Canada Immigration Changes 2026: What Temporary Residents Need to Know
Canada is set to implement significant changes under its 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, reshaping how international students and temporary foreign workers enter and stay in the country. These changes reflect a shift toward more controlled, sustainable temporary resident levels while maintaining support for long-term economic immigration.
Here’s an overview of Canada Immigration Changes 2026 that international students and temporary foreign workers should know.
Key Updates for Temporary Foreign Workers
New Transition to Permanent Residency
The government plans to facilitate a pathway for up to 33,000 temporary workers to apply for permanent residency in 2026 and 2027.
- The initiative targets workers who have established strong ties in Canada, including community roots and tax contributions.
- This aligns with broader goals of reducing the temporary resident population while prioritizing those already contributing to Canada’s economy.
Reduced Targets for Temporary Worker Arrivals
Under the new plan, the target for temporary foreign worker entries is 230,000, including both LMIA-required work permits and other mobility streams.
- Specifically, the cap under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is 60,000 in 2026, with further reductions in subsequent years.
Stricter Program Controls and Compliance
Canada is tightening eligibility and oversight for temporary worker programs by:
- Prioritizing specific economic sectors and regions with labor shortages.
- Strengthening employer compliance and LMIA requirements to ensure fair labor practices.
Major Changes Affecting International Students
Lower Cap on Study Permits
Canada is reducing the number of new study permits:
- The target for new admissions is 155,000 in 2026, and 150,000 annually in 2027 and 2028.
- This is part of a strategy to manage temporary resident levels more sustainably.
Graduate Students Exempt from the Cap
Starting January 1, 2026, graduate students are exempt from the overall study permit cap:
- Master’s and doctoral students will no longer need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL).
- Doctoral students and their eligible family members may receive expedited processing, with some applications completed in as little as two weeks.
Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility
Certain academic programs will no longer qualify for PGWPs after early 2026.
- Students planning to work in Canada after graduation should verify their program’s eligibility to ensure they can benefit from the PGWP.
Why These Changes Matter
Sustainable Immigration: Reducing temporary resident numbers helps manage population growth and resources.
Economic Alignment: Prioritizing temporary residents with Canadian work experience ensures immigration supports labor market needs.
Support for Graduate Talent: Exemptions and faster processing demonstrate Canada’s commitment to advanced education and research contributors.
Take Action with EV Immigration
Navigating Canada’s changing immigration policies can be complex. At EV Immigration, we guide international students and temporary foreign workers through:
Study permit applications and eligibility checks
Temporary work permits and LMIA requirements
Pathways to permanent residency tailored to your experience
Secure your Canadian future today. Contact us for a consultation and ensure your application aligns with the latest Canada Immigration Changes 2026.
