Millions of immigrants might have to leave Canada next year

As nearly as five million temporary permits are set to expire by the end of 2025, Canadian immigration officials anticipate that most holders will leave the country voluntarily, Immigration Minister Marc Miller told the Commons immigration committee earlier this week, as per reports.

Conservative MP Tom Kmiec questioned Immigration Minister Marc Miller about the 4.9 million temporary visa holders whose permits are set to expire, asking how the government will ensure they leave the country. Miller responded that many visa holders are expected to depart voluntarily, with the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) working to enforce immigration laws against those who overstay. Kmiec also raised concerns about the 766,000 study permits expiring by December 2025, asking if CBSA would track them all. Miller clarified that some students may renew their permits or apply for post-graduate work permits, providing options for staying in Canada longer.

Changes in the Immigration System

As part of the new policy, the Trudeau government has introduced significant reductions in the number of both permanent and temporary residents entering Canada over the next three years. These changes come as the government faces mounting scrutiny, especially with elections approaching next year. According to the new immigration levels plan, the target for permanent residents will be reduced from 500,000 to 395,000 in 2025, a 21% decrease.


The number of temporary workers and international students will also see reductions. By 2026, the number of temporary foreign workers is expected to drop by over 40%, and the target for international students will decrease by 10%. These moves are designed to slow the growth of Canada's population and allow the country's infrastructure to catch up with the increased demand for housing, healthcare, and social services.

Economic and Social Implications

Trudeau explained that temporary foreign workers had become a significant part of the Canadian workforce. However, with the rapid influx of immigrants, particularly in the post-pandemic period, Canada's housing and social infrastructure were struggling to keep up. The new immigration cap aims to balance the economy's need for workers with the ability of communities to accommodate this growth.

Key Changes in the Immigration Plan

Permanent Residents: The target for new permanent residents will decrease from 500,000 to 395,000 in 2025.

Temporary Residents: By 2026, the number of temporary foreign workers will drop by over 40%, and international students will see a 10% decrease.

Economic Adjustments: The new policy will help ease the strain on housing, healthcare, and social services, giving communities time to adjust to the increased demand caused by immigration.