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Navigating Evolving Policy

The Comox Valley, including the scenic community of Courtney, British Columbia, is an attractive destination for newcomers to Canada. However, with recent, significant updates to federal immigration policy, particularly regarding international students, the need for informed, reliable immigration services is more crucial than ever for both prospective and current residents.

The Canadian government’s release of the Immigration Levels Plan 2026-2028 signals a major recalibration, sharply reducing the intake targets for new temporary residents, including international students. This shift, while potentially unsettling for those planning their move, has distinct implications for individuals already on Canadian soil, highlighting the value of local expertise in navigating these evolving rules.

The New Federal Framework: What Courtney’s International Students Must Know

The core change detailed in the 2026-2028 Plan is the substantial reduction in new international student admissions. The annual target is nearly halved from the previous plan, dropping from approximately 305,900 in 2025 to 155,000 in 2026, with targets holding steady thereafter.

For current or prospective international students in the Courtney area, perhaps attending institutions like North Island College, this change creates a competitive environment for new applicants but presents a stronger pathway for those already here.

  • In-Canada Advantage: The reduced future intake of new international students suggests that in two to four years (when the smaller cohort begins graduating), there will be less competition for entry-level jobs and subsequent permanent residence (PR) pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This gives existing Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders a positional advantage.
  • Prioritizing Transition: The federal plan reiterates its focus on helping individuals already in Canada with the required skills and experience obtain permanent residency. With Federal High Skilled category admissions remaining robust (109,000 in 2026, rising to 111,000 in 2027 and 2028), the path from local experience to PR remains a primary objective.
  • Provincial Nominee Boost: A major positive for those in British Columbia is the 66% increase in admission targets for the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) in 2026, compared to 2025 targets. PNPs are a fundamental method for international graduates to secure PR, and this increased allocation should translate to more nomination slots for the province. As BC has previously indicated its intention to launch new streams for graduates, the increased federal allocation makes the activation of these streams more likely, which is a clear benefit for students studying in Courtney and the Comox Valley.

Leveraging Local Immigration Services in Courtney

In light of these complex changes, accessing professional immigration services becomes essential. Locally available immigration services can provide current information and support for a variety of needs.

For Study and Work Permits

While the new cap makes it more difficult for initial applicants to obtain a study permit, certain groups are receiving streamlined access. Starting January 1, 2026, authorities will exempt Master’s and doctoral degree students from the study permit cap and expedite processing times for postgraduate students.

Whether you are applying for a study permit, navigating the PGWP application process, or seeking to change your status, registered professionals in Courtney can help:

  • Study Permit Strategy: Advising new applicants on how to approach the application process, given the reduced targets, or confirming the status of Master’s and PhD programs under the new exemptions.
  • Work Permit Applications: Assisting with initial and renewed work permit applications, including the PGWP, to ensure compliance with all requirements and maximize validity.
  • Status Changes: Assisting temporary residents looking to transition to a permanent stream.

Pathways to Permanent Residence (PR)

The increased PNP targets and the continued focus on the Canadian Experience Class make in-Canada PR pathways strong. Immigration services can offer support in:

  • Express Entry Submissions: We guide applicants through the Federal High Skilled programs, including CEC, by calculating Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, creating profiles, and preparing them for Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
  • BC PNP Application: Assisting skilled workers and international graduates with application streams specific to British Columbia, helping to align local work experience and education with provincial priorities. This is especially relevant given the expected increase in provincial nomination slots.
  • Document Preparation: Support in compiling the extensive documentation required for any PR application, ensuring accuracy to avoid delays or refusals, which are critical in a tighter admissions environment.

Community Support for Newcomers

Beyond regulated immigration services, new arrivals in Courtney benefit from local settlement organizations. These community-focused support systems offer:

  • Settlement Assistance: Help with essential tasks like finding housing, accessing healthcare, and registering children for school.
  • Language Classes: Offering English language practice and LINC classes to support integration.
  • Community Connection: Providing workshops, groups, and mentoring to help newcomers build social networks and experience local life in the Comox Valley.

For anyone pursuing their Canadian journey in Courtney, from the new international student to the seasoned temporary worker, staying informed about the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan is vital. Connecting with local, qualified immigration services can provide the necessary support to navigate these policy changes and secure a path to permanent residency in this Vancouver Island community.

Your Next Steps with Dhanda Immigration Services

Navigating the complexities of Canadian immigration, particularly with the new federal policies impacting international students and workers, requires diligent support. Suppose you are currently in Courtney or planning a move to the Comox Valley and need support with study permits, work permits, or provincial and federal applications for permanent residency. In that case, Dhanda Immigration Services is ready to assist. Contact Dhanda today to discuss your unique situation and develop an appropriate strategy for achieving your Canadian goals.