In his first post-election press conference on May 2, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney introduced his government’s new immigration direction — a significant shift focused on stabilizing permanent immigration, capping temporary residents, and ensuring Canada’s infrastructure can support population growth.
Stabilizing Permanent Resident Admissions
The government plans to stabilize permanent resident numbers to less than 1% of Canada’s population annually after 2027.
The Immigration Levels Plan for 2025–2027 includes:
- 395,000 permanent residents in 2025
- 380,000 in 2026
- 365,000 in 2027
These numbers represent a reduction from the targets set under the previous immigration levels plan of 500,000, aiming to ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and social services, benefiting Canadian residents and newcomers.
Although initially set under the Trudeau government, Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that his administration would adhere to these targets.
Reducing Temporary Resident Numbers
The number of temporary residents—including international students, foreign workers, and others—has surged.
As of January 2025, approximately 3.02 million temporary residents accounted for around 7.25% of Canada’s total population. Under Carney’s new plan, this figure will be reduced to less than 5% by 2028.
Measures to achieve this include:
- Capping the number of study permit applications
- Tightening eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs)
- Ending Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs)
Carney clarified that while new applicants would face stricter entry conditions, temporary residents already in Canada would have new opportunities to transition to permanent residency.
Note: A number of these measures were already implemented under the Trudeau government.
Boosting Francophone Immigration
To support French-speaking communities outside Quebec, the federal government has pledged to increase the share of francophone immigration, with targets set at:
- 8.5% in 2025
- 9.5% in 2026
- 10% in 2027
The longer-term goal is to reach 12% by 2029. This commitment is part of a broader strategy to address demographic needs, promote bilingualism, and strengthen minority francophone regions across the country.
Supporting Economic Growth Through Skilled Immigration
Carney outlined plans to revamp the Global Skills Strategy to attract top international talent, enabling businesses to hire skilled foreign workers with expedited work permit processing times.
The government also aims to speed up the recognition of foreign qualifications through collaborations with provinces and territories.
Additionally, the government plans to modernize immigration systems, reduce processing delays, and enhance support for asylum seekers, including access to legal aid.
Carney also pledged to strengthen border controls, tighten visa screening, and collaborate closely with Quebec to manage regional immigration needs.
Housing and Economic Reforms
Alongside immigration policy changes, Carney unveiled new housing policies under the “Build Canada Homes” initiative. The government will invest $25 billion to support private developers in building new housing units and provide relief for first-time buyers by cutting the GST on new homes priced between $1 million and $1.5 million. Carney highlighted that this change could save first-time buyers up to $50,000.
Further relief will come from reduced development charges on multi-unit residential buildings, potentially saving up to $40,000 off the cost of a two-bedroom apartment in Toronto. The initiative also focuses on creating a domestic industry for modular and prefabricated housing to accelerate construction timelines and reduce environmental impacts.
Additionally, Carney announced plans to remove internal trade barriers by July 1, facilitating greater economic growth and infrastructure development across Canada.
What’s Next for Immigration in Canada?
The new plan marks a shift toward a more strategic immigration system, balancing the need for newcomers with the capacity of Canadian infrastructure.
With the government’s focus on housing and skilled labor, the next few years could bring significant changes to how Canada attracts, supports, and integrates its immigrants.
Planning to Study, Work, or Immigrate to Canada?
If you’re currently studying in Canada or planning to come as an international student, worker, or permanent resident — and you’re wondering how Prime Minister Carney’s proposed immigration plan might impact your future — we’re here to help you prepare.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our experienced immigration consultants to discuss how these potential changes could affect your study plans, work opportunities, or future permanent residency options.
Our team will assess your situation, answer your questions, and help you stay informed so you can make confident decisions — even before any new policies take effect.
Contact us today to book your personalized consultation and stay ahead of Canada’s evolving immigration landscape.
You can also visit our website for a free pre-assessment to explore your best options in advance.
The Team at Northern Connections Canada
