Canada’s immigration system is undergoing a quiet but significant transformation. In 2025, the federal government plans for more than 40% of new permanent residents to come from people already living in Canada as temporary residents.
This marks a decisive shift away from overseas selection toward a system that prioritizes those who are already working, studying, and integrating into Canadian society.
Why Canada Is Looking Inward
The logic behind the “In-Canada” priority is straightforward. Temporary residents already:
- Have Canadian work or study experience
- Pay taxes and contribute to the economy
- Demonstrate language proficiency through daily use
- Require fewer settlement services
From a policy perspective, transitioning these individuals to permanent residence is faster, safer, and more predictable than selecting candidates abroad.
The Canadian Experience Class: Built for Inland Applicants
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) has re-emerged as a cornerstone of this strategy.
CEC is designed specifically for candidates with recent Canadian work experience. Unlike other Express Entry streams, it:
- Does not require proof of settlement funds
- Rewards Canadian employment over foreign experience
- Prioritizes candidates already integrated into the workforce
For temporary foreign workers and international graduates, CEC offers one of the most direct pathways to permanent residence in 2025.
Provincial Nominee Programs: Retaining Local Talent
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) play an equally important role in the in-Canada strategy.
Provinces are increasingly nominating individuals who are:
- Already working locally
- Filling critical labour shortages
- Likely to remain long-term
Employer-driven and occupation-specific PNP streams allow provinces to convert temporary workers into permanent residents—ensuring continuity in healthcare, construction, education, and skilled trades.
Temporary Status Is No Longer a Weak Position
Historically, temporary status was seen as uncertain and vulnerable. In 2025, it has become a strategic advantage.
Canadian work experience now acts as immigration currency. Candidates inside Canada often outperform offshore applicants, even with lower formal scores, because they meet real-time labour needs and reduce hiring risks for employers.
Who Benefits the Most?
The biggest winners under this approach include:
- Temporary foreign workers with full-time Canadian experience
- International graduates working on a PGWP
- Long-term residents transitioning through employer or provincial support
For these groups, being “in Canada” is no longer just a location; it’s a competitive edge.
Challenges to Watch
The in-Canada focus does come with risks:
- Status expiration and work permit timing remain critical
- Competition among inland applicants is increasing
- Opportunities vary significantly by province and occupation
Success depends on careful planning, not assumptions.
Immigration by Design, Not Chance
Canada is increasingly adopting a two-step immigration model: temporary entry followed by permanent residence for those who integrate successfully.
For workers and students already in Canada, the message is clear: your presence is no longer incidental; it is intentional. In 2025, those who are already contributing have the strongest claim to stay.
Interested in knowing more about this process? We are here to help. You can contact us to confirm if you qualify here.
bakouni-consulting.ca 