Canada’s July 2026 Immigration Overhaul: Key Changes for Indians

Canada is implementing several immigration policy changes in July 2026 that will affect thousands of Indian students, skilled workers and permanent residency (PR) applicants. The modifications include new regulations for immigration consultants, asylum process reforms, updated rules for international students, and a redesigned provincial nominee programme in Ontario.

India remains one of the largest source countries for international students and economic immigrants to Canada. As a result, these changes are closely monitored by Indian applicants planning to study, work or settle in the country.

New rules for immigration consultants from July 15

On July 15, new regulations governing licensed immigration consultants come into effect. These rules, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on May 6, strengthen oversight of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). Under the new framework, consultants found guilty of dishonest conduct after November 2021 may face disciplinary action and be required to compensate affected clients financially. Starting April 2027, the CICC’s public register will also display additional information about licensed consultants to improve transparency. Applicants are advised to verify that their consultant is licensed and in good standing before proceeding.

Asylum reforms open for consultation until July 20

The Canadian government has opened a public consultation on proposed changes to the asylum process, with comments accepted until July 20. The proposed amendments would require asylum seekers to submit complete applications—including identity documents, declarations and the Basis of Claim form—within 60 days. Eligible claimants would become eligible for open work permits once their claims are accepted for referral, rather than waiting for the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) referral process. Separately, the IRB has proposed new rules requiring supporting documents to be filed within 30 days of referral, instead of the current 10 days before a hearing.

Updated rules for international students

International students planning to change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI) should note updated IRCC requirements. Students transferring to another post-secondary institution may need to apply for a study permit extension and, depending on circumstances, obtain a new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL). IRCC states that eligible students who follow the official transfer process can benefit from a 60-day processing standard. Canada’s national cap on study permits, introduced in 2024, remains in place through 2026.

Ontario launches redesigned nominee programme

Ontario has replaced its previous eight Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) employer streams with a new Workforce Priority Stream, effective June 26. The redesigned programme includes three pathways: TEER 0–3 occupations, TEER 4–5 occupations, and self-employed physicians. Most applicants must have a valid job offer, while physicians qualify through registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and OHIP billing eligibility. Ontario’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system is temporarily closed during the transition to the new programme.