Unpacking the IRCC's 2025-26 Departmental Plan for Prospective Newcomers

Jun 26, 2025

Recently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released its highly anticipated 2025–2026 Departmental Plan. This comprehensive roadmap carries immense significance for prospective immigrants, business owners, and temporary foreign workers looking to build their future in Canada.


Targeted Industries and Economic Priorities


Understanding the evolving economic landscape, IRCC has strategically prioritized sectors crucial to Canada’s sustained growth. Notably, IRCC plans to actively support industries experiencing significant labour shortages:


  • Agriculture and food processing

  • Healthcare

  • Construction

  • Technology sectors, with emphasis through the Tech Talent Strategy


These industries represent critical areas where Canada continues to need skilled international talent. Prospective applicants with experience in these fields will find numerous immigration opportunities tailored to their professional backgrounds.


Emphasis on Canadian Experience and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)


A key takeaway from the recent plan is the increased focus on applicants who are already working and living in Canada. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) will become the central pillar of immigration strategies, emphasizing the selection of candidates already integrated into the Canadian labour market. IRCC specifically notes that more than 40% of all permanent residents admitted in 2025 are anticipated to be individuals already residing in Canada, either as students or temporary workers.


The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) will also play an essential role, increasingly acting as a critical pathway to permanent residency for temporary workers already residing in Canada. This strategic approach addresses regional labour shortages effectively and promotes sustainable community growth across Canada, especially outside of major urban centres.


Strategic Adjustments and Sustainable Growth


The IRCC has made strategic adjustments to immigration levels aiming for sustainable community integration. The plan outlines a goal to stabilize annual permanent resident admissions to less than 1% of Canada’s total population beyond 2027, alongside measures to reduce the share of temporary residents to 5% of the total population by the end of 2026. These precautions ensure that immigration aligns with community resources and capacities, thereby promoting sustainable economic and social integration.


Business Immigration: Entrepreneurship and Investment


The IRCC continues its robust support for business immigration through programs such as the Start-Up Visa Program and the Self-Employed Program. Entrepreneurs who demonstrate the potential to create wealth and jobs will find substantial support from IRCC, reflecting Canada’s ongoing commitment to economic innovation and growth. Additionally, IRCC plans to explore further improvements to these programs to enhance client satisfaction and increase their effectiveness.


Enhancing Client Experience Through Digital Transformation


IRCC’s new Digital Platform Modernization initiative promises a more streamlined, efficient application process. Applicants can anticipate a seamless online experience, enhanced client support, and real-time status updates on their applications. This represents a significant improvement in client service, demonstrating IRCC’s commitment to transparency and efficiency.


Support for Francophone Communities


The Departmental Plan emphasizes IRCC’s ongoing efforts to bolster Francophone immigration outside of Quebec. The plan includes specific targets to increase the percentage of French-speaking permanent residents settling in minority Francophone communities, underscoring Canada's commitment to linguistic diversity and cultural enrichment.


Integration and Settlement Support


Recognizing that integration is critical to newcomers' success, IRCC continues to prioritize settlement support services. The department collaborates closely with community organizations across Canada to ensure newcomers have essential language training, employment support, and social integration resources. Enhanced funding and resources are being allocated to settlement providers to ensure they can adequately support new arrivals.


lluminating Statistics: Newcomer Contributions to Canada


The Departmental Plan also provides compelling statistics that underscore the significant contributions of newcomers to Canadian society and its economy. These figures serve as a powerful testament to the success of Canada's immigration policies and the positive impact of immigrants on the nation's fabric:


  • Employment Rate: A remarkable 77.8% of newcomers (aged 25-54, who landed between one and five years ago) were employed in 2023. This high employment rate highlights the rapid integration of immigrants into the Canadian labor market and their immediate contribution to economic productivity.


  • Sense of Belonging: In 2023-24, 87.5% of immigrants and refugees reported a strong sense of belonging to Canada. This statistic reflects the welcoming nature of Canadian society and the successful integration of newcomers into their communities, fostering a sense of shared identity and civic participation.


  • Labor Force Contribution: Immigrants and refugees constituted 28.9% of the Canadian labor force in 2023. This substantial proportion demonstrates the indispensable role that newcomers play in sustaining and growing Canada's workforce, filling critical labor gaps, and driving innovation across various sectors.


These statistics collectively paint a picture of a vibrant and inclusive society where immigrants are not just welcomed but are also thriving and actively contributing to the nation's prosperity and social cohesion.


Why This Matters for You


The IRCC 2025–26 Departmental Plan is a clear indicator of Canada’s strategic approach to immigration, emphasizing economic resilience, community integration, and sustainable growth. For prospective immigrants, especially those currently residing in Canada temporarily, this represents a unique and timely opportunity to secure their future in Canada.


Blacksy is dedicated to guiding clients through these promising pathways, providing clear, honest, and realistic advice. If you are considering Canada as your long-term home or business hub, now is the time to take advantage of these strategic immigration programs. We invite you to reach out and discuss how these opportunities align with your goals and aspirations.


This report isn't just another document, it's your essential guide to understanding where Canada's immigration landscape is headed. Stay informed and prepare effectively for your immigration journey ahead.


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About the Author


I’m Ahmet Faruk Ocak, a Canadian immigration lawyer and the founder of Blacksy Immigration Law Firm 🌊. 


At Blacksy, we specialize in providing honest, straightforward, and tailored immigration solutions to individuals and businesses worldwide. Our brand promise is simple: no unnecessary fuss, no false hopes, and no empty promises—just realistic, reliable guidance to help you achieve your immigration goals.


Whether you’re expanding your business to Canada, transferring top talent, or planning your future here, we’re here to guide you with precision, transparency, and care.


Visit us at www.blacksyimmigration.com to learn more or to start your journey.