IRCC Policy Update — September 17, 2026

What You Should Do

• -If you are a prospective temporary resident (student or temporary foreign worker), check whether you fall within the reduced 2026 intake targets by reviewing the full 2026-2028 Levels Plan at canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/corporate-initiatives/levels/supplementary-immigration-levels-2026-2028.html before applying.
• -If you are an employer relying on temporary foreign workers in tariff-impacted industries or rural/remote communities, document your sector and location needs now — the plan specifically mentions these as considerations for worker allocations. Contact IRCC or a regulated immigration consultant to understand how this may affect your LMIA or IMP applications.
• -If you are pursuing permanent residence through the economic class, review the new Express Entry category-based selection categories announced in February 2026 at canada.ca to ensure your occupation or skills profile aligns with Canada's stated priorities (skilled trades, healthcare, emerging tech).
• -French-speaking applicants outside Quebec should note that French-speaking admission targets increase from 30,267 in 2026 to 35,175 in 2028 — if you qualify, apply as early as possible in 2026 to maximize your chances under the higher early-year allocations.