Nigerians to be affected as Canada plans major Express Entry changes
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Canada is considering major changes to its Express Entry immigration system that could affect Nigerians and other Africans seeking permanent residence in the country.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has opened consultations on the categories that should be used for Express Entry in 2027. The consultation, which opened on August 4, will run until September 1, 2026.
The proposed changes could place greater emphasis on skilled workers in healthcare, education, skilled trades, technology, artificial intelligence and research.
IRCC is also considering four new talent-focused categories, including candidates in Global Talent Stream occupations, international researchers, workers whose skills match Canada’s talent strategy and H-1B visa holders currently working in the United States.
French speakers could benefit
French-language ability is another major focus of Canada’s immigration plans.
French-speaking candidates received 50,701 Express Entry invitations in 2025, accounting for 49.2 per cent of all category-based invitations that year. Canada also plans to increase the share of French-speaking permanent residents admitted outside Quebec to 12 per cent by 2029.
This could create opportunities for qualified Nigerians and other Africans who speak French and meet the required language standard.
Healthcare workers remain in demand
Healthcare is also expected to remain an important category. The sector received 19,200 Express Entry invitations in 2025, up from 11,967 in 2024.
However, IRCC is considering reducing the number of occupations covered by labour-shortage categories. This means some professions currently eligible may not remain on the list in 2027.
For Nigerians and other Africans planning to immigrate to Canada, the proposed changes mean healthcare professionals, French speakers, skilled tradespeople and workers in technology and research should closely monitor the 2027 Express Entry categories.
The final categories will be decided after the consultation and a review of labour-market information and previous Express Entry results.
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