Canada to Consider Implementing Three Specific Express Entry Streams
Canada to Consider Implementing Three Specific Express Entry Streams in 2026
Canada is planning to place a bid to increase its Express Entry program in 2026 by launching three targeted categories for immigration: high-level executives, science and research professionals, and veteran military personnel.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) tabled the bill in a notice of consultation, which invited public input on or before September 3, 2025. The strategy is intended to meet the economic and national gaps of the country, along with aligning immigration with its demanding labour needs.
New Financial Thresholds by Family Size
The adjustment is a 31.94% increase for individual applicants. For example, one must now have at least $10,507 in available funds, a rise from the previous $7,963. Settlement fund balances fluctuate with family size:
| Family Size | Required Funds (as of July 29, 2025) | Previous Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $10,507 | $7,963 |
| 2 | $13,080 | $9,692 |
| 3 | $16,080 | $12,069 |
| 4 | $19,524 | $15,056 |
| 5 | $22,143 | $17,145 |
| 6 | $24,975 | $19,015 |
| 7 | $27,806 | $20,884 |
| Each additional member | $2,831 | $1,869 |
What are the New Categories
Executive Leadership Professionals
Research & Scientific Talent
Highly Qualified Military Personnel
- Maintenance of Current Priorities: The newly proposed additions of occupations would not replace the current categories all at once. IRCC has indicated that priority will most likely continue to be given to:
- Francophone immigration outside Quebec is officially projected to increase from 8.5% in 2025 to 10% in 2027.
Sectors with Labour Shortages
- Healthcare
- Specialized occupations (e.g., building work)
- Education
- STEM fields
- Agricultural and agri-food industries
Effect on International Graduates
Canada’s Express Entry program will also affect Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility, specifically as the program-specific field of study requirements took effect in 2024.
Category-Based Selection: And How It Works
Category-based selection, which was brought in during 2023, allows Canada to invite candidates with specific skills or language abilities rather than inviting them based on overall CRS scores. While there are regular and program-specific draws for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), the system also provides a route for focused pools of talent.
In 2025, there were:
- French language proficiency
- Health and social care
- Agriculture and agri-food
- STEM professions
- Skilled trades
- Education (new for 2025)
Metro Areas Now Ineligible for Low-Wage LMIA Applications
| Family Size | Minimum Required Funds (Annual) |
|---|---|
| 1 person (student only) | CAD $22,895 |
| 2 people | CAD $28,502 |
| 3 people | CAD $35,040 |
| 4 people | CAD $42,543 |
| 5 people | CAD $48,252 |
| 6 people | CAD $54,420 |
| 7 people | CAD $60,589 |
| Additional family member | CAD $6,170 |
These figures represent a significant increase from the earlier requirement of CAD $20,635 for a single applicant, which had been in effect since January 1, 2024.
Next Steps
They would significantly ease the pathway for executives, researchers, and defence experts to become Canadian permanent residents.
