The Canadian government announced a major cut to its permanent residency goals in its Immigration Levels Plan for 2025–2027. The goal of the plan, which was unveiled by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, is to reduce the number of permanent residents by 21%, from 500,000 to 395,000, by 2025. With goals of 390,000 for 2026 and 365,000 for 2027, this decrease will continue.
The decision was taken to “stabilize the immigration system” and solve issues related to immigration services, housing, and healthcare, according to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Since more than 40% of permanent residents are anticipated to be drawn from the current labor pool, Minister Miller underlined the need of concentrating on individuals who are currently in Canada. The goal of this change is to lessen the strain on social services and infrastructure.
It is expected that students who do not fall into particular Express Entry categories—such as STEM, healthcare, or agriculture will be negatively affected. Admissions will also be impacted by the implementation of policies for temporary residents, such as overseas students and temporary employees. The number of temporary residents in Canada is expected to drop by 445,000 in 2025 and another 445,000 in 2026.
Concerns have been raised by stakeholders regarding the policy revisions’ perceived lack of vision and political motivations. CBIE president and CEO Larissa Bezo cautioned that these adjustments could make it more difficult for Canada to draw in and keep top people from around the world, endangering its long-term growth and prosperity.
Permanent Resident Targets:
– 395,000 in 2025
– 390,000 in 2026
– 365,000 in 2027
Temporary Resident Reduction:
– 445,000 in 2025
– 445,000 in 2026
Focus on Economic Immigration:
– 60% of permanent resident admissions will be dedicated to economic classes by 2027
Impact on Housing Supply:
– Expected to reduce the housing supply gap by 670,000 units by 2027
In general, stakeholders and international students are concerned about the Canadian government’s plan to lower permanent residency targets. It is unclear how these changes will affect Canada’s economic growth and demographic realities as the nation negotiates its immigration laws.
