Canada will grant permanent residency to 33,000 temporary workers between 2026 and 2027, shifting immigration policy toward stability and growth.
Canada is preparing to make one of its most significant immigration moves in recent years. The federal government has announced plans to transition up to 33,000 temporary foreign workers to permanent residency between 2026 and 2027. This initiative, outlined in the newly released 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, marks a deliberate shift toward long-term stability, economic retention, and more predictable population planning amid growing pressures on housing and public services.
The plan, detailed in Supplementary Information for the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), outlines a forward-looking approach to immigration policy—one that rewards workers who have already proven their value to the Canadian economy.
A shift toward skilled, settled workers
Over the past decade, Canada’s immigration strategy has evolved from simply addressing labour shortages to cultivating a more stable and skilled workforce. This new initiative continues that evolution by fast-tracking permanent residency for temporary foreign workers who are already making significant contributions to key sectors, such as healthcare, construction, agriculture, and technology.
According to IRCC, the government will “accelerate the transition of up to 33,000 temporary workers to permanent residency in 2026 and 2027.” This reflects a growing recognition that many of these workers are not transient labourers—they are integral members of their communities who pay taxes, raise families, and fill essential roles in the economy.
At the same time, the plan signals a recalibration of overall immigration flows, with moderated intake for certain temporary categories, including international students. The goal is to better align population growth with available infrastructure, ensuring that immigration continues to strengthen—not strain—Canada’s social systems.
Why this policy matters
For thousands of temporary workers, this development represents far more than a change in paperwork. Permanent residency offers stability, access to a wider range of services, and the ability to fully participate in Canadian life—from long-term housing to education and healthcare.
For employers, it provides a pathway to retain skilled workers in industries where turnover and uncertainty have long been challenges.
Economists argue that transitioning existing workers into permanent roles is among the most cost-efficient and socially responsible ways to reinforce Canada’s labour market. These individuals already possess the cultural and professional familiarity needed to succeed, reducing onboarding costs and integration hurdles.
Newcomers exploring permanent residency options can learn more on the IRCC’s “How to Immigrate” page, which lists pathways like Express Entry, the Canadian Experience Class, and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Balancing growth and capacity
The government’s broader immigration plan reflects a balancing act between welcoming newcomers and maintaining the sustainability of Canada’s infrastructure and public systems. Rather than continually expanding temporary programs, the focus is shifting toward strengthening the foundations of long-term settlement.
Through this approach, Canada aims to:
- Support economic growth by retaining proven talent
- Reduce dependence on temporary worker programs
- Provide clearer, more predictable immigration pathways
- Moderate population growth to match housing and service capacity
- Enhance long-term workforce planning
This balance underscores a growing understanding that immigration is not just about numbers—it’s about integration, stability, and ensuring that newcomers can thrive.
For detailed program goals and updates, visit the IRCC Newsroom and Government of Canada immigration reports.
What to expect next
IRCC has yet to release detailed eligibility criteria or program-specific mechanisms for the upcoming permanent residency pathways. These details are expected to be released closer to the 2026 rollout. However, immigration experts suggest the initiative may expand upon existing channels, such as:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – for temporary residents with Canadian work experience
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – aligning local labour market needs with skilled candidates
- Sector-specific pathways – targeting essential industries such as healthcare and trades
Newcomers and employers can also monitor updates through the IRCC’s official news releases and the Job Bank Canada for current opportunities and labour market trends.
What’s clear is that this policy marks a broader shift from volume to value in Canadian immigration. By recognizing and retaining workers who are already integral to the economy, Canada continues to refine a model of immigration rooted in shared prosperity, inclusion, and sustainability.
Helpful links
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- IRCC Newsroom
- Job Bank Canada – explore jobs, wages, and in-demand occupations
- Settlement.org – guides for newcomers on housing, employment, and community life in Ontario
