Does New Government Mean New Immigration Rules in Canada?

On April 28, 2025, Canada elected Mark Carney as its new Liberal government Prime Minister. Does this mean you can expect new immigration rules in Canada because of this change? Canada’s immigration system is recognized as one of the most welcoming in the world. With the new Liberal government, you can expect new rules and slight changes to Canada’s immigration policy. However, any new immigration rules and changes will ensure they benefit the economy and jobs. The new Liberal government will focus on balancing its approach while maintaining Canada’s reputation as a welcoming nation.

The immigration policy changes reflect both opportunities and challenges for immigrants. Prospective immigrants must stay informed about key changes and adapt their plans. From adjustments to permanent residency admission levels to temporary resident restrictions, navigating Canada’s immigration system today requires careful planning. Discover what Canada’s new Liberal government will mean for those immigrating to Canada.

New Immigration Rules in Canada and Changes to Existing Rules

The previous Liberal government, under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, introduced several changes to Canada’s immigration system in response to housing challenges, labour market demands, and demographics. The new government and new Immigration Minister, Rachel Bendayan, will focus on the following changes:

1. Stabilizing Permanent Resident Admissions

Unlike previous years, when Canada steadily increased its permanent resident (PR) targets, the Liberal government reduced admission levels in October 2024. The change would balance population growth with infrastructure demands and ensure cities could support newcomers with housing, healthcare, social services, and jobs.

This new immigration rule will balance population growth with infrastructure demands to ensure Canada can support newcomers. The plan calls to stabilize permanent admissions at less than 1% of Canada’s population beyond 2027. This approach aligns with immigration targets set in October 2024:

2. Reducing the Number of Temporary Residents

The government plans to gradually reduce temporary resident levels, affecting international students and temporary foreign workers. This change will ease housing pressures and prevent labour market imbalances. However, industries reliant on temporary workers, such as hospitality and construction, may face workforce shortages.

The new Liberal government expects existing temporary residents to transition to permanent residents, reducing the number of temporary residents. Immigration caps will likely remain in place until Canada expands its current housing levels. Building housing is a key priority for Mark Carney and the new Liberal government.

International Students and temporary workers may find that these changes will make it more difficult to secure permanent residency.

3. Increasing Francophone Immigration

The new strategy seeks to increase francophone immigration outside Quebec to strengthen Canada’s bilingual identity to 12% by 2029.

The Liberal government’s francophone immigration policy intends to grow French-speaking communities in Ontario, New Brunswick, and Manitoba. policy. This immigration rule provides opportunities for francophone immigrants to settle outside of Quebec.

4. Introducing Tighter International Student Rules

To prevent abuse of student visa programs, new immigration rules will place enrollment caps for certain schools. With many post-secondary institutions over-enrolling international students, it added pressure on rental markets. New immigration rules in Canada will cap international student permits according to regional housing and employment capacity.

How to Navigate New Immigration Rules in Canada

For individuals thinking about immigrating to Canada, here are some suggestions to navigate the immigration rules changes:

1. Prioritize Permanent Residency Pathways

Given the focus on stabilizing permanent resident numbers, opt for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or Family Sponsorship routes where possible.

Improve factors that can increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Criteria that can lead to a higher score include work experience, education, and language skills.

2. Monitor Temporary Resident Requirements

Those seeking temporary work permits or student visas must be aware of potential restrictions or caps. Exploring alternatives like job-specific work permits or employer sponsorships may provide better entry routes.

3. Consider Regional Immigration Options

With the government encouraging settlement outside major cities, exploring regional programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) can increase immigration chances.

4. Prepare for Housing and Employment Challenges

Newcomers should research affordable housing areas and job prospects before arriving to avoid financial strain. Take advantage of newcomer settlement services to help you navigate your successful transition to life in Canada!

With a new Liberal government, immigration rules and policies are shifting. However, there are still opportunities to navigate the changes. Staying informed and adapting to new policies will allow prospective immigrants to build successful futures in Canada.