Are we getting ready for something?
Express Entry: Three new categories for 2026
Canada is preparing the ground for three new categories in Express Entry: senior managers, scientists, and the military. At first glance, this sounds like a set for a strong economy and strong defense. But let's look deeper into it.
Senior managers (Leadership)
These specialists were not included in the "priority" by chance. The practice of 2025 showed that even with a higher education, impeccable English or French, and a brilliant career, obtaining permanent residence has become almost impossible. That is, Canada risked losing those who create jobs, and do not look for them.
That's why IRCC is hastily pulling out the "management card": let's keep business leaders and managers so that they don't go to places where they are valued and aren't forced to run around in Express Entry circles to get high passing scores.
Research & Innovation
The most vulnerable category of 2025. Scientists were "left out"; they were not included in the selection system, there was no protection for this group. As a result: many of them began to look towards the United States and Europe, where the value of intellectual work is measured properly.
The problem is that Canada clearly produces fewer of its own personnel than it needs. And this applies not only to applied sciences, but also to basic research, without which there will be no technology, no innovation, no competitive economy. Therefore, including scientists in the category is not a gesture of goodwill, but a forced measure after the failure of 2025.
Military personnel (National Security & Defense)
And here is a question with a "danger" sign. Canada suddenly decides to attract foreign military personnel from allied countries. IRCC explains this by supporting the army and strengthening security. But in reality, it sounds alarming: are we heading towards a policy of militarization?
If the economy and science are clear priorities, then the "import of military personnel" raises questions: why? For whom? And most importantly - on whose side is Canada preparing to be in future conflicts?
The experience of 2025 has shown that having a "priority" in Express Entry does not mean solving the problem of the labor market. Many valuable specialists were at risk of leaving the country. This is a complete failure, proving that priority and protection of the intellectual layer must work together.
New streams are no longer about "patching holes" in construction or healthcare, but about strategy: who Canada wants to keep at any cost.
Currently, there is a public discussion (until September 3, 2025).
If the decision is confirmed, the first selections in these categories will begin in 2026.
Most likely, they will be held together with the current categories: health care, education, trades, agriculture, STEM and francophones.
Conclusion: Express Entry is gradually turning into a tool not only for economic immigration, but also for political strategy. If managers and scientists are a logical step, then the appearance of the military on the list is an alarming signal. It seems that Canada is preparing not only to close personnel gaps, but also to build a foundation for a completely different scenario for the future.
Oleksandra Melnykova, Canadian Immigration and Refugee Consultant.
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