Canada has released its new Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028, and it brings major benefits for international students and foreign workers already living in the country, especially Indians. The Canadian government has clearly stated that the upcoming years will focus on giving permanent residency (PR) to those who are already contributing to the country’s economy and communities.
Under the new plan, Indians studying or working in Canada will find it easier and faster to transition to permanent residency. Immigration Minister Lina Diab confirmed that IRCC will prioritize applicants who are already settled as temporary residents. The government wants to retain skilled workers, graduates, and those with Canadian experience.
A large portion of the PR intake will be through Express Entry, which remains the main pathway for high-skilled workers. Canada plans to issue 109,000 PR approvals in 2026, followed by 111,000 each in 2027 and 2028 under the Express Entry system. Overall, 64% of total PR spots will go to economic immigration categories such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
How Indian Student-Workers Will Benefit
This immigration plan is expected to significantly help Indian nationals who are working or studying in Canada.
For Indian workers:
Many Indian workers already in Canada are gaining valuable Canadian work experience. This makes them strong candidates for the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry, which offers some of the highest chances of being approved for PR.
In addition to CEC, Indians can also secure permanent residency through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Canada has planned 91,500 PR admissions under the PNP in 2026. If a worker does not qualify through CEC, the PNP becomes an excellent second option. Provinces select skilled workers whose professions meet local labour shortages, allowing them to settle permanently.
For Indian students:
Indian students graduating in Canada will also find a smoother PR pathway over the next two years. After completing their studies, students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and begin gaining Canadian work experience. Once they have enough experience, they can transition to PR through either the CEC or PNP.
Students who feel unsure about getting PR through CEC can opt for a strategic approach:
- Work in a province where their field has labour shortages
- Get nominated by that province through the PNP
- Apply for PR with a much higher chance of approval
Canada is giving more importance to skilled professions, which means that students in engineering, healthcare, and IT programs will have an even better chance of gaining PR. After obtaining permanent residency, individuals can later apply for Canadian citizenship as well.
