Canada has announced its new Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027, bringing some notable changes for those seeking to settle in the country. While the permanent resident (PR) target has decreased to 395,000 for 2025, there remain substantial pathways for skilled workers, students, and temporary residents hoping to transition to permanent residency. This announcement reflects Canada’s evolving approach to balancing its workforce and population growth needs.
A Closer Look at Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
One positive highlight for current residents and workers is the continued support for Express Entry, which is not expected to see significant cuts. However, candidates interested in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) will need to stay updated, as this year’s plan indicates a substantial decrease in allocated PNP targets. As the PNP often serves as a pathway for candidates outside Canada, these reductions may shift focus more towards individuals with Canadian experience.
Key Changes in the Immigration Levels Plan:
- Express Entry Stability: The Express Entry program will remain a crucial channel for skilled immigration, with its targets largely unchanged. Within Express Entry, the new “In-Canada” subcategory focuses on Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates, providing a streamlined path for those already living and working in Canada.
- Category-Based Draw Adjustments: Some key occupational categories previously prioritized may no longer be featured, reflecting shifts in labor market demand. Applicants are encouraged to monitor changes closely, especially if they qualify through health, trades, or French-language proficiency pathways, which are receiving increased emphasis.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Reduction: The PNP has seen a significant 50% cut in its target numbers compared to the previous plan. For 2025, the allocation is set at 55,000 with no expected increase through 2027. This change may require applicants in provinces dependent on PNP streams to explore additional pathways, such as Express Entry, to achieve their immigration goals.
Temporary Residents: New Targets and Opportunities
For the first time, Canada’s immigration levels plan includes targets not only for permanent residents but also for temporary residents, including international students and foreign workers. This shift reflects the government’s March 2024 announcement, aiming to cap temporary residents to 5% of Canada’s total population by adjusting admissions in key programs.
Expected Targets for Temporary Residents:
- International Students: Canada plans to issue fewer study permits, targeting 305,900 students in 2025—a significant reduction from 2023 levels. This change may lead to increased competition for study permits and potentially more streamlined processes for students aiming to transition to PR.
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): TFWP admissions will be stabilized at 82,000 per year from 2025 to 2027. Although this represents a decrease of over 50% from 2023, it indicates a commitment to maintain a manageable level of temporary workers for high-demand occupations.
- International Mobility Program (IMP): The IMP will experience a sharp reduction, with a target of 285,750 individuals in 2025. Employers hiring foreign talent under this program may need to adjust hiring practices to account for fewer available work permits.
Why Has Canada Reduced Immigration Targets?
The recent changes stem from the government’s effort to balance immigration growth with available infrastructure and resources. Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, noted that some streams, like the International Student Program and TFWP, have become “overheated.” By moderating these numbers, Canada hopes to ensure more sustainable long-term integration of newcomers.
While permanent resident targets are lower than previous levels, they remain above pre-pandemic numbers. For context, Canada’s 2019-2021 immigration plan set PR targets up to 350,000 annually, showing that Canada remains committed to immigration, even if at moderated levels. With a population over 41 million, the 2025 PR target represents around 1% of Canada’s population—indicating that Canada remains highly welcoming compared to other G7 nations.
Breakdown of the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan
Permanent Residents Admissions Goals:
- 2025: 395,000 new PRs
- 2026: Slightly lower, maintaining a balanced flow of immigrants
- 2027: 365,000, reflecting a careful scaling approach focused primarily on economic migrants (62% of targets)
The plan also emphasizes the transition of temporary residents, with 82,980 expected to transition to PR in 2025, prioritizing workers in health, skilled trades, and French-speaking candidates.
Your Path to Canadian Immigration
Despite adjustments to target levels, Canada’s commitment to immigration remains strong. With the “In-Canada focus” and continued support for economic pathways, the plan provides viable routes for skilled individuals, particularly those already living and working in Canada.
Whether you’re a skilled worker, international student, or temporary resident, staying informed and prepared is essential to navigate Canada’s immigration process. Our team of experienced consultants is here to guide you through these changes, helping you determine the best strategy for your unique journey to Canada.
Contact us today to discuss your options and receive personalized advice on how to maximize your chances under Canada’s latest immigration levels plan. Start your journey towards a new life in Canada with the support of professionals who understand every detail of the process.
