Maple News reports that Canada’s latest Immigration Levels Plan for 2025 significantly prioritizes candidates already residing in the country. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), 40% of all permanent residence admissions next year will be reserved for applicants under a new Express Entry sub-category known as the ‘In-Canada Focus’ category.
This strategic shift means 82,980 Express Entry invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence will be set aside for individuals currently living in Canada under select economic immigration programs. These include the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and regional immigration streams.
The In-Canada Focus category is designed to reward those who have already integrated into Canadian society—typically international graduates and temporary workers—by offering a more direct path to permanent residency. With existing Canadian education or work experience, these individuals are often seen as better positioned for long-term success in Canada’s labor market.
From 2025 through 2027, IRCC has provided annual targets for this new category. In 2025, the target of 82,980 applicants sits between a low estimate of 39,000 and a high ceiling of 89,000. By 2026, the target is set at 75,830, with the range extending from 33,000 to 82,000 admissions. These planning figures suggest that the In-Canada Focus group will continue to be a central pillar in Canada’s Express Entry system in the coming years.
This prioritization aligns with recent federal efforts to stabilize Canada’s immigration system, which has faced mounting pressures from housing constraints and strained public services. By focusing on those who are already living and contributing in the country, IRCC can ease the settlement process while retaining valuable talent already familiar with Canadian culture and labor expectations.
For potential immigrants, this shift highlights the value of gaining Canadian work or study experience. It also underscores the importance of maintaining an up-to-date and competitive Express Entry profile, especially for those currently in Canada.
As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies, the In-Canada Focus category is expected to play a key role in meeting economic and demographic goals while supporting smoother integration for new permanent residents.