Canada Immigration in 2026: New Programs, Pathways & What You Need to Know
Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve in 2026, with strategic adjustments aimed at strengthening the economy, prioritizing workers already in Canada, and improving long-term outcomes for skilled individuals seeking permanent residence. This year introduces significant shifts, especially in temporary-to-permanent resident pathways, Express Entry activity, and provincial programs like Ontario’s immigration framework.
1. The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan & TR to PR Pathway
Canada’s new Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028 stabilizes permanent residence admissions at around 380,000 per year, with a stronger emphasis on economic class immigrants and pathways for those already contributing to the Canadian economy.
The TR to PR Initiative: 33,000 Temporary Workers
One of the most important developments is a new, one-time program designed to transition up to 33,000 temporary workers to permanent residence over 2026 and 2027. This initiative reflects Canada’s shift toward retaining skilled workers who have already integrated into Canadian labour markets and communities.
Who the program aims to benefit:
Temporary workers who have established strong roots in their communities.
Individuals working in Canada and contributing economically, including paying taxes and filling labour market needs.
Workers in in-demand sectors and regions, including areas with labour shortages.
Candidates with skilled work experience and stable employment in Canada.
Key points to know so far:
The program will run over two years (2026–2027) with a capped total of 33,000 spots.
It is expected to prioritize temporary residents already in Canada rather than new arrivals.
Eligibility may require significant Canadian work experience, current valid work status, and proof of ongoing employment.
Language proficiency (CLB benchmarks) and documented work history may be part of the assessment when details are released.
Preparation tips:
Maintain valid temporary status in Canada.
Ensure continuous employment and documented work experience.
Secure current language test results and education assessments if required.
2. Express Entry Activity in 2026
Express Entry remains a major pathway for skilled immigration. Early 2026 draws continue to prioritize:
Candidates with Canadian work experience, particularly under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates with nomination certificates.
Recent Express Entry Draws (January 2026):
| Draw Date | Program | CRS Cut-off Score | Invitations (ITAs) Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 5, 2026 | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 711 | 574 |
| Jan 7, 2026 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 511 | 8,000 |
These two draws illustrate IRCC’s continued emphasis on in-Canada workers and provincially nominated applicants early in the year.
These trends align with the goal of selecting immigrants who can integrate quickly into the labour market. Keeping your Express Entry profile updated (especially language scores, work experience and supporting documents) is essential to remain competitive as draw sizes and CRS requirements evolve.
3. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Overhaul
Ontario’s immigration program is undergoing significant changes in 2026:
Simplified and priority-focused streams targeting healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent.
Some streams, like the Express Entry: Skilled Trades stream, have been suspended, with stronger compliance rules to improve processing and allocation of nomination slots.
Expanded eligibility for certain internationally educated healthcare workers (e.g., physicians with specific registrations).
These changes make Ontario’s streams more strategic and aligned with labour demand.
4. Caregiver Programs in 2026: Closed but Not Forgotten
Canada’s Home Child-Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot will not accept new applications in 2026. All previously submitted applications will continue to be processed, but the pathway is effectively paused for new candidates for the foreseeable future.
Alternative options for caregivers in 2026:
Temporary Work Permit Routes: Secure a work permit through an LMIA to work legally as a caregiver and build Canadian experience.
Express Entry: Caregiver-related occupations (e.g., nurse aides, patient service associates) may be eligible in healthcare-focused selection draws.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces include caregiver-related NOC codes in skilled worker streams (Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador).
Key takeaway: While the federal caregiver programs are closed, temporary work permits, provincial nominations, and Express Entry remain viable paths for caregivers aiming for permanent residence.
5. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) Status
Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program will not accept new applications in 2026. Only applications submitted during the 2025 intake will continue to be processed. There is currently no confirmed intake for 2026.
Alternative options for families:
Super Visa: Allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry while maintaining temporary status.
Future PGP Openings: IRCC may reopen the program in later years, but no official timeline exists for 2026.
Key takeaway: Families should consider Super Visas while waiting for future PGP intakes, ensuring parents and grandparents can legally reside in Canada in the interim.
6. Preparing for 2026 Immigration
Keep your immigration status valid.
Document Canadian work experience and community contributions.
Take recognized language tests and maintain updated credentials.
Explore provincial streams that may provide alternative routes to PR.
Conclusion
Canada’s 2026 immigration policies emphasize retaining talent already in Canada, aligning pathways with labour market needs, and managing temporary resident numbers responsibly. With the 33,000 TR to PR initiative, provincial program revamps, and paused caregiver and parental programs, candidates who are prepared, experienced, and strategically positioned have the best chance to succeed.
About the Author: Lauren Shannan is a Senior Immigration Consultant with 10 years of experience helping foreign nationals navigate their journey in Canada. With her extensive knowledge of immigration processes and policies, Lauren provides valuable insights to those looking to make Canada their new home.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized advice, please consult with a licensed immigration professional.