Canada is set to implement limits on the influx of temporary residents for the first time in its history, announced Immigration Minister Marc Miller on Thursday. The plan involves reducing the number of temporary residents over the next three years, with the initial cap slated to take effect in September.
These restrictions will apply to various groups, including international students, foreign workers, and asylum claimants. Minister Miller cited concerns about affordability and housing crises as reasons for revising immigration targets.
Under the new policy, Canada aims to decrease the proportion of temporary residents to 5% of the population, down from the current 6.2%, to ensure sustainable growth. Minister Miller emphasized the necessity of making the immigration system more efficient in light of a significant rise in temporary residents in recent years.
Statistics Canada data revealed a substantial increase in temporary residents, rising from nearly one million in 2021 to 2.5 million in 2024. Minister Miller acknowledged Canada’s reliance on temporary foreign workers to address labor shortages but stressed the need for changes to enhance system efficiency.
Exceptions to the restrictions will be made for workers in the construction and healthcare sectors, which are experiencing labor shortages. However, these exceptions are temporary, with the policy set for review by 31 August.
Criticism of the announcement arose from advocates for temporary foreign workers, who voiced concerns about their precarious working conditions and their perceived scapegoating for housing and affordability issues.
Canada’s recent reinstatement of visa requirements for Mexican nationals due to a surge in asylum seekers from Mexico is also noted. Earlier limits set by Minister Miller on the number of international students admitted to Canada have drawn criticism from some post-secondary institutions, fearing a loss of revenue and deterrence for prospective students.
These changes signify a significant policy shift for Canada, historically known for its open immigration policies to address labor market needs and demographic challenges. The implementation of caps comes amidst mounting pressure on the Trudeau government to tackle the increasingly unaffordable housing market, with average home prices soaring to C$700,000 and Canadian rents increasing by 22% over the past two years.