Canada is preparing to launch a number of new immigration pathways that will enable more temporary residents to transition to permanent residence (PR). In 2026, the federal government plans to place a stronger focus on applicants already living and working in the country, helping them move from temporary status toward long-term settlement.
These upcoming programs include reopening certain pathways that closed in 2025 after reaching capacity, along with introducing several new streams. Below is a detailed look at the permanent residence pathways expected to begin in 2026.
Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) Pathway
According to the Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028, Canada intends to transition up to 33,000 temporary workers to PR across 2026 and 2027. The goal is to support workers who are already contributing to the Canadian economy, paying taxes and establishing strong community ties.
A similar program introduced in 2021 filled its quota on the same day it opened, showing significant demand among temporary residents. Details regarding eligibility and the application process have not yet been released.
Accelerated Permanent Residence Pathway for U.S. H-1B Visa Holders
The federal government has announced plans to launch a new accelerated PR pathway for professionals currently working in the United States on H-1B visas. This initiative is designed to attract highly skilled talent in sectors such as technology, healthcare and research to support innovation and economic growth in Canada.
The pathway builds on a successful 2023 initiative offering open work permits to H-1B holders, which reached its 10,000-application limit within days. More information, including eligibility requirements and the official launch date, is expected to be announced soon.
Permanent Pathway for Construction Workers
In March 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that up to 14,000 foreign construction workers would be admitted to Canada, including an allocation of up to 6,000 spaces for undocumented workers already in the country.
This initiative aims to support Canada’s construction industry amid ongoing labour shortages and housing supply challenges. Full program details, including eligibility criteria and launch timelines, are still pending.
Pathway for Agriculture and Fish Processing Sectors
IRCC has also revealed plans to introduce a sector-specific immigration stream for workers in agriculture and fish processing. The stream is currently being developed in partnership with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and is targeted for rollout during the 2025–2026 period.
It is expected to include a sector-specific work permit and expand recruitment options with partner countries. Eligibility details have not yet been confirmed.
Permanent Replacement for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
Canada is expected to establish a permanent PR program to replace the current EMPP, which supports skilled refugees and displaced individuals seeking employment opportunities in Canada.
The permanent pathway was planned for launch before the current pilot expires on December 31, 2025, though it may begin in 2026 instead. The government has also announced a one-time initiative to streamline PR for about 115,000 protected persons already in Canada, which could be incorporated into the upcoming program.
From 2019 to March 2025, a total of 970 people have gained PR through the EMPP. The Federal EMPP Job Offer and No Job Offer streams are no longer accepting new applications.
Eligibility for the permanent version is expected to resemble the current EMPP requirements, including proof of refugee or displaced status, relevant work experience, education credentials and language skills.
Existing Pathways Expected to Reopen in 2026
Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots
IRCC launched two PR pilots in 2025:
- Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Child Care
- Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Home Support
Each accepted 2,750 applications and reached capacity shortly after opening. Only the stream for applicants already working in Canada opened fully. Both inside-Canada streams are expected to reopen in 2026.
To qualify, applicants must meet conditions such as:
- A full-time job offer in Canada
- Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 or higher
- Secondary school diploma or above
- Six months of relevant work experience
Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)
These employer-led pathways were launched in 2025 to support rural communities outside Quebec facing labour shortages. They offer permanent residence to skilled foreign workers with job offers in priority sectors.
Eligibility requirements include:
- A qualifying job offer in a designated community
- At least one year (1,560 hours) of relevant work experience in the last three years or graduation from an eligible local post-secondary institution
- Language requirements ranging from CLB 4-6 depending on occupation or NCLC 5 for French-speaking candidates under FCIP
- Sufficient settlement funds
In 2026, updates may include new employer designations and priority occupations within participating communities.
Outlook
With Canada continuing to rely on immigration to support workforce needs and economic growth, these forthcoming pathways are expected to create new opportunities for temporary residents who wish to build their future in the country.
Further details from IRCC, including eligibility criteria and application schedules, are expected as 2026 approaches.
