Canada’s New Immigration Plan (2026-2028): Key Takeaways You Should Know

Canada has released its 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, signaling a clear shift toward stability, sustainability, and targeted immigration. Rather than increasing numbers year over year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is focusing on smarter selection and system balance.

Here’s what matters most.

Permanent Immigration: Steady, Not Expanding

Canada will welcome approximately 380,000 permanent residents each year from 2026 to 2028.

What this means:

Permanent residence opportunities remain strong, but competition will stay high. Well-prepared applications and strategic pathway selection are more important than ever.

Economic Immigration Remains the Priority

Over 60% of permanent residence spaces will continue to be allocated to economic immigration, including Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.

Who benefits most:

• Skilled workers

• Candidates with Canadian work experience

• Applicants in high-demand occupations

Tighter Controls on Temporary Residents

For the first time, IRCC has introduced formal limits on temporary residents, including international students and foreign workers.

• Fewer study permits

• More selective work permit approvals

• Stronger scrutiny of post-graduation pathways

Government goal: reduce temporary residents to below 5% of Canada’s population by 2027.

Focus on In-Canada Transitions

IRCC is prioritizing applicants already in Canada and contributing to the economy. This includes targeted pathways for workers transitioning from temporary status to permanent residence.

Key takeaway:

Canadian experience is becoming one of the strongest advantages in the system.

Refugee & Humanitarian Commitments Continue

Despite broader system tightening, Canada remains committed to refugee protection and humanitarian admissions. These programs continue as a core part of Canada’s immigration framework, with an emphasis on efficiency and timely decision-making.

What This Means for You

Canada’s immigration system is becoming more selective, structured, and strategic. Success now depends on:

• Choosing the right pathway

• Timing your application carefully

• Preparing strong, compliant submissions

At Salvera Immigration, we help individuals and families navigate these changes with clarity and confidence, so your immigration strategy aligns with Canada’s evolving policies.

Book a consultation to understand how the new immigration plan impacts your pathway.