Canada is currently updating its immigration strategy to ensure that the people already living and working in the country can help the economy grow. By focusing on those who are already here, the government hopes to make public services stronger and fill important job gaps in areas like health care and the trades. This shift is part of a larger plan to manage the number of temporary residents while supporting those who are already contributing to Canadian society.
As of September 2026, new rules have been put in place to help these workers gain new skills. These changes are designed to make it easier for people to get the training they need to succeed in their jobs without having to go through a long and complicated process for a separate study permit.
New Opportunities for Skill Development
A major change introduced in September 2026 is a big win for many workers. People who currently hold a work permit can now take short-term classes or training programs for up to six months without needing to apply for a separate study permit. This helps workers in fields like nursing, laboratory technology, and the skilled trades. By allowing these workers to upgrade their skills, Canada is helping them become even more valuable to the economy. This policy will stay in place until the end of 2027, giving many people a chance to grow in their careers while they continue to work.
- Eligibility for nursing and laboratory technology professionals.
- Short-term training of up to six months is permitted.
- No requirement for a separate study permit.
- Policy effective until December 31, 2027.
- Focus on filling critical labour shortages.
Balancing Immigration and Public Services
The government is working hard to balance the number of people coming to Canada with the ability of public services to support everyone. This means that while some programs are being expanded, others are being tightened. For example, the government has set a goal to reduce the temporary resident population to less than 5 percent of the total population by the end of 2027. This is a significant move to ensure that housing, health care, and other services are not overwhelmed. The government believes that by focusing on high-skilled, in-demand talent, it can keep the economy moving forward in a healthy way.
Our goal is to ensure that temporary workers are effectively integrated into the Canadian economy while maintaining the capacity of our public services.
Government of Canada Immigration Strategy Update
Looking Ahead to 2027
The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan shows a clear path for the future. While the number of temporary arrivals is being lowered, the number of permanent residents is being kept steady at 380,000 per year. This shows that Canada still wants to welcome people who want to stay and build a life here. By reducing the number of temporary workers and focusing on those who are already here, the government is trying to create a more stable and efficient system. These changes are all about making sure that the people who are in Canada can contribute as much as possible to the success of the country.
Related reading: Canada Expands Foreign Workers’ Authorization to Study Without a Permit and New Policy Opens Short-Term Study To Work-Permit Holders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study while on a work permit?
Yes. Under the 2026 policy, you can pursue short-term education or training for up to six months without a separate study permit if you hold a work permit and are in an eligible field.
Why is the government reducing temporary resident numbers?
The goal is to ensure that public services such as health care and housing can support the population. The target is for temporary residents to be less than 5 percent of the total population by 2027.
What happens to permanent resident admissions?
Permanent resident admissions are being maintained at 380,000 a year as part of the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan.
