The Canadian federal government has made announcements regarding new Express Entry immigration categories that will open from 2026 and simplify the process for ex-servicemen such as Agniveers, senior managers, researchers, and scientists to gain permanent residence in Canada.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made public a consultation stating that these three new categories, Leadership, Research & Innovation, and National Security & Defence, are under consideration to be part of the Express Entry system. It is done in an effort to draw highly skilled individuals to enhance Canada's competitiveness, innovation, and economic growth.
The Leadership category will focus on top managers who oversee organizational teams and operations responsible for driving business growth and digitalization. The Research & Innovation category will give preference to scientists and researchers who are making a difference in productivity and innovation. The National Security & Defence category will assist Canadian Armed Forces by giving prominence to highly skilled defence recruits from allied nations, including trained ex-servicemen like Agniveers.
The program comes in the face of increasing interest among young people from Punjab, some of whom are being trained professionally within the defense forces. The experts note that this can offer direct access to these individuals for entry into Canada's permanent residence system, improving their chances abroad.
Known Canadian parliamentarian, Sukh Dhaliwal emphasised the importance of scientific research for upliftment with innovation and considerable productivity. He applauded Canada for this commendable decision of attracting talent from all over the globe for specific fields,
Consultation on these proposed changes is open until September 3, 2025, with implementation planned for next year. The new categories supplement current priorities such as healthcare, agriculture, social services, skilled trades, and French-language skills.
This significant increase reflects Canada's welcoming intentions towards qualified professionals and military veterans around the globe, bringing new hope to those looking for a fresh start and security abroad.
