Canada’s immigration approach is entering a new era. Canada’s Immigration Level Plan 2026-2028 for permanent and temporary residents marks a decisive shift—one that aims to balance population growth, economic needs, and social capacity.
The permanent resident target will stay at 380,000 per year from 2026 to 2028, slightly below the 395,000 target set for 2025. The share of economic immigrants will grow from 59% to 64%, reflecting the government’s goal to attract talent that supports Canada’s labour market and innovation sectors.
On the contrary, the Canadian government is sharply reducing temporary migration. This means the total number of temporary residents is projected to fall from 673,650 in 2025 to 385,000 in 2026, then stabilize at 370,000 in 2027 and 2028.
The plan maintains Canada’s tradition of welcoming newcomers, but with a stronger focus on sustainability, economic contribution, and control.
A New Direction in Immigration
For decades, Canada’s immigration policy has reflected openness and opportunity. Yet, the rapid rise in temporary residents—from 3.3% of the population in 2018 to 7.5% in 2024—put increasing pressure on housing, healthcare, and education systems. The new plan acknowledges this challenge and seeks to restore balance.
Under the 2026-2028 plan, Canada will stabilize the number of permanent residents and significantly reduce the number of temporary residents, including international students and temporary foreign workers.
Key Permanent Resident Targets
| Year | Total Permanent Residents | Economic Immigration | Family Reunification | Refugees & Humanitarian | French-speaking (Outside Quebec) |
| 2026 | 380,000 (Range: 350k–420k) | 239,800 | 84,000 | 56,200 | 9% (30,267) |
| 2027 | 380,000 (Range: 350k–420k) | 244,700 | 81,000 | 54,300 | 9.5% (31,825) |
| 2028 | 380,000 (Range: 350k–420k) | 244,700 | 81,000 | 54,300 | 10.5% (35,175) |
Economic Immigration Takes Priority
Economic immigration remains at the heart of the plan. Canada will continue to recruit workers through skilled worker programs, provincial nominee streams, and specialized talent initiatives. Between 2026 and 2028, nearly 245,000 economic immigrants will be welcomed each year—an increase of about 10,000 compared to the earlier targets.
Family and Humanitarian Streams Adjusted
Family reunification levels will slightly decrease to 84,000 in 2026 and 81,000 in subsequent years. The number of refugees and humanitarian admissions will also decline, from 62,250 in the old plan to 54,300 under the new one.
Major Reductions in Temporary Residents
| Year | Total Temporary Residents | Temporary Workers | International Students |
| 2026 | 385,000 (Range: 375k–395k) | 230,000 | 155,000 |
| 2027 | 370,000 (Range: 360k–380k) | 220,000 | 150,000 |
| 2028 | 370,000 (Range: 360k–380k) | 220,000 | 150,000 |
International Students
Perhaps the most dramatic change is in the student visa program. Canada plans to issue 155,000 study permits in 2026, down from 306,000 the previous year—a 50% reduction. The number will drop slightly to 150,000 in 2027 and 2028.
This shift has already strained post-secondary institutions, which rely heavily on international tuition fees—typically four to five times higher than domestic tuition.
Temporary Workers
Temporary work permits will also decline from 368,000 in 2025 to 230,000 in 2026 and 220,000 for the following two years. The goal is to reduce the temporary residents’ share of the total population to below 5% by the end of 2027.
Supporting Workers Already in Canada
To help stabilize the system while rewarding those already contributing to the economy, the plan includes a one-time pathway for up to 33,000 work permit holders to gain permanent residency in 2026 and 2027.
Additionally, a $1.7 billion multi-year recruitment initiative will aim to attract 1,000 international researchers in fields like engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and health.
Balancing Compassion and Capacity
Canada’s immigration policy has always balanced humanitarian values with economic priorities. Canada’s Immigration Level Plan 2026-2028 keeps that tradition alive but adapts it to new realities.
While the country continues to welcome refugees, the plan introduces a one-time program to grant permanent residency to certain protected persons who cannot return to their home countries.
At the same time, the government is clear: the immigration system must be efficient, fair, and sustainable. With the new measures, permanent resident arrivals will remain under 1% of the population, while temporary residents will make up less than 5% by 2027.
A Sustainable Path Forward
The message from Ottawa is one of control, compassion, and competitiveness.
Canada’s Immigration Level Plan 2026-2028 aims to:
- Strengthen Canada’s workforce through skilled immigration
- Reduce pressure on housing and public services
- Support Francophone communities outside Quebec
- Maintain Canada’s humanitarian commitments
Canada remains one of the world’s top destinations for immigrants. The new plan doesn’t close the door—it simply ensures the country can keep its promise of opportunity and stability for everyone who chooses to call Canada home.