In 2026, Canada’s official Immigration Levels Plan sets a target of 380,000 new permanent residents. This target reflects the government’s strategy to balance population growth, labour market needs, and Canada’s long term economic outlook. Of those arriving, about 229,750 are expected through the economic class, skilled workers and professionals who play a direct role in filling labour shortages in healthcare, construction, technology, and education.
In addition to permanent residents, the plan also outlines temporary pathways. For 2026, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program is set at 82,000 permits, while the International Mobility Program will issue about 128,700 permits. Together, that is close to 440,000 foreign skilled workers expected to contribute to Canada’s economy in 2026 alone.
These numbers highlight the importance of immigration, not only for addressing immediate labour needs, but also for strengthening communities and supporting Canada’s demographic growth. Immigration remains central to Canada’s future, and the 2026 plan makes clear that skilled workers and their families will continue to shape the country’s growth.
