News. For Newcomers | November 5, 2025

IRCC has released the full Immigration Levels Plan, and we’ve updated our coverage with all the key takeaways, including what it means for the end of the in-Canada focus, shifting priorities, and the growing emphasis on PNPs.

Attention Work Permit Holders: Canada’s new immigration levels plan offers a flicker of hope for work permit holders seeking permanent residency. Budget 2025 outlines a one-time measure that could fast-track up to 33,000 work permit holders to PR between 2026 and 2027—though details remain scarce. The program appears to target those already living and contributing in Canada, possibly echoing the TR to PR pathway. With many questions still unanswered, it’s a development worth watching closely.

At first glance, the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan looks alarming for international students, with a reported 50% drop in new study permits for 2026. But the reality isn’t quite so grim. The numbers actually reflect what’s already happening in 2025, meaning next year will likely bring more of the same rather than further cuts. While high refusal rates remain a concern, the data suggest stability ahead. In short, there’s no need to panic.

Read the full 2026-2028 immigration levels plan here.

Budget 2025 sets aside $97 million over five years, beginning in 2026–27, to launch the Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund, a move aimed at helping more newcomers put their skills to work sooner. The fund will support provinces and territories in improving how quickly and fairly international qualifications are assessed, with a special focus on the health and construction sectors.

And if you need guidance on building a brighter financial future in Canada, a Scotiabank Advisor can help. Book a free appointment below to get started.

Frustrated by the latest Levels Plan or slower CEC draw trends? You might be tempted to boost your profile by gaining concurrent work experience, that is, Canadian and foreign employment at the same time.

While this is technically allowed right now, IRCC has confirmed in an ImmReps response that the policy is under review. That means what counts today might not earn you points in the future.

If you do take this route, be ready for extra scrutiny. You’ll need solid documentation to show you genuinely worked both roles, and that each meets IRCC’s criteria.

The new Canadian budget keeps its doors open to 380,000 new permanent residents for the upcoming years. Canada is reaffirming its identity as a welcoming, fair, and diverse nation while enhancing its systems to better support newcomers. Expect smarter immigration processing, stronger local integration programs, and communities eager to help you thrive. You’re not just moving, you’re joining a country investing in your success.