Canada's 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan holds permanent-resident admissions at 380,000 a year while sharply reducing targets for new temporary arrivals: 385,000 in 2026 and 370,000 in both 2027 and 2028. The emphasis shifts from expanding overall numbers to reducing the temporary population and prioritising economic migration, Francophone candidates, and people already in Canada.
The permanent-resident target is below the 395,000 planned for 2025, but the economic share of permanent admissions is intended to rise. Temporary targets cover international students and temporary workers, supporting a goal of reducing temporary residents to below 5% of the population by the end of 2027. This does not mean every program is cut equally: health care, skilled sectors, construction, Francophone migration, and rural or remote communities can still receive targeted selection. General study and lower-wage temporary work routes face stronger competition.
There is less room for new overseas applicants than during the post-pandemic peak, and a school offer or job offer alone does not guarantee a permit. Candidates already in Canada, with Canadian work experience, French, shortage occupations, or provincial nomination prospects are relatively better positioned. Family and humanitarian routes remain, but are still shaped by annual levels and processing capacity.
Do not rely only on the headline totals. Check the relevant Express Entry category, provincial nomination, rural or Francophone program, study-permit provincial attestation requirements, and post-graduation work eligibility. Strengthen French, Canadian experience, and shortage-occupation alignment, with a second province or route as a backup.
Canada
Canada
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