November 12, 2025

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 Bramptonbest 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.

October 3, 2025

Canada Immigration Pathways for Tech Workers – Your Guide by Sayal Immigration

Canada Immigration Pathways for Tech Workers: How Sayal Immigration Helps You Move with Ease in Canada

Canada has emerged as a leading global hub for technology talent—a beacon for skilled workers seeking growth, stability, and opportunity. As the landscape for U.S. immigration tightens and H1-B fees soar, many tech professionals are shifting their focus to Canada’s rich ecosystem of innovative companies and inclusive policies. For those ready to make the leap, Sayal Immigration offers regionally tailored expertise with offices across Kitchener, London Ontario, Mississauga, Toronto, Brampton, and Scarborough. This comprehensive guide explains every key Canadian immigration pathway for tech workers and shows how Sayal Immigration helps you achieve a seamless migration.

Why Canada Is the Prime Destination for Tech Talent

Canada continues to invest in technology-oriented businesses, from Toronto’s thriving fintech sector to Kitchener’s renowned startups and London Ontario’s burgeoning research parks. Employers are actively recruiting global experts in AI, cybersecurity, software development, and engineering. As a tech worker, partnering with an immigration consultant in Kitchener means getting guidance that aligns both with local market needs and federal immigration programs.

Unlike the U.S. H1-B system, Canadian immigration offers multiple transparent, merit-based entry points. Whether you’re seeking the top immigration consultant in London Ontario or a best immigration consultant in Brampton, Sayal Immigration ensures your application fits the latest government policies and market trends.

The Main Canadian Immigration Pathways for Tech Workers

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) & Global Talent Stream

Canadian employers in Toronto and Mississauga rely heavily on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) to hire international talent. Within TFWP, the Global Talent Stream is specifically designed for high-demand technology occupations. Tech firms can obtain fast-tracked, labor market impact assessments—sometimes processed in as little as two weeks.

Sayal Immigration specializes in TFWP and the Global Talent Stream from the application stage through post-arrival settlement, supporting IT professionals who are relocating to Kitchener or London Ontario for new roles.

International Mobility Program

For many tech professionals, especially those in multinational companies, the International Mobility Program (IMP) offers LMIA-exempt work permits. Intra-company transfers—where employees shift from locations abroad to Canadian branches—are especially popular among Brampton, Toronto, and Mississauga’s growing tech clusters. If you need an immigration consultant in Mississauga who understands employer-specific permit processes, Sayal Immigration provides step-by-step support, handling all the documentation and compliance needs.

Express Entry & STEM Category-Based Draws

Express Entry is Canada’s premier system for skilled professionals looking for permanent residency (PR). Programs included are the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Recent enhancements mean that tech professionals in STEM fields are prioritized in category-based draws, often lowering the required Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores.

For a professional seeking a top immigration consultant in Toronto, Express Entry enables personalized pathway planning. Sayal Immigration guides candidates in Kitchener, Scarborough, and London Ontario to optimize profiles, maximize CRS scores, and ensure competitive entry into the Express Entry pool.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) for Tech Talent

Canada’s regional approach encourages provinces to compete for skilled workers, resulting in specialized tech-focused streams:

  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Tech Draws target Express Entry candidates in select tech occupations. The best immigration consultant in Brampton can help you target OINP draws for expedited PR in Ontario’s vibrant cities.

  • Alberta’s Accelerated Tech Pathway and Saskatchewan’s Tech Talent Pathway similarly attract digital experts to key innovation corridors. Sayal Immigration provides expertise in local and cross-provincial moves, offering planning and onboarding for families in Scarborough and Brampton.

Why Engage Sayal Immigration in Ontario?

Sayal Immigration sets itself apart by delivering hands-on, customized support across all major Ontario tech regions. Whether you need a top immigration consultant in London Ontario for AI startups or in Mississauga for enterprise SaaS companies, our consultants provide:

  • Local market alignment: Connecting tech candidates with companies and startup ecosystems in Kitchener, Mississauga, Toronto, and London Ontario.

  • Federal and provincial program matching: Ensuring your profile meets requirements for Express Entry, Global Talent Stream, or PNP draws.

  • Document preparation: Offering peace of mind, accuracy, and compliance for LMIA, PR, and open work permit paperwork.

  • Settlement assistance: Helping professionals and families quickly integrate into Brampton, Scarborough, and other Ontario communities.

If you’re seeking the best immigration consultant in Brampton or need guidance for tech pathways in Scarborough, Sayal Immigration’s regionally focused team brings years of experience to every stage—from eligibility review and profile optimization to final settlement and career launch.

Getting Started as a Tech Worker

Canadian tech immigration is designed to be meritocratic, fast-moving, and welcoming. Prospective applicants can begin by:

  1. Assessing Eligibility: Check your qualifications for Express Entry here, Global Talent Stream, and local PNP programs.

  2. Getting Documentation Ready: Prepare educational certificates, work experience records, and language test results. Sayal Immigration, whether you connect via Kitchener, Brampton, or Toronto, will review and file all documents on your behalf.

  3. Optimizing Application Strategy: Target high-demand provinces and tech ecosystems. Work with a top immigration consultant in London Ontario for field-specific opportunities, or with Scarborough and Mississauga teams for family-friendly transitions.

  4. Navigating Settlement: Plan for housing, healthcare, and school options in Ontario’s prime tech corridors. Sayal Immigration provides connections to local partners for everything from job searches to language training in Toronto, Mississauga, and London Ontario.

FAQs

Q: Which Canadian immigration pathway is best for tech workers living in Kitchener or London Ontario? A: The Global Talent Stream and Express Entry STEM draws are both highly recommended. Sayal Immigration assists local professionals in Kitchener and London Ontario with eligibility and application best practices.

Q: Do I need a job offer from Toronto or Mississauga for PR? A: Job offers can increase CRS scores and open doors via Ontario’s tech draws. Sayal Immigration consultants in Mississauga and Toronto provide step-by-step support regardless of your initial destination.

Q: Can tech workers in Brampton bring their spouses? A: Yes. Work permit and PR processes allow family reunification. The Sayal Immigration Brampton team specializes in spousal permits and family applications.

Q: What support does Sayal Immigration offer tech professionals new to Scarborough? A: Sayal Immigration in Scarborough guides clients from the first eligibility review through to final settlement, handling Express Entry, LMIA, and PNP documentation seamlessly.

Q: Where can I get more information about tech immigration? A: Review the IRCC official portal and connect with Sayal Immigration offices in Kitchener, London Ontario, Mississauga, Toronto, Brampton, and Scarborough for localized, expert support.

May 25, 2023

The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has invited candidates for the 13th Express Entry draw of 2023.

The draw is open to all three programs managed by the Express Entry application management system: The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Candidates must have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 488 to be considered for the draw. This is the first all-program draw since April 26.

Submit the Assessment Form to Determine your Eligibility

This draw follows the most recent draw on May 10, where 589 candidates received ITAs in a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) specific draw. In a PNP only draw, candidates are only considered if they are in the Express Entry pool and have also been nominated by a Canadian province.

Express Entry Draws 2023

Throughout 2023, Express Entry has yet to establish a consistent pattern in terms of the number of candidates invited, the frequency of draws, or the specific type of draw.

In January, the draws followed the pattern seen before the pandemic, occurring every two weeks and inviting candidates from all programs. However, this changed in February when the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted four program-specific draws between February 1 and March 1. Notably, February marked the first program-specific draw for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).

February witnessed three draws, and March saw one draw each week. Overall, more than 21,000 candidates received invitations throughout March, making it the second-highest number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued in a single month in the history of Express Entry.

In April, the draw schedule returned to the pre-pandemic pattern of one all-program draw every two weeks.

Later in the year, it is anticipated that the IRCC will start conducting draws targeting Express Entry candidates based on specific attributes rather than solely relying on high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. This became possible when Bill C-19 received Royal Assent in June 2022.

The passing of this bill grants the Canadian immigration minister the authority to invite candidates who can best contribute to Canada’s economic goals by addressing the chronic labor shortages in specific sectors.

It’s important to note that Express Entry draws are entirely discretionary, determined by the IRCC and the immigration minister. As per the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, there are no set rules dictating the timing of draws, the program from which candidates will be selected, the number of candidates invited, or the minimum CRS cut-off score. In other words, the IRCC is not obligated to follow a specific pattern or conduct draws at all if the minister deems it unnecessary.

Know more about Express Entry

The oversight of three Canadian economic immigration programs, namely the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class, falls under the management of the Express Entry application system.

Within these programs, candidates undergo evaluation through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS assesses various human capital factors such as language proficiency, education, work experience, occupation, and age. Based on these criteria, candidates are assigned scores, and those with the highest scores have a greater likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

As per the Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025, Canada aims to welcome more than 82,000 new permanent residents through the Federal High Skilled immigration program (Express Entry) by the conclusion of 2023.

Book an Appointment with Sahil for any Immigration related Queries