With close to five million temporary permits set to expire by the end of 2025, Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, informed the Commons immigration committee earlier this week that officials expect most permit holders to depart the country voluntarily, according to recent reports.
Conservative MP Tom Kmiec pressed Immigration Minister Marc Miller about the 4.9 million temporary visa holders whose permits are set to expire, questioning how the government plans to ensure their departure. In response, Miller stated that a significant number of visa holders are anticipated to leave voluntarily, while the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) will focus on enforcing immigration laws against those who overstay. Kmiec raised concerns about the 766,000 study permits that are due to expire by December 2025, questioning whether the CBSA would be able to track all of them.Miller explained that certain students may opt to renew their permits or apply for post-graduate work permits, offering options for them to remain in Canada for an extended period.
Reforms in the Immigration System
The Trudeau government has announced substantial reductions in the intake of both permanent and temporary residents over the next three years as part of its updated policy. These adjustments come amidst increasing public scrutiny, particularly with elections on the horizon. Under the revised immigration levels plan, the target for permanent residents will decrease from 500,000 to 395,000 by 2025, marking a 21% reduction.
The influx of temporary workers and international students is also set to decline under the new measures. By 2026, the number of temporary foreign workers is projected to decrease by more than 40%, while the target for international students will be reduced by 10%. These changes aim to curb Canada’s population growth, giving the country’s infrastructure time to address the rising demand for housing, healthcare, and social services.
Impact on Economy and Society
Trudeau highlighted that temporary foreign workers have become an essential component of Canada’s workforce. However, the surge in immigration, especially in the post-pandemic era, has put significant strain on the country’s housing and social infrastructure. The newly introduced immigration cap seeks to strike a balance between the economy’s demand for labor and communities’ capacity to support this growth.
Major Updates to the Immigration Plan
Permanent Residents : The goal for new permanent residents will be reduced from 500,000 to 395,000 by 2025.
Temporary Residents : The number of temporary foreign workers is expected to fall by more than 40% by 2026, while the target for international students will be reduced by 10%
Economic Adjustments : The updated policy aims to alleviate pressure on housing, healthcare, and social services, allowing communities the time needed to adapt to the growing demand driven by immigration.
Planning to Move to Canada? Understand the Difference Between Visas and Permits
Prepare in Advance
It’s essential to understand the difference between a visa and a permit for anyone intending to visit, work, or study in Canada, as each document provides different rights and comes with its own set of responsibilities.
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