As Canada enters 2026, the country’s immigration system is undergoing a deliberate recalibration toward sustainable, balanced growth. The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in November 2025, marks a clear shift after years of record-high intakes. The focus now emphasizes economic priorities, housing/infrastructure relief, and transitioning in-Canada talent to permanent status—while significantly reducing new temporary resident arrivals.
Permanent Resident Targets: Stabilized at 380,000 Annually
Canada will welcome 380,000 new permanent residents each year from 2026 through 2028—a modest 3.8% drop from the 395,000 target in 2025, but a substantial reduction from the 483,000+ admitted in 2024.
This stabilization prioritizes quality over quantity:
- Economic class rises to the forefront, reaching 64% of total admissions by 2027–2028 (up from ~59% in prior years). This includes Express Entry (Federal High Skilled), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), and other skilled streams.
- Economic targets: ~239,800–244,700 annually, with a stronger emphasis on in-Canada transitions (e.g., temporary workers/students converting to PR).
- Family reunification and refugee/protected persons categories see small declines (~4–10%).
- Provincial allocations increase, making PNP a bigger pathway for regional needs.
The goal: Attract and retain skilled talent to fill labor shortages in healthcare, trades, tech, and other in-demand sectors while easing pressure on public services.
For official details: Supplementary Information for the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan – Canada.ca
Temporary Resident Arrivals: Major Reductions
The most dramatic change is in temporary streams:
- New temporary resident targets drop to 385,000 in 2026 (a 43% cut from 673,650 in 2025), then 370,000 in 2027–2028.
- International students: Nearly halved (from ~305,900 to 155,000 in 2026).
- Temporary foreign workers: Down ~37% (from 367,750 to 230,000 in 2026).
This aligns with the government’s aim to reduce the temporary population to below 5% of Canada’s total by 2027, addressing housing shortages, healthcare strain, and public sentiment.
Shifts include:
- Fewer LMIA-based low-wage permits.
- Greater reliance on LMIA-exempt International Mobility Program streams (e.g., intra-company transfers, highly skilled roles).
- Tailored adjustments for sectors hit by tariffs or regional labor gaps.
Key Implications for 2026 Applicants
- Stronger focus on economic/skilled pathways: Express Entry, PNPs, and in-Canada transitions get priority. French-speaking proficiency and in-demand occupations (healthcare, trades) remain advantages.
- Tighter competition for students & workers: Study permits and work visas are more selective—stronger profiles (education, skills, funds) win.
- Opportunities for those already in Canada: Fast-track initiatives (e.g., up to 33,000 temporary workers to PR in 2026–2027) reward contributors already integrated.
- Francophone immigration outside Quebec continues to rise (e.g., 30,000+ targets).
Why This Matters in 2026
Canada remains one of the world’s most welcoming destinations, but the era of unchecked growth is over. The plan balances economic needs with sustainability—protecting services while keeping doors open for talent that drives long-term prosperity.
At Vic Trish (victrish.com), we’re guiding students, professionals, and families through these changes: from compliant study abroad plans and Express Entry strategies to diversified pathways that align with the new reality.
Planning your move to Canada in 2026? Comment your situation below or grab our free “2026 Canada Immigration Checklist” in the comments!
Safe travels and smart planning ahead. ✈️🇨🇦
Jane @ Vic Trish Empowering global mobility one journey at a time
