Protected persons in Canada (PPiC) are individuals recognized as needing Canada's protection.
Most are approved by the Immigration Refugee Board, while others receive protection through the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment process.
Once protected status is granted, individuals can remain in Canada and most apply for permanent residence.
The Immigration Levels Plan sets annual permanent residence admissions targets for this group.
Applications have grown faster than available space in the Levels Plan, creating backlogs and longer wait times.
One-time initiative (Budget 2025)
We will process applications to transition approximately 115,000 protected persons and their in-canada dependants to permanent residence in 2026 and 2027.
These individuals already live and work in communities across Canada.
This initiative provides greater certainty and stability for protected persons and their families.
Admissions of protected persons residing in Quebec will continue under Quebec's existing immigration targets and agreements.
