Canada has published new information through the Supplementary Information of its 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan which shows the country’s immigration path for the upcoming three years.
Our team at MAK Canadian Immigration Services through our evaluation of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) update has determined which permanent residence target changes and temporary residence limit modifications and regional priority adjustments will specifically impact our clients.
Canada Will Stabilize Permanent Resident Admissions
The principal finding from the appendices is Canada’s aim of setting permanent residents’ admissions at about 380,000 annually for 2026-2028.
- Focus on Sustainability: The government is shifting toward a “sustainable growth” model.
- Economic Priority: Around 64% of all admissions are allocated to economic programs (Express Entry, PNP, etc.) by 2027.
Major Growth in Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
The report underscores a notable augmentation in PNP targets, which sends out a message signifying that Canadian provinces have a stronger voice in regard to permanent residency.
Year | PNP Admission Targets |
2026 | 91,500 |
2027 | 92,500 |
2028 | 92,500 |
The PNP provides a pathway to permanent residency for applicants who have low CRS scores and those who work in required fields. The system enables users to obtain current information about which provinces are issuing the highest number of invitations, subscribe to the MAK Immigration YouTube Channel.
Prioritizing “In-Canada” Applicants
The 2026–2028 plan introduces a fundamental policy change through its dedication to “Domestic Draws” as its main focus. IRCC is prioritizing temporary residents already living in Canada—such as international students and temporary workers—for transition to permanent residency.
- 33,000 Temporary Workers: A targeted initiative will accelerate PR processing for workers in smaller communities or regional pilots.
- Regional Focus: Greater emphasis is being placed on the Atlantic Immigration Program and Rural Community Pilots.
Controlled Intake for Temporary Residents
Canada aims to bring temporary residence immigration growth under 5% of the total population by the end of 2027 in order to address pressures stemming from housing and infrastructure.
- International Students The institution has established stricter controls for student enrollment which will result in approximately 150000 to 155000 new study permits being issued each academic year.
- Worker permits will be issued through a more structured process which will match specific labor market requirements instead of granting permits based on general availability.
Expansion of French-Speaking Immigration
Canada is aggressively expanding Francophone immigration outside of Quebec.
- Target Growth: Moving from 9% in 2026 to 10.5% by 2028.
- Advantage: French-speaking draws in Express Entry continue to see significantly lower CRS cut-offs compared to general draws.
Expert Tip: If you have even intermediate French skills, taking the TEF or TCF exam could be the single most effective way to secure your PR in 2026. Watch our French Category Guide for more.
Professional Guidance from MAK Immigration
The 2026–2028 plan demonstrates that Canada will develop an economic system which uses targeted approaches. Success now depends on choosing the right pathway—whether that is a PNP a Category-Based Express Entry draw or a Spousal Sponsorship.
MAK Canadian Immigration Services offers expert representation through our dual-qualified team:
- Usman Khalil (RCIC #R709592 & CPA)
- Omer Khalil (RCIC #R710149)
We specialize in complex transitions from temporary to permanent status. Verify our credentials on our Professional Affiliations page or watch our latest policy breakdowns on YouTube.
