The Canadian government is planning to decrease the number of temporary residents allowed into the country in the upcoming years. According to the latest budget, Canada aims to admit 385,000 temporary residents next year, which is a 43% reduction from the 2025 target, and 370,000 in the following two years.
This shift in targets signals a change in focus towards temporary residents as the government aims to lower overall immigration numbers. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne mentioned that the government is striving to bring immigration levels to more sustainable levels, acknowledging the strain on the country’s capacity to accommodate newcomers.
The government had already begun reducing immigration under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, especially after a surge in immigration due to post-pandemic labor shortages. Last year, the government set targets specifically for temporary residents for the first time, aiming to decrease the number of temporary foreign workers and international student arrivals significantly.
In contrast, the government plans to grant permanent residency to 380,000 immigrants annually over the next three years, aligning with previous announcements. The focus on economic needs in immigration is highlighted in the budget, with a goal to increase the share of economic migrants among permanent residents.
The government also intends to expedite the recognition of foreign credentials by reallocating funds, aiming to address challenges faced by immigrants in finding employment related to their education and training. Additionally, the budget includes measures to accelerate the permanent residency status of work permit holders and launch a new pathway for U.S. H-1B visa holders in specialized occupations.
However, the plan has faced criticism from migrant rights groups, with the Migrant Rights Network expressing concerns about the impact on refugees and migrants. They argue that blaming newcomers for various societal issues deflects attention from underlying causes such as corporate practices and inadequate government funding.
The government’s immigration strategy reflects a broader shift in attitudes towards immigration in Canada, with increasing concerns among the public about the level of immigration being admitted into the country. Addressing these concerns while ensuring economic benefits from immigration remains a key focus for the government moving forward.