In late 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) tabled the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, setting out permanent resident admission targets for the next three years. The plan marks a shift toward stabilization after years of rapid growth, with annual PR targets holding steady at 380,000 within a range of 350,000 to 420,000.
Permanent Resident Targets at a Glance
- 2026: 380,000 total admissions
- 2027: 380,000 total admissions
- 2028: 380,000 total admissions
The economic class accounts for the largest share, rising to 64% of admissions by 2027. Family reunification holds steady near 84,000 spots annually, while refugees and protected persons are allocated approximately 49,300 spots per year.
Temporary Resident Reductions
One of the most significant changes is the reduction in temporary residents. The government aims to bring temporary arrivals down to 385,000 in 2026 and 370,000 by 2027-2028, with a goal of lowering the temporary population to below 5% of the total Canadian population by 2027. International student permits drop to 155,000 in 2026.
What This Means for Citizenship Applicants
If you already hold permanent residency, the levels plan does not change your citizenship eligibility. The requirements remain the same:
- Live in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 years) within the 5 years before applying
- File Canadian income taxes for at least 3 taxation years
- Pass the citizenship knowledge test (ages 18-54)
- Demonstrate adequate English or French proficiency
However, the stabilization of intake could help reduce processing backlogs over time. With the citizenship queue currently at roughly 320,000 applicants, any easing of volume should be welcome news.
Start Preparing Now
Whether you are a new permanent resident or already in the citizenship queue, early preparation pays off. Use our chapter-by-chapter study mode to build a strong foundation in Canadian history and government. When you are ready, test yourself with a full 20-question mock exam or try the Exam Simulator for realistic test conditions.
Sources: IRCC 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan. Official details at canada.ca. Analysis via Clark Hill.