On This Page You Will Find
- Why Canada is considering a leadership category under Express Entry
- How senior managers could benefit from this new pathway
- The value of experience and leadership in Canada’s economy
- Why the category would complement existing entrepreneur programs
- What the impact could be for immigration in 2026 and beyond
Canada’s decision to consult on new categories for Express Entry in 2026 marks a potential turning point in how the immigration system balances short-term labour needs with long-term strategic goals. Among the proposed categories, leadership – targeting senior managers – is especially significant.
For the first time, older business leaders could find a pathway into Canada’s economic immigration system that has long excluded them due to age-based scoring. This is a small but meaningful change that could help strengthen Canadian businesses and the broader economy.
A Chance For Experienced Leaders
Until now, Express Entry has heavily favoured younger candidates by awarding more points for age. This left many senior executives and managers – often at the peak of their careers – unable to qualify. Their only options were entrepreneur or Start-Up Visa streams, which have different criteria and are not always suitable for experienced leaders who may not wish to launch a business in Canada.
A leadership category would fill this gap by recognising the value of decades of management expertise. Even if only a few hundred candidates qualify each year, it would provide Canada with high-level talent that can deliver immediate impact.
Why Senior Managers Matter
Senior managers oversee operations, lead teams, and guide organisations through growth and transformation. Canada needs such leadership to compete globally, particularly in sectors like finance, health care, technology, and construction.
NOC Codes For Senior Managers With Salaries
| TEER | NOC Code | Occupation Title | Average Salary Range (CAD) |
| 0 | 00011 | Senior government managers and officials | $130,000 – $180,000 |
| 0 | 00012 | Senior managers – financial, communications and other business services | $120,000 – $200,000 |
| 0 | 00013 | Senior managers – health, education, social and community services, membership organisations | $115,000 – $170,000 |
| 0 | 00014 | Senior managers – trade, broadcasting and other services | $110,000 – $160,000 |
| 0 | 00015 | Senior managers – construction, transportation, production and utilities | $120,000 – $175,000 |
These figures highlight both the importance and earning potential of senior managers in Canada. By creating a category for these roles, Express Entry would give experienced leaders an opportunity to contribute directly to Canada’s economy without the barrier of age-related CRS scoring.
Beyond Entrepreneurship And Start-Ups
Currently, older professionals are often directed toward entrepreneur or start-up categories. While these are valuable programs, they are not the right fit for everyone. Many experienced managers may want to continue in leadership roles without starting a business from scratch.
By creating a leadership category within Express Entry, Canada would offer a fairer and more flexible option for business leaders to contribute their skills. This would also diversify the pool of economic immigrants beyond traditional entrepreneurs.
A Small Category With A Big Signal
The reality is that a leadership category is unlikely to bring in more than a few hundred people per year. But the symbolic impact is larger. It signals that Canada values leadership and experience, not just youth and technical expertise.
It also highlights the government’s willingness to innovate within Express Entry to meet broader national goals, moving beyond immediate labour shortages to include long-term competitiveness.
Long-Awaited Opening
Creating a senior managers category under Express Entry would not transform Canada’s immigration system overnight. But it would open a long-awaited door for experienced leaders who have been shut out until now. For Canada, this is not just about filling roles – it is about welcoming talent that can help guide the nation’s economic future.
FAQ
Why is Canada considering a leadership category under Express Entry?
Canada wants to attract senior managers who can help companies adapt to global changes, boost productivity, and strengthen competitiveness. This reflects a long-term focus beyond filling immediate labour gaps.
Why have older leaders struggled to qualify for Express Entry in the past?
The Comprehensive Ranking System gives higher scores to younger candidates. Older applicants lose points with age, making it very difficult for senior managers to qualify, even with strong experience.
How would this category differ from entrepreneur and start-up visas?
Entrepreneur and start-up programs focus on those who want to build or invest in new businesses. The leadership category would allow senior managers to qualify as employees, continuing their executive careers in Canada.
How many people are expected to qualify under this category?
Only a few hundred candidates per year are expected. However, the impact could be significant since each manager may oversee large teams and contribute directly to Canada’s economic growth.
What kinds of roles would be included in the leadership category?
The proposed NOC codes cover senior managers across government, finance, health, education, trade, communications, construction, transportation, and production. These roles are critical to organisational success.
