Canada’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan prioritises permanent residence (PR) for temporary residents already living in the country. The plan focuses on students, skilled workers, and other residents who are contributing to the economy and communities. As reported by The Economic Times, Immigration Minister Lena Diab said IRCC will “give priority for permanent residence to temporary residents already living and settled in Canada,” highlighting a policy shift towards retaining in-country talent.
Under the plan, Express Entry remains a key pathway for high-skilled admissions. Targets for 2026 are set at 109,000, slightly lower than 124,680 in 2025, with planned increases to 111,000 in 2027 and 2028. About 64% of PR spots in 2026 are allocated to economic immigration, primarily benefiting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), who already have work experience in Canada. The Economic Times reports that CEC candidates are seen as “well-prepared to integrate into the labour market.”
Express Entry and economic immigration pathways Express Entry continues to provide an essential route for skilled workers. Candidates with Canadian work experience can apply through the CEC, which forms a significant portion of the economic immigration category. These applicants are assessed for their ability to meet labour market needs and integrate into local communities.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) will see a marked increase under the new plan. Admissions are projected to rise from 55,000 in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026, with further increases expected for 2027 and 2028. PNPs enable provinces to nominate temporary residents, particularly those already working, studying, or living locally. As per The Economic Times, PNPs allow provinces to retain talent that is already contributing to their economy.
One-time measures to fast-track PR IRCC has introduced initiatives to accelerate PR for specific groups. Up to 33,000 skilled foreign workers in in-demand sectors, including rural areas, will be fast-tracked over 2026–2027. A separate initiative will grant PR to up to 115,000 Protected Persons already residing in Canada, ensuring humanitarian commitments are fulfilled while integrating these individuals into the workforce, according to The Economic Times.
Impact on students and workers International students and temporary skilled workers are among the main beneficiaries. Those already living in Canada can leverage the new pathways under Express Entry and PNPs to transition from temporary status to PR. The plan reflects Canada’s approach to managing immigration strategically while supporting labour markets and communities.
The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan underscores a focus on retaining talent already present in Canada, supporting students, skilled workers, and Protected Persons through structured pathways to permanent residence.
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