The Canadian government is introducing key policy changes aimed at balancing immigration levels, responding to labour market demands, and protecting the integrity of the immigration system. Recent changes will impact temporary residents, international students, and the post-graduation work permit system. These measures reflect Canada’s effort to adapt to new economic conditions and respond to global migration challenges.
Reduced Temporary Resident Numbers and Enhanced Integrity Measures
The government aims to lower the number of temporary residents from 6.5% of Canada’s total population to 5% by 2026. This adjustment will be outlined in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, expected by November 1, 2024. To meet this goal, Canada plans to:
- Introduce a 10% reduction in study permit approvals for 2025, capping the number of permits at 437,000, down from the 2024 target of 485,000. The intake cap for 2026 will stabilize at the 2025 level, preventing further increases in study permits issued.
- Adjust the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program to align with immigration priorities and labour market requirements. PGWPs will be granted for up to three years only to graduates of public colleges in fields related to long-term occupational shortages.
- Implement language proficiency standards for PGWP applicants starting November 1, 2024. University graduates will need a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in either English or French, while college graduates will need a CLB level 5.
- Limit work permit eligibility to spouses of master’s degree students enrolled in programs lasting at least 16 months. Similarly, work permit eligibility for spouses of foreign workers will be restricted to those in management, professional occupations, or sectors facing labour shortages.
In addition, the government will strictly enforce compliance among employers utilizing the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP), reinforcing the labour market impact assessment (LMIA) process to prevent misuse.
Enhancing Study Permit and Asylum Systems
Updated Study Permit and Intake Cap Requirements:
The intake cap for study permits will be lowered for 2025 and then stabilized for 2026, including master’s and doctoral students. To accommodate these students while recognizing their contribution to the Canadian labour market, approximately 12% of allocation spaces will be reserved for them. However, they will now need to provide an attestation letter from a provincial or territorial authority. The cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants was updated on January 1, 2024, to reflect the true expenses of living in Canada and to mitigate student vulnerability and exploitation.
Asylum System and Visa Integrity:
Budget 2024 proposes $743.5 million over five years and an ongoing $159.5 million to stabilize and maintain the integrity of Canada’s asylum system. The country is taking additional steps to manage the increasing asylum claims, influenced by the rise in global displacement. Measures include:
- Implementing partial visa requirements for Mexican nationals.
- Improving claims processing while ensuring the fairness of the system, following the 2024 improvements.
- Reviewing visa decision-making tools to aid officers in detecting fraudulent activities and minimizing non-genuine visitors.
- Considering further actions to strengthen visa integrity and uphold humanitarian responsibilities.
Canada’s recent policy changes reflect its ongoing effort to balance economic growth, immigration demands, and the integrity of its immigration system. However, these adjustments present challenges for prospective immigrants and temporary residents. Navigating the new requirements for study permits, work permits, and PGWP eligibility can be complex. To ease this process, individuals may benefit from consulting an immigration consultant for tailored advice, preparation of applications, and professional representation. With the right support, applicants can better navigate Canada’s evolving immigration landscape and enhance their chances of success.
