Canada sees sharp decline in foreign student and temporary worker arrivals

Data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) indicates a significant decrease in the arrival of foreign students and temporary workers during the first eight months of 2026. Compared to the same period in 2024, student arrivals fell by 71%, totaling 65,240 newcomers. Temporary worker arrivals also saw a substantial decline of 57%, with 130,095 arrivals recorded.

In contrast to the decline in students and temporary workers, the number of work permit holders increased by approximately 8% over the last two years, reaching 1,550,215 in August 2026.

Regarding permanent residency, Canada had admitted 216,600 individuals as of August 31, which represents 57% of the annual target of 380,000. To meet this goal, the country would need to average approximately 40,850 admissions per month for the remainder of the year.

Parallel to these shifts, the Express Entry system continues to issue invitations. Recent draws included 2,500 invitations for the Canadian Experience Class and 5,000 invitations for candidates with French-language proficiency. The federal government's broader immigration strategy remains a subject of political debate.