Canada has released its 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, outlining how many permanent and temporary residents the country intends to welcome over the next three years. The Canada immigration targets for 2027–2029 show that the government plans to maintain permanent resident admissions at 380,000 annually while limiting new temporary resident arrivals to 370,000 each year.
The announcement, published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on November 5, 2026, provides important information for skilled workers, international students and families considering a move to Canada.
For Nigerians planning to immigrate, the new plan offers a clearer picture of Canada’s priorities and the immigration pathways that may remain relevant over the coming years.
How Many Immigrants Will Canada Accept Between 2027 and 2029?
Under the new immigration plan, Canada intends to welcome 380,000 permanent residents annually from 2027 to 2029.
The government has also set a target of 370,000 new temporary resident arrivals each year. These include international students and foreign workers.
Here is a breakdown of the announced targets:
| Immigration category | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent residents | 380,000 | 380,000 | 380,000 |
| Temporary workers | 220,000 | 220,000 | 220,000 |
| International students | 150,000 | 150,000 | 150,000 |
| Total temporary arrivals | 370,000 | 370,000 | 370,000 |
These figures indicate that Canada intends to maintain relatively stable immigration levels rather than significantly increase the number of newcomers.
It is also important to understand that the permanent resident targets include eligible people already living in Canada who transition to permanent residence. They do not represent 380,000 places exclusively for applicants applying from overseas.
Which Immigration Categories Will Receive the Most Places?
Canada’s immigration plan divides permanent resident admissions into several categories, with economic immigration receiving the largest allocation.
1. Economic Immigration
Economic immigration will account for approximately 64.4% of permanent resident admissions throughout the three-year period.
Canada has allocated 244,700 places annually to this category.
This reflects the government’s continued interest in attracting skilled workers who can contribute to the economy, address labour shortages and support businesses across different regions.
For Nigerians, this makes it important to understand pathways such as Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program and other eligible economic immigration programmes.
However, meeting the general requirements does not guarantee an invitation or permanent residence.
2. Family Sponsorship
Canada will maintain approximately 81,000 permanent resident admissions annually under the family category, representing 21.3% of the overall target.
This category supports eligible family reunification applications, including sponsorship for spouses, partners and dependent children, as well as other eligible relatives under applicable programmes.
Nigerians with qualifying family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents may explore the relevant sponsorship options.
3. Refugees and Protected Persons
The government has allocated 49,300 places annually to refugees and protected persons.
This category supports Canada’s humanitarian and international protection commitments. It operates separately from economic immigration programmes such as Express Entry.
4. Humanitarian and Compassionate Applications
A further 5,000 places annually will be allocated to humanitarian and compassionate cases and other categories.
These provisions support individuals whose circumstances may warrant consideration under Canada’s immigration laws.
What Does the New Immigration Plan Mean for Nigerian Applicants?
The new Canada immigration targets for 2027–2029 provide useful guidance for Nigerians considering permanent residence, studying or working in Canada.
However, maintaining the same immigration targets does not mean that everyone who wants to move to Canada will have an equal opportunity to qualify.
For skilled workers, economic immigration remains a major part of the government’s strategy. Candidates should consider improving their language test results, obtaining recognised educational credentials and assessing their eligibility for Express Entry or provincial programmes.
For international students, the annual target of 150,000 new arrivals means that study permit planning remains important. Prospective students should carefully research designated learning institutions, programme eligibility, tuition costs and financial requirements before applying.
Those seeking Canadian employment should also understand that temporary work permit targets do not guarantee employment opportunities or work permit approval.
Is Canada Becoming More Restrictive With Immigration?
The 2027–2029 plan reflects Canada’s intention to manage immigration more carefully.
The government wants to attract workers with skills that support economic growth while reducing pressure on housing, healthcare and other public services.
It is also continuing to prioritise people already living and working in Canada through specific permanent residence transition measures.
For applicants outside Canada, this means preparation and choosing an appropriate immigration pathway remain essential. Rather than relying on general announcements, prospective immigrants should assess their individual qualifications and the requirements of the programmes they intend to pursue.
How Worldbridge Immigration Can Help
Planning to immigrate to Canada requires more than simply knowing how many newcomers the country intends to accept. Understanding eligibility requirements, choosing the right immigration programme and preparing accurate documentation are equally important.
Worldbridge Immigration helps individuals understand Canadian immigration options and navigate the application process.
Whether you are a skilled worker, prospective international student or someone exploring permanent residence, our team can help you assess your circumstances and understand the next steps.
Contact Worldbridge Immigration today to discuss your Canadian immigration plans and explore the pathways that may be suitable for you.
