The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, has unveiled significant new measures aimed at managing the influx of temporary residents, particularly international students and foreign workers. These changes are part of a broader strategy to address labor shortages, safeguard the asylum system, and ensure that temporary residents are adequately supported during their stay in Canada.
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Reduction in Study Permits for 2025
Starting in 2025, Canada will reduce the intake cap for international student study permits by 10%, lowering the target from 485,000 in 2024 to 437,000. This decision responds to concerns about the strain on housing and public resources. The cap for 2026 will remain at the 2025 level to ensure better support for international students.
Updates to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program
Beginning in November 2024, new language proficiency requirements will be implemented for PGWP applicants. University graduates will need a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7, while college graduates will need a CLB level of 5. Furthermore, only graduates from fields linked to occupations in long-term shortage will be eligible for a PGWP of up to three years.
Changes to Work Permit Eligibility for Spouses of Foreign Students and Workers
New restrictions will apply to work permits for spouses of international students and foreign workers. Only spouses of master’s degree students in programs lasting at least 16 months will be eligible. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP) will issue work permits only to spouses of foreign workers in specific occupations.
Addressing the Growing Volume of Asylum Claims
With an increase in asylum claims due to global displacement, the Canadian government is enhancing its asylum system. Measures include partial visa requirements for Mexican nationals and improved claims processing to maintain the system’s integrity and efficiency.
A Broader Immigration Plan for Sustainable Growth
Minister Miller emphasized the importance of a sustainable immigration system that prioritizes Canadian workers while ensuring integrity. This involves carefully managing immigration volumes and addressing labour shortages through targeted work permits.
Budget 2024: Funding to Support the Asylum System
The government has proposed $743.5 million over five years in Budget 2024 to enhance the stability and integrity of the asylum system, ensuring Canada can uphold its humanitarian commitments.
What the Future Holds
Canada aims to reduce temporary residents to 5% of its total population by 2027, reflecting a careful approach to managing immigration volumes. The upcoming 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan will outline these new caps.
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These changes signify Canada’s commitment to a sustainable immigration system aligned with economic goals. As the government refines its immigration policies, these measures will support both temporary residents and the broader community.
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