Canada continues to refine its Express Entry system by expanding category-based selection rounds. Instead of inviting candidates solely based on CRS score, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is targeting specific occupations facing labour shortages.
If you are in one of these occupations, your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) may increase significantly.
Below is a breakdown of the updated categories and eligibility criteria.
Key Eligibility Rule Across Categories
For most category-based draws, applicants must:
- Have at least 12 months of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time)
- The experience must be gained within the last 3 years
- The experience does not need to be continuous
- The work must fall within one eligible occupation
- The candidate must meet all program requirements for that specific round
Some categories require Canadian work experience, while others allow foreign experience.
Transport Occupations Category
This category targets skilled professionals in transportation and aviation sectors.
Eligible Occupations Include:
| Occupation | NOC 2021 Code | TEER |
| Air pilots, flight engineers, flying instructors | 72600 | 2 |
| Automotive service technicians, truck & bus mechanics | 72410 | 2 |
| Aircraft mechanics & inspectors | 72404 | 2 |
| Aircraft instrument, electrical & avionics technicians | 22313 | 2 |
Experience Requirement:
- 12 months within the past 3 years
- Experience can be in Canada or abroad
Healthcare and Social Services Category
This remains one of the most active targeted categories due to ongoing workforce shortages.
Applicants must:
- Have 12 months of experience within the last 3 years
- Experience can be gained inside or outside Canada
- Occupation must match eligible NOC codes listed in IRCC instructions
Healthcare continues to be one of the strongest priority sectors in Express Entry.
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
This is a more specialized category.
Eligible Occupations:
| Occupation | NOC Code | TEER |
| General practitioners and family physicians | 31102 | 1 |
| Specialists in surgery | 31101 | 1 |
| Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine | 31100 | 1 |
Important:
- Work experience must be gained in Canada
- Minimum 12 months within past 3 years
Foreign physician experience alone does not qualify under this specific category.
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience
This category targets executive-level professionals.
Eligible Senior Management Occupations:
| Occupation | NOC Code | TEER |
| Senior managers – construction, transportation, production & utilities | 00015 | 0 |
| Senior managers – trade, broadcasting & services | 00014 | 0 |
| Senior managers – health, education & community services | 00013 | 0 |
| Senior managers – financial & business services | 00012 | 0 |
Requirement:
- 12 months of Canadian work experience within past 3 years
This category focuses on leadership roles with strategic operational responsibility.
Researchers with Canadian Work Experience
Designed to strengthen Canada’s academic and innovation sectors.
Eligible Occupations:
| Occupation | NOC Code | TEER |
| Post-secondary teaching and research assistants | 41201 | 1 |
| University professors and lecturers | 41200 | 1 |
Requirement:
- 12 months Canadian work experience
- Within last 3 years
Comparison: Canadian vs. Foreign Work Experience Requirements
| Category | Canadian Experience Required? | Foreign Experience Accepted? |
| Transport | No | Yes |
| Healthcare & Social Services | No | Yes |
| Physicians | Yes | No |
| Senior Managers | Yes | No |
| Researchers | Yes | No |
This distinction is extremely important when planning eligibility.
Strategic Considerations for Applicants
If you fall under one of these occupations, you should:
- Confirm your NOC code matches exactly
- Ensure your experience meets TEER classification
- Update your Express Entry profile accurately
- Monitor upcoming category-based draw instructions
Category-based draws can sometimes have lower CRS cutoffs compared to general rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does category selection replace CRS?
No. CRS still applies, but category-based draws target specific occupations within the pool.
Can part-time work count?
Yes, if it equals 12 months full-time equivalent.
Does the experience need to be continuous?
No. It must total 12 months within the past 3 years.
If I qualify under a category, am I guaranteed an ITA?
No. You must still meet draw-specific requirements and remain competitive.
Can I qualify under more than one category?
Yes, if your work history meets eligibility for multiple targeted occupations.
Final Thoughts
Express Entry in 2026 is increasingly occupation-focused.
For candidates in transport, healthcare, academia, executive management, and research roles, category-based selection may significantly improve your prospects.
Accurate NOC classification and careful documentation are essential.
Planning before submitting or updating your profile can make a meaningful difference.
Contact Information If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.