Canada's 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan: What You Need to Know

Canada has released its highly anticipated 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, marking a significant shift in the country's immigration strategy. As a regulated immigration consultant serving clients in Quebec and across Canada, we're here to break down what these changes mean for you.

Overview of the New Immigration Plan

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled a comprehensive plan that stabilizes permanent resident admissions at 380,000 annually from 2026 to 2028. This represents a 3.8% reduction from the 2025 target of 395,000. The plan aims to balance Canada's economic needs with its capacity to integrate newcomers effectively.

Key Changes to Temporary Resident Admissions

One of the most significant changes involves temporary resident admissions. Canada is implementing substantial reductions across all temporary resident categories:

• International Student Permits: Reduced from 305,900 in 2025 to 155,000 in 2026 (a 49% decrease), with targets of 150,000 for 2027-2028

• Work Permits: Declining from 367,750 in 2025 to 230,000 in 2026 (a 37% reduction), with targets of 220,000 for 2027-2028

• Overall Temporary Resident Target: 385,000 in 2026, down from 673,650 in 2025 (a 43% reduction)

These reductions reflect Canada's goal to lower the temporary population to below 5% of the total population by 2027, easing pressure on housing and public services.

International Student Permits: A Major Shift

The most dramatic change affects international students. The 49% reduction in study permits is a watershed moment for Canada's education sector and prospective students. Recent data shows that study permit refusal rates have increased significantly, particularly for applicants from India, where refusal rates reached 74% in August 2025, up from 32% in August 2023.

This shift is partly due to enhanced verification systems detecting fraudulent documentation. In 2023, Canadian authorities identified approximately 1,550 fraudulent study permit applications, primarily from India. By 2024, the enhanced verification system detected over 14,000 potentially fraudulent letters of acceptance across all applicant groups.

Permanent Resident Admissions Breakdown

The 380,000 permanent resident target for 2026-2028 is distributed across three main categories:

• Economic Immigration (Skilled Workers/PNP/Business): 239,800 (63.1% of target) - rising to 244,700 for 2027-2028

• Family Reunification: 84,000 (22.1% of target) - lowering to 81,000 for 2027-2028

• Refugees/Protected Persons/Humanitarian: 56,200 (14.8% of target) - lowering to 54,300 for 2027-2028

Quebec's Immigration Plan: A Provincial Perspective

Quebec has released its own 2026-2029 Immigration Plan, which aligns with federal objectives while emphasizing French language integration and regional balance. Key highlights include:

• Permanent Resident Admissions: Reduced to 45,000 per year (from 61,000 in 2025)

• French Language Requirement: Nearly 80% of new immigrants should possess at least intermediate French proficiency by 2029 (up from 50% in 2019)

• End of Quebec Experience Program (PEQ): Permanently ended as of November 19, 2025

• Temporary Immigration Reduction: 13% decrease in temporary residents by 2029, with focus on Montreal and Laval

What This Means for Aspiring Immigrants

These changes have significant implications for different immigration pathways:

For International Students: The dramatic reduction in study permits means increased competition and stricter scrutiny of applications. Prospective students should ensure all documentation is authentic and complete, and consider alternative pathways such as co-op placements or Provincial Nominee Programs.

For Skilled Workers: Economic immigration remains the priority, with 63% of permanent resident spots allocated to skilled workers. This is positive news for those pursuing Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.

For Quebec Applicants: French language proficiency is now more critical than ever. The closure of the Quebec Experience Program eliminates a popular pathway, making the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) the primary route for skilled workers.

For Family Reunification: While family sponsorship remains important (22% of admissions), the slight reduction in targets means increased competition in this category.

How EgyCanada Immigration Can Help

Navigating Canada's evolving immigration landscape requires expert guidance. At EgyCanada Immigration Center, our regulated immigration consultants are well-versed in the latest policy changes and can help you:

• Assess your eligibility under the new immigration levels plan

• Identify the best immigration pathway for your situation

• Prepare strong applications that meet current requirements

• Navigate Quebec-specific requirements and French language proficiency standards

Conclusion

Canada's 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan represents a strategic recalibration of the country's immigration priorities. While the reductions in temporary resident admissions are significant, economic immigration remains strong, and pathways to permanent residence continue to exist for qualified candidates.

Whether you're considering studying in Canada, seeking employment, or planning to reunite with family, understanding these changes is crucial to your success. Contact EgyCanada Immigration Center today to discuss your immigration goals and develop a personalized strategy that aligns with the new landscape.