Canada is set to lower its immigration targets over the next three years, starting in 2025. The country’s new Immigration Levels Plan, announced on October 24, outlines a reduction in permanent resident admissions, with a focus on rebalancing the system to prioritize economic immigrants already residing in Canada. Here’s a summary of the key changes:
Key Reductions in Permanent Residency Targets
- 2025: 395,000 (previously set at 500,000)
- 2026: 380,000
- 2027: 365,000
While overall targets have dropped, there’s a focus on increasing economic immigrants as a share of total admissions, especially through federal high-skilled programs.
From PNP to FHS: Shifting Immigration Focus
PNP targets have been reduced by 50%, while federal high-skilled admissions have increased:
- 2025: 124,680 (up from 117,500)
- 2026: 123,230
- 2027: 118,730
Temporary Residents and Other Adjustments
For temporary residents, the government aims to reduce their share of the population from 7% to 5% by 2026. This is part of a broader effort to limit the number of temporary permits, particularly for international students, temporary foreign workers, and spouses of international students and workers.
Increase in French-Speaking Immigrants Outside Quebec
The plan also targets a higher percentage of French-speaking immigrants settling outside Quebec, increasing from 8.5% in 2025 to 10% by 2027.
The plan does not set targets for all foreign nationals, such as asylum seekers or parents and grandparents on super visas. It also excludes seasonal workers.
Trudeau acknowledged that the adjustments may be politically driven, remarking, “Our focus is on winning the next election.”