In a recent speech on October 24, 2024 in Ottawa, the Canadian Minister of Immigration announced Canada’s new Immigration Levels Plan. This updated plan is designed to balance the need for newcomers with the challenges faced by communities, like housing and job availability. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant changes.
Overview of Changes for Temporary and Permanent Residents
The updated immigration plan introduces clear limits on temporary residents and adjusted targets for permanent residents.
Immigration Category | Key Changes |
---|---|
Temporary Residents | Lower intake of international students and temporary workers to reduce housing demand and support local communities. |
Permanent Residents | Reduced targets, with a goal of welcoming 365,000 new permanent residents by 2027, prioritizing skilled workers with Canadian experience. |
Family Reunification | 24% of permanent residency spots reserved for family reunification in 2025. |
Francophone Communities | Increase in Francophone newcomers outside Quebec to support cultural diversity, with 10% of all newcomers expected to be French-speaking by 2027. |
Lowering the Number of Temporary Residents
Temporary residents—including international students and temporary workers—make up a large part of Canada’s annual newcomers. The government is now adjusting these numbers to ease community pressures.
Highlights:
- International Students: New caps on study permits, limiting work permits for graduates, and requiring attestation letters for study permits. This has already led to a 43% reduction in new international students arriving in Canada in 2024 compared to last year.
- Temporary Foreign Workers: Strict controls have been reintroduced after the pandemic to manage the demand for low-wage workers.
Year | Change in Temporary Resident Population |
---|---|
2025 | Decrease of 445,900 temporary residents |
2026 | Decrease of 445,660 temporary residents |
2027 | Modest increase of 17,440 temporary residents |
These changes help reduce housing and rental prices in regions with large student populations. For instance, rental prices for one- and two-bedroom apartments have dropped over 10% in Vancouver and 8% in Toronto.
Focusing on Long-term Residents: Permanent Residency Targets
With an aging population and a high demand for skilled workers, Canada still needs new permanent residents. However, the government is adjusting its permanent residency targets to keep growth manageable.
Year | Permanent Resident Target | Change from Previous Plan |
---|---|---|
2025 | 395,000 | Reduced by 105,000 |
2026 | 380,000 | Reduced by 120,000 |
2027 | 365,000 | Reduced by 135,000 |
This reduction aims to close the housing gap by freeing up an estimated 670,000 housing units by the end of 2027. These updated targets will focus on bringing in newcomers with Canadian experience, prioritizing those who are already temporary residents in Canada, such as international students and temporary workers.
Prioritizing Family Reunification and French-speaking Newcomers
While immigration targets are being adjusted, family reunification remains a top priority. This category will make up 24% of all permanent residency admissions in 2025 to help families reunite with spouses, children, parents, and grandparents.
Canada is also committed to strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec. By 2027, 10% of all newcomers are expected to be French-speaking, with targets increasing yearly to preserve Canada’s bilingual identity.
Category | Targeted Francophone Newcomers (Outside Quebec) |
---|---|
2025 | 8.5% |
2026 | 9.5% |
2027 | 10% |
Supporting Newcomers and Local Communities Alike
Canada’s adjusted immigration plan responds to current community needs while ensuring a steady flow of skilled workers and family members.
This balance allows Canada to return to a sustainable growth path by 2027, providing opportunities for newcomers without overwhelming local resources.
Ready to Begin Your Journey to Canada?
If you’re considering moving to Canada, Soleimani Immigration Inc. can help you navigate these changes and find the best pathway. Start with a free assessment or book a consultation today!