Potential New Immigration Pathway: What Temporary Residents Should Know for 2026–2027

Canada has officially confirmed that a new Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) transition initiative will be introduced in 2026–2027, with a clear focus on individuals who already hold valid status in Canada.

This announcement has generated considerable interest, particularly the question of whether Canada is preparing a new large-scale pathway similar to the 2021 TR to PR program that granted permanent residency to more than 90,000 temporary residents. Will the upcoming mechanism mirror that historic program, or will it take the form of a more targeted pathway for work-permit holders and individuals already established in Canadian society?

At this stage, the government has made it clear: this will not be a repeat of the broad 2021 program. Instead, Canada is preparing a controlled and targeted PR transition mechanism for temporary workers who have demonstrated long-term economic and social integration, including stable employment and contributions to the labour market.

Why the 2021 TR to PR Program Was Unique — And Why It Won’t Return

The Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028 outlines the federal government’s intention to introduce a focused PR transition stream for individuals who hold valid work permits and have established themselves in Canada.

Key considerations and expected parameters:

• Approximately 33,000 applicants will transition to PR in 2026–2027 (compared to over 90,000 in 2021).

• Priority will be given to individuals with ongoing employment, tax contributions, and long-term residence in Canada.

• The pathway is expected to align with the priorities of Category-Based Selection, favoring:

  • Health-care professionals

  • Skilled trades

  • STEM and research fields

  • Economic development and innovation sectors

This will be a structured, selective, and evidence-based transition, not a broad open intake for all temporary residents.

What to Expect in 2026: Will There Be a New PR Program?

Many are asking whether a new, simplified pathway will be launched for anyone with a work permit and Canadian experience. Based on current federal planning, the answer is: not likely.

The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan already allocates quotas across existing immigration programs, including:

• Federal High Skilled

• Federal Business

• Economic Pilots (Caregivers, Agri-Food, Community Pilots, EMPP)

• Atlantic Immigration Program

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

• Quebec Skilled Workers & Business Streams

• Family Class

• Protected Persons & Refugees

• Humanitarian & Compassionate Applications

This indicates that no mass TR to PR program like the one in 2021 is currently planned.

The 2021 initiative was an exceptional pandemic-driven response aimed at resolving labour shortages and supporting Canada’s economic recovery at a time of border closures. Today, economic conditions have shifted: unemployment is rising, the economy is slowing, and the government has publicly committed to moderating immigration levels to ease pressure on housing and social systems.

For these reasons, a broad “open” program for all temporary residents is not anticipated. Instead, the government is expected to prioritize candidates who:

• Work in key sectors

• Have qualifying NOC experience

• Pay taxes

• Demonstrate strong ties to Canada

• Hold long-term, stable employment

Start Your Pathway to PR Today 🇨🇦

At Hrycyna Law Professional Corporation, we offer a free consultation to assess your eligibility for permanent residency and help you understand the most suitable pathways based on your background, work experience, and long-term plans.

Starting early ensures that your documents, work history, and qualifications are aligned with federal and provincial requirements well ahead of the 2026–2027 transition mechanisms.

📅 Book your consultation today and begin your journey toward Permanent Residency with confidence.

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