Maple News reports that October will be a pivotal month for Canada’s immigration landscape, as two significant developments are expected to influence policy and planning for years to come.
First, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is set to release its 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan by November 1, as mandated by Canadian immigration law. Although technically due in early November, this policy is often unveiled in the final days of October, setting the tone and targets for the country’s future immigration intake. This plan will outline the number of new permanent residents Canada aims to welcome each year, including breakdowns by immigration stream—such as economic, family sponsorship, and refugee categories. With the government’s previous ambitions to welcome over 500,000 newcomers per year by 2025, many are watching closely to see if these targets will be revised amid current economic and housing concerns.
Second, the IRCC is expected to launch a new update to the Express Entry system—Canada’s flagship economic immigration pathway. Recently introduced category-based selection rounds are already shaping candidate invitations based on specific labor market needs, such as healthcare, STEM, trades, and French-language proficiency. Updates in October could further refine selection priorities or eligibility factors, influencing who qualifies and how quickly they can become permanent residents.
These updates arrive at a crucial time. Canada is navigating tight labor markets alongside stretched housing and healthcare systems. Policymakers face the challenge of balancing high immigration targets to address skilled labor shortages with the need to ensure newcomers can integrate successfully and access essential services.
Analysts suggest that Canada may begin to fine-tune its approach—possibly maintaining high immigration levels, but with tightened selection criteria or a shift toward candidates who can quickly support priority economic sectors.
For immigrants, international students, employers, and investors, October’s decisions could redefine pathways to Canadian permanent residence, especially via Express Entry and related streams. Stakeholders across the board are awaiting more clarity, and industry reviewers have noted that the upcoming announcements could shape the immigration system well into the next decade.
Maple News will provide critical updates and breakdowns as soon as new details are released.