- January 11, 2026
- Posted by: admin
- Category: Uncategorized
Canada has released its Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028, outlining the number of new permanent residents the country intends to welcome each year and the priorities for different immigration categories. This plan provides clear guidance for skilled workers, investors, entrepreneurs, and families who are considering immigration to Canada in the coming years.
The plan emphasizes economic growth, innovation, and demographic support, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to attracting highly skilled talent and business-minded individuals to maintain a strong and competitive economy.
Overview of the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan
The Canadian government has set ambitious targets for permanent resident admissions:
- 2026: 550,000 new permanent residents
- 2027: 570,000 new permanent residents
- 2028: 590,000 new permanent residents
The focus will be on economic immigration, which includes skilled workers, provincial nominees, entrepreneurs, and investors, alongside family sponsorship and refugee programs. Economic immigration remains the largest portion of the total, reflecting Canada’s need for talent in key industries such as technology, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Implications for Skilled Workers
Skilled workers remain a priority in Canada’s immigration strategy. Programs such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) continue to play a major role in selecting candidates who can contribute to the economy.
- Express Entry: Candidates with higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are likely to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) at faster rates due to increased intake targets.
- PNPs: Provinces and territories are expected to receive higher nomination allocations to attract skilled immigrants tailored to regional economic needs.
- Sector-focused initiatives: Canada is likely to continue prioritizing skilled workers in high-demand occupations such as healthcare professionals, engineers, IT specialists, and tradespeople.
For skilled workers, this means more opportunities and potentially shorter processing times as Canada works to meet its immigration targets.
Opportunities for Investors and Entrepreneurs
Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan also emphasizes attracting business-minded immigrants. This includes investors, entrepreneurs, and self-employed individuals who can contribute to the Canadian economy.
- Provincial Entrepreneur Streams: Provinces are likely to expand or maintain entrepreneur and business streams to attract founders and investors willing to create businesses and jobs in Canada.
- Federal Business Immigration Programs: While some federal programs like the Start-Up Visa are being restructured, alternative federal options, such as the C-11 Entrepreneur Work Permit, continue to provide pathways for business owners.
- Investor Immigration: Canada continues to value high-net-worth individuals who can bring capital, create jobs, and contribute to regional economic development.
The increased immigration levels indicate that Canada is committed to creating more opportunities for foreign investors and entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the country.
Family and Sponsorship Considerations
While economic immigration remains a priority, Canada continues to facilitate family reunification. The Immigration Levels Plan allocates a significant portion of admissions to family sponsorship programs, helping permanent residents and citizens sponsor spouses, children, and other close relatives.
What This Means for Immigration Applicants
- Higher intake targets: Increased numbers of permanent residents mean more opportunities across all immigration categories.
- Faster processing for high-demand categories: Skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors may experience quicker processing times due to targeted programs.
- Strategic planning required: Applicants should prepare early, ensure eligibility, and explore the most suitable immigration streams to maximize their chances.
Conclusion
Canada’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan signals a continued commitment to welcoming skilled workers, investors, and entrepreneurs. For applicants, this is an excellent time to explore Canadian immigration pathways and plan for a future in a country that values talent, innovation, and economic contribution.
Sun Consulting Pvt. Ltd can guide skilled workers and business immigrants through the latest opportunities, helping them choose the best pathway for permanent residency in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan?
The Immigration Levels Plan sets the annual targets for the number of new permanent residents Canada aims to admit, broken down by category such as economic immigration, family sponsorship, and refugees.
2. How many immigrants does Canada plan to admit in 2026?
Canada plans to admit 550,000 new permanent residents in 2026, with numbers increasing in 2027 and 2028.
3. Which immigration programs are prioritized under the plan?
Economic immigration programs, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and entrepreneur streams, are the primary focus. Family sponsorship and refugee programs also receive allocations.
4. What does this mean for skilled workers?
Skilled workers have more opportunities to apply for permanent residency, with higher chances of receiving invitations to apply and provincial nominations, particularly in high-demand sectors.
5. Are there opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs?
Yes, Canada continues to support business immigration, including provincial entrepreneur programs, federal work permits for entrepreneurs, and investor pathways. The increased intake means more options for those looking to establish businesses in Canada..
