The Canadian government plans to reduce the intake of temporary residents significantly in the coming years. The target for the next year is set at 385,000, which is 43% lower than the 2025 goal, with further reductions to 370,000 in the subsequent two years. This shift marks a decrease from the previous plan, where Canada aimed to welcome over 516,000 temporary residents in 2026.
The government’s focus appears to be shifting towards managing temporary residents as part of its efforts to moderate the overall immigrant intake. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated that the goal is to maintain immigration at sustainable levels, acknowledging the strain on Canada’s capacity to accommodate newcomers.
Under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s administration, immigration figures were being scaled back following a surge in response to post-pandemic labor shortages. The government had already signaled its intent to decrease the proportion of temporary residents within Canada’s population.
Recent statistics outlined in the budget show a significant decline in the number of temporary foreign workers and international student arrivals, as well as a reduction in asylum claims compared to the previous year. The government aims to grant permanent residency to 380,000 immigrants annually over the next three years, consistent with the previous plan.
The adjustments in immigration targets align with evolving public sentiments on immigration in Canada. A recent poll by the Environics Institute revealed that 56% of Canadians feel the country is admitting too many immigrants, indicating a notable increase in this perception over the past five years.
The government’s emphasis on economic considerations in immigration is evident in the new targets. Champagne highlighted the dual approach of returning to sustainable immigration levels while attracting highly skilled individuals. The budget aims to increase the share of economic migrants among permanent residents from 59% to 64% over the next three years.
Efforts to address the challenges faced by immigrants include reallocating funds to expedite the recognition of foreign credentials. Additionally, a proposed one-time measure aims to fast-track permanent residency for 33,000 work permit holders, along with a new pathway for U.S. H-1B visa holders in specialized fields like technology.
Critics, including the Migrant Rights Network advocacy group, have condemned the government’s plan as detrimental to refugees and migrants. Despite the government’s initiatives to attract skilled researchers and accelerate residency for approved asylum seekers, concerns persist regarding the broader impact on immigrant communities.
