Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has addressed concerns over the increasing influx of temporary immigrants into Canada, emphasizing the need to bring the situation “under control.” Speaking at a housing announcement in Dartmouth, N.S., Trudeau highlighted the substantial growth in the numbers of temporary foreign workers and international students, which he stated has surpassed the country’s capacity for absorption.
Trudeau pointed out that temporary immigrants constituted 2% of Canada’s population in 2017, a figure that has now escalated to 7.5%. He underscored the strain this surge places on mental health resources for international students and its impact on wage depression in certain sectors due to increased reliance on temporary foreign workers.
Acknowledging the need for a balanced approach to immigration, Trudeau affirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining levels of permanent residency while advocating for stricter control over temporary immigration. He expressed a desire to reduce the proportion of temporary residents to 5% of Canada’s population over the next three years, emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth in immigration.
In alignment with this stance, Immigration Minister Marc Miller previously announced targets to cap student visa admissions at 360,000 permits, representing a 35% decrease from 2023 levels. These measures aim to recalibrate the temporary admissions system, ensuring its long-term sustainability alongside continued efforts to welcome new permanent residents.