Canada has introduced new immigration priority categories aimed at attracting highly skilled professionals in critical sectors, while simultaneously reducing overall permanent resident intake levels.
The changes — announced by the government under Prime Minister Mark Carney — are part of a broader strategy to balance sustainable immigration levels with labour market needs and national security goals.
Focus on key industries
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said the 2026 reforms to the Express Entry system will prioritize candidates who can “contribute from day one” in sectors facing acute shortages.
New targeted categories include:
- Researchers and senior managers
- Aviation professionals such as pilots and aircraft mechanics
- Foreign-trained doctors with Canadian experience
- Skilled military applicants, including doctors, nurses and pilots recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces
Existing Express Entry draws — including those for French-language applicants, healthcare workers, and skilled trades — will continue alongside these new streams.
Immigration reset and defense push
The move aligns with Carney’s broader economic and defense strategy. The government has recently sought to slow immigration growth to ease pressure on housing and public services, while ensuring essential sectors remain staffed.
In parallel, Canada has pledged to significantly expand defense investment over the next decade. The new defense framework includes:
- An 85% increase in defense-related research and development
- A projected 240% boost in defense industry revenues
- A 50% increase in defense exports
- Up to 125,000 new jobs
Like other NATO members, Canada has committed to raising defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.
Officials say the revamped immigration system is designed to support a changing economy while strengthening domestic capabilities — particularly in research, healthcare, transportation and defense.
