IRCC announced that the minimum work experience required for all renewed occupational categories has been increased from six months to 12 months of experience in an eligible occupation.
Furthermore, cooks have been removed from the trade occupations list for 2026 and no longer qualify for trade occupation express entry draws.
This applies to the new as well as the following renewed categories:
Healthcare and social services occupations
Education occupations
STEM occupations
Trade occupations
This experience can be gained in Canada or abroad over the previous three years and must be in a job that matches the eligible NOC codes for the category.
According to the government, this change will help select candidates who are more likely to succeed in their field in Canada.
Physicians’ Occupations List With NOC Codes & Eligible Job Titles
The new physicians category targets foreign doctors who have gained work experience in Canada’s healthcare system.
IRCC has confirmed that the first invitation round for this category will occur in the coming days.
