Canada is preparing to introduce its 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, an important announcement that could influence the future of permanent residency, temporary foreign workers and international students.
The new plan is expected to be presented alongside the federal Budget 2026 on November 5, 2026, with an anticipated release around 4 p.m. Toronto time. The exact publication time has not been confirmed.
For thousands of individuals planning to immigrate to Canada, this announcement could provide important insight into future Canada PR opportunities, Express Entry admissions and temporary resident programs.
What Could Change Under Canada’s 2027–2029 Immigration Plan?
The previous 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan focused on stabilising permanent resident admissions while reducing the number of new temporary residents entering Canada.
However, recent statements from Prime Minister Mark Carney and Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab have suggested that Canada may eventually consider a controlled increase in population to support economic development and address labour shortages.
The upcoming announcement will help clarify whether the government intends to maintain its existing approach or introduce adjustments.
Some of the major questions include:
- Will Canada increase its annual permanent resident admission targets?
- Will Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program allocations change?
- Will international student and temporary foreign worker arrivals face further reductions?
- Will Canada introduce new immigration priorities to address labour shortages?
- What will the official immigration targets for 2029 look like?
Until the government publishes the new figures, these possibilities remain unconfirmed.
Canada’s Current Immigration Targets: 2026–2028
Under the existing immigration plan, Canada aims to welcome 380,000 permanent residents annually.
Here is a breakdown of the current targets:
| Immigration Category | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Permanent Residents | 380,000 | 380,000 | 380,000 |
| Economic Immigration | 239,800 | 244,700 | 244,700 |
| Family Sponsorship | 84,000 | 81,000 | 81,000 |
| Refugees & Protected Persons | 49,300 | 49,300 | 49,300 |
| Humanitarian & Other | 6,900 | 5,000 | 5,000 |
The economic immigration category represents the largest portion of planned admissions, highlighting Canada’s continued focus on attracting skilled workers and supporting its labour market.
For individuals pursuing Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other economic immigration pathways, future allocations will be particularly important.
Temporary Resident Targets: Will Canada Reduce Arrivals Further?
Canada has also been working towards reducing its temporary resident population to below 5% of the country’s total population by the end of 2027.
The existing targets for new temporary resident arrivals are:
| Category | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Arrivals | 385,000 | 370,000 | 370,000 |
| Temporary Workers | 230,000 | 220,000 | 220,000 |
| International Students | 155,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 |
These figures represent planned new arrivals, not permit extensions or all visitors to Canada.
The new immigration plan will provide greater clarity on whether the government intends to continue reducing temporary arrivals or make adjustments to meet economic and workforce requirements.
What Does This Mean for People Planning to Apply for Canada PR?
The new Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2027–2029 could influence immigration opportunities over the next three years.
However, higher permanent resident targets do not automatically mean lower CRS scores or more Express Entry invitations. Individual outcomes will also depend on program allocations, eligibility requirements, labour market priorities and IRCC selection decisions.
If you are currently in Canada on a work permit or study permit, this is an important time to review your long-term immigration options.
Rather than waiting for policy changes, prospective applicants should understand which immigration pathways they may qualify for under the existing rules.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
At ICC Immigration, we understand that obtaining Canadian permanent residency is a major life decision. Our experienced immigration team helps individuals and families explore suitable immigration options based on their qualifications, employment history and personal circumstances.
Our services include:
- Express Entry and Permanent Residency: Assistance with Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class and other eligible PR pathways.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Guidance on provincial immigration opportunities and eligibility requirements.
- Work Permits and Study Permits: Assistance with temporary immigration options and understanding potential long-term pathways.
- Family Sponsorship: Support for eligible individuals wishing to reunite with their spouses, partners, children and other qualifying family members.
- Immigration Consultation: Professional guidance on current immigration regulations, application requirements and potential risks.
For individuals who genuinely require refugee protection, asylum is a separate legal process with specific eligibility requirements. It should never be treated as a shortcut to permanent residency. Exploring appropriate immigration pathways is important before making major decisions about your future.
Your future in Canada deserves a well-informed immigration strategy.
Whether you are already living in Canada or planning to immigrate from abroad, ICC Immigration can help you understand your options and take informed steps towards your goals.