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Monthly Archives: November 2025

Immigration Consultant in Brampton Canada - Sayal Immigration   →  2025   →  November
Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026-2028
November 12, 2025
November 12, 2025

Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026-2028 | Sayal Immigration Guide

Author By Team Sayal Categories Canada Immigration

How Canada’s Latest Immigration Levels Plan Benefits In-Canada Candidates: A Guide by Sayal Immigration

Canada’s newly released 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan has sent a clear message: temporary residents already living, working, and studying in Canada will receive priority when it comes to permanent residence (PR) applications. For individuals seeking an immigration consultant in Brampton, best immigration consultant in Canada, or trusted advice in Kitchener, Brampton, Scarborough, or London Ontario, this is excellent news. Sayal Immigration is here to help you understand these policy changes and navigate your path to Canadian permanent residency with confidence.

Canada’s Commitment to In-Canada Residents

Immigration Minister Lena Diab recently affirmed that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will “give priority for permanent residence to temporary residents already living and settled in Canada.” This strategic shift aims to reduce the number of new arrivals while focusing on transitioning skilled workers, international graduates, and other temporary residents who have already established roots in Canadian communities.

The 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan sets a target of 380,000 permanent resident admissions annually through 2028, with a strong focus on economic immigration—accounting for 64% of total admissions. For complete official details, visit the Government of Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan page.

Express Entry: Maintained High Allocations

Despite slight reductions, Canada’s Federal High-Skilled category—which includes Express Entry admissions—remains robust. Targets have been set at 109,000 admissions in 2026, rising to 111,000 annually in 2027 and 2028. Express Entry continues to be one of the most effective pathways for temporary residents to transition to PR, especially through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program.

Research shows that CEC candidates—who already have Canadian work experience—are among the most successful immigrant cohorts in Canada’s labour market. If you’re a skilled professional working in Toronto, Mississauga, or Brampton and looking for a top immigration consultant in Toronto to help you with Express Entry, Sayal Immigration offers personalized CRS optimization, document preparation, and strategic guidance.

For more on Express Entry eligibility, visit the IRCC Express Entry portal.

Provincial Nominee Programs: Significant Increases

One of the most notable changes in the 2026-2028 plan is the dramatic increase in Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations. Targets have jumped from 55,000 in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026, with further increases to 92,500 in 2027 and 2028—a 66% rise from last year.

This expansion gives provincial governments greater authority to nominate temporary residents already living and working in their regions. PNPs are particularly valuable for work permit and study permit holders in Ontario cities like Kitchener, Scarborough, and London Ontario, as most PNP streams prioritize candidates with local work experience or education.

In 2025, many provinces reported that 75% of nominated applicants were already in Canada, underscoring the importance of in-Canada candidates to the PNP system. If you’re considering PNP options and need a best immigration consultant in Kitchener or immigration consultant in Scarborough, Sayal Immigration’s RCIC-certified team can assess your eligibility and guide you through provincial nomination processes.

Learn more about PNPs at the IRCC Provincial Nominee Program page.

One-Time Initiatives for 2026 and 2027

To further support the transition of temporary residents to permanent status, IRCC has announced two significant one-time initiatives:

1. Accelerated PR for Skilled Workers

Over the next two years, IRCC will fast-track the transition of up to 33,000 foreign workers already in Canada to permanent residence. This initiative specifically targets workers in in-demand sectors, with special emphasis on those working in rural areas.

Eligible candidates are those who have:

  • Established strong roots in their communities

  • Maintained steady employment in their occupations

  • Contributed to the economy through taxes and labour market participation

This program is ideal for skilled workers currently on work permits in cities like Brampton, Mississauga, and smaller communities throughout Ontario. If you’re a temporary worker seeking a top immigration consultant in Mississauga or Brampton to help you transition to PR, Sayal Immigration provides comprehensive support from eligibility assessment to final application submission.

2. PR Pathways for Protected Persons

IRCC will undertake a parallel initiative to grant permanent residence to up to 115,000 temporary residents recognized as Protected Persons by IRCC and the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). Protected Persons include convention refugees and individuals determined to require protection who cannot safely leave Canada.

This policy aims to fully integrate these individuals as permanent residents, enabling them to contribute more fully to Canada’s economy while upholding the country’s humanitarian commitments. The admission of these 115,000 individuals is separate from the stated PR targets in the Levels Plan.

For support with refugee and humanitarian applications, contact Sayal Immigration’s offices in Toronto, Scarborough, or London Ontario.

What This Means for Temporary Residents in Ontario

If you’re currently living in Canada on a work permit, study permit, or as a protected person, the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan creates significant opportunities:

  • International graduates in cities like Kitchener and Mississauga can leverage Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) and Canadian work experience to improve their Express Entry CRS scores.

  • Skilled workers in Toronto, Brampton, and Scarborough may benefit from increased PNP allocations and the new accelerated PR initiative.

  • Spouses of skilled workers or students can apply for open work permits to gain Canadian experience, strengthening their own PR applications.

  • Protected persons and refugees already on pathways to PR will see expedited processing under the one-time initiative.

Why Choose Sayal Immigration?

Navigating Canada’s immigration system-especially with new policy changes-can be complex. Sayal Immigration’s RCIC-certified consultants offer:

  • Personalized Consultations: Tailored advice based on your unique situation, whether you’re in Kitchener, Mississauga, Toronto, Brampton, Scarborough, or London Ontario.

  • Comprehensive Application Support: From Express Entry profiles to PNP nominations and family sponsorships.

  • Up-to-Date Policy Knowledge: We stay current with IRCC’s latest announcements and ensure your application aligns with new priorities.

  • Local Community Connections: We help you integrate into your chosen Ontario city with settlement resources, job search support, and more.

For expert guidance from the best immigration consultant in Canada, explore our services.

Conclusion

The 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan reaffirms Canada’s commitment to supporting temporary residents who have already contributed to Canadian communities and the economy. With maintained Express Entry allocations, significant PNP increases, and new fast-track initiatives, in-Canada candidates have more pathways than ever to achieve permanent residency. Whether you’re a skilled worker in Toronto, an international graduate in Mississauga, or a protected person seeking stability in Scarborough, Sayal Immigration is your trusted partner for expert, compassionate guidance on your journey to permanent residence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan? A1: It’s IRCC’s strategic plan outlining permanent and temporary resident admission targets for 2026-2028, with a focus on transitioning temporary residents already in Canada to PR status.

Q2: How many permanent residents will Canada admit in 2026? A2: Canada plans to admit 380,000 permanent residents in 2026, maintaining this target through 2028.

Q3: Will Express Entry draws continue in 2026? A3: Yes. Federal High-Skilled allocations remain strong at 109,000 in 2026, rising to 111,000 in 2027-2028, with potential for larger Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws.

Q4: How does the PNP increase benefit in-Canada candidates? A4: The 66% increase in PNP targets (from 55,000 to 91,500) gives provinces more capacity to nominate temporary residents already living and working in their regions.

Q5: What is the accelerated PR initiative for skilled workers? A5: IRCC will fast-track up to 33,000 foreign workers already in Canada to PR over 2026-2027, focusing on in-demand sectors and rural areas.

Q6: Who qualifies as a Protected Person? A6: Protected Persons are those with convention refugee status or individuals determined by IRCC/IRB to require protection and unable to leave Canada safely.

Q7: How can Sayal Immigration help with my PR application? A7: We offer eligibility assessments, CRS optimization, PNP guidance, document preparation, and application submission support across Toronto, Mississauga, Kitchener, Brampton, Scarborough, and London Ontario.

Q8: Where can I find official information on the Immigration Levels Plan? A8: Visit the Government of Canada’s IRCC website for complete details.

Graduate study permits
November 7, 2025
November 7, 2025

Graduate study permits: cap exemption and 2-week PhD processing

Author By Team Sayal Categories Canada Immigration

Graduate Study Permits in Canada: Cap Exemption and 2‑Week PhD Processing

Canada has become an even more attractive destination for international graduate students, thanks to landmark study permit updates. Starting January 1, 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public Canadian institutions will be exempt from the federal study permit cap, while PhD students will benefit from ultra-fast two-week application processing. At Sayal Immigration, our team guides students and families in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Kitchener, Scarborough, and London Ontario through every step of this new process.

What Changed for Master’s and PhD Students

Cap Exemption from January 1, 2026

Graduate students pursuing a master’s or PhD at a Canadian public institution can now apply for study permits without worrying about the country’s cap on permits or the need for a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). This policy change means you won’t risk missing out due to quota limits and don’t need to pay a hefty upfront deposit just to secure your spot before applying for your permit. Learn more about IRCC’s study permit requirements.

Two‑Week Processing for PhD Applicants

Doctoral applicants applying from outside Canada now qualify for expedited two-week study permit processing. Your spouse or partner and dependent children can benefit from fast-tracked work or study visas if their applications are submitted together, making it much easier for families to begin life in Canada as a unit. Official IRCC page for PhD processing

Who Qualifies (and Who Still Needs a PAL/TAL)

You’re Exempt If:

  • You’re admitted to a master’s or PhD program at a public Canadian institution starting January 1, 2026 or later.

  • You apply with all required documents, including Letter of Acceptance, proof of funds, and passport.

Check if your school is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

You Likely Still Need a PAL/TAL If:

  • You’re studying at the undergraduate level, doing a postgraduate certificate/diploma, or attending a private institution.

  • You are switching programs or reapplying after a refusal (always confirm with your institution).

Full IRCC PAL/TAL guidance here.

Required Documents for Graduate Study Permit Applications

Always Needed

  • Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI

  • Valid passport and identity documents

  • Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses

  • Recent photos meeting IRCC specifications

See IRCC’s up-to-date application checklist.

Sometimes Needed

  • Upfront medical exam (if required for your program length or previous country of residence)

  • Police certificates

  • Country/visa office-specific documents

  • Proof of custody for accompanying minors

Panel physicians list for medicals (IRCC)

Applying with Sayal Immigration: Ontario’s Graduate Student Specialists

Whether you’re applying for a study permit in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Kitchener, or Scarborough, Sayal Immigration makes your journey smooth and compliant.

Our Local RCIC Services Include:

  • Reviewing school choices and confirming your cap exemption

  • Document prep for Toronto (U of T, York), Mississauga (UTM/Sheridan), Brampton, Kitchener, and Scarborough universities/colleges

  • Helping families of PhD students file together for two-week processing

  • Coaching for personal statements and SOPs

  • Guidance on PGWP planning and PR eligibility for graduate students

Explore all our immigration consultant services in Canada.

Step-by-Step: Filing a Graduate Study Permit

  1. Confirm your exemption: Review your program and institution status—public master’s/PhD from January 2026 onwards is key.

  2. Gather core documents: LOA, proof of funds, passport/ID, compliant photos.

  3. Prepare supporting evidence: Letter of explanation, medical exam, police certificate if required.

  4. Apply for all family members together if pursuing a PhD: This enables expedited processing.

  5. Apply online via the IRCC portal and double-check your files for completeness.

  6. Track your application: Respond quickly to any additional document requests or biometrics instructions.

Create your IRCC account to apply

Looking Ahead: Graduate Studies, PGWP and PR

A key benefit for master’s and PhD students at public institutions is their continued eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Completing PGWP-eligible programs in cities like Toronto or Kitchener sets you up for Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) options—major pathways to Canadian permanent residence.

Express Entry overview (IRCC) PNP info (IRCC)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do all master’s/PhD students avoid the cap and PAL/TAL?

All master’s and doctoral students at public institutions (starting with cohorts entering Jan 2026+) are exempt. Always confirm your program type and institution’s public status before applying.

Q2: How do PhD applicants get two-week processing?

You must apply online from outside Canada and submit all documents (plus those of any eligible family) with your principal application.

Q3: Can private-college grad students skip the cap?

No—most private institution programs are still subject to the cap and PAL/TAL requirements unless IRCC specifies an exemption.

Q4: How does this affect PGWP eligibility?

Public-university master’s and doctorates remain strong PGWP choices. Private programs require careful review for compliance.

Q5: Can Sayal Immigration help families bundle applications?

Absolutely; our consultants ensure your spouse/partner and dependents are included if you qualify, maximizing approval speed and success.

Best Immigration Consultant in Canada
November 1, 2025
November 1, 2025

Best Immigration Consultant in Canada | Sayal Immigration Ontario Expert

Author By Team Sayal Categories Canada Immigration

How to Get an Open Work Permit in Canada: Expert Guidance from Sayal Immigration

Canada’s open work permit is one of the most valuable options for international students, spouses, skilled workers, and provincial nominee candidates. At Sayal Immigration, serving clients in Kitchener, Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, London Ontario, and Scarborough, we specialize in helping you unlock the flexibility and opportunities that open work permits provide.

Why an Open Work Permit Matters

If you’re seeking an immigration consultant in Kitchener or a top immigration consultant in Mississauga, understanding what makes the open work permit different from employer-specific ones is key. An open work permit (OWP) allows you to work for nearly any employer anywhere in Canada without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), offering unmatched freedom and adaptability.

This flexibility is critical if you plan to live and work in dynamic Canadian cities like Toronto or Brampton, or prefer the growing economic landscapes of London Ontario and Scarborough.

Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit?

There are several groups that qualify for open work permits, and Sayal Immigration’s consultants, recognized as the best immigration consultant in Mississauga and other cities, tailor services to each:

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Holders: International graduates from designated learning institutions in Ontario cities, such as Toronto and Kitchener, can work across Canada for up to three years after graduating.

  • Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP): Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students get the liberty to work anywhere in Canada—which is essential for families settling in Mississauga or Scarborough.

  • Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Candidates: Applicants who have applied for permanent residency and await processing can obtain work permits to continue their careers uninterrupted in places like Toronto and Brampton.

  • International Experience Canada (IEC) Participants: Young adults coming on an IEC visa can work in any province, enjoying the unmatched freedom to explore cities such as Kitchener or London Ontario while building their careers.

Learn more about eligibility on the official IRCC website.

Application Process Simplified by Sayal Immigration

Whether you are in Scarborough looking for an expert immigration consultant or seeking professional advice in Brampton, Sayal Immigration makes the open work permit application straightforward:

  1. Determine your eligibility based on your status—student, spouse, PR applicant, or temporary worker.

  2. Gather essential documents, including study credentials, proof of relationship, or application receipts.

  3. Use the secure online IRCC portal to apply and monitor your application.

  4. Our experts assist in preparing complete, error-free applications to avoid delays common in cities with large immigrant populations like Toronto and Mississauga.

Restrictions and Important Considerations

Even with broad work rights, open work permits come with some restrictions. For example, you cannot work for employers involved in adult entertainment or those on the IRCC non-compliance list. Also, for medical or childcare occupations in Kitchener or Brampton, additional licensing and exams may be required.

Why Trust Sayal Immigration?

Sayal Immigration is the preferred immigration consultant in Brampton, Kitchener, Toronto, and other key Ontario cities because we understand local and national nuances:

  • Personalized guidance tailored to your location.

  • Continuous updates on policy changes.

  • In-depth knowledge of the Ontario labor market and newcomer support foundations.

  • Local connections, facilitating settlement beyond immigration.

Conclusion: Unlock Your Work Freedom With Sayal Immigration

If you are ready to take advantage of open work permits to gain Canadian work experience and expand your opportunities, Sayal Immigration is your trusted partner. Whether you want the top immigration consultant in Toronto, the best immigration consultant in Scarborough, or expert support in London Ontario, contact us today to start your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between an open work permit and an employer-specific work permit? A1: An open work permit allows you to work for any eligible employer across Canada, while an employer-specific permit restricts you to a particular employer.

Q2: Can international students apply for an open work permit? A2: Yes, graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing work across Ontario and Canada.

Q3: Do spouses of skilled workers automatically qualify for an open work permit? A3: Spouses or common-law partners of certain foreign workers or students can apply for spousal open work permits, subject to eligibility conditions.

Q4: What are the most popular cities for open work permit holders in Ontario? A4: Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Kitchener, London Ontario, and Scarborough are popular destinations with abundant employment opportunities.

Q5: How long does it typically take to get an open work permit? A5: Processing times vary but are generally faster when applications are complete. Sayal Immigration ensures timely and organized submission to minimize wait times.

Q6: Can I change employers while on an open work permit? A6: Yes. One of the benefits of an open work permit is the freedom to change employers freely without needing a new permit.

Q7: Are there limitations on the types of jobs I can work with an open work permit? A7: Generally no, but certain fields, such as adult entertainment, have restrictions. Health-related jobs may require additional certification.

Q8: How does Sayal Immigration support applicants across Ontario? A8: We provide personalized consultations, application support, updates on immigration policies, and post-arrival assistance in Kitchener, Mississauga, Toronto, Scarborough, Brampton, and London Ontario.