YOU NEED TO KNOW | OVERVIEW OF CANADA IMMIGRATION PLAN 2026 – 2028

Canada has just announced its 2026-2028 Immigration Plan, with significant changes, offering many opportunities for those who wish to settle in the country. Here are the key details you need to know:
1. Number of immigrants:
Canada is expected to welcome 380,000 people each year from now until 2028, with more than 64% being part of the economic group – including professionals, engineers, and skilled workers. This is a great opportunity for those planning long-term settlement and contributing to the country's economy.
2. Who is included in the priority group?
– Economic group (experts, skilled workers, entrepreneurs): Will be given priority in visa issuance and permanent residency.
– Skilled workers: Professions that are in high demand, such as information technology, healthcare, and engineering, are being given special priority.
– International students: Canada continues to strengthen programs to attract international students, aiming to welcome about 155,000 students each year starting in 2026.
3. Plan for New Temporary Residents (Temporary Residents – international students, temporary workers):
• Goal for 2026: about 385,000 people.
• Years 2027-2028: approximately 370,000 people per year. This figure will be confirmed or adjusted on November 1 each year.
• Overall goal: reduce the proportion of temporary residents to below 5% of Canada's total population by the end of 2027.
4. Other significant changes:
• The program for individuals holding a work permit in Canada will have a pathway to permanent residency for about 33,000 people in 2026-2027. This change will target workers who already have jobs in their communities, are paying taxes, and contributing to building the strong economy that Canada needs.
• The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) has an enhanced role, under which in 2026 the PNP will receive about 91,500 applications, an increase of ~66% compared to the previous plan.
In this announcement, Canada emphasizes 'improving quality' over 'increasing quantity,' prioritizing skilled individuals who meet labor market and regional needs. Canada is maintaining a stable number of permanent residents (~380,000 per year) but tightening temporary resident flows – thereby creating better conditions for integration and long-term stability.
If you are aiming to study or work in Canada, you need to prepare well in terms of professional skills and language proficiency, and choose a province that has labor demand matching your personal profile to ensure the application process goes as smoothly as possible!