Canada proposes new Express Entry categories for skilled workers in 2027
Canada is considering significant changes to its Express Entry immigration system, with new categories proposed to attract highly skilled workers and address economic needs. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada IRCC has initiated public consultations, open until September 1, 2026, to gather feedback on the 2027 Express Entry selection process. The review focuses on addressing long-term labor shortages, attracting global talent, and supporting Francophone immigration outside Quebec. Category-based selection, introduced in 2023, accounted for 87 percent of Express Entry invitations in 2025. Proposed changes include four new talent-focused categories targeting professionals in technology and artificial intelligence, international researchers, individuals aligning with the International Talent Attraction Strategy, and H-1B visa holders in the United States. IRCC is also examining whether existing occupation-based categories should be narrowed to focus on more critical areas. French-language proficiency is expected to remain a key priority, having accounted for nearly half of all category-based invitations in 2025. The department encourages public participation to help shape the final Express Entry categories for 2027, which could impact skilled workers globally, particularly in healthcare, technology, research, skilled trades, and French-speaking communities seeking permanent residence in Canada.
