How IRCC’s New Immigration Plan Helps Skilled Workers in Canada

Canada’s newest Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028 brings promising news for temporary residents hoping to become permanent. While this year’s plan doesn’t include a special “In-Canada” category, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to give priority to people already living, working, and contributing within the country.

In a recent media briefing, Immigration Minister Lena Diab explained that IRCC will “give priority for permanent residence to temporary residents already living and settled in Canada.” Her message makes one thing clear—Canada intends to strengthen its labour force by supporting those who are already part of it. This approach also helps ease the number of newcomers arriving while rewarding individuals who have built their lives here.

Why This Plan Matters for Temporary Residents

For thousands of temporary foreign workers, students, and skilled professionals in Canada, this plan offers renewed hope. Many have long waited for clear signs that their time and effort in the country would lead to a permanent future.

By giving preference to in-Canada candidates, IRCC acknowledges the value these individuals bring to local communities. They already pay taxes, fill essential jobs, and adapt well to Canadian life. The new plan aims to make their transition smoother by connecting temporary and permanent residency targets under one coordinated approach.

In simple terms, the government wants to focus on people who are already here and ready to settle for good, rather than increasing the number of new arrivals.

Express Entry Remains a Key Pathway

The Express Entry system continues to be a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration process. Under the new plan, the number of Federal High-Skilled admissions will slightly decrease from 124,680 in 2025 to 109,000 in 2026, before rising again to 111,000 in both 2027 and 2028.

Strong Focus on Economic Immigration

This consistency shows that IRCC still views Express Entry as one of the strongest and most reliable ways to bring skilled workers into permanent residence. The plan also reserves 64% of all 2026 PR admissions for economic immigration—a clear sign that skilled labour remains at the heart of Canada’s long-term strategy.

Canadian Experience Class Benefits the Most

For those in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), this is especially positive. Most CEC candidates already live and work in Canada, giving them a major advantage. Their local experience helps them adapt quickly to the job market, which benefits both employers and communities.

IRCC has not yet confirmed if larger CEC-specific draws will return in 2026, but many expect that to happen as part of this renewed focus on in-Canada applicants.

Major Growth in Provincial Nominee Programs

One of the most noticeable changes in this year’s plan is the sharp increase in Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) targets. The PNP admissions goal jumps from 55,000 in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026—a 66% rise. By 2027 and 2028, it’s set to reach 92,500 per year.

Bigger Opportunities for Provinces and Workers

This increase gives provinces more room to nominate candidates who are already living and working within their borders. It’s also a practical move, since these individuals are already contributing to their local economies and communities.

PNPs have long been one of the best options for temporary workers and international graduates who want to stay in the province where they studied or worked. Many provinces have special streams that reward people with local work experience or education, as these candidates tend to integrate more easily.

In-Canada Candidates Remain the Focus

In 2025, IRCC required that at least 75% of provincial nominations go to applicants already in Canada. This rule helped manage immigration levels and supported economic needs without significantly raising new arrivals.

While IRCC hasn’t confirmed if this guideline will continue, the new plan’s increased PNP targets suggest a similar direction—one that continues to prioritize people who are already settled and contributing to life in Canada.

Two Special Programs Planned for 2026 and 2027

To meet its permanent residency goals and help more people transition successfully, IRCC announced two one-time initiatives that will roll out across 2026 and 2027.

1. Fast-Track Pathway for Skilled Workers

Up to 33,000 skilled foreign workers already in Canada will get a quicker path to permanent residency during these two years. The focus will be on workers in in-demand sectors, including those based in smaller or rural communities.

These individuals often have deep community ties, stable jobs, and a record of paying taxes—all signs that they are ready to make Canada their permanent home.

2. Permanent Residency for Protected Persons

The second initiative will grant permanent residency to up to 115,000 Protected Persons—individuals recognized by IRCC or the Immigration and Refugee Board as refugees or those needing protection. Many of these residents have lived in Canada for years, contributing to their communities while waiting for stability.

This policy helps them fully integrate into Canadian society and supports the country’s humanitarian commitments.

A Balanced Approach to Canada’s Immigration Future

The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan shows a clear shift in focus—from growing overall numbers to strengthening the foundation of Canada’s workforce. By supporting temporary residents who have already proven their ability to succeed here, IRCC is investing in people who can continue to drive economic growth.

This plan not only recognizes their efforts but also brings a sense of relief and belonging to thousands who already call Canada home. It ensures that pathways like Express Entry, PNPs, and special programs remain open and strong, giving temporary residents real hope for a permanent future.

For many, this plan marks more than policy—it represents opportunity, stability, and a chance to finally say: Canada is home.