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Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028: What’s Changing and How It Affects You

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028: What’s Changing and How It Affects You

Canada has officially announced its new Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028, unveiling a balanced approach that prioritizes economic immigration, stabilizes overall intake, and introduces a new PR pathway for temporary residents. The plan was released alongside Budget 2025 and signals a strategic shift toward long-term population and labour market stability.

🔍 Key Highlights at a Glance

The Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028 maintains a consistent target of 380,000 new permanent residents per year between 2026 and 2028, marking a period of stabilization after years of rapid growth.

Here’s a quick breakdown for 2026:

  • Economic Class: 239,800

  • Family Reunification: 84,000

  • Refugees & Humanitarian: 56,200

For 2027 and 2028, the focus on economic immigration will increase slightly to 244,700 annually, while family and humanitarian admissions will remain steady.

Temporary resident projections also reflect a measured reduction:

  • 2026: 385,000 total (230,000 workers + 155,000 students)

  • 2027–2028: 370,000 total (220,000 workers + 150,000 students)

Most notably, the government plans to transition up to 33,000 work permit holders to Permanent Residency in 2026 and 2027 — a major win for those already working and contributing to Canada’s economy.

⚖️ A Shift Toward Stability and Integration

The new plan emphasizes stabilization rather than expansion. After years of record-high intakes, the government now aims to balance immigration growth with housing, infrastructure, and healthcare capacity.

By fixing the annual Permanent Resident (PR) target at 380,000, Canada hopes to ensure sustainable integration of newcomers. This deliberate pause reflects Ottawa’s intent to address housing shortages and service pressures while maintaining a strong labour supply.

💼 Economic Immigration Remains Canada’s Core Focus

Economic immigration continues to form the backbone of Canada’s immigration strategy. Nearly 64% of all PR spots will be allocated to economic categories such as:

  • Express Entry

  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

  • Caregiver and Agri-Food Pilots

  • Atlantic Immigration Program

  • Community and Regional Immigration Pilots

This focus aligns with Canada’s urgent need for skilled workers in key sectors — including healthcare, construction, technology, and skilled trades — as the country faces an aging population and ongoing labour shortages.

🛂 New PR Pathway for Temporary Residents

Perhaps the most promising announcement in the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan is the creation of a new PR transition program for temporary residents, particularly work permit holders.

Over 33,000 foreign workers who have “established strong roots” in their communities will be able to apply for Permanent Residency under this new initiative between 2026 and 2027.

This pathway recognizes the valuable contributions of those already living, working, and paying taxes in Canada — offering them a clear route to long-term stability and status.

For many temporary residents struggling to qualify under the Express Entry or PNP cut-offs, this could be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure Canadian PR without the need to return home and reapply.

🏡 Addressing Housing and Infrastructure Challenges

Canada’s rapid population growth in recent years has placed immense pressure on housing and infrastructure. The new plan aims to align immigration intake with housing capacity and public service delivery.

By moderating temporary resident admissions and maintaining steady PR levels, the government intends to allow municipalities time to expand housing, improve transit, and strengthen healthcare access.

This balanced approach ensures that immigration continues to support Canada’s economic goals — without overwhelming the country’s existing systems.

🇫🇷 Growth in Francophone Immigration

Another important shift is the rise in Francophone immigration targets outside Quebec.

  • 2026: 9% (30,267 people)

  • 2027: 9.5% (31,825 people)

  • 2028: 10.5% (35,175 people)

This initiative supports Canada’s bilingualism goals and ensures the vitality of French-speaking communities nationwide. It also opens new opportunities for French-speaking skilled workers seeking Permanent Residency in Canada.

🔧 What This Means for Employers and Applicants

The 2026–2028 plan introduces tighter management of temporary programs, including international students and foreign workers.

While this could mean stricter caps on new work permits, it also ensures greater predictability and structure. Employers may need to plan ahead for labour shortages, but workers already in Canada will enjoy stronger opportunities for PR transition.

For PR applicants, economic streams — particularly those tied to PNPs, Express Entry, and Francophone categories — will continue to offer the best chances of success.

🌍 Why This Matters for Your Future in Canada

The new Canada Immigration Levels Plan signals a clear message:
✅ Canada is prioritizing stability, integration, and long-term settlement.
✅ Skilled workers already contributing to the economy will have a better shot at PR.
✅ Economic immigration pathways remain the strongest and most secure routes to Permanent Residency.

💡 How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

At ICC Immigration, we understand that every immigration journey is unique. Our team of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) is dedicated to helping you find the best pathway to Permanent Residency and long-term success in Canada.

Our Services Include:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: We guide you through Express Entry, PNPs, and other pathways with personalized support and precise document handling.

  • Work Permits and Study Permits: Explore temporary options that can lead to PR eligibility.

  • Family Sponsorships: Reunite with loved ones through Canada’s family immigration programs.

  • Expert Legal Advice: Avoid costly mistakes with accurate, up-to-date legal guidance from certified immigration professionals.

Instead of risking your future through uncertain asylum routes, take control of your destiny with a clear, legitimate, and secure pathway to PR.

📞 Book a consultation today: https://iccimmigration.ca/book-consultation/
📧 Email: info@iccimmigration.ca
📱 Call: +1 (905) 123-4567

Whether you’re already in Canada or planning to immigrate soon, ICC Immigration is here to help you every step of the way — from study or work permits to Permanent Residency and citizenship.

🏁 Final Takeaway

The Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028 represents a turning point — shifting from record growth to strategic stability.
For thousands of temporary workers, this is the right time to prepare for Permanent Residency and secure your place in Canada’s future.

✨ Let ICC Immigration guide you toward a secure, legal, and successful immigration pathway — because your Canadian dream deserves expert care