Canada Immigration: IRCC Reveals 2025–26 Plans
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled its comprehensive 2025–2026 Immigration Plan, introducing new measures to manage population growth, address infrastructure challenges, and transition more temporary residents to permanent status.
The plan, outlined by Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab, places emphasis on sustainable immigration levels that align with Canada’s housing capacity, public service delivery, and labour market needs.
“Immigration continues to be a vital economic asset,” Minister Diab said. “But it must be managed in a way that ensures communities and services can support new arrivals.”
Reducing Reliance on Temporary Residents
One of the most significant shifts is Canada's move to reduce the share of temporary residents to 5% of the total population by the end of 2026. This includes a substantial reduction in new study and work permits over the next three years.
Temporary Resident Admission Targets:
- 2025: 673,650
- 2026: 516,600
- 2027: 543,600
Breakdown by Category:
- International Students: 305,900 annually (2025–2027)
- Temporary Foreign Workers: 82,000 annually
- International Mobility Program:
- 2025: 285,750
- 2026: 128,700
- 2027: 155,700
The government also aims to transition a greater share of temporary workers and students into permanent residents, particularly through economic immigration pathways.
Permanent Resident Admissions Adjusted
In a bid to reduce pressure on housing and infrastructure, Canada will lower its permanent residency targets from 2025 onward.
New Permanent Residency Targets:
- 2025: 395,000
- 2026: 380,000
- 2027: 365,000
Notably, more than 40% of 2025 permanent resident admissions are expected to be individuals already residing in Canada on temporary status.
Express Entry and Economic Focus
Canada will continue to refine its Express Entry program, prioritizing applicants with:
- Strong French-language skills
- Experience in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, education, trades, and social services
This targeted approach is designed to strengthen Canada's workforce while addressing sector-specific labour shortages.
