The Canadian government has announced significant changes to its temporary residence programs to better manage the increasing number of temporary residents and ensure the integrity of its immigration system.
“Today, we announced changes to Canada’s temporary residence programs to better manage the volume of temporary residents, uphold the integrity of our immigration system, and protect vulnerable people,” stated Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada.
The changes include reducing the intake cap for international student study permits by 10% starting in 2025, from 485,000 to 437,000, with the cap maintained through 2026. Stricter eligibility requirements for work permits will also be introduced to align with Canada’s evolving economic and humanitarian needs.
Key Reforms:
– Post-Graduation Work Permit Programme: More closely tied to labour market demands
– Work Permit Eligibility: Restricted to spouses of master’s degree students enrolled in programs lasting at least 16 months, and spouses of foreign workers in managerial or professional roles, or in sectors facing labour shortages
– Asylum System Integrity: New measures include partial visa requirements for Mexican nationals and enhanced fraud detection mechanisms
These changes are part of a broader strategy to balance Canada’s immigration policies with the country’s shifting demographic and labour needs. The government aims to maintain a sustainable immigration system while addressing workforce and population growth responsibly.
According to Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, “The reality is that not everyone who wants to come to Canada will be able to—just like not everyone who wants to stay in Canada will be able to. We are taking action to strengthen our temporary residence programs and roll out a more comprehensive immigration plan to meet the demands of today’s changing landscape.”
The Canadian government had previously announced its intention to impose a national cap to control international student intake in January 2022. These new measures continue those efforts to ensure a sustainable immigration system.