On this page you will find
- Overview of Canada’s new TR to PR pathway
- Why the program has already been launched quietly
- How the pathway fits into the Immigration Levels Plan
- Why Canada is transitioning temporary workers to permanent residence
- The government’s plan to reduce temporary resident numbers
- What the pathway could mean for foreign workers in Canada
Canada has already soft-launched a new temporary resident to permanent resident pathway that will grant up to 33,000 foreign workers permanent residence over the next two years.
The program is part of a one-time initiative under Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan and is designed to transition temporary workers who have established themselves in Canada into permanent residents.
According to reporting by the Toronto Star, Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab confirmed the pathway has already begun operating, although the government has not yet released full details about how many candidates have been accepted so far.
The pathway targets skilled temporary foreign workers in sectors facing labour shortages and aims to provide a more stable future for workers who already contribute to the Canadian economy.
Government officials say additional information about the program’s operation will be released in April 2026.
A Response to Expiring Temporary Status
The program comes at a time when large numbers of migrants in Canada are approaching the end of their legal status.
Government data shows that more than 2.1 million temporary residents had their permits expire in 2025. A further 1.9 million permits are expected to expire during 2026.
These figures have raised concerns about the potential growth of undocumented residents if migrants remain in Canada after their status expires.
The new pathway offers one way to manage this issue by transitioning workers who are already living and working in Canada into permanent residents.
Part of Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Plan
The initiative was originally announced as part of Canada’s latest immigration planning framework.
Under the plan, the federal government introduced two one-time measures aimed at stabilising the immigration system while supporting people already living in Canada.
The first measure will grant permanent residence to approximately 115,000 protected persons currently living in Canada.
These individuals have already been granted protected status because they cannot safely return to their home countries due to conflict or persecution.
The second measure is the new pathway for up to 33,000 temporary foreign workers.
These candidates are expected to include workers who:
- Have established strong roots in Canada
- Pay taxes and contribute to the economy
- Work in sectors facing labour shortages
- Demonstrate the ability to integrate successfully into Canadian communities
By focusing on workers already inside the country, the government hopes to reduce pressure on temporary migration streams while improving stability for both workers and employers.
Reducing Canada’s Temporary Resident Population
The initiative also aligns with broader federal efforts to reduce the share of temporary residents in Canada.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to reduce the non-permanent resident population to below five per cent of Canada’s total population by 2027.
As of December, temporary residents accounted for approximately 6.8 per cent of the population.
Transitioning temporary residents to permanent status is seen as one way to reduce this number without forcing large numbers of people to leave the country.
In 2025, more than half of Canada’s 395,000 new permanent residents were already living in Canada on temporary permits before receiving permanent status.
Government Emphasises Compliance With Immigration Rules
Despite introducing the new pathway, the government is also stressing the importance of respecting immigration rules.
Minister Diab said temporary residents who wish to remain in Canada must apply to extend their legal status before their permits expire.
Those whose extensions are refused are expected to leave the country.
The government has also proposed controversial legislation through Bill C-12 that would give immigration officials expanded authority to cancel or suspend immigration documents if it is considered to be in the public interest.
Officials say these powers would be used only in exceptional circumstances and would involve oversight before any decisions are made.
Balancing Labour Shortages and Immigration Limits
Canada continues to face labour shortages in several key sectors including agriculture, construction and hospitality.
At the same time, the federal government is trying to stabilise immigration levels following years of rapid population growth.
The new pathway reflects the government’s attempt to balance these competing pressures.
By granting permanent residence to workers already contributing to the economy, Canada can address labour shortages while also limiting the expansion of temporary migration programs.
Further details on eligibility criteria, application procedures and processing timelines are expected to be released in the coming months.
FAQ
What is the new TR to PR pathway announced by Canada?
The new temporary resident to permanent resident pathway is a one-time initiative that will grant permanent residence to up to 33,000 foreign workers over two years. It targets temporary workers who have established themselves in Canada and contribute to sectors experiencing labour shortages.
Why did Canada launch this pathway?
The program responds to the growing number of temporary residents whose permits are expiring. By allowing some workers to transition to permanent residence, the government can stabilise immigration levels while supporting employers that depend on migrant labour in key industries.
Who is expected to qualify for the pathway?
The pathway is expected to focus on skilled temporary foreign workers who have strong ties to Canada, pay taxes and work in sectors facing labour shortages. Full eligibility criteria have not yet been released, but the government is expected to provide more details in April 2026.
How does this program fit into Canada’s immigration plan?
The pathway is part of the 2026 – 2028 Immigration Levels Plan. It is one of two one-time initiatives designed to regularise people already in Canada. The other measure will grant permanent residence to approximately 115,000 protected persons.
When will more details about the pathway be released?
The immigration minister has indicated that the federal government will provide additional clarity about the program in April 2026. This is expected to include information about eligibility rules, application procedures and how many workers have already been selected.
