Last Updated: January 7, 2026
Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan represents the most significant immigration policy shift since 2015, nearly halving new international student admissions and cutting temporary workers by 37%—but it also opens dedicated fast-track pathways for skilled workers already in Canada.
If you’re planning to move to Ottawa, already here on a study or work permit, or exploring permanent residence options, these changes directly affect your path forward. The federal government is shifting from volume to value, prioritizing healthcare workers, technology professionals, and skilled tradespeople while suspending family reunification programs. For Ottawa’s tech corridor and healthcare sector, this means fiercer competition for talent—but also new opportunities for those who understand how to navigate the system. This guide breaks down every major change, from Express Entry CRS predictions to the new 33,000-person fast-track PR pathway, with specific resources for Ottawa residents.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Canada’s 2026-2028 plan cuts new international students by 49% (to 155,000) and temporary workers by 37% (to 230,000). Permanent residence targets stay at 380,000 annually. New pathways include a 33,000-person fast-track for work permit holders and dedicated routes for H-1B visa holders. Parents and Grandparents Program is suspended—no new applications accepted in 2026.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Effective Date | January 1, 2026 |
| 🎟️ New Study Permits | 155,000 (down 49% from 305,900) |
| 💼 Temporary Workers | 230,000 (down 37% from 367,750) |
| 🏠 Permanent Residence | 380,000 annually (unchanged) |
| ⏰ Express Entry Processing | 6-12 months from AOR |
| 📍 Ottawa IRCC Office | 235 Queen Street, Level C3 |
Overview: What Changed on January 1, 2026
Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan fundamentally restructures who can come to Canada
The federal government released its 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan on November 5, 2025, marking a dramatic departure from the expansion-focused policies of 2021-2024. The rationale centres on three pressures: housing affordability, strain on public services, and labour market sustainability.
Permanent residents: Canada will admit 380,000 permanent residents annually through 2028, with 64% allocated to economic-class immigrants. This number holds steady from 2025 but represents an 18% decrease from the 465,000 target in 2024.
Temporary residents: New arrivals drop from 673,650 in 2025 to 385,000 in 2026—a 43% reduction. The government aims to bring temporary residents below 5% of Canada’s total population by late 2027.
For Ottawa newcomers, this shift means:
- More competition for study and work permits
- Higher standards for Express Entry draws
- New opportunities for those already here with Canadian experience
- Suspended programs for family reunification
Study Permits: The 49% Reduction Explained
Study permit admissions drop to 155,000 for newly arriving students in 2026
The most dramatic change affects international students. Canada will issue up to 408,000 study permits in 2026, but this includes 253,000 extensions for existing students. Only 155,000 permits go to newly arriving international students—down from 305,900 in both 2024 and 2025.
Ontario’s Allocation
Ontario receives 70,074 PAL-required study permits in 2026, with IRCC accepting up to 104,780 applications for processing (accounting for refusals). Universities like Ottawa U and Carleton face tighter quotas than previous years.
Master’s and PhD Students: Good News
Effective January 1, 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public designated learning institutions are exempt from Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirements. This removes a major bureaucratic barrier for graduate students applying to Ottawa universities.
Who Still Needs a PAL:
- Undergraduate degree students
- College program students
- Private institution students
Who Is Exempt:
- Master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs (NEW)
- Primary and secondary (K-12) students
- Exchange students
- Existing permit holders extending at the same level
PGWP Eligibility Changes
If you submitted your study permit application after November 1, 2024, new Post-Graduation Work Permit rules apply:
| Degree Type | Language Requirement | Field-of-Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral | CLB 7 in all 4 areas | None—all fields eligible |
| Other university programs | CLB 7 in all 4 areas | Must be eligible field |
| College/non-degree programs | CLB 5 in all 4 areas | Must be eligible field |
What this means: College students pursuing hospitality or general business programs may not qualify for PGWP unless their field aligns with Canada’s occupational shortages (healthcare, trades, STEM, transport).
Express Entry: CRS Predictions for 2026
Express Entry now operates as a targeted, category-based system rather than pure CRS competition
Express Entry has evolved from a single-track competition to a multi-stream selection system. IRCC conducts program-specific and occupation-specific draws rather than inviting all profiles above a CRS threshold.
First 2026 Draw (January 5)
IRCC issued 574 Provincial Nominee Program invitations with a CRS cutoff of 711. This signals continued focus on provincial inventories before broader draws resume.
Predicted CRS Scores by Category
Based on 2025 patterns and government targets, here’s what to expect:
French-Language Proficiency Draws:
- Q1 2026: CRS 395-425
- Q2-Q4 2026: CRS 400-440
These draws averaged 48,000 invitations in 2025 and remain the most accessible pathway for bilingual candidates.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
- Q1-Q2 2026: CRS 510-530
- Q3-Q4 2026: CRS 495-515
CEC remains the fastest pathway (processing ~5 months), as applicants already possess Canadian work experience.
Healthcare and Social Services:
- 2026: CRS 450-490
Healthcare draws have tripled in frequency, reflecting acute shortages in nursing and allied health professions.
Trades and STEM:
- Trades: CRS 495-515
- STEM: CRS 480-505
Provincial Nominee Program Updates
PNP allocations increased to 91,500 for 2026-2028. Ontario leads with an expected 17,872 nominations in 2026.
Ontario’s Priority Streams:
- Priority Healthcare Stream—waives job offer requirements for licensed practitioners
- Skilled Trades Stream—ad-hoc draws for construction and manufacturing
Strategic Tip: PNP invitations carry higher CRS cutoffs (700+), but provincial nomination adds 600 points to your score. If your base CRS is below 450 but you work in healthcare, tech, or trades, provincial nomination may be your best path forward.
Temporary Workers: The 37% Reduction
Temporary foreign worker admissions drop to 230,000 in 2026
The government is reducing temporary foreign worker admissions from 367,750 to 230,000—a 37% decrease. This reduction affects the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) more heavily than the International Mobility Program (IMP).
2026-2028 Targets
| Program | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Mobility Program | 170,000 | 170,000 | 170,000 |
| Temporary Foreign Worker Program | 60,000 | 50,000 | 50,000 |
LMIA Restrictions
Low-Wage Stream Moratorium: IRCC maintains a moratorium on processing LMIAs in the low-wage stream in regions where unemployment exceeds 6%. This affects retail, hospitality, and food services.
High-Wage Stream: Employers must demonstrate higher wage thresholds and genuine labour shortages. Priority goes to construction, healthcare, skilled trades, and agriculture.
10% Occupational Cap: Most employers cannot hire more than 10% of their workforce as temporary foreign workers.
What This Means for Ottawa
Ottawa’s tech sector and healthcare system rely heavily on skilled temporary workers. While low-wage hospitality positions face constraints, specialized roles in software development, nursing, and skilled trades remain accessible. If you’re currently on a work permit in Ottawa, your position is more valuable than before—fewer new permits means less competition.
New PR Pathways: Fast-Track and H-1B Routes
New pathways target skilled workers already contributing to Canada’s economy
33,000 Fast-Track for Work Permit Holders
One of the most significant announcements is a one-time initiative to transition up to 33,000 temporary work permit holders to permanent residence between 2026 and 2027.
Expected Eligibility Criteria:
- Currently in Canada on a valid work permit (open or closed)
- Minimum 12-18 months continuous Canadian employment
- English or French proficiency (CLB 4+ expected)
- Working in priority sectors: healthcare, construction, STEM, transport, hospitality management
Timeline: Eligibility guidance and application procedures are scheduled for Q2 2026. When the pathway opens, it will likely fill the 33,000 quota rapidly—similar to 2023-2025 caregiver programs that filled 2,750-place caps within days.
For Ottawa Employers: Converting work permit holders to PR eliminates recurring LMIA fees and compliance risks. Start preparing documentation now—employment letters and job descriptions matching NOC codes.
H-1B Visa Holder Pathway
Canada is launching a dedicated H-1B visa holder pathway in 2026 as part of its Tech Talent Strategy.
Eligibility:
- Current or recent (within 2 years) H-1B visa status in the United States
- Working in tech, healthcare, or research fields
- Minimum CLB 7 expected
- Valid educational credentials
Expected Timeline: Launch mid-2026 with accelerated processing (6-12 months for PR approval). This builds on the successful 2023 Open Work Permit program that received 10,000 applications within days.
For tech workers in the US considering Ottawa’s growing tech corridor—anchored by Shopify, Nokia, Ciena, and BlackBerry—this pathway offers a faster route than traditional Express Entry.
Suspended Programs: PGP and Start-Up Visa
Parents and Grandparents Program suspended—no new applications in 2026
Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) Suspension
Effective January 1, 2026, IRCC stopped accepting new PGP sponsorship applications. This suspension affects thousands of Ottawa families hoping to reunite with parents.
Current Status:
- No new sponsorships accepted in 2026
- 2025 applications continue processing (target: 2-3 years)
- 2024 applications prioritized, with approvals expected early 2026
- Backlog: Approximately 15,000 applications in processing
When Will It Reopen? No committed date—some sources suggest possible reopening in 2027 or 2028 contingent on clearing backlogs.
Your Alternative: The Super Visa remains the only viable option. It allows stays of up to 2 years per entry and is valid for up to 10 years. While not permanent residence, it provides long-term reunification while PGP is suspended.
Start-Up Visa Freeze
Canada’s Start-Up Visa program closed to new applications on December 31, 2025.
What Changed:
- No new commitment certificates from designated organizations
- Entrepreneurs with valid 2025 certificates have until June 30, 2026 to file PR applications
- No new SUV work permits being issued
Replacement: A new entrepreneur pilot expected later in 2026 with stricter criteria—500 spots annually, down from 1,000.
If you hold a valid 2025 SUV commitment certificate, submit your PR application before June 30, 2026.
IRCC Ottawa Office and Processing Times
The Ottawa IRCC office handles in-person appointments for local residents
Ottawa IRCC Office
In-Person Services (By Appointment Only):
- Address: 235 Queen Street, Level C3, Suite 005, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H5
- Services: Document verification, biometric collection, interviews
Mailing Address:
- 365 Laurier Avenue West, Office 3122, Ottawa, ON K1A 1L1
Phone Support:
- Canada: 1-888-242-2100 (Monday-Friday, 8 AM-4 PM)
- International: 1-613-944-4000
- TTY: 1-800-855-0511
Important Note: Call centre agents cannot expedite processing. They provide status updates and eligibility information only.
Processing Times (2026 Estimates)
| Application Type | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Express Entry (CEC) | 6 months from AOR |
| Express Entry (FSWP) | 5-6 months from AOR |
| Express Entry (PNP) | 8-12 months from AOR |
| Study Permit (new) | 2-4 weeks |
| Work Permit (LMIA) | 4-6 weeks + LMIA time |
| Work Permit (IMP/Open) | 2-4 weeks |
Critical Success Factors:
- Complete applications—incomplete submissions cause 1-2 month delays
- Accurate documentation—misrepresentation causes automatic refusals
- Timely biometrics—delays extend timelines by 4-8 weeks
Ottawa Settlement Resources
Ottawa offers a robust network of free settlement services for newcomers
Ottawa hosts one of Canada’s most comprehensive settlement agency networks. All services listed are free for permanent residents and refugees.
OCISO (Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization)
Contact: 613-725-0202 | info@ociso.org
Services:
- Settlement counselling in 40+ languages
- LINC language classes (Literacy to CLB 5)
- Employment support and job search assistance
- Youth programming (ages 13-24)
- Free childcare during language classes
- Legal aid clinic
OCISO serves 12,000+ immigrants annually and maintains strong employer partnerships across the city. Their central, east, and south Ottawa locations make services accessible across the region.
Catholic Centre for Immigrants (CCI Ottawa)
Address: 219 Argyle Avenue, Ottawa, ON K2P 2H4
Services:
- Resettlement assistance (airport pickup, temporary housing)
- Housing support and advocacy
- Mental health counselling (specialized trauma support)
- Citizenship test preparation workshops
- International Students Project (PGWP support)
CCI is one of few Ottawa agencies offering mental health support for refugee trauma survivors.
YMCA Language Assessment (LARC)
Central: 308-240 Catherine Street (613-238-5462) West: 1642 Merivale Road (613-688-2150)
Free language level assessment for permanent residents and refugees. $125 for international students and visitors.
Free LINC Classes
St. Patrick’s Adult School (290 Nepean Street): CLB 4-5, weekdays 9 AM-12 PM St. Joseph’s Adult School (330 Lajoie Street): CLB Literacy-6, multiple schedules St. Nicholas Adult High School (893 Admiral Avenue): CLB 1-Advanced, weekdays 12:30-3:30 PM
For more on settling in Ottawa, see our complete Ottawa newcomer settlement guide covering SIN, OHIP, housing, and banking.
Strategic Tips for Ottawa Newcomers
If You’re an International Student
- Pursue a master’s or doctoral degree at Ottawa U or Carleton—you’re now exempt from PAL requirements
- Meet CLB 7 before graduation to ensure PGWP eligibility
- Choose eligible fields if pursuing college programs (healthcare, trades, STEM)
- Build Canadian work experience during studies to boost your Express Entry score
If You’re on a Work Permit
- Document everything—employment letters, NOC codes, pay stubs
- Prepare for the 33,000 fast-track pathway expected Q2 2026
- Consider PNP—Ontario’s Healthcare and Trades streams offer alternatives to Express Entry
- Maintain valid status—gaps in work authorization hurt your CRS score
If You’re Still Outside Canada
- Target CEC-eligible roles (healthcare, tech, trades) for work permits
- Improve French proficiency—French draws have the lowest CRS cutoffs
- Research Provincial Nominee Programs matching your occupation
- Monitor H-1B pathway details if you’re currently in the US
FAQ
Q: How much did study permits decrease in 2026?
Canada reduced new international student study permits by 49%—from 305,900 in 2025 to 155,000 in 2026. The total permit target (including extensions) is 408,000. Master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are now exempt from Provincial Attestation Letter requirements.
Q: What is the current Express Entry CRS cutoff?
CRS cutoffs vary by draw type. The January 5, 2026 PNP draw had a 711 cutoff. French proficiency draws typically range 395-440. Canadian Experience Class draws range 495-530. Healthcare draws range 450-490.
Q: Is the Parents and Grandparents Program accepting applications?
No. IRCC suspended the PGP effective January 1, 2026. No new sponsorship applications are accepted until further notice. Existing 2024-2025 applications continue processing. The Super Visa remains available for family visits.
Q: What is the 33,000 fast-track PR pathway?
A one-time initiative to transition up to 33,000 temporary work permit holders to permanent residence over 2026-2027. Expected requirements include 12-18 months Canadian employment, CLB 4+ language skills, and work in priority sectors (healthcare, construction, tech, trades). Details expected Q2 2026.
Q: How do temporary worker cuts affect Ottawa’s tech sector?
Temporary foreign worker admissions drop 37% to 230,000, but the International Mobility Program (IMP) maintains 170,000 spots for skilled professionals. Ottawa tech companies can still hire through IMP streams, though low-wage LMIA positions face moratoriums in high-unemployment regions.
Q: Can H-1B visa holders immigrate to Canada?
Yes. Canada is launching a dedicated H-1B pathway in 2026 for tech, healthcare, and research professionals. Expected launch: mid-2026 with 6-12 month PR processing. This builds on the 2023 Open Work Permit program for H-1B holders.
Q: What happened to the Start-Up Visa program?
The Start-Up Visa program closed to new applications on December 31, 2025. Entrepreneurs with 2025 commitment certificates have until June 30, 2026 to file PR applications. A replacement pilot with 500 annual spots is expected later in 2026.
Q: Where is the Ottawa IRCC office?
The Ottawa IRCC office is at 235 Queen Street, Level C3, Suite 005. In-person visits are by appointment only. Phone: 1-888-242-2100 (Monday-Friday, 8 AM-4 PM).
Q: How long does Express Entry take to process?
Processing times vary by pathway. Canadian Experience Class: approximately 6 months from Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). Federal Skilled Worker Program: 5-6 months. Provincial Nominee Program: 8-12 months due to additional provincial processing.
Q: What free settlement services are available in Ottawa?
Ottawa offers extensive free services through OCISO, Catholic Centre for Immigrants, and YMCA. Services include language assessment, LINC classes, employment support, housing assistance, and mental health counselling. All services are free for permanent residents and refugees.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s 2026-2028 immigration policy represents a fundamental reset—from rapid expansion to strategic selection. For Ottawa newcomers, this means higher standards but also clearer pathways for those who qualify. The 49% reduction in new student permits and 37% cut to temporary workers will reshape competition, while new initiatives like the 33,000 fast-track pathway and H-1B routes create opportunities for skilled workers already contributing to Canada.
The key to navigating this system is understanding where you fit. If you’re a graduate student, the PAL exemption simplifies your path. If you’re on a work permit in healthcare, construction, or tech, start documenting your experience now for the fast-track pathway. If you’re outside Canada, focus on French proficiency or Provincial Nominee Programs aligned with your skills.
For more on settling in Ottawa, explore our complete newcomer guide, learn about immigration scams to avoid, or check the federal government job opportunities that may sponsor your path to permanent residence.
Sources: IRCC 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, Express Entry Rounds of Invitations, CIC News, Immigration News Canada. Information current as of January 7, 2026.
