Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Canada Unveils 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan: A Strategic Approach to Sustainable Growth
October 24, 2024—Ottawa—In a landmark move, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, announced the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan. This strategic initiative aims to temporarily pause population growth to pave the way for sustainable, well-managed long-term expansion. Notably, for the first time, the plan includes controlled targets for both temporary residents—such as international students and foreign workers—and permanent residents.
A Pillar of Economic Success
Immigration remains a cornerstone of Canada's economic prosperity. As the nation emerged from the pandemic, the demand for workers surged, outstripping the available supply. In response, Canada proactively attracted global talent to study and work, expediting their integration into the economy. This approach not only facilitated a swifter economic recovery but also played a crucial role in averting a recession, significantly bolstering Canada's workforce.
Addressing Evolving National Needs
In light of Canada's changing needs, the transitional levels plan aims to mitigate pressures on housing, infrastructure, and social services. This proactive approach ensures that, in the long run, immigration will continue to enhance both economic and social prosperity. The plan underscores a comprehensive strategy to welcome newcomers while maintaining the integrity of immigration programs and setting them up for success—reflecting Canadians' expectation of a well-managed immigration system.
Projected Population Dynamics
The 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan forecasts a slight population decline of 0.2% in both 2025 and 2026, with a rebound to 0.8% growth in 2027. These projections take into account reduced targets across various immigration streams over the next two years, alongside expected outflows of temporary residents, natural population changes, and other factors.
Revised Permanent Resident Targets
In response to public input, Canada is adjusting its permanent resident targets:
- 2025: Reduced from 500,000 to 395,000
- 2026: Reduced from 500,000 to 380,000
- 2027: Target set at 365,000
Additionally, the plan aims to decrease temporary resident volumes to 5% of Canada's population by the end of 2026. With recent reduction measures, the temporary population is expected to decrease significantly, as more residents transition to permanent status or leave Canada.
Temporary Population Adjustments
- 2025: Decrease by 445,901
- 2026: Decrease by 445,662
- 2027: Modest increase of 17,439
These reductions result from recent policy changes, including capping international students and tightening eligibility for temporary foreign workers. These measures are designed with long-term economic objectives, ensuring Canada continues to attract top-tier talent.
Aligning with Provincial and Territorial Capacities
The plan encourages collaboration among provinces, territories, and stakeholders to align capacities, facilitating sustainable population growth. Institutions are urged to play a proactive role in welcoming newcomers.
Key Measures and Focus Areas
Transitioning Temporary Residents
- More temporary residents already in Canada will transition to permanent status, representing over 40% of admissions in 2025. These individuals are skilled, educated, and integrated into Canadian society, supporting the workforce without additional strain on social services.
Economic Growth and Labour Markets
- Economic class admissions will comprise 61.7% of total permanent resident admissions by 2027, focusing on vital sectors such as health and trades.
Strengthening Francophone Communities
- Francophone immigration targets will increase progressively:
- 2025: 8.5%
- 2026: 9.5%
- 2027: 10%
Closing Remarks
Through this robust plan, Canada aims to ensure all residents, including
