoba PNP calculator to get started.

Strengthening Francophone Immigration Targets

Canada’s commitment to welcoming more French-speaking newcomers outside Quebec remains strong. In the 2026 Immigration Levels Plan, the target for Francophone immigration outside Quebec has been set at 9%, up from 8.5% in 2025. The government aims to hit 10.5% by 2028 and 12% by 2029.

To qualify for French-language draws, candidates must:

• Meet the eligibility criteria for one of the Express Entry programs
• Be in the Express Entry pool
• Score NCLC 7 or higher in all four areas of a French-language test
• Fulfill all draw-specific requirements

If you’re bilingual or looking to improve your French, enhancing your language score can significantly boost your Express Entry profile.

Overhaul of Canada’s NOC System

Every five years, Canada updates its National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, which plays a vital role in determining eligibility for immigration programs. In 2026, a major NOC revision is scheduled, affecting about 165 occupational groups.

These changes could include:

• Updated job titles and occupational definitions
• New lead statements and descriptions of duties
• Revised employment requirements or exclusions

These updates may impact your eligibility depending on your occupation, so it’s important to stay informed as more information becomes available later in 2025.

New Language Test Option for PR Applicants

For those applying for permanent residence through Express Entry, there’s soon to be another approved test for demonstrating English proficiency. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is expected to be added to the list of accepted exams, joining:

• CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• PTE Core (Pearson Test of English)

While IRCC hasn’t confirmed the start date for TOEFL acceptance, it’s working closely with ETS (Educational Testing Service) to finalize the process. Expect this change to roll out sometime in 2026.

What Is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship system for managing skilled immigration applications. It covers three federal programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

Using a points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), Express Entry ranks candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language ability. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residency through regular draws.

It’s fast, efficient, and designed to attract the skilled talent Canada needs to grow its economy. If you’re considering applying through Express Entry, now’s a great time to start or update your profile so you’re ready for what 2026 brings.

Get your free Express Entry assessment and find out how you can boost your chances of receiving an invitation to apply!

Final Thoughts

With all these updates on the horizon, there’s no doubt that 2026 will be a big year for immigration to Canada. From new selection categories and increased provincial nominations to a stronger emphasis on language diversity and occupational clarity, these changes are all about keeping Canada’s immigration system responsive and fair.

If you’re planning to immigrate through Express Entry, now is the time to prepare. Keep your documents up to date, improve your language scores, and stay informed as more information becomes available in the lead-up to 2026.

Need help navigating your Express Entry options? Contact our team or explore our resources to make sure you’re set up for success in the new year.