Dear future neighbour,
Canada is making some major updates to immigration rules, and if you’re an international student or a temporary worker, these changes could directly affect you. The government’s 2026–2028 plan is all about bringing in people with the skills Canada needs most while making the system smoother for those already living here. Let’s break down what’s happening in simple terms.
Temporary Foreign Workers: Easier path to Permanent Residency
If you’re a temporary worker in Canada, here’s the good news: the government is creating a faster route to permanent residency.
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Up to 33,000 temporary workers could get a shot at permanent residency over the next couple of years.
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This pathway is aimed at people who already have Canadian work experience, pay taxes, and contribute to their communities.
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Certain sectors, like tech, healthcare, construction, and agriculture, will have special programs to help workers stay in Canada long-term.
At the same time, the number of new temporary worker permits will be slightly reduced, and the rules will be stricter in areas with higher unemployment. This is to make sure workers are filling jobs where Canada really needs them.
International Students: Fewer, but smarter options
Canada is also changing the way it admits international students. This is what’s happening:
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The total number of new student permits is being cut by almost half, from over 300,000 to around 155,000. That means it’s going to be more competitive.
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Master’s and PhD students will not count toward this cap, making it easier for graduate students to study in Canada.
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These students also won’t need a Provincial Attestation Letter anymore, simplifying the application process.
Another important point is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
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Some programs were at risk of losing eligibility, but a number of them will still allow students to work in Canada after graduation, at least until early 2026.
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Choosing a PGWP-eligible program is now more crucial than ever for students who want to work in Canada after studying.
Reason why these changes matter
The Canadian government is shifting its approach: instead of just accepting large numbers of students and workers, it’s focusing on people who:
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Have skills in high-demand areas
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Already contribute to Canada’s economy
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Can settle and integrate long-term
For students and workers, this means planning ahead is key. Picking the right programs or jobs could make a big difference in your ability to live and work in Canada permanently.
In a nutshell
Canada is making its immigration system smarter and more focused. Temporary workers in key sectors have a better chance of getting permanent residency, and graduate students have a simpler path to study and work here. But with fewer study permits overall, it’s a competitive environment.
If you’re planning to come to Canada as a student or worker, focus on programs and jobs that are eligible for the new pathways, and keep an eye on announcements in early 2026.
Canada is clearly signaling: quality and skills matter more than numbers.
Need help with making the right decisions and assistance with putting the right applications forward, then you should be speaking to a professional consultant, Book a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation session with Ese Umoh Immigration and Consulting, let’s guide you through seamlessly.