Canada Targets Seven Occupations for Express Entry Draws

On 25 September 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a targeted list of seven occupational categories for upcoming Express Entry draws. This initiative aims to attract skilled professionals whose expertise can strengthen Canada's labor market and public services.

The listed occupations include: health care and social services professionals; doctors, researchers, and senior managers with Canadian work experience; tradespersons; educators; professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); professionals in transport occupations; and workers with French-language proficiency. The category-based selection framework allows IRCC to issue invitations to candidates within these specific groups, even if their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores would not be competitive in general draws.

This approach significantly enhances the chances for skilled workers aligned with the listed categories. Candidates are encouraged to ensure their Express Entry profiles accurately reflect their credentials and language test results before the next targeted draw.