The Canadian government, under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is set to introduce new immigration restrictions beginning in 2025, targeting a reduction in the intake of international students and stricter regulations for foreign workers.
This move aims to address the growing strain on Canada’s housing and public services caused by rapid population growth.
During a press briefing in Ottawa, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced that Canada will cut international student permits by 10% in 2025, with further reductions continuing through 2026. By 2026, this would represent a 36% drop from the levels reported in 2023.
The changes come amid reports from Universities Canada, which noted a significant drop in foreign student applications, resulting in missed targets for this year.
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The government’s new regulations are designed to manage the sharp rise in temporary residents, including international students, temporary workers, and asylum seekers—a surge that has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister Miller emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable immigration system, stating, “The reality is that not everyone who wants to come to Canada will be able to — just like not everyone who wants to stay in Canada will be able to.”
Canada initially benefited from strong immigration in its post-pandemic recovery, with a growing population cushioning the economic impact of high interest rates. However, the country has added nearly three million people over the past three years, putting significant pressure on housing and public services. As a result, Trudeau’s immigration policies have come under increasing scrutiny, contributing to a dip in his popularity.
In March, the government set a target to reduce the proportion of temporary residents to 5% within three years, but the figure has since risen to 6.8%. These new immigration measures are aimed at reversing that trend while ensuring Canada’s immigration system remains manageable.
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