Breaking News: Canada Reduces H&C Program Quotas

Each year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) releases an Immigration Levels Plan to guide its policies and operations. This plan outlines the number of newcomers Canada aims to welcome, ensuring the immigration system aligns with the country’s economic and social needs.

Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan

In 2025, Canada’s target for new permanent residents (PRs) is set at 395,000. However, the following years will see a gradual reduction in immigration levels:

• 2026: The target will decrease to 380,000 new PRs.

• 2027: The number will be further reduced to 365,000.

Amid this overall decline, Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Programs targets are also shifting:

• 2025: 58,350 people are expected to be admitted under humanitarian categories, including refugees and other humanitarian cases.

• 2026: The number will be reduced to 55,350.

• 2027: A further decrease will bring the total to 54,350.

Despite these reductions, Canada remains committed to supporting vulnerable groups, including human rights defenders, religious and ethnic minorities, and refugees, reaffirming its role as a global leader in humanitarian assistance.

Immigration Levels Plan is released every year by IRCC

Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Programs

Canada’s Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Program offers a pathway to permanent residence for individuals facing exceptional circumstances. This program provides relief for those who do not qualify under traditional immigration streams but have compelling reasons to remain in Canada.

H&C applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as:

• The best interests of children affected by the decision.

• The applicant’s establishment in Canada.

• The potential hardship faced if forced to return to their home country.

• Unique circumstances such as medical conditions, discrimination, or lack of support abroad.

Complex Cases in H&C Applications

While H&C applications can provide relief to those in distressing situations, they often require strong documentation and advocacy. Here are three real-life examples of successful H&C cases we have worked with:

Family with a Child Diagnosed with Autism

A family with a young child diagnosed with autism applied for permanent residency on H&C grounds. Their home country lacked adequate medical and educational support for autism, while their child was thriving in Canada with specialized services.

What We Did:

• Compiled medical reports, letters from therapists, and educational assessments demonstrating the child’s progress in Canada.

• Highlighted the family’s integration into Canadian society and the crucial role of Canada’s support system in the child’s well-being.

Outcome: IRCC approved the application, recognizing the essential need for the child to continue receiving specialized care in Canada.

H&C Program helps families reunite in Canada

Widowed Parent with No Support

A 72-year-old widowed mother was residing in Canada with her permanent resident daughter. After her husband’s passing, she had no family support in her home country and required care due to her declining health.

What We Did:

• Submitted detailed evidence of the mother’s health condition and dependency on her daughter.

• Provided letters from healthcare providers and family members highlighting the critical need for her to remain in Canada.

Outcome: IRCC approved the application, granting the mother permanent residency based on her lack of support abroad and the best interests of her Canadian grandchildren.

Same-Sex Couple Facing Discrimination

A same-sex couple faced severe persecution in their home country. One partner was a permanent resident in Canada, while the other was living in Canada on a temporary visa. Returning home posed significant safety risks.

What We Did:

• Submitted an H&C application with evidence of the couple’s persecution, including affidavits, human rights reports, and personal statements.

• Emphasized the emotional and physical hardship the couple would face if separated.

Outcome: The application was approved, allowing the couple to stay together in Canada, free from discrimination and fear.

Same-sex couple can stay in Canada without discrimination

Applying for permanent residence under H&C grounds can be challenging, but strong documentation and advocacy can lead to success. If you or a loved one are facing exceptional circumstances, our team is here to help.

For comprehensive insights and customized assistance tailored to your circumstances for immigrating to Canada, contact our experienced consultants at epathway.immigration@gmail.com