Recent data from Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveals that more than 4 million temporary resident permits are anticipated to expire by 2026. This number includes various permits for students, workers, and visitors who are in Canada on a limited-time basis.
Expiring Permits and Their Implications
Of the total expected to expire, over 1.8 million permits are set to lapse by the end of 2023. This figure has decreased from 2025, when nearly 2.1 million permits expired. Immigration lawyer Mario Bellissimo commented on the situation, noting the significant backlog involving students and temporary residents seeking to extend their stay in Canada.
Current Immigration Trends
This year, Canada plans to accept around 380,000 permanent residents, a reduction of almost 15,000 from the previous year. Many temporary residents initially aimed to transition to permanent residency. However, the instability surrounding permit expirations has left many feeling uncertain.
- 4 million temporary resident permits expected to expire by 2026
- 1.8 million permits will lapse by end of 2023
- 380,000 new permanent residents accepted in 2023
- 15,000 fewer permanent residents compared to 2022
Challenges for Temporary Residents
Temporary residents in Toronto have been vocal about their struggles, faced with rejections from the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). This program aims to nominate individuals with necessary qualifications for permanent residency. However, in 2025, the federal government reduced Ontario’s nominee intake by 50%. Applicants have stated they deserve fair evaluations of their cases.
Since November, groups of temporary residents have protested outside the Ministry of Labour and Immigration, urging for clearer communication and action regarding their applications. Many express frustration about their permits expiring while waiting for answers, which complicates their ability to work and maintain their livelihoods.
Students at Risk
Students constitute a significant segment of temporary residents facing permit expirations. This year, over 265,000 study permits are expected to expire, including around 166,000 extensions. Many of these students entered Canada under the impression they would have a pathway to remain.
Government Actions and Removals
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has reported a record number of removals, with over 22,000 individuals removed in 2025 alone. Furthermore, nearly 30,000 removals were still “in progress” by the end of October 2025. Bellissimo highlighted a growing sentiment towards the removal of undocumented individuals, complicating the situation for those falling out of status.
As the IRCC estimates more than 177,000 former temporary residents transitioned to permanent residents between January and November 2025, the government faces ongoing pressure to address the expiring permits and provide clarity for those seeking to stay in Canada.
