How Many Immigrants Should Canada Welcome? 2026-2028 Planning

Official title: 2025 consultations on immigration levels

Closed Policy & Studies Economy & Jobs Immigration
The federal government asked Canadians how many immigrants Canada should welcome over the next three years. They're planning to reduce non-permanent residents to under 5% of the population by 2027 and cap permanent residents at less than 1% annually. The consultation also looked at boosting Francophone immigration outside Quebec to 12% by 2029.

Why This Matters

Immigration shapes everything from housing costs to healthcare wait times to job competition. Whether you're a newcomer waiting to sponsor family, a business struggling to find workers, or a renter watching prices climb, these numbers affect your daily life. The targets set here will determine who gets to come to Canada for the next three years.

What Could Change

Permanent resident admissions could drop to around 365,000 annually by 2027, down from previous highs. International student and temporary worker permits will be capped to bring non-permanent residents below 5% of the population. Francophone immigration targets outside Quebec will rise to 12% by 2029, potentially shifting where newcomers settle.

Key Issues

  • How should permanent resident admissions be balanced across economic, family, and refugee categories?
  • What's the right number of temporary residents (students and workers) for Canada?
  • How can immigration best support Canada's economy while managing housing and services?
  • How should Francophone immigration targets be achieved outside Quebec?

How to Participate

  1. The consultation is now closed. Organizations were invited to complete an online survey by August 17, 2025.
  2. Review the survey questions (PDF) to see what was asked.

What Happened

The consultation gathered input from thousands of organizations across Canada. Results will inform the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, to be announced in fall 2025.

Key Documents