Immigration Corner | Thinking of Canada in 2026?

Dear Ms. Powell,

I’ve been reading your articles for years and I’m wondering what is the outlook for Canada for 2026. Is this year a good year to apply to live in Canada? I look forward to reading your response in The Gleaner.

A.C

Dear A.C,

Thank you for being a loyal reader of my articles. Your question is one many people are asking as Canada moves into 2026, a year that marks a clear shift in immigration and domestic policy.

The Canadian government announced that this year will feature lower immigration targets compared to the recent post-pandemic years. Canada plans to admit approximately 380,000 new permanent residents in 2026, with priority continuing to be given to economic immigrants such as skilled workers and professionals who can integrate quickly into the labour market and meet existing labour demands.

REDUCTION IN TEMPORARY AND PERMANENT RESIDENTS

At the same time, Canada is significantly reducing the number of temporary residents, including international students and temporary foreign workers. For the first time, firm caps have been placed on these categories, making applications more competitive and more closely scrutinised than in previous years. Only about 155,000 new student visas will be issued in 2026. Therefore, if you are planning to apply as a temporary worker or student, then you will need to be more careful and strategic with your application.

The government has signalled its intention to help qualified temporary residents transition to permanent status, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages. For highly skilled applicants with strong qualifications, 2026 can still be a viable year to apply. The key is to ensure that you have the required documents to prove you excellent language skills, outstanding education and work experience in jobs that are in demand by the provinces.

CHANGES IN CANADIAN LOCAL POLICIES

Beyond immigration, 2026 will also bring policy changes aimed at affordability and fairness, including modest middle-class tax relief, caps on certain bank fees, and long-awaited corrections to citizenship rules affecting Canadians born abroad.

If your parent was a Canadian citizen at the time of your birth, speak directly with an immigration lawyer to assess your eligibility to be a Canadian citizen as well.

In summary, Canada remains a stable and welcoming country, but the immigration system is becoming more measured, selective and competitive. If you are considering applying to be a temporary or permanent resident, you will need to plan carefully and get legal advice on how to put forward the best possible application.

Deidre S. Powell is a lawyer, mediator and author of Tell Me a Story, Grandma. Contact her via Facebook or at www.deidrepowell.com Tel: 613-695-8777.