COW – Impacts of Levels on Funding to Settlement Services – May 28, 2026
- The Government of Canada is spending less so that it can invest more.
- Settlement funding is aligned with the 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan and projected permanent resident admissions.
- The 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan is focused on a return to sustainable immigration and a shift to more economic immigrants.
- In 2026–2027, we plan to invest approximately $935M, across service provider organizations (outside of Quebec).
- Federally funded settlement services are often complemented by provincial and territorial programs.
- We will continue to work with our provincial and territorial partners to distribute settlement and resettlement resources based on where newcomers settle across Canada.
Eligibility Changes
- Earlier this year, we updated settlement program eligibility criteria.
- Eligibility was narrowed to focus federally funded services on permanent residents within their first five years in Canada by 2027, when integration needs are highest.
- This helps ensure that resources are targeted and reduces overlap with other supports.