OTTAWA, Feb 19 – Canada introduced new immigration priority categories on Wednesday to attract skilled workers across research, health care, aviation, and select military positions. The government said the measures align with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan to reduce overall permanent resident intake while recruiting talent to support key industries and strengthen national defence capabilities.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab emphasized that the 2026 changes to the Express Entry system aim to bring in individuals who can “contribute from day one” amid shortages in critical sectors. The new categories cover researchers, senior managers, pilots, aircraft mechanics, and foreign medical doctors with Canadian experience. Highly skilled foreign military recruits, including doctors, nurses, and pilots, are also eligible under the revised system.
Carney announced a new defence strategy on Tuesday to reduce Canada’s reliance on the United States. The plan seeks to increase government investment in defence-related research and development by 85% over the next decade, boost defence industry revenues by over 240%, expand defence exports by 50%, and create up to 125,000 high-quality jobs. Canada has pledged to raise defence spending to 5% of gross domestic product by 2035, consistent with NATO commitments.
Existing Express Entry streams, including French-language candidates, health-care workers, and skilled trades, will continue alongside the new targeted categories. Officials said the changes are designed to restore immigration to sustainable levels while addressing labor gaps in industries critical to Canada’s economic growth and national security.
