Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is currently consulting the public, stakeholders and partners on the economic priorities and categories that could shape category-based selection under Express Entry in 2027.
IRCC’s 2026 consultations on economic priorities for category-based selection in Express Entry run from August 4, 2026 to September 1, 2026. The consultation provides insight into areas the federal government is considering for 2027, although no new 2027 categories have been finalized.
How Does Category-Based Selection Work?
Category-based selection was introduced in 2023 and allows IRCC to invite candidates in the Express Entry pool who are eligible for a category established by the Minister to meet an identified economic goal.
Candidates eligible for a category are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), with the highest-ranking candidates invited to apply for permanent residence.
For 2026, IRCC stated that Express Entry invitations would focus on candidates with Canadian work experience through Canadian Experience Class rounds, as well as candidates whose profiles support three key economic priorities through category-based selection: addressing labour shortages, attracting and retaining top talent, and supporting economic growth through Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
What Is IRCC Considering for 2027?
According to IRCC’s 2026 consultation, the department is considering continuing to focus on three broad economic priorities in 2027.
The first is addressing long-term labour shortages. Since 2023, Express Entry categories have targeted sectors including health care, trades, education, STEM and transport. IRCC is considering narrowing the number or eligibility of categories aimed at addressing labour shortages to support a more strategic focus.
The second priority is attracting and retaining top talent. IRCC is considering expanding its approach to attract and retain highly skilled international workers with expertise in occupations that support Canada’s economic growth.
IRCC is seeking feedback on how several government initiatives and strategies could inform category-based selection in 2027. These include IRCC’s International Talent Attraction Strategy, the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative, Canada’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and the Budget 2025 commitment to launch an accelerated pathway for H-1B visa holders.
IRCC describes H-1B visa holders in this context as foreign workers based in the United States who work in specialty occupations. However, the consultation does not establish a new H-1B Express Entry category. Instead, IRCC is considering how this initiative could inform category-based selection in 2027.
The third priority is supporting economic growth through Francophone immigration outside Quebec. The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan set admission targets for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec at 9% in 2026, 9.5% in 2027 and 10.5% in 2028. IRCC is considering maintaining its focus on Francophone immigration for category-based selection in 2027.
What Does This Mean for Express Entry Candidates?
Applicants should not assume that the priorities or categories under consideration will become final 2027 Express Entry categories.
In addition to the public consultation, IRCC will engage federal, provincial and territorial partners and review labour market information and past category-based selection results. New categories are posted on IRCC’s website once approved by the Minister.
Candidates should therefore continue relying on current Express Entry requirements and categories unless and until IRCC formally announces changes.
Conclusion
IRCC’s consultation, open from August 4 to September 1, 2026, provides an early look at how Express Entry category-based selection could evolve in 2027. Addressing long-term labour shortages, attracting and retaining top talent, and supporting economic growth through Francophone immigration outside Quebec are key priorities under consideration.
However, these are priorities and potential categories under consideration, not finalized changes to Express Entry.
Contact Jain Immigration Law
If you have questions about Express Entry, category-based selection or your eligibility for Canadian permanent residence, Jain Immigration Law can help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Canadian immigration lawyers.
Jain Immigration Law
Phone: +1 (416) 548-5533
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Website: www.jainimmigrationlaw.com