OTTAWA — Canada’s immigration system is increasingly prioritizing individuals who are already living and working in the country, as a series of new policies and targets introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aim to transition temporary residents into permanent residents.
Under the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, the federal government has made it clear that future permanent residence (PR) targets will focus on candidates with Canadian work experience, skills and community ties. This approach reflects Ottawa’s broader effort to stabilize population growth while meeting labour market needs.
Provincial Nominee Program Expanded
One of the most significant changes is a 66 per cent increase in PR admissions through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The target rises from 55,000 admissions in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026, with further increases planned for 2027 and 2028.
Because most PNP streams favour candidates who already live, work or study in a province, this expansion strongly benefits in-Canada applicants. In recent years, up to 75 per cent of PNP nominations were directed toward temporary residents already in Canada.
Express Entry Continues to Prioritize Canadian Experience
Despite a slight reduction in total spaces, Express Entry remains the largest economic immigration pathway, accounting for roughly 45 per cent of all PR admissions.
Within Express Entry, IRCC continues to emphasize the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which requires at least one year of Canadian work experience. Early 2026 draws show a sharp increase in CEC invitations compared to the same period last year, reinforcing the department’s focus on candidates already in the country.
New PR Pathway for Temporary Foreign Workers
As announced in Budget 2025, IRCC will introduce a one-time streamlined PR pathway for up to 33,000 temporary foreign workers in 2026–2027. The initiative targets workers who have established roots in Canada, pay taxes and work in high-demand sectors — particularly in rural communities.
While full eligibility details have yet to be released, the program reflects Ottawa’s intention to reduce reliance on new arrivals while retaining skilled workers already contributing to the economy.
Accelerated PR for Protected Persons
Another temporary measure will fast-track permanent residence for approximately 115,000 in-Canada protected persons over the next two years. The government says this move supports humanitarian commitments while helping individuals fully integrate into Canadian society.
Targeted Measures for Doctors
To address health-care shortages, IRCC has introduced several physician-focused initiatives:
- A new Express Entry category for doctors with one year of Canadian work experience, with draws expected in early 2026.
- 5,000 additional PR spaces reserved for provinces and territories to nominate licensed physicians with job offers.
- Expedited work permits (14 days or less) for nominated doctors, allowing them to begin working before PR approval.
These measures are expected to primarily benefit physicians already working in Canada.
Support for Francophone Immigration
The federal government has also reserved 5,000 additional PR spaces for French-speaking immigrants through provincial programs. While open to overseas candidates, provinces typically prioritize applicants with local ties, giving in-Canada Francophone workers and graduates a competitive edge.
A Clear Direction
Taken together, these initiatives signal a clear policy shift: Canada is prioritizing permanent residence for those already here — workers, graduates, protected persons and professionals with Canadian experience.
For many temporary residents, 2026 and 2027 may present the strongest opportunities yet to transition to permanent status.