Canada is making significant changes to its temporary residence programs to manage the influx of temporary residents and maintain system integrity. The government is reducing the intake cap for international student study permits by 10% for 2025 and implementing stricter eligibility requirements for work permits. These adjustments aim to align immigration policies with economic and humanitarian needs while ensuring a sustainable and effective system.
The changes include reducing the intake cap for international student study permits from 485,000 to 437,000 for 2025 and updating the Post-Graduation Work Permit Programme to better suit immigration and labor market needs. Work permits will be limited to spouses of master’s degree students with programs lasting at least 16 months and spouses of foreign workers in management or professional roles or sectors with labor shortages.
Additionally, Canada revealed plans to decrease the number of temporary foreign workers it welcomes, aiming to reduce the proportion of temporary residents from 6.5% to 5% of the population by 2026. These reforms to the International Student Programme and work permit eligibility are intended to address economic pressures and enhance system integrity.
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, emphasized the importance of managing temporary resident arrivals, upholding system integrity, and protecting vulnerable individuals. Minister of Employment, Workforce Development, and Official Languages, Randy Boissonnault, highlighted the program’s focus on prioritizing Canadian workers to meet the economy’s needs.
The changes aim to strengthen the immigration system, adapt to evolving needs, and responsibly grow the country. The proposed reduction in temporary residents and adjustments to programs will be reflected in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan. Graduates from public college programs will still be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, contingent on meeting language proficiency requirements and program criteria.
In conclusion, Canada is taking steps to ensure the immigration system’s integrity, meet economic demands, and support the country’s growth. Additional information on the announced measures will be available on the official website soon.