Canada Immigration News

In 2022 over 550,000 new study permits were issued for international students from 184 countries. Currently Canada has almost 810,000 New international students.

A growing number of Canadians report that French is their first official language. IRCC announced the goal of 4.4% of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec by 2023.

Starting January 6, 2025, the operating hours for 35 Canada-US land ports of entry will change, reducing crossing windows for travelers. This may impact those relying on flagpoling services for immigration needs.

In recent economic developments, Canada's Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland unveiled the Fall Economic Statement for 2023, emphasizing a strategic initiative to bolster the supply of affordable housing across the country.

Canada's fertility rate dropped to 1.26 in 2023, marking the second consecutive year of record lows. British Columbia recorded the lowest rate, at just one child per woman.

Canada has extended its ban on foreign home buyers until 2027 to keep more homes available for its citizens and permanent residents. This move restricts non-Canadians from purchasing residential properties, with exceptions for specific situations like inheritance or property development.

Asia

IRCC’s primary objective in Asia is migration management and refugee protection.

The Canadian government's new cap on international student permits, aimed at addressing housing shortages and rising living costs, could result in significant financial losses for Ontario universities.

Canada’s population has surpassed 40 million people.

In a recent series of immigration draws, three Canadian provinces have showcased their ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to their regions. Each province is strategically selecting candidates who align with local workforce needs, thereby strengthening their economies and communities.

Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program saw an unprecedented rise in 2024, with some sources reporting around 5,600 permanent resident admissions, and the total may have been even higher. This marks a massive increase from 1,460 in 2023, highlighting the program’s rapid expansion.

2025 has been a landmark year for immigration in Canada. With bold new policies, the government is creating smarter, more sustainable pathways for newcomers while ensuring opportunities for those already here.

The Government of Canada has announced a new policy set to take effect later in 2025. Under this policy, if a passport is not issued within 30 business days, the full application fee will be refunded to the applicant. To qualify for this guarantee, the application must be complete and may be submitted in person, by mail, or online.

Canada’s Agri-Food Pilot officially closed to new applications as of February 13, 2025, after reaching its annual cap of 1,010 applicants. Those who submitted applications before this date will continue to have them processed.

The military is making major change to its recruitment policy.

On October 22, the 5th Express Entry draw of the month targeted the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), inviting 400 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 539. This draw followed immediately after a PNP draw on October 21, creating a back-to-back sequence featuring different streams.

Canada's Finance Minister, Chrystia Freeland, introduced Bill C-56, the Affordable Housing and Groceries Act, with two main components: 

As of 10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on March 31, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has opened applications for its Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots (HCWP).

The inventory across all lines of business has progressed as follows since July 2021:

As of May 31, 2025, IRCC reported 802,000 applications in its backlog, marking a 5.5% increase from April's 760,200. This is the first monthly rise since October 2024.