Starting April 1, 2026, Canada will implement new restrictions on how long economic immigrants can access federally funded settlement services. The changes mean permanent residents will have up to six years to use these programs, dropping to five years by April 2027. Ottawa says the move encourages newcomers to take advantage of job placement and integration support earlier while keeping resources available for those who need them most. The policy affects all economic class permanent residents, including family members who arrive with them. Officials describe the adjustment as part of broader efforts to manage immigration levels while still addressing labour shortages across the country.