Canada’s New Immigration Strategy: A Shift Toward Balance and Sustainability

Prime Minister Mark Carney outlined a new direction for Canada’s immigration system—one focused on balance, sustainability, and long-term integration. Amid growing pressures on housing, healthcare, and infrastructure, Carney’s government aims to recalibrate the country’s approach to both temporary and permanent immigration.

Key Changes to Canada’s Immigration Plan

Caps on Temporary Residents
Temporary residents currently account for 7.25% of Canada’s population. By 2028, this will be reduced to under 5% through:

• Capping study permit applications
• Tightening Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility
• Ending Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs)

Lower Permanent Resident Targets
Annual permanent residency numbers will be reduced to:

• 395,000 in 2025
• 380,000 in 2026
• 365,000 in 2027

This is a notable drop from the previous goal of 500,000, aimed at easing strain on public services and housing.

Focus on Francophone Immigration Outside Quebec
To support French-speaking communities across the country, Canada will increase its francophone immigration targets:

• 8.5% in 2025
• 9.5% in 2026
• 10% in 2027
• Reaching 12% by 2029

Support for Skilled Workers
Carney pledged to revamp the Global Skills Strategy, which includes:

• Two-week work permit processing for in-demand roles
• Accelerated recognition of foreign credentials
• Closer collaboration with provinces to streamline skilled migration

Enhanced Border and Visa Controls
The plan also includes:

• Tighter visa screening
• Stronger border enforcement
• Expanded legal aid for asylum seekers

Conclusion

Canada’s new immigration framework reflects a decisive pivot from post-pandemic growth to stability and integration. While the country remains open to skilled talent and francophone newcomers, the pathway is becoming more selective and structured. For international students, foreign workers, and employers, adapting to this evolving landscape will be essential to navigating opportunities in Canada.

About Anywr

Anywr is a French international group specializing in the global talent mobility and international recruitment. The company supports businesses in the search and integration of international talent, offering a complete range of services from sourcing to settlement. Anywr has a network of over 300 consultants in 16 countries. A member of the FrenchTech 120, the group is now composed of nearly 900 employees worldwide, with 400 in France, serving the largest French and international groups. Anywr is an innovative and responsible company, committed to its communities, which puts its expertise and solutions at the service of social integration projects and diversity. ANYWR has adopted the status of a Mission-led Company (Loi Pacte) since June 2021.

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