Canada is changing its immigration policy to give preference to applicants already in the nation. In 2025, the federal government plans to allocate 40% of permanent residency places to Canadian citizens.
This decision is included in the new Immigration Levels Plan, which Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled.
Creating the In-Canada Focus category is a key component of this strategy. About half of the available admission spots for new permanent residents will be given to this category. In 2025, there will be 82,980 admission places available for applicants in this category.
Who Qualifies for In-Canada Focus?
Several immigration pathways are included in the In-Canada Focus category. The following candidates are eligible for selection under this category:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) participants
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) applicants
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) applicants
- Regional immigration pathways
To be eligible, candidates must have qualifying Express Entry profiles at the time of immigration draws. Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency may be issued to anyone who fulfills these requirements.
Targets for Future Admissions
IRCC has set ambitious targets for the In-Canada Focus category over the next three years. The planned numbers are as follows:
- 2025: 82,980 spots (low range: 39,000; high range: 89,000)
- 2026: 75,380 spots (low range: 33,000; high range: 82,000)
- 2027: 70,930 spots (low range: 66,000; high range: 76,000)
Note that the targets for 2026 and 2027 are provisional. IRCC will confirm these targets annually by November 1.
Reason for the New Strategy
The IRCC is making changes to its immigration system to match intake levels with the pressures that Canadians confront at home. One of the main objectives is to reduce Canada’s Non-Permanent Residents (NPRs) from the current 7% of the population to 5% by 2026. To accomplish this, the government intends to make it easier for NPRs to become permanent residents.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller has underlined the significance of giving preference to domestic candidates. He is confident that this approach will address housing affordability and immigration targets.
The emphasis on domestic candidates is intended to attract competent individuals who can contribute to Canada’s economy without exacerbating existing strains.
This change has already started. Since July, the IRCC has held additional lotteries for applicants in the In-Canada Focus category. The government’s larger pledge to assist people already in the nation is consistent with this strategy.
Canada intends to do this to attract highly qualified workers who may thrive in its labor market and continue supporting the country’s economy.
FAQS
What goals has the In-Canada Focus category set for after 2025?
The goal is 82,980 admission spots for 2025. The IRCC anticipates 75,380 slots in 2026 and 70,930 spaces in 2027. These targets are tentative and will be confirmed annually by the IRCC to ensure program flexibility in response to evolving needs.
How can I increase my chances of being eligible for the In-Canada Focus category?
Focus on raising your CRS score by gaining Canadian job experience, increasing educational credentials, and improving your language skills to boost your eligibility. Verify that your Express Entry profile is current and satisfies the requirements for the Canadian Experience Class or any other program that qualifies.
