Maple News reports that Canada is ramping up its immigration targets over the next three years, with special focus on the Express Entry system and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), the country’s two main economic immigration streams. This shift is outlined in the recently released Immigration Levels Plan 2024–2026 from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The annual Immigration Levels Plan sets the framework for how many new permanent residents the country expects to welcome across various categories — economic, family, and humanitarian streams. This year’s plan underscores Canada’s continued prioritization of economic-class immigration to help address labor shortages and support the nation’s long-term economic growth.
According to the latest plan, Express Entry will take back the top spot for immigration admissions in 2024, surpassing the PNPs temporarily. However, by 2025 and 2026, PNPs are expected to once again lead all immigration programs in terms of permanent resident admissions.
Canada’s PNPs — operated by most provinces and territories except Quebec and Nunavut — collectively invited 83,500 new permanent residents in 2022. Targets have been climbing steadily since then, with IRCC setting goals of 105,000 for 2023, increasing to 110,000 in 2024 and reaching 117,500 by 2025.
The Express Entry system, which manages applications for key economic programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Canadian Experience Class, is also set to increase its intake. While it will temporarily lead in 2024, its targets will stabilize as PNPs are expected to take in more newcomers in the following years.
This shift reflects Canada’s strategic approach to distributing immigration based on regional labor market needs. PNPs allow provinces more control in selecting candidates who align with their economic priorities and workforce requirements.
While these targets are subject to adjustments, they highlight Canada’s proactive immigration stance amidst global competition for talent. For businesses, immigrants, and stakeholders, the revised projections offer a roadmap for long-term migration planning and economic integration.
Maple News will continue to provide updates as IRCC refines these targets and introduces new policy guidance.