The Canadian government has implemented measures to stabilise new permanent residency levels by the year 2026. In recent years, Canada has experienced a significant increase in the number of permanent residents, reaching a record high of 437,000 in 2022. However, this influx placed immense pressure on housing and infrastructure.
To address this issue, the federal government of Canada has devised an updated plan aimed at limiting future growth and ensuring a balance between labour force needs and provincial capacities. The rise in permanent migration cases has been concurrent with a surge in international students choosing to study in Canada.
Studies indicate that many international students who move to Canada for their education eventually become permanent residents. Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced the new targets on November 1st. Under these targets, the planned number of permanent residents is set to increase to 485,000 in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025. By 2026, the government aims to stabilise permanent resident levels at 500,000.
According to data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in the first three quarters of 2023, approximately 20,500 study permit holders were granted residency status in Canada. This number surpassed the total of 19,735 permits granted in the entire year 2022.
Additionally, the government plans to enhance the post-graduation work permit programme to support critical sectors and will focus on promoting high-demand skills and industries. During the announcement, Minister Miller underscored the vital contribution immigrants make to Canada’s economy.
Furthermore, the government is committed to addressing the challenges faced by students from sub-Saharan Africa as part of its francophone immigration strategy. The IRCC will launch a pilot programme aimed at overcoming financial barriers for African students applying for study permits and facilitating the application process in minority communities.
