Canada has released its Supplementary Immigration Levels Plan for 2026-2028, outlining how many new permanent and temporary residents the country aims to welcome each year. This plan shapes the future of economic immigration, family sponsorship, refugee protection, and temporary resident programs.
If you are planning to study, work, or settle permanently in Canada, understanding this plan is essential to building a strong immigration strategy.
Key Highlights of Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan
According to the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) report, the new plan aims to stabilize immigration while ensuring that newcomers continue to contribute to
Canada’s economy and long-term growth.
1. Permanent Resident Targets
- Canada will maintain 380,000 new permanent residents each year from 2026 to 2028.
- Major categories include:
- Economic Class: 239,800
- Family Sponsorship: 84,000
- Refugees & Protected Persons: 49,300
- Humanitarian & Compassionate Cases: 6,900
2. Temporary Resident Targets (Students & Workers)
Canada is also setting new targets for temporary residents, including foreign workers and international students:
- 2026: 385,000 new temporary residents
- 2027-2028: 370,000 per year
- Workers: 230,000 (170,000 under IMP, 60,000 under TFW Program)
- Students: Around 155,000 in 2026, decreasing slightly in later years. This is the
lowest number of students in last 25 years.
The Government’s goal is to reduce the total temporary resident population to under 5% of Canada’s total population by 2027.
3. Focus on Economic Immigration
Economic immigration continues to be the top priority. Programs under the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), and caregiver and agri-food pilots will remain key pathways
for skilled workers.
IRCC’s long-term objective is to strengthen the Canadia
n workforce by attracting professionals with experience in sectors facing labour shortages — including healthcare, construction, technology, and transportation.
4. Family Reunification and Humanitarian Commitments
Family reunification remains a central value of Canada’s immigration policy. The plan ensures ongoing support for:
- Spousal and Child Sponsorships
- Parent and Grandparent Programs (PGP)
- Refugees and protected persons seeking safety and stability in Canada
5. Francophone Immigration Outside Quebec
IRCC has set clear goals to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec:
- 2026: 9%
- 2027: 9.5%
- 2028: 10.5%
This aligns with Canada’s goal of supporting bilingual communities and balancing demographic growth across provinces.
What This Means for Immigration Applicants
As one of the most trusted immigration law firms in Winnipeg, A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation has identified several key takeaways for international students, workers, and permanent residence applicants:
1. Transitioning from Temporary to Permanent Status
With reduced targets for temporary residents, the emphasis will be on transitioning those already in Canada, especially workers and graduates, to permanent residence. Candidates with Canadian experience and strong community ties will have an advantage.
2. Competition for Study and Work Permits Will Increase
Fewer international student and worker spots mean applicants will need stronger profiles, proper documentation, and clear proof of intent.
3. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) Are More Valuable Than Ever
For individuals living in Manitoba and other provinces, PNPs will play a major role in achieving the federal government’s economic immigration goals. Applicants should focus on in-demand occupations and provincial labour market needs to increase their chances of nomination.
4. Humanitarian and Family Pathways Remain Stable
Canada will continue to support refugees, protected persons, and family sponsorship programs. Families separated by borders will still have opportunities to reunite under Canada’s compassionate immigration policies.
Expert Insights from Immigration Lawyers in Winnipeg
At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, our experienced legal team helps clients understand and navigate these evolving immigration frameworks.
We assist with:
- Express Entry and PNP applications
- Work Permit and Study Permit extension guidance
- LMIA-exempt options (C50, IMP, and others)
- Family Sponsorship
As Canada adjusts its immigration levels for 2026-2028, strategic application planning will be essential to success.
Final Thoughts
The 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan marks a shift toward sustainable immigration growth, balancing labour market needs, humanitarian values, and integration outcomes. For applicants, this means a more competitive but also more structured process, rewarding those who plan ahead and align their immigration pathways with Canada’s long-term goals. If you’re planning to study, work, or apply for permanent residency in Canada, now is the time to prepare.
