Canada’s immigration landscape is going through a period of transition in 2026. Several permanent-resident (PR) streams that were open previously have been paused or closed, but there are still viable alternative routes available for skilled workers, international graduates, and families seeking long-term settlement.
In 2025, multiple immigration pathways were suspended or wound down due to high demand and processing backlogs. These included certain Provincial Nominee Program streams and federal pilots for entrepreneurs and caregivers. As a result, many applicants are now looking for other options to secure PR status in Canada.
Here are some of the key PR pathways that remain open or are emerging in 2026:
1. Express Entry (Including Canadian Experience Class)
Express Entry remains one of the most established routes to permanent residency — especially for skilled workers with foreign or Canadian work experience. Eligible candidates create an Express Entry profile and enter a competitive pool, where they may receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for PR based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and other factors.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
While some specific PNP streams were discontinued in 2025, other provincial nomination routes remain active. These pathways often prioritise applicants with job offers, in-demand skills, or ties to a particular province. A provincial nomination can significantly boost your chances of landing PR — especially when linked with Express Entry.
3. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program continues to be a strong option for skilled workers and international graduates who secure job offers from designated employers in Atlantic Canada (such as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador). This employer-driven PR pathway emphasises long-term settlement and labour market alignment.
4. Rural and Francophone Community Pilots (RCIP & FCIP)
Community-led immigration pilots — including the Rural Community Immigration Pilot and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot — are active in several smaller Canadian communities. These routes offer PR opportunities to skilled workers with qualifying job offers in priority sectors and regions, often with less competition than major urban-focused programs.
5. Spousal and Family Sponsorship
Family reunification remains a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration policy. Spousal sponsorship, in particular, continues as a stable PR pathway if you have a Canadian spouse, partner, or eligible dependant. This route is not tied to economic selection criteria and is available year-round.
6. Reopening or Revisions of Care Worker Pilots
Some care worker pathways — such as Home Care and Child Care Worker pilots — were paused or filled their quotas in 2025, but authorities are expected to reopen or adjust these streams in 2026 to accommodate qualified in-Canada applicants. These streams can be especially relevant for those already working in care roles with job offers and experience.
7. Emerging Sector-Specific Streams (Agriculture & Construction)
Canada is developing sector-specific immigration pathways for high-demand sectors like agriculture, fish processing, and construction. These initiatives aim to address labour shortages by linking eligible foreign workers with tailored work permits that may lead to PR.
Tips for Prospective Applicants
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Plan ahead: Some pathways still require job offers, language tests, and settlement funds.
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Monitor announcements: New or expanded programs may be introduced in 2026 as Canada reshapes its immigration system.
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Consider multiple routes: If one pathway is closed or paused, a combination of Express Entry, PNP, or employer-driven routes can still lead to PR.
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Get professional help: Guidance from experts can maximise your chances — especially when timing and eligibility criteria are evolving.
Canada continues to value immigration as part of its economic and demographic strategy. While some traditional pathways have changed, alternatives remain accessible for skilled workers, graduates, families, and community-ready applicants seeking long-term settlement in 2026.