Federal, provincial, and territorial immigration ministers have met to begin discussions on Canada’s 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, with a strong focus on maintaining sustainable immigration levels while continuing to address labour market needs across the country.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), ministers met on June 23, 2026, through the Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI) to discuss priorities for Canada’s immigration system, including permanent and temporary immigration levels, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Express Entry, international students, and workforce planning.
Immigration Levels Remain a Key Priority
One of the major topics discussed was Canada’s commitment to maintaining immigration at more sustainable levels.
Ministers reaffirmed the federal government’s plan to keep permanent resident admissions below 1% of Canada’s total population beyond 2027 while reducing the temporary resident population to below 5% of the total population by the end of 2027.
They agreed that careful planning and continued collaboration will be important to balancing immigration with Canada’s economic priorities and community capacity.
Provincial Nominee Programs Remain Central to Canada’s Immigration Strategy
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) featured prominently during the discussions.
Provincial and territorial ministers emphasized that PNPs remain one of the most effective ways to address regional labour shortages because they allow provinces and territories to select skilled workers who meet local economic needs.
Ministers also requested additional information about how future PNP allocations will be determined to support better long-term planning.
They highlighted the importance of maintaining stable and adequate PNP allocations as Canada develops future immigration levels.
Express Entry May Continue to Evolve
The meeting also included discussions about improving Canada’s economic immigration programs.
Ministers explored opportunities to modernize immigration processes, streamline application workflows, reduce duplication in candidate selection, and continue improving the Express Entry system.
The discussions also focused on ensuring Express Entry better supports regional labour market needs while improving long-term outcomes for newcomers.
Supporting Temporary Residents Transitioning to Permanent Residence
Another key area of discussion was helping eligible temporary residents transition to Permanent Residency.
Ministers discussed improving coordination across immigration programs to support workers and international students already living in Canada who may wish to become permanent residents.
They also emphasized the importance of settlement services, language training, and newcomer integration programs that support long-term success after immigration.
International Students and Labour Market Needs
Immigration ministers also discussed Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
Provincial and territorial ministers agreed to continue working together on ways to better align the program with regional labour market needs while ensuring international students continue supporting Canada’s economy.
Continued Focus on Francophone Immigration
Ministers reaffirmed their support for increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
The discussions included ongoing work toward Canada’s goal of achieving 12% Francophone permanent resident admissions outside Quebec by 2029, while continuing collaboration on a renewed Federal–Provincial–Territorial Action Plan for Francophone immigration.
What This Means for Applicants
While no new immigration programs or policy changes were announced during the meeting, the discussions provide insight into the direction Canada is taking as it prepares its next Immigration Levels Plan.
Applicants can expect continued attention on sustainable immigration levels, stronger collaboration with provinces and territories, regional labour market needs, and pathways that support Canada’s long-term economic priorities.
Programs such as the Provincial Nominee Program, Express Entry, and pathways for eligible temporary residents are expected to remain central to Canada’s immigration system.
The Role of Sehli Global
Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve as governments adjust policies to respond to labour market needs and long-term immigration planning.
As a licensed RCIC Canada immigration consultancy, Sehli Global helps applicants understand how policy developments may affect their immigration options and provides professional support with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, work permits, study permits, visitor visa and Permanent Residency applications.
Applicants seeking guidance on the pathway that best fits their circumstances can book a consultation with Sehli Global.
Conclusion
The June 23 meeting of Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial immigration ministers marks the beginning of planning for the 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan.
Although no immediate policy changes were announced, the discussions reinforce Canada’s continued focus on sustainable immigration, regional economic priorities, Provincial Nominee Programs, and improving pathways for skilled workers and international students.
As further decisions are announced, applicants should continue monitoring official immigration updates to understand how future policies may affect their plans to live and work in Canada.
Book a consultation with Sehli Global for trusted guidance on your Canada immigration application.
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