Canada's 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan: Key Updates and What They Mean for You

Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially released its 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, marking a significant shift in the country's immigration strategy. This comprehensive plan outlines new targets for both temporary and permanent resident admissions, with a focus on sustainable immigration levels and economic priorities. For immigration consultants, employers, and prospective immigrants, understanding these changes is crucial for planning your immigration journey.

Permanent Resident Admissions: Stabilization at 380,000

One of the most significant announcements is that Canada will stabilize permanent resident admissions at 380,000 per year from 2026 through 2028. This represents a slight decrease from the 2025 target of 395,000, reflecting the government's commitment to sustainable immigration levels that align with Canada's infrastructure and labour market capacity.

The breakdown of these 380,000 admissions is as follows: Economic Category: 239,800-244,700 (64% of total admissions) - prioritizing skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Family Class: 81,000-84,000 (21-22% of total admissions) - maintaining family reunification. Refugees and Protected Persons: 49,300 (13% of total admissions) - upholding Canada's humanitarian commitments. Humanitarian & Compassionate and Other: 5,000-6,900 - addressing special circumstances.

Temporary Resident Admissions: Significant Reductions

The plan introduces substantial reductions in temporary resident admissions, with a target of bringing Canada's temporary population to less than 5% of the total population by the end of 2027. This is a major shift from previous years. Key targets for temporary residents include: 2026: 385,000 new temporary resident arrivals (230,000 workers + 155,000 students). 2027-2028: 370,000 new temporary resident arrivals (220,000 workers + 150,000 students). International Student Permits: Reduced by 50% - from previous levels to 155,000 in 2026 and 150,000 in 2027-2028. Temporary Foreign Worker Program: Reduced from 60,000 in 2026 to 50,000 in 2027-2028.

One-Time Initiatives: Pathways to Permanent Residence

To support the recalibration of Canada's immigration system, the government is implementing two significant one-time initiatives over the next two years. Protected Persons Transition: Approximately 115,000 protected persons already in Canada will be streamlined to permanent residence. These individuals have recognized protected person status and are on a pathway to permanent residence. This initiative accelerates their full integration into Canadian society and their path to citizenship. Temporary Worker Transition: Up to 33,000 temporary workers will be accelerated to permanent residency in 2026 and 2027. This program targets workers who have established strong roots in their communities, are paying taxes, and are contributing to Canada's economy.

Economic Immigration: The Priority Category

Economic immigration remains the cornerstone of Canada's immigration strategy, representing 64% of permanent resident admissions in 2027 and 2028. The plan increases admissions under the Federal High Skilled and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), ensuring Canada attracts the talent needed for nation-building projects while responding to distinct labour market needs of provinces and territories. Key economic immigration programs include: Federal High Skilled: 109,000-111,000 admissions (includes Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class). Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): 91,500-92,500 admissions. Federal Economic Pilots: 8,175-8,775 admissions (caregivers, agri-food, community immigration pilots). Atlantic Immigration Program: 4,000 admissions.

Support for Francophone Communities

Canada reinforces its commitment to ensuring the vitality of Francophone minority communities. The plan increases the target for Francophone admissions destined for outside Quebec, reaching 10.5% by 2028, with a broader goal of achieving 12% by 2029. This reflects Canada's dedication to preserving French language and culture across the country.

Family Reunification and Humanitarian Commitments

While economic immigration takes priority, Canada maintains its commitment to family reunification and humanitarian causes. Family class admissions will remain relatively stable at 21.3-22.1% of overall admissions, ensuring that families can reunite in Canada. Additionally, Canada continues to be a global leader in refugee resettlement, with 13% of overall admissions dedicated to refugees and protected persons programs.

What This Means for Immigration Consultants and Applicants

For immigration consultants like EgyCanada Immigration Center, these changes present both challenges and opportunities. International students should expect more competitive admissions as intake is reduced by 50%. Consulting with immigration professionals early is essential. Skilled workers in high-demand occupations have increased opportunities through economic immigration programs, particularly the Federal High Skilled and PNP pathways. Temporary workers already in Canada should explore accelerated pathways to permanent residence through the new transition initiatives. Family reunification remains a priority, with stable admission levels ensuring continued support for family-sponsored immigration. Francophone applicants may benefit from increased admission targets for French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec.

Looking Ahead

Canada's 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan represents a strategic recalibration of the country's immigration system. By stabilizing permanent resident admissions, reducing temporary resident intake, and prioritizing economic immigration, Canada aims to align immigration levels with infrastructure capacity and labour market needs while maintaining its humanitarian commitments. As an immigration consultant, staying informed about these changes is essential for providing accurate guidance to your clients. Whether you're advising skilled workers, international students, or families seeking reunification, understanding the nuances of the 2026-2028 plan will help you navigate the evolving immigration landscape. For more information about how these changes may affect your immigration plans, contact EgyCanada Immigration Center. Our team of regulated immigration consultants is here to help you navigate Canada's immigration system with confidence.