Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan brings major changes for skilled immigrants and temporary foreign workers. Announced in Budget 2025, the plan introduces a PR transition program for work permit holders, offering a clear path to permanent residency for those already contributing to Canada. It also includes big cuts to temporary resident admissions, aiming for a more targeted immigration policy that supports economic growth and job market needs.
As leading Canada Skilled Immigration Consultants in Abu Dhabi, Navigate Migrate is committed to helping you understand and benefit from these important updates. Our expert team is here to guide you through every step—contact us today to maximize your chances of success under the new plan.
The new PR transition program for work permit holders presents substantial opportunities for thousands of temporary residents, particularly those holding work permits. This program is designed for temporary foreign workers seeking permanent residency, streamlining the process for skilled professionals to remain in Canada. It offers increased long-term stability for both employees and employers.
Here are the main points of Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan:
The permanent residence admission target for 2026 remains steady at 380,000, with a greater allocation dedicated to economic immigration. This presents strong opportunities for skilled workers seeking permanent residency, supported by leading visa and immigration professionals.
A key part of the new Immigration Levels Plan is the PR transition program for work permit holders. This pathway is designed for individuals already working in Canada, providing skilled immigrants and temporary foreign workers with a clear path to secure permanent residency. Ready to take your next step? Find out how our Canada Skilled Immigration Consultants in Abu Dhabi can support you—visit our website to start your journey toward PR today.
Scope: The government plans to help up to 33,000 work permit holders become permanent residents in 2026 and 2027. This demonstrates Canada’s commitment to retaining skilled workers and fostering economic growth through the PR transition program.
Eligibility: The exact requirements for this new program have not been announced. The government also plans to grant PR status to eligible Protected Persons in Canada over the next two years.
This change is intended to help temporary residents who are already part of Canadian communities and working in important roles obtain permanent status. Don’t miss your opportunity—contact Navigate Migrate for expert advice on your eligibility and to streamline your application process with trusted professionals.
The most significant changes in the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan impact temporary residents. The reduced targets for Temporary Foreign Worker permanent resident admissions show a shift in Canada’s immigration priorities.
Stay ahead—discover why Canada remains the top choice for skilled migration in our blog or reach out to see how these updates affect you.
Total Temporary Residents | 673,650 | 385,000 | -43% |
International Students | 305,900 | 155,000 | -49% |
Temporary Foreign Workers | 367,750 | 230,000 | -37% |
Context on 2025 Targets: These are cuts to targets, not actual admissions. From January to August 2025, only 42% of the Temporary Foreign Worker target and 29% of the international student target were met. This means the new 2026 targets may better match reality.
While reductions for temporary residents are prominent, the permanent resident admissions plan remains consistent, signaling a strategic commitment to economic immigration. This provides favorable conditions for skilled workers and employers considering permanent residency through the PR transition program.
At the same time, targets for family reunification and refugee or humanitarian programs have been slightly lowered. The focus is more on skilled immigration and economic growth.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a major review of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, now focusing on specific sectors and regional needs. This change aligns with Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan and the new PR transition program for work permit holders.
The updated Immigration Levels Plan sets the 2026 target for work permits at 230,000, an increase from previous levels. By addressing the demands of various industries and rural regions, Canada is creating more pathways for skilled workers to transition to permanent residency.
Make your move with confidence—let Navigate Migrate, the top visa and immigration consultants, guide you through the new system and help you secure your future in Canada.
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