06/04/2025
Major Canadian immigration changes in 2025 🇨🇦
Here’s what you need to know if you’re applying soon…
1. Introduction of the Strong Borders Act
On June 4, 2025, the Canadian government introduced the Strong Borders Act, aiming to enhance the integrity of the immigration system. Key provisions include:
• Restricting certain asylum claims, particularly targeting individuals based on their mode and timing of entry into Canada.
• Addressing the influx of international students who may be seeking asylum improperly.
• Combating the illegal flow of fentanyl and enhancing border security measures.
2. Reduction in Immigration Targets
Canada plans to reduce its permanent resident admissions from 485,000 in 2024 to 395,000 in 2025, with further decreases to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027. This marks a significant shift from previous targets.
3. Scaling Back of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
The federal government has cut PNP admissions by about 50%, setting the target at 55,000 for each year from 2025 to 2027. This reduction may impact provinces that rely heavily on PNPs to address local labor shortages.
4. Increase in Federal High-Skilled Economic Immigration
Contrasting the PNP reductions, the government is increasing targets for federal high-skilled programs managed through Express Entry:
• 2025: 124,680
• 2026: 123,230
• 2027: 118,730
5. Emphasis on Francophone Immigration Outside Quebec
Canada aims to boost the proportion of French-speaking immigrants settling outside Quebec:
• 2025: 8.5%
• 2026: 9.5%
• 2027: 10%
6. Adjustments to Temporary Resident Programs
For the first time, Canada has set specific targets for temporary resident admissions:
• 2025: 673,650
• 2026: 516,600
• 2027: 543,600
Notably, the number of international students is expected to decrease significantly, with 305,900 admissions in 2025 compared to 682,889 in 2023.
7. Revisions to ‘Maintained Status’ Rules
As of May 28, 2025, IRCC implemented revised rules for “maintained status” concerning temporary residents who file multiple extension applications. These updates aim to clarify and manage how temporary residents maintain legal status while waiting for decisions on subsequent applications.
8. Facilitating Job Transitions for Foreign Workers
Effective May 27, 2025, a revised temporary public policy allows temporary foreign workers in Canada to change jobs more easily and begin new employment even before the full processing of their new work permit application is complete.
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