Canada reduces temporary resident admissions, updates PAL/TAL study permit rules, expands cancellation authority, and continues Sudan humanitarian pathway. Learn how these changes affect newcomers.
Canada Releases 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan, Introduces TR Cancellation Guidelines, Study Permit Updates & Sudan Humanitarian Program Review
Canada’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan
Canada has partially released its 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan alongside Budget 2025, outlining a major adjustment to the country’s immigration strategy.
To ease pressure on housing, infrastructure, and institutions, temporary resident admissions will decrease from 516,600 to 385,000.
Study permit spaces will undergo a sharp reduction to 155,000 in 2026, and then to 150,000 in 2027 and 2028. Work-related admissions are also expected to drop to 230,000 in 2026, and 220,000 in both 2027 and 2028.
However, Canada will continue prioritizing the economy:
Economic immigration will represent 64% of permanent resident admissions—around 239,800 in 2026, and 244,700 in later years, up from 59% in 2025.
The Budget allocates $19.4M over four years to accelerate permanent residency for up to 33,000 work-permit holders.
Learn more about economic pathways through the Permanent Residency hub, or get started with a Free Assessment.
New authority to cancel temporary resident documents
On November 4, 2025, IRCC implemented updated guidelines following regulatory amendments that took effect January 31, 2025.
Designated officers now have the authority to cancel:
• Electronic travel authorizations
• Temporary resident visas
• Work permits
• Study permits
These powers apply only to issued documents, not to pending applications, and are designed to allow more responsive management of temporary resident status.
If you currently hold temporary status and want to explore long-term options, consider booking support via Contact Us.
Study Permit updates: PAL/TAL Requirements
IRCC has issued updated guidance governing Provincial / Territorial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL) beginning November 4, 2025.
Key clarifications affect:
• PAL/TAL reuse guidelines
• Joint-program applications
• Updated processing criteria
• Exceptions requiring Organization/Entity IDs
• New sample documentation formats
These changes aim to streamline processing under the new study permit cap.
Students planning for 2025–2026 can review options via Study Permit.
Sudan Humanitarian Program — Internal pushback revealed
Former Immigration Minister Marc Miller reportedly rejected internal advice to cancel Canada’s humanitarian pathway for Sudanese Canadians seeking family reunification, despite concerns about its impact on immigration-reduction targets.
The program, launched in February 2024, has allowed ~1,950 Sudanese nationals to arrive in Canada. Thousands remain in processing amid significant delays.
With Sudan’s conflict resulting in catastrophic humanitarian consequences—including 12 million displaced—advocates continue urging Canada to expand aid and accelerate processing.
Families hoping to reunite can explore available pathways through Family Sponsorship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will permanent resident intake increase?
Yes—economic immigration will rise to about 64% of the total quota in 2026–2028.
Will it be harder to get a study permit?
Yes. Seat allocations are dropping by nearly 50%, making PAL/TAL compliance essential.
Can existing work or study permits be cancelled?
Yes, under new IRCC authority—but only those already issued, not pending applications.
Did Canada end Sudan humanitarian processing?
No—the program continues despite initial concerns.
How can I determine my best pathway?
Start with a Free Assessment to understand eligibility.
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