Canadian immigration rules have changed a great deal since early 2025. Here is a short summary of the main measures in place as of November
Canadian immigration rules have changed a great deal since early 2025. Here is a short summary of the main measures in place as of November 2, 2026, based on official announcements.
Permanent Residence
- The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan targets 380,000 new permanent residents a year, including 109,000 through Express Entry and 91,500 through provincial nominee programs in 2026.
- From November 3, 2026, Express Entry gives new points for high-wage Canadian work experience and job offers, and qualifying job offers no longer need an LMIA.
- Ontario has replaced all its former OINP streams with the Ontario Workforce Priority stream.
- Up to 33,000 workers in smaller communities are being moved to permanent residence faster in 2026 and 2027.
Business Immigration
- The Start-up Visa Program closed to new applications after December 31, 2025, except for applicants with a 2025 commitment. IRCC said it is laying the groundwork for a new pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs.
- The Self-Employed Persons Program remains paused.
Family and Citizenship
- New Parents and Grandparents Program intake is paused; the super visa remains available with more flexible income rules.
- New citizenship by descent rules have been in force since December 15, 2025.
Students and Workers
- The 2026 study permit cap applies, but master’s and PhD students at public institutions do not need a PAL/TAL.
- Eligible work permit holders may study for up to 6 months without a study permit until December 31, 2027.
- Intake for the Home Care Worker Immigration pilots remains paused until further notice.
For Iranian Nationals
- Iranians in Canada whose work permit was issued on or before February 28, 2025 can apply for an extension until March 31, 2027.
- The 12-month PRRA waiting period was waived for Iranians with final negative decisions between December 20, 2024 and December 19, 2025.
Asylum and Representatives
- Under Bill C-12, asylum claims made more than one year after first entry to Canada are not referred to the IRB.
- Penalties of up to $1.5 million now apply to fraudulent and unauthorized representatives.
Fees
New permanent residence fees have applied since April 30, 2026, and the new right of citizenship fee since March 31, 2026.
To find out which of these changes affect you, complete our online assessment or contact our office to book a consultation.
Sources:
- IRCC – Supplementary Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028
- IRCC news – Express Entry refocused on top talent (October 2026)
- IRCC notice – Immigration measures for entrepreneurs (Start-up Visa)
- IRCC notice – Home care worker pilots intake paused
- IRCC – Special measures for Iran
- Government of Ontario – 2026 OINP updates