OTTAWA, August 5, 2026 — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has opened a public consultation to help determine the economic priorities that could shape category-based Express Entry selection in 2027.
The consultation began on August 4 and will remain open until September 1, 2026. IRCC is inviting feedback from members of the public, employers, industry representatives, unions, immigration professionals, researchers and settlement organizations.
Among the options being considered is a continued focus on occupations facing long-term labour shortages. These could include healthcare, skilled trades, education, transportation, science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The department is also examining how Express Entry could help Canada attract and retain highly qualified international professionals. Potential areas of interest include artificial intelligence, advanced technology, research and other strategically important sectors.
IRCC’s consultation document also refers to the federal commitment to develop an accelerated immigration pathway for certain H-1B visa holders working in the United States. However, no new H-1B pathway or Express Entry category has been formally introduced through this consultation.
Francophone immigration outside Quebec is another priority under review. Canada is considering maintaining French-language selection as it works toward increasing the proportion of French-speaking permanent residents settling outside Quebec.
Public feedback will be reviewed alongside labour-market information and input from federal, provincial and territorial governments. The immigration minister will subsequently decide which categories will apply in 2027.
Applicants should note that the consultation does not change current Express Entry requirements or guarantee that any proposed category will be adopted.
Consultation period: August 4 to September 1, 2026
Official source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
