Latest Announcement regarding a significant recalibration of immigration policies from Prime Minister Mark Carney

A new era of immigration balance is underway in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney, leading the Liberal government, has announced a significant recalibration of immigration policies aimed at easing pressure on the country’s strained public infrastructure while still embracing skilled newcomers.

In his first press conference since taking office, Carney emphasized that “Canada remains open and welcoming to immigrants,” but made it clear that immigration levels must align with the nation’s capacity in housing, healthcare, and employment.

📉 Gradual Reduction in Permanent Residency Admissions

The federal government plans to gradually reduce permanent residency admissions over the next three years as part of its current Immigration Levels Plan (2025–2027):

• 2025: 395,000

• 2026: 380,000

• 2027: 365,000

This adjustment keeps intake below 1% of Canada’s population annually — a strategic move to bring post-pandemic immigration levels back to a more “sustainable” pace. These targets were initially set under former Immigration Minister Marc Miller and are now being continued by the Carney government.

The key goal is to reduce the burden on housing, healthcare, and other public services for both newcomers and long-term residents.

🚫 Stricter Limits on Temporary Residents

As of now, over 3 million temporary residents (including international students and foreign workers) live in Canada — more than 7.2% of the total population. The new target is to lower this to 5% or less by 2027.

To achieve this, the government plans to:

• Limit student visas

• Tighten eligibility for post-graduate work permits

• Suspend open work permits for spouses of international students

However, for those already in Canada, the government aims to offer more streamlined pathways to permanent residency or encourage a natural transition out of the country once their permits expire.

“We need to expand housing and better understand the surge of immigration during COVID before increasing numbers again,” said Carney. “These measures will help ensure that Canadians have secure housing and access to essential public services.”

🇫🇷 Supporting Francophone Immigration Outside Quebec

The government also announced efforts to boost French-speaking immigration outside of Quebec to help revitalize smaller Francophone communities and address labor shortages.

Targets for Francophone immigration are set to grow as follows:

• 2025: 8.5%

• 2026: 9.5%

• 2027: 10%

• Goal by 2029: 12%

This will support cultural diversity and the vitality of minority language communities across the country.

🚀 Welcoming Global Talent and High-Skilled Workers

Canada will revamp its Global Skills Strategy to help domestic companies hire top global talent faster — with work permits processed in as little as two weeks.

Additional initiatives will focus on:

• Attracting high-growth startups and entrepreneurs

• Welcoming skilled professionals from the U.S.

• Simplifying foreign credential recognition in collaboration with provinces and territories

🌐 A Shift Toward Smart Growth

Mark Carney’s immigration approach signals a shift toward quality over quantity. While Canada will remain a global leader in attracting immigrants, the focus will now be on ensuring long-term sustainability, economic contribution, and integration success.

What do you think of Canada’s new immigration strategy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Latest Announcement regarding a significant recalibration of immigration policies from Prime Minister Mark Carney