New Permanent Resident Targets Set for 2025
Canada Immigration will experience a shift in 2025, as the Canadian government revises its policy to reduce the number of new permanent residents and temporary residents. This change addresses rising public concerns over housing costs and other social issues. The adjusted targets come ahead of the upcoming federal election, reflecting public sentiment and the pressures tied to immigration levels.
Canada’s New Immigration Targets for 2025
Canada’s immigration targets will see a reduction for the first time in years. The government plans to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, down from the 485,000 target in 2024. The numbers will continue to decrease, with 380,000 new residents projected in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.
The shift in Canada Immigration policy aims to address affordability concerns tied to the housing market. A growing immigrant population has contributed to increased housing demand, which, alongside rising interest rates, has worsened affordability issues for many Canadians.
Decline in Temporary Resident Numbers
Canada is also set to limit temporary residents, reducing their numbers to around 300,000 in 2025, which is 30,000 fewer than previous levels. Temporary foreign worker programs and international student admissions will face tighter regulations, aimed at maintaining balance in the job market and avoiding exploitative work conditions.
Rising Concerns and Criticisms
Immigration has become a key issue in Canadian politics, particularly as the federal election approaches. Many Canadians now voice concerns over the impact of current immigration levels on housing and social services. Additionally, a rise in hate crimes against visible minorities has drawn attention, adding urgency to the immigration debate.
Migrant advocates argue the government’s decision harms migrants who rely on pathways to permanent residency. According to Syed Hussan, a spokesperson for the Migrant Rights Network, cutting permanent resident numbers “forces migrants into temporary or undocumented statuses, pushing them into exploitative jobs.”
A Change in Immigration Strategy
Canada Immigration policy took a different direction during the COVID-19 pandemic to address labor shortages. However, the new targets signal a return to tighter regulations, aiming to cap temporary residents at 5% of the population by 2027, down from 6.8%.
With public pressure mounting, Immigration Minister Marc Miller noted that “Canadians want a system that is not out of control.” These new measures reflect a more controlled approach to immigration in response to both social and economic factors.