Canadian Immigration Minister, Lena Metlege Diab Outlines New Express Entry Categories to Target Labour Shortages
By Ochuko Kokofe
Canada’s Immigration Minister, Lena Metlege Diab, has announced a renewed focus on category-based selection under the country’s Express Entry system, signalling a more targeted approach to attracting skilled workers in key sectors of the economy.
Speaking during a media address in Toronto, Diab said the federal government is refining immigration selection to better respond to ongoing labour shortages in education, healthcare, skilled trades and other high-demand fields.
“Canada’s economic strength depends on our ability to attract skilled individuals where they are most needed,” the minister said.
“Express Entry remains a powerful tool to support communities across the country.”
The system is administered by
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and manages applications for permanent residence under major economic programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Canadian Experience Class.
Targeted Occupations Prioritized
Under the updated framework, category-based draws will continue to prioritize candidates with experience in:
Education occupations, including primary and secondary school teachers
Healthcare and social services
Skilled trades
Agriculture and agri-food
French-language proficiency
The minister noted that category-based draws allow immigration officials to invite candidates who may not have the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores but possess skills urgently required in Canada’s labour market.
Education professionals were highlighted as a particular priority, with several provinces reporting persistent teacher shortages.
Boost for Francophone Immigration
Diab also reaffirmed Ottawa’s commitment to increasing French-speaking immigration outside Quebec, stating that French-proficient candidates will continue to benefit from dedicated selection rounds.
The policy aligns with the government’s objective of strengthening francophone minority communities across Canada.
A Strategic Evolution of Express Entry
Since the introduction of category-based selection, Express Entry has shifted from a purely points-driven system to one that balances CRS rankings with occupational demand.
Immigration analysts say the approach provides greater flexibility, allowing the federal government to align immigration levels with sector-specific workforce needs while maintaining annual intake targets.
Further details, including updated occupation lists and future draw schedules, are expected to be released by
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in the coming weeks.
Canada admitted hundreds of thousands of permanent residents last year under its economic immigration programs, with Express Entry remaining a central pathway for skilled newcomers.
