On October 24, the Canadian government announced a significant update to the Canada immigration target, introducing a 20% reduction in admissions for 2025. This adjustment in the Immigration Levels Plan reflects the government’s strategy to manage population growth while focusing on economic needs. The new Canada immigration target will impact both permanent resident (PR) and temporary resident (TR) admissions, with notable reductions in economic immigration programs and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Revised Immigration Canada Targets for 2025-2027

Under the revised Canada immigration target plan, permanent resident admissions will decline over the next three years:

  • 2025: 395,000 (reduced from the 485,000 planned in 2024 and 500,000 initially set for 2025)
  • 2026: 380,000
  • 2027: 365,000

This approach aligns with the goal to prioritize economic immigrants already residing in Canada, representing over 40% of the Canada immigration target for 2025.

Economic Immigration Changes and PNP Reduction

In line with the updated Canada immigration target, the focus will shift toward economic immigrants while reducing allocations in the Provincial Nominee Program:

  • PNP Reduction: The PNP will see a substantial decrease, with allocations cut by 50%, going from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000 in 2025. The target will stay at this reduced level through 2027.

These changes in the Canada immigration target for economic immigrants reflect the government’s approach to balancing population management with economic goals.

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Temporary Resident Adjustments in Canada’s New Plan

The revised Canada immigration target includes measures to decrease temporary resident numbers, reducing TR levels from 7% of the population to 5% by 2026. Key changes in this area include:

  • International Mobility Program (IMP): A sharp decline in work permits issued, from 285,750 in 2025 to 128,700 in 2026.
  • Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Tighter restrictions, particularly in regions with higher unemployment, with caps on low-wage stream work permits reduced to one year instead of two.

Implications for International Students and Work Permits

The Canada immigration target adjustments also encompass changes for international students, particularly in study permits and the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):

  • Cap on Study Permits: Study permits will be capped permanently at 360,000, a measure initially set as temporary in 2024.
  • New PGWP Requirements: Eligibility for PGWPs will now depend on studying in fields in demand, with added language benchmarks for graduates.

These changes further align the Canada immigration target with the objective of filling critical skill shortages.

Future Outlook on Canada’s Immigration Policy

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted immigration’s crucial role in Canada’s economic growth, emphasizing a balanced approach through revised immigration targets. This strategic update aims to manage population growth sustainably while reinforcing Canada’s economic resilience. For those asking, is it easy to move to Canada from Australia, the updated targets and various immigration pathways provide more opportunities for skilled workers and families looking to establish themselves in Canada.

How We Can Help

At Wild Mountain Immigration, we specialize in guiding employers through the evolving LMIA regulations. Our team of experienced immigration consultants can help you navigate the complexities of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, find alternative solutions under the International Mobility Program, and assist with permanent residency applications for your employees.

Contact us today for personalized advice and support to ensure your business stays compliant with the new LMIA rules while retaining top foreign talent.