Canada to Introduce Significant Changes to Immigration Policies in 2026

The government of Canada, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, has announced transformative changes to its immigration system, effective 2026. The measures aim to strike a balance between the country's capacity and immigration influx by reducing the number of temporary residents to a sustainable level. These changes will impact international students, healthcare professionals, and Canadian citizenship regulations.

Key Takeaways

In response to immigration challenges, Canada plans to halve the number of international student permits, limiting opportunities for prospective students. Additionally, a new Express Entry category for international doctors will be introduced to address healthcare shortages, facilitating a smoother transition to permanent residency. Significant citizenship legislation, known as the "Lost Canadians" Act, will allow more individuals to qualify for Canadian citizenship.