COW – 33K + Ongoing, One-time Initiative—Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident transition – May 28, 2026

The Initiative

• Budget 2025 announced we would speed up the transition of 33,000 workers to permanent residence in 2026 and 2027.
• This is not a new program. We have been clear about its scope and intent from the beginning.
• We are selecting workers who:
  • have already applied for permanent residence in regional programs and occupation-driven pilots; and
  • have been living in smaller Canadian communities for 2 years or more.
• This initiative will help meet the labour needs of smaller communities with workers who are already established and contributing to our economy.
• This initiative is not intended for undocumented or out-of-status individuals.

Progress

• 3,600 workers were granted permanent residence since February 28, 2026.