Canada has made public its Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027, in which it has set out its aspirations and objectives for international students and temporary residents. This unprecedented plan charts the future immigration course Canada intends to adopt in the next three years as it advocates for pathways to permanent residency for international students and seeks to fulfil its economic aspirations. Here’s what international students should understand:
1- Steady Target for New International Students
Canada has kept a long-term goal of 305,900 new international student arrivals each year through 2025, 2026, and 2027. This figure only reflects the number of new arrivals, without taking into account any existing students. This consistent number demonstrates Canada’s intention to welcome large numbers of students annually, despite the gradual reduction of other temporary residents like work permit holders. reduced.
2- Increase in Pathways to Permanent Residency for Students Already in Canada
Given the aim of active in-country transitions, it is no surprise that within the next few years, Canada will introduce much-needed permanent residency options to its students and workers already living there. For example, over 40% of new permanent resident admissions will already contain international students and temporary workers inside Canada. This transformation not only fosters the aspirations of current students upon graduation but also opens up new opportunities through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws, facilitating the transition from temporary to permanent residence.
3- More PNP cuts may lead to cutthroat competition.
Canada has revised the targets for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) downwards, reducing the number of available spots. The target for PNP admissions in 2025 is 55,000, a decrease from the previous year’s target. This means students hoping to apply for PR through PNP streams may face increased competition, as fewer spaces will be available across provinces. Students should consider alternate pathways and stay informed about PNP criteria to enhance their chances.
4- There should be more emphasis on French language proficiency.
anada’s latest immigration plan emphasizes the importance of French-speaking immigrants outside of Quebec, with a target increase from 8.5% in 2025 to 10% by 2027. This focus supports Canada’s objective to promote the French language across the country, providing a unique advantage to French-speaking international students in the Permanent Residency (PR) process. Non-French speakers may also consider language training to boost their chances of success.
For more details, you can check the list of French-speaking immigrants eligible for PR under the Express Entry Draw. This list offers insights into pathways available to French speakers seeking permanent residency in Canada, underscoring the country’s commitment to cultural and linguistic diversity.
5- Priority High-Demand Jobs
To satisfy Canada’s economic needs, category-based selection recruits healthcare, STEM, and trade talent. Labor market demands change these categories. Future PR draws may favor students with high-demand professional expertise or plans to enter these sectors. PR-seeking international students should prioritize sector experience.