Immigration Corner | Canada sets new immigration direction for 2026 to 2028

Dear Miss Powell,

I have been waiting to hear the latest immigration updates from Canada. I know the government usually announces new plans at the end of the year. Have they introduced any changes that might make it easier for people to move to Canada?

Yours truly,

– A.A.

Dear A.A.,

Thank you for your question. Canada has released several significant updates, including the new Immigration Levels Plan for 2026 to 2028. These measures were announced on November 4, 2025 as part of Budget 2025 and confirm a major shift in the management of permanent and temporary migration.

2026 TO 2028 IMMIGRATION LEVELS PLAN RELEASED

Canada will admit 380,000 permanent residents annually from 2026 to 2028. Although this appears robust, it represents a four per cent reduction from the 2025 target of 395,000. The government has stated that the goal is to stabilise immigration levels in order to ease pressure on housing and public services. By 2027 and 2028, about 64 per cent of newcomers will enter through economic programmes such as Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Programme. This confirms the continued emphasis on skilled workers who can respond to long-term labour shortages.

PROPOSED CITIZENSHIP EXPANSION

Bill C 3, which seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, continues to move through the Senate. Once enacted, it will grant citizenship to many individuals born abroad to Canadian parents who cannot qualify under current rules because they are part of the second or later generation born outside Canada. This change will allow families with genuine Canadian ties to reconnect and secure their status.

NEW PATHWAYS FOR TEMPORARY WORKERS AND PROTECTED PERSONS

Two major initiatives accompany the new plan. Between 2026 and 2027, up to 33,000 skilled temporary workers will be transitioned to permanent residents. These individuals already contribute to the Canadian economy and have established strong ties within their communities. A one-time programme will also grant permanent residence to 115,000 Protected Persons over the next two years, clearing long-standing backlogs and providing stability for refugees already living in Canada.

SHARP REDUCTION IN TEMPORARY RESIDENTS

Temporary resident numbers will be reduced dramatically. International student admissions will fall from approximately 305,000 in 2025 to 155,000 in 2026. Temporary foreign worker numbers will also decline. These reductions support the government’s commitment to bring the temporary resident population below five per cent of the national population by the end of 2027.

EXPRESS ENTRY AND HEALTHCARE PRIORITIES

Canada continues to intensify category-based selection rounds under Express Entry. In the most recent draw, 3500 invitations were sent to applicants in 37 health care and social services occupations, with a lowest selected score of 462. This is one of the largest category-based draws for 2025 and confirms Canada’s urgent need for talent in public health and community care.

The top occupations invited included registered nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, pharmacists, occupational therapists, medical laboratory technologists, dental hygienists, respiratory therapists, dietitians, and mental health counsellors.

Canada has also raised its long-term targets for French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec, rising from nine per cent in 2026 to 10.5 per cent in 2028, with a commitment to reach 12 per cent by 2029.

ARE THINGS GETTING EASIER?

The answer depends entirely on an applicant’s background. Skilled workers, French-speaking candidates, and temporary workers already in Canada may find the process more accessible. Those relying on non-degree studies or lower-skilled work will face more limited pathways. Careful planning has never been more important. I recommend that you consult with a qualified Canadian immigration lawyer to ensure that you select the pathway that is most suitable for you and your family.

Deidre S. Powell is a Canadian lawyer and mediator, author of Tell Me a Story, Grandma. You may contact her at 0and by telephone or WhatsApp at 613 695 8777.