19 February 2026 Canada announces prioritizing top talent and critical skills for Express Entry 2026 Canada has announced targeted updates to its economic immigration framework for 2026, reinforcing a strategic shift toward attracting top global talent and more closely aligning permanent residence selection with labor market needs. The changes were announced by The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, on 18 February 2026. The 2026 Express Entry categories are intended to address ongoing skills shortages in priority sectors, while also attracting and retaining high impact talent expected to make significant contributions to Canada's economy. Document ID: 2026-0475 |