Canada has always been one of the most celebrated countries for immigrants and newcomers, contributing to its rich culture and economic growth. However, to address evolving economic needs and manage labour market requirements, Immigration Minister Marc Miller has recently announced new measures aimed at controlling the volume of temporary residents in Canada. These changes are intended to ensure that Canada’s immigration system is sustainable while aligning with the country’s economic goals and community development.
Reduction in Temporary Resident Percentages
One of the main objectives of the plan is to reduce the number of temporary residents from 6.5% to 5% by 2026. To attain this goal, the Canadian government is planning to implement certain adjustments, such as reducing the number of international student study permits and revising the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP). These revisions will help Canada better manage the influx of temporary residents while ensuring that those coming to Canada are properly supported.
Updates to Study Permits
By next year, Canada plans to issue 10% fewer study permits than the target of 485,000 in 2024. This update will bring the number down to 437,000, with the aim of stabilizing this figure for 2026. By restricting the number of new study permits, the federal government hopes to ease pressure on the housing and job markets while ensuring that international students who do come to Canada can be conveniently integrated into the economy.
Post-Graduate Work Permit Program Update
The Immigration Minister also announced changes to the PGWP program. Graduates will be required to meet a minimum language proficiency level in either English or French to be eligible for a work permit. This requirement will help ensure that international students can transition smoothly into the Canadian labour market.
Limiting Work Permit Eligibility
Work permit eligibility for spouses of master’s degree students and foreign workers will be further tightened. Spouses of students enrolled in programs of at least 16 months and those of foreign workers in specific sectors, such as management or professional occupations, will have their access to work permits restricted. These changes are part of a broader strategy to focus on filling critical labour shortages and improving fairness within the immigration system.
Humanitarian Responsibilities
Despite these new measures, Canada remains committed to its humanitarian responsibilities. The government will continue to take effective steps to strengthen the asylum system and prevent fraud, such as by introducing partial visa requirements for Mexican nationals and improving the processing of asylum claims. Overall, these new measures reflect Canada’s balanced approach to immigration. By focusing on economic needs and ensuring that temporary residents are well-supported, Canada is positioning itself to continue welcoming newcomers while maintaining the integrity and sustainability of its immigration system.
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