The Canadian government has introduced sweeping changes to its immigration policy, reducing overall migrant intake while creating priority pathways for highly skilled professionals in critical sectors. The newly announced reforms to the Express Entry system aim to attract talent that can immediately contribute to the country’s economic and strategic needs. The move, unveiled by the federal government on Wednesday, has generated widespread international attention.
Under the revised framework, fast-track visas will be granted to professionals in healthcare, aviation, and defense. Priority categories include internationally trained doctors with Canadian experience, senior managers, aircraft mechanics, advanced researchers, and aviation experts. In a significant shift, the program will also favor foreign military applicants prepared to join the Canadian Armed Forces, including military doctors and pilots, signaling a stronger alignment between immigration and national security priorities.
The policy overhaul is linked to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s broader defense strategy, which seeks to reduce dependence on the United States and strengthen domestic capabilities. Canada has set an ambitious target of raising defense spending to 5 percent of GDP by 2035 and plans to bridge skilled workforce gaps through targeted immigration. At the same time, the government intends to ease pressure on the housing sector by lowering overall immigration numbers, while continuing support for French-speaking applicants and healthcare workers.
The changes are expected to significantly increase competition for general employment-based immigration. Previously, transitioning from a student visa to permanent residency was comparatively easier. However, tighter student permit regulations and higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirements for permanent residency have made the process more challenging. While the new framework presents strong opportunities for doctors, scientists, and defense technology specialists, it poses a more difficult path for individuals seeking routine employment opportunities.