Canada Immigration Policy Outlook 2026 H2: Express Entry, SUV, PGP & Upcoming Changes
Quick Navigation:
- ➜ I. When Will Express Entry Category-Based Selections Return?
- ➜ II. US H-1B Fast-Track Pathway
- ➜ III. New Entrepreneur Immigration Program After SUV
- ➜ IV. New Agri-Food Processing Pathway
- ➜ V. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
- ➜ VI. Home Care Worker Pilot
- ➜ VII. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Phase 2
Half of 2026 has passed, and many are awaiting IRCC's announcement of new policy directions. The following immigration programs remain a focus for many applicants:
I. When Will Express Entry Category-Based Selections Return?
In recent years, Express Entry has adopted Category-Based Selection, but some categories have not seen new draws for a while, such as:
- 🔹 STEM
- 🔹 Education
- 🔹 Transport
- 🔹 Research Talents in Canada, etc.
Many applicants are watching to see if these categories will resume draws in the second half of this year.
II. US H-1B Fast-Track Pathway
Canada previously announced a new pathway for US H-1B holders, aiming to attract skilled professionals in technology, healthcare, and research.
However, as of now, formal eligibility criteria, opening dates, and application procedures have not yet been announced.
III. New Entrepreneur Immigration Program After SUV
After the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program stopped accepting applications, IRCC indicated plans for a new entrepreneur immigration pilot.
The future program is expected to focus more on:
- ✅ Genuine entrepreneurship
- ✅ Contribution to the Canadian economy
- ✅ Reducing system abuse
However, detailed content has not yet been released.
IV. New Agri-Food Processing Pathway
Following the conclusion of the Agri-Food Pilot, many applicants in the agriculture and food processing industries are awaiting new immigration or work permit programs.
IRCC has not yet announced relevant details.
V. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) has not yet opened a new draw pool.
While quotas are reserved for the next few years, when new applications will be accepted again remains to be officially announced.
VI. Home Care Worker Pilot
Upon its launch, the Home Care Worker Pilot quickly reached its cap.
The re-opening date for this program has not yet been announced, and the application channel for overseas applicants has not been officially activated.
VII. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Phase 2
Following the OINP reforms, some new categories are still awaiting more complete scoring criteria and application details.
Among them, the highly anticipated Exceptional Talent category has not yet released full information.
📌 For innovators, researchers, cultural, or other professionals, these new programs are worth continued attention.
Relaunch Immigration: Keeping You Updated on Second Half Policies!
Many policies for the second half of 2026 are yet to be unveiled. If you are preparing for Canadian immigration, it is wise to stay informed on official updates and plan ahead to seize the best opportunities when new policies are announced.
Relaunch Immigration will continue to track the latest policies and provide professional analysis. If you have any questions about Canadian immigration, you're welcome to book a consultation, and let our expert team tailor the most suitable immigration plan for you.
