Healthcare and Social Services Occupations (2026-Version 3): The Ultimate Express Entry Update

If you are an American healthcare professional or social worker dealing with severe burnout, high patient ratios, and the complexities of the US insurance system, you have probably considered taking your talents up north. Well, Canada has been listening.

On February 20, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a massive, highly targeted Express Entry draw—officially known as Healthcare and Social Services Occupations, 2026-Version 3.

If you have been following the Canadian immigration space, you know that IRCC relies on category-based selection to recruit for occupations facing critical shortages. But Version 3 brings a major rule change that every US applicant needs to understand before submitting their profile.

Let’s break down the latest healthcare draw, what has changed from Version 2, and how you can leverage this to get your Canadian Permanent Residency (PR).

What Just Happened? The February 2026 Draw (Draw #398)

Canada is showing no signs of slowing down its recruitment of medical and social support staff. In this latest draw, IRCC rolled out the red carpet for frontline workers.

The Draw at a Glance:

• Date: February 20, 2026
• Category: Healthcare and Social Services Occupations, 2026-Version 3
• Number of Invitations Issued (ITAs): 4,000
• Minimum CRS Score: 467

Why a CRS of 467 is a Big Deal for US Applicants: In standard “General” Express Entry draws, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score often climbs above 520. A score of 467 is far more accessible. If you are an American with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, strong English skills, and a few years of work experience, reaching 467 can be realistic—even without a Canadian job offer.

The Big Shift: Version 2 vs. Version 3

If you started preparing your application last year under the “Version 2” guidelines, you need to pause and update your strategy. IRCC has adjusted eligibility criteria to ensure incoming professionals are deeply rooted in their fields.

The New “12-Month Rule”

Under previous iterations (like Version 2), work experience requirements were slightly more flexible. Now, to qualify for Version 3, you must meet a stricter threshold:

• The Requirement: You must have accumulated at least 12 months of full-time work experience (or an equal amount of part-time experience) within the past three years.
• The Catch: This 12 months must be in a single, eligible occupation listed under the category. You cannot mix and match six months as a Medical Assistant and six months as a Social Worker to reach one year.
• The Silver Lining: The 12 months does not need to be continuous, and it can be gained in the United States (or anywhere abroad).

Who Qualifies? Top Eligible Occupations

Canada’s definition of “Healthcare and Social Services” is broad, recognizing that holistic care requires an entire ecosystem of professionals. While the “Physicians with Canadian Work Experience” category caters strictly to doctors already in Canada, Version 3 is built for nurses, allied health professionals, and social workers applying directly from the US.

The USA Table: Top Roles in Demand

Here is how common US healthcare titles align with Canadian National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes, and their eligibility for this specific draw.

(Note: This is just a snapshot. The full Version 3 list includes dozens of roles, from psychologists and kinesiologists to massage therapists and audiologists.)

3 Steps to Capitalize on the Version 3 Update

If you want to be included in the next targeted draw, you need to move strategically, here is an expert-backed approach for US professionals:

1. Get Your Degree Assessed (ECA): Canada needs to verify your US education is equivalent to a Canadian credential. Obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) through an approved agency such as WES (World Education Services).
2. Take an Approved English Test: Even if you were born and raised in the US, IRCC requires formal proof of language ability. Take CELPIP-General or IELTS General Training and aim for top scores to strengthen your CRS above 467.
3. Verify Your NOC Code: Ensure your reference letters match the lead statement and core duties of your chosen NOC. If duties don’t align, your application can be refused even after receiving an ITA.

Ready to Make the Move?

Canada is offering 4,000 opportunities per draw to professionals ready to support a healthcare system focused on community well-being. The barrier is lower than general draws—provided you understand the updated 12-month rule and align your profile correctly.