Canada has announced its new Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028, outlining the country’s immigration targets and priorities for the next three years. This plan affects permanent residents, temporary residents, and all applicants seeking to live, work, or study in Canada.
As an immigration law firm in Toronto, we’re breaking down the key points of the Canada 2026–2028 immigration plan, what it means for you, and how to adjust your application strategy accordingly.
What Is the Canada 2026–2028 Immigration Plan?
The Canada immigration plan 2026 to 2028 is an official roadmap released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It sets annual targets for:
- Permanent residents (PR)
- Temporary residents (students and workers)
- Economic, family, and humanitarian immigration categories
The new plan focuses on sustainability, economic growth, and better settlement outcomes for newcomers.
Key Highlights of the Canada Immigration Plan 2026–2028
Permanent Resident Targets Remain Strong
The Canada 2026–2028 immigration plan sets a target of 380,000 permanent residents per year for 2026, 2027, and 2028.
This figure is slightly lower than the 2025 target of 395,000, signaling a more controlled and sustainable approach.
Economic Immigration Remains a Priority
Under the 2026–2028 immigration plan Canada, the majority of admissions will focus on economic class immigrants, including:
- Express Entry applicants
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates
- Skilled workers already in Canada
Economic immigration is expected to account for approximately 64% of all PR admissions.
Temporary Resident Numbers Are Reduced
One of the most significant changes in the Canada immigration plan 2026 to 2028 is the reduction in temporary resident admissions. This includes fewer:
- International students
- Temporary foreign workers
- Visitor visa holders
This change reflects Canada’s goal to ensure that temporary immigration levels remain sustainable and aligned with housing and labour market capacity.
Canada Immigration Rules Changes – Visas and What to Expect in 2026
Alongside the new immigration levels plan, applicants should also expect Canada immigration rules changes visas — meaning the government may tighten or update eligibility rules and application requirements for several visa categories.
These rule changes may include:
- Stricter eligibility for study permits and work permits
- More detailed financial documentation requirements
- Higher scrutiny on job offers and employer compliance
- Updated rules for Express Entry and PNP streams
- Changes in visitor visa and temporary resident approvals
As a result, applicants must ensure their applications are complete, accurate, and well-supported. A small mistake can lead to delays or refusals, especially in a more competitive immigration environment.
What the 2026–2028 Immigration Plan Canada Means for Applicants
For Skilled Workers
The Canada 2026–2028 immigration plan keeps economic immigration at the forefront, meaning skilled workers still have strong pathways to permanent residence. However, competition is expected to increase due to tighter intake numbers.
Recommended actions:
- Optimize your Express Entry profile
- Consider Ontario PNP options
- Seek professional legal guidance to improve your chances
Related services: Express Entry, PNP, Skilled Worker Immigration
✔️ For International Students
The Canada immigration plan 2026–2028 signals fewer new student admissions. This means applicants must ensure they have strong study plans, financial proof, and complete applications.
Related services: Study Permit, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
✔️ For Family Sponsorship Applicants
Family reunification remains an important part of Canada’s immigration strategy, but processing priorities may shift due to the plan’s focus on economic immigration.
Related services: Spousal Sponsorship, Family Sponsorship
✔️ For Temporary Workers
Temporary work permits will still be available, but the reduced temporary resident numbers mean the process may become more competitive and stricter.
Related services: Work Permits, Employer Compliance
Why You Should Review Your Immigration Strategy Now
The new Canada immigration plan 2026–2028 means applicants must be more strategic, prepared, and well-advised. An immigration lawyer can help you:
- Choose the best pathway
- Prepare a strong application
- Avoid refusal risks
- Improve your chances of success
How a Toronto Immigration Lawyer Can Help
At Kurzfeld Immigration Law Firm, our immigration lawyers specialize in helping clients navigate complex immigration processes in Toronto and across Canada. We can assist with:
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
- Family sponsorship
- Study and work permits
- Appeals and refusals
- Humanitarian and compassionate applications
Final Thoughts
Canada’s new immigration levels plan for 2026–2028 confirms that the country remains committed to welcoming newcomers. However, the focus is shifting toward more sustainable and targeted immigration. At the same time, Canada immigration rules changes visas mean applicants must be more prepared than ever.
If you are planning to apply for immigration to Canada, it is essential to review your strategy now and seek legal advice to maximize your chances of success.
