Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Immigration Targets Lowered to Address Housing and Service Pressures
Lena Metlege Diab Appointed as New Immigration Minister Amid Cabinet Reshuffle
On This Page You Will Find:
- An overview of Canada's revised immigration targets for 2025–2027
- Details on the recent Express Entry draws and program changes
- Information about the new Immigration Minister, Lena Metlege Diab
- Updates on international student permit caps and Quebec's immigration moratorium
Immigration Targets Lowered to Address Housing and Service Pressures
In response to mounting concerns over housing shortages and strain on public services, the Canadian government has revised its immigration targets downward. The 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan now sets the permanent resident admissions at 395,000 for 2025, decreasing to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027. This marks a significant reduction from the previously planned 500,000 annual admissions.
Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the need for "sustainable levels" of immigration to balance economic growth with the capacity of housing, healthcare, and other social services. The adjustments aim to alleviate the pressures on infrastructure while still addressing labor market needs.
Express Entry Program Sees Targeted Draws
The Express Entry system has experienced notable changes in 2025. All-program draws have been paused, with the focus shifting to category-based selections. As of May 2, 2025, IRCC has issued 33,404 invitations, primarily targeting candidates with provincial nominations, Canadian work experience, or proficiency in French.
On May 12, 2025, IRCC conducted a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, issuing 511 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 706. These targeted draws reflect the government's strategy to align immigration with specific labor market demands.
Lena Metlege Diab Appointed as New Immigration Minister Amid Cabinet Reshuffle
Following the federal election on April 28, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a significant cabinet reshuffle. Lena Metlege Diab was appointed as the new Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship on May 13, 2025, succeeding Rachel Bendayan. Diab, a seasoned politician from Halifax, brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served in various capacities within the Nova Scotia provincial government.
International Student Permit Caps and Quebec's Immigration Moratorium
The federal government has continued its efforts to manage the influx of international students. In 2025, Canada will issue 437,000 study permits, a 10% reduction from the previous year. Applicants are now required to submit a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter, a measure extended to master's and post-doctoral students to ensure compliance with federal caps.
In Quebec, the provincial government announced a moratorium until June 30, 2025, on two popular permanent immigration programs: the Regular Skilled Worker Program and the graduate stream of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). The decision aims to manage the surge in applications and address the province's capacity to integrate new immigrants effectively.
Conclusion:
These developments signify Canada's ongoing efforts to balance immigration with economic needs and societal capacities. Prospective immigrants and stakeholders are advised to stay informed about these changes to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.
