Canada Announces Changes to LMIA-Exempt Work Permits for 2026

Canada is set to introduce significant changes to LMIA-exempt work permits in 2026, affecting thousands of foreign nationals who immigrate to Canada and wish to work in the country.

These updates fall under the International Mobility Program (IMP) and are part of Canada’s broader immigration strategy to address labour shortages while tightening temporary resident policies.

According to recent updates, the Canada immigration level plan 2026-2028 has already set a target to welcome work permit holders. As per the International Mobility Program (IMP), Canada has increased the national target from last year, i.e. 128,700 to 170,000.

For foreign workers, international graduates, and employers, understanding what’s coming is essential to planning work permit applications and long-term pathways in Canada.

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Higher Admission Target Under IMP in 2026

Canada has significantly raised the admission target for LMIA-exempt work permits under the International Mobility Program (IMP) for 2026. The latest Immigration Levels Plan sets the target at 170,000 net new admissions, a 32 % increase from the previous notional target of 128,700. 

This change comes alongside a reduction in the target for LMIA-based Canada work permits under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), which was set at 60,000 for 2026, down from 82,000. 

These adjustments reflect Canada’s strategic shift toward more LMIA-exempt hiring to address labour market needs and streamline work permit pathways.

Moreover, several temporary public policies tied to LMIA‑exempt work permits are scheduled to end in 2026, creating uncertainty for affected groups. A policy allowing provincial nominee candidates special work permits expired on Dec. 31, 2025, while the Canada‑Ukraine open work permit policy is set to lapse on Mar. 31, 2026. 

Another policy for Iranian nationals expires on Feb. 28, 2026. IRCC has not confirmed extensions, leaving applicants unsure of future options.

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Why PGWP Eligibility Criteria Freeze?

In 2026, IRCC has implemented a freeze on the list of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible programs, meaning no new programs will be added or removed throughout the year.

However, this follows a significant 2025 update that expanded the list from 920 to 1,107 eligible programs, while retaining 178 programs initially scheduled for removal. The freeze provides stability and clarity for international students planning to study in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience after graduation, including pathways that may later intersect with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

It ensures students can confidently select programs that maintain PGWP eligibility while IRCC reviews and updates program classifications.

What These Changes Mean for Work Permit and PR Applicants

A mix of proposed legislative changes, including Bill C-12, the rise in admission targets for the International Mobility Program (IMP), and the expiration of several temporary public policies, indicates a major shift in Canada’s policy on LMIA-exempt work permits.

Bill C-12, if passed, will give IRCC broader powers to suspend or reduce work permit applications in cases deemed in the public interest.

For those who intend to work in Canada or apply for Canada PR, these changes highlight the need for advance planning and informed decision-making.

Applicants are advised to stay up to date with the latest information from official sources and make informed decisions about their applications in advance to avoid delays or missed opportunities.

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Source: canada.ca

Tags: Canada Work Permit Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Temporary Foreign Worker Program Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2026-2028 LMIA International Mobility Program Canada Immigration News