areeba iqbal
In a historic move, Canada is set to impose limits on the number of temporary residents it admits, a first in the country’s immigration policy. Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced the decision to reduce these numbers over the next three years, with the initial cap to be introduced in September. This change will affect international students, foreign workers, and asylum seekers, marking a significant shift in how Canada manages its temporary residency program.
Addressing Housing and Affordability Concerns
The decision comes in the wake of an ongoing affordability and housing crisis, prompting the government to reassess its immigration targets. Miller highlighted that the aim is to decrease the proportion of temporary residents from the current 6.2% of the population to 5%. This move, according to him, is crucial for ensuring “sustainable” growth in the influx of temporary residents.
Also read Australia’s Skills In-Demand Visa in 2024: An Overview
The Rising Number of Temporary Residents
Canada has witnessed a steep increase in the number of temporary residents, growing from nearly one million in 2021 to 2.5 million in 2024, as reported by Statistics Canada. This surge has brought to light the need for a more efficient system to manage the entry and stay of these residents. While temporary foreign workers play a vital role in filling the labor shortages across various sectors, Miller emphasized the necessity for changes to enhance the system’s efficiency.
Exemptions and Impacts on Businesses
The new policy mandates certain Canadian businesses to cut down on their dependency on temporary foreign workers by May 1. These businesses will also face a tighter timeframe to demonstrate that they couldn’t find a permanent resident or Canadian citizen to fill job vacancies. However, the construction and healthcare sectors, which are experiencing acute labor shortages, will be exempt from this rule until at least August 31.
Statistical Overview
In 2021, about 54% of temporary residents held a work permit, while international students represented 22%, and asylum seekers made up 15%. The remaining percentage includes individuals with a combination of permits or are family members of temporary residents.
Also read Big Update on Spousal Open Work Permit for International Students in Canada
Controversy and Criticism
The announcement has sparked criticism, especially from advocates for temporary foreign workers, who argue that migrants are being unfairly blamed for the country’s affordability and housing issues. This policy change also follows Canada’s decision to reinstate visa requirements for Mexican nationals and to reduce the number of international students by setting a cap that leads to a 35% decrease in approved study permits.
Economic and Educational Implications
This shift could have profound economic and educational implications. Over 800,000 foreign students were in Canada in 2022, a significant increase from a decade earlier. Some educational institutions fear that the cap on international students could discourage prospective students from choosing Canada, potentially leading to financial losses for these institutions.
Also read Discovering the PR Pathways: Visa Categories for Moving to Australia
Reflecting on Canada’s Immigration Policy
Historically, Canada has embraced open immigration policies to fill job vacancies and tackle the challenges of an aging workforce. However, the introduction of caps on temporary residents illustrates a pivotal change in approach as the Trudeau government seeks solutions to the country’s escalating housing market woes, with average home prices now at C$700,000 and rent increasing by 22% in the last two years.
As Canada navigates these changes, the balance between fulfilling international obligations, supporting its labor market, and addressing domestic challenges remains a complex task. The impact of these caps on Canada’s economy, its reputation as a welcoming destination for immigrants, and the overall social fabric will be closely watched in the years to come.