Canada's new immigration rules may lead to departure of millions; 5 million permits set to expire in 2025
Canada's new immigration rules may lead to departure of millions; 5 million permits set to expire in 2025
Canada's Immigration Minister Marc Miller has introduced significant changes to the country's immigration policies, which are expected to impact a large number of workers, including many Indians. The new rules could potentially force millions to leave the country as approximately five million permits are set to expire by the end of 2025.
Impact of the New Rules
The updated immigration policies might pose challenges for foreign nationals in Canada, particularly for Indians. Unless these individuals apply for permanent residency or renew their permits, they will have no option but to leave Canada by December 2025. Minister Miller informed the Commons immigration committee that while many are expected to depart voluntarily, the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) will ensure those who overstay comply with immigration laws.
Key Updates
The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced in October a reduction in the number of new permanent residents from 500,000 to 395,000 in 2025 and 380,000 in 2026. The target for 2027 is set at 365,000. This strategy aims to "pause population growth in the short term to achieve well-managed, sustainable growth in the long term," according to the government's news release. The reduced targets include international students and foreign workers already in Canada seeking permanent residency.
A report by the Economic Times highlighted that this decrease in permanent residencies represents a 21% drop, and a reduction in the issuance of permanent and temporary residency permits will result in a 40% decrease in the number of international students coming to Canada.
Implications for Indians
Canada is a preferred destination for many Indians, with data from the Ministry of External Affairs indicating that 1,016,274 Indians currently reside in the country. The Indian community in Canada is employed in diverse fields, including executive roles, engineering, technical positions, and scientific research.
The reduction in temporary foreign worker permits could make it more challenging for Indian nationals on temporary visas to renew or extend their residency. Additionally, the expiration of around 766,000 study permits by December 2025, as noted by Minister Miller, could significantly affect Indian students in Canada.
The new immigration rules in Canada are set to have a profound impact on many foreign nationals, particularly the Indian community. With the expiration of millions of permits in 2025, those affected must act swiftly to secure their residency status or prepare to leave the country.
