In March 2024, Canada unveiled its Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027, marking the first time targets have been set for both permanent and temporary residents. The plan aims to tackle critical issues, including labour shortages, housing and healthcare pressures, and fraud in temporary immigration programs. A key focus is reducing the share of temporary residents to 5% of the total population by 2026, followed by a slight increase in 2027.
Targets for Temporary and Permanent Residents
Canada plans to reduce the number of temporary residents (TRs), such as international workers and students, from 673,650 in 2025 to 543,600 by 2027. International students will form a significant portion of this group, comprising 45% of TRs in 2025 and increasing to 56-59% by 2027. Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) will also decline, primarily due to stricter regulations and a substantial 63% reduction in the International Mobility Program (IMP) compared to 2023 levels.
On the permanent resident (PR) front, admissions targets are set at 395,000 for 2025, gradually decreasing to 365,000 by 2027. The focus remains on economic immigrants, skilled workers, healthcare professionals, and tradespeople. Family reunification will account for around 22% of admissions, while 58,350 refugees are expected in 2025. According to Canada’s immigration guidelines, family reunification programs allow relatives of citizens or permanent residents to live, work, and study in Canada.
Prioritizing French-Speaking Immigrants and Key Sectors
The government is placing greater emphasis on attracting French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec, aiming to increase their share from 8.5% in 2025 to 10% by 2027. Additionally, the plan highlights immigrants with expertise in healthcare and skilled trades to address pressing labour shortages and drive economic growth.
Reduction in Temporary Resident Numbers
A notable aspect of the plan is its effort to reduce the role of temporary residents. The number of international students, for instance, will drop significantly, with 305,900 expected in 2025, compared to 682,889 in 2023. Similar cuts will be applied to Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) and other temporary programs.
Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs)
Between 2025 and 2027, the number of TFWs is expected to stabilize at 82,000 annually, a sharp decline from the 184,000 TFWs admitted in 2023. This reduction will particularly impact sectors like agriculture and hospitality, which rely heavily on temporary labour. Stricter Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) rules, including caps on low-wage workers and increased wage thresholds for high-wage positions, will further influence employers’ hiring practices.
Evolving Immigration System
Canada aims to build an immigration system that supports economic growth while benefiting newcomers and citizens alike. Although changes are underway, there remain abundant opportunities for students, workers, and future permanent residents to contribute to and thrive within Canada’s evolving immigration framework.
Note: If you have questions about your eligibility or need assistance navigating the immigration process, ensure you stay informed through reliable resources and expert advice.