The Canadian government has unveiled its 2026–2028 immigration plan, marking a significant shift: sharp cuts to international students and temporary residents, a slight decline in permanent residence admissions, and a greater priority for francophone candidates.
After years of expanding migration policy to support economic growth, Ottawa now plans to “regain control” over a strained system. Stress points include housing, public services, and integration.
The most dramatic change concerns temporary residents. According to the plan, their admissions are expected to plummet from 673,650 in 2025 to 385,000 in 2026, then to 370,000 in 2027 and 2028.
The federal Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) aims to reduce the number of temporary residents to less than 5% of the total population by late 2027.
Ottawa justifies this “gradual but substantial” reduction as necessary to make the system “more sustainable” and to relieve pressure on local markets — including housing, health, and education — that are strained by the rapid growth in international students and foreign workers.
International students hit hardest
International students will be hardest hit
Canada plans to cap new study permits at 155,000 in 2026, a 49% decrease from 2025. From 2027 on, the cap drops to 150,000 per year.
The impact on Canadian universities and colleges is considerable. Many have built their financial models on the higher tuition fees paid by international students. These institutions must now accelerate their financial diversification and domestic recruitment efforts to remain competitive.
Immigration analysts advise students and workers in Canada to carefully plan their path to permanent residence. Prospective candidates should also strengthen their language skills, especially in French.
For permanent residence, Ottawa aims for stability with a slight drop: 380,000 new permanent residents per year from 2026 to 2028.
Permanent immigration remains a key component of the government’s demographic and economic strategy. By 2028, economic categories, such as skilled workers and provincial programs, are expected to account for 64% of admissions, up from 59%.
Increased priority for francophone candidates
The 2026–2028 plan also places France at the heart of immigration policy. Ottawa clearly signals its intention to increase the proportion of francophones outside Quebec: from 9% in 2026 to 10.5% in 2028.
“We want to attract more people who can support French across the country—not just in Quebec,” explains the IRCC. It may reinforce the role of French proficiency in economic selection.
For candidates from francophone countries, these changes are a relative opportunity in a restrictive context. Immigration consultants agree francophones will hold a growing advantage, especially outside Quebec.
The federal government says these cuts are essential for system sustainability. “We are reclaiming control of our immigration system and placing Canada on a more sustainable path,” the Finance Minister stated. The goal is to control costs, support the housing market, and redirect migration to strategic profiles.
Some already object to the negative impacts on communities. Small towns and regions that have recruited international students and foreign workers now fear long-term harm, particularly to their labor supply and demographics.
The message to prospective candidates is clear: Canada remains a key destination but within stricter limits. Experts advise conducting early research on new rules, strengthening applications—especially in French—and updating strategies to align with Ottawa’s new priorities.
