Canada is embarking on a significant policy shift by setting limits on the number of temporary residents it admits, marking a historic first for the country. Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced plans to reduce the influx of temporary residents over the next three years, with the initial cap slated to be implemented in September.
The new policy will impact various categories of temporary residents, including international students, foreign workers, and asylum seekers. The move comes amidst concerns about affordability and housing shortages, prompting the government to revise immigration targets.
Under the plan, Canada aims to decrease the proportion of temporary residents to 5% of the population, down from the current 6.2%, in order to ensure sustainable growth. Minister Miller cited a notable surge in temporary residents in recent years, with their numbers reaching 2.5 million in 2024, up from one million in 2021.
While Canada relies on temporary foreign workers to address labor shortages, Minister Miller emphasized the need for efficiency improvements in the system. However, the country remains committed to its international obligations to provide refuge to those fleeing conflict and persecution.
The new policy will require some Canadian businesses to reduce their reliance on temporary foreign workers by May 1st, with exceptions granted to sectors experiencing labor shortages, such as construction and healthcare.
Despite the government’s rationale, the announcement has drawn criticism from advocates for temporary foreign workers, who argue that migrants often face precarious conditions and should not be scapegoated for housing affordability issues.
This policy shift follows other recent measures, including a cap on international student admissions, which has sparked concerns among post-secondary institutions about potential revenue losses and deterrence for prospective students.
These changes mark a departure from Canada’s traditional approach of open immigration to address workforce needs and underscore the government’s efforts to grapple with housing affordability challenges.