Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed that the federal government is planning significant changes to Canada’s permanent resident levels, aiming for more than just superficial adjustments. Speaking during the Liberal cabinet retreat in Halifax, Miller stressed that the upcoming revisions will be substantial and necessary to address current challenges, including housing affordability and the growing population.
Miller indicated that the government is exploring a variety of options to present to Prime Minister Trudeau and the cabinet. “These are not cosmetic changes for public opinion,” Miller stated. “We’re considering real, impactful adjustments to ensure Canada’s immigration policy remains sustainable and beneficial.”
The potential changes could involve reducing or pausing certain immigration streams. Currently, 60% of Canada’s immigration is economically driven—a rate Miller noted as unprecedented compared to similar nations. The government is now reassessing whether this level of growth should continue or be adjusted.
This policy shift comes as the government faces increasing pressure to manage the country’s rapid population growth, which surpassed 41 million in early 2024, driven largely by a surge in temporary residents. Earlier this year, Miller introduced a cap on international student permits, reducing approvals by 35% to better align with Canada’s resources.
Prime Minister Trudeau also signaled that further changes to immigration policy are expected this fall, potentially marking a significant reversal from the government’s previous stance. Last year, the government set ambitious targets to welcome 485,000 permanent residents in 2024, rising to 500,000 by 2026—a sharp increase from 296,000 in 2016.
As these new policies take shape, Miller underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that immigration remains a positive and sustainable force for Canada’s future.