Canada’s immigration strategy is shifting toward bringing more people who are already living and working in the country onto permanent-resident status. Two major pathways are expected to be the focus in 2026: a large Temporary-Resident → Permanent-Resident (TR→PR) initiative and a fast-track PR route for U.S. H-1B visa holders. Both programs will move quickly once announced — so early preparation is essential.
Large-scale TR→PR initiative (2026–2027): The government plans to convert up to 33,000 temporary workers to permanent residence across 2026 and 2027. This program is targeted at people already working and contributing to Canadian communities and critical sectors.
Accelerated PR pathway for H-1B holders: Announced in the 2025 federal budget, this route aims to attract high-skilled U.S. H-1B workers in tech, healthcare, engineering and related fields. It builds on earlier pilots and is expected to be more structured and competitive.
Both initiatives follow prior programs that closed extremely quickly after launch (for example, the 2021 TR→PR intake and a 2023 H-1B pilot that filled rapidly). That history shows demand can outstrip supply, and intake windows may be brief or capped. If you qualify, having your documents ready — not waiting until the day an intake opens — could make the difference between applying successfully and missing the window.
The TR→PR program will target temporary residents who already show strong Canadian ties — working here, paying taxes, and contributing to local communities and key sectors. The H-1B stream will focus on skilled talent aligned with Canada’s labour needs (technology, research, health, engineering). exact eligibility rules are still pending from IRCC, so assume selection will be competitive.
Start assembling these documents right away — many take weeks or months to obtain:
Language test results (CELPIP, IELTS, PTE Core, TEF/TCF) — valid on the application date and typically within 2 years.
Police certificates for you and family members (timing rules differ by country; these can take months).
Proof of education: ECA for foreign degrees, final transcripts for Canadian credentials.
Travel history: IMM 5562 or travel logs, airline confirmations, copies of passport pages.
Employment evidence: employer reference letters (detailing duties, dates, hours), pay stubs, T4 slips, contracts.
Proof of current employment in Canada (valid work permit, paystubs, employer letters) where required.
Identity documents: valid passport, birth certificates, marriage certificates.
Certified translations of non-English/French documents and translator declarations when required.
Tip: Police certificates and some country-specific records can take several months. Start requests now.
If you’ll include family, gather passports, birth/marriage documents, travel history, and police checks for everyone aged 18+. If a family relationship must be proved (common-law partner), collect joint leases, utility bills, joint bank statements, and the IMM 5409 where applicable.
Language test validity: tests must be valid on the day you submit an application (usually valid for two years). If a test expires before you apply, you must retake it.
Police certificates: current-country certificates should be issued within six months of application; past-country certificates must be issued after your last stay of six months. Processing times vary by country and can cause delays.
ECAs: valid for five years for foreign credentials; Canadian degrees do not require an ECA.
Q: What’s the fastest route to PR in 2026?
A: Express Entry remains the fastest route once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), with processing generally within six months after submission — but intake-based streams could offer rapid access for certain applicants.
Q: Can temporary workers apply outside Express Entry?
A: Yes — intake-based federal streams or capped programs may open outside Express Entry. These often operate first-come, first-served and can move quickly.
Q: Will H-1B holders need Canadian experience?
A: The 2026 H-1B pathway is expected to focus on skills and sector demand; Canadian experience may not be mandatory — but final rules will determine selection criteria.
Book an appointment with a regulated immigration consultant (RCIC) for a document audit.
Register and schedule any required language tests now.
Request police certificates where possible.
Order ECAs and collect transcripts.
Gather employer reference letters and pay stubs.
Renew passports if any expiry may interfere with processing.
(These steps reduce the risk of missing a fast intake window.)
2026 could be a watershed year for in-Canada permanent residence. The government’s focus on converting temporary residents and attracting high-skill H-1B workers means opportunity — but also intense competition and short application windows. Early, professional preparation is the single most important step you can take to maximize your chances.
If you want tailored guidance and a document readiness review, book a consultation with our licensed RCIC:
Gboyega Esan — RCIC R708591
📞 +1 (647) 225-0092
✉️ gfkimmigrationconsultant@gmail.com
🌐 gfkimmigrationconsultant.com
115 George St, Suite 224, Oakville, ON L6J 0A2