Canada is undertaking bold initiatives to reform its immigration policies, potentially impacting millions

In a sweeping overhaul of its immigration strategy, the Canadian government has unveiled a series of measures aimed at curtailing the influx of temporary residents into the country while refocusing on permanent immigration pathways.

This strategic shift, announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, reflects a concerted effort to address pressing issues such as housing shortages and strained public services.

Canada, once known for its open-door policy towards temporary residents, is now aiming to trim down their numbers significantly over the next three years. With 2.5 million temporary residents accounting for 6.2% of the population in 2023, the government intends to reduce this figure to 5% by 2026. This move comes in response to mounting concerns over the impact of temporary residents on various aspects of Canadian life.

The latest policy announcement is part of a broader set of reforms that have been rolled out recently, signaling a shift towards a more selective immigration approach.

Among these changes are adjustments to key immigration programs:

Restricting Post-Graduation Work Permit Opportunities

Effective September 2024, the government will tighten the reins on the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Starting September 1, 2024, international students in public-private partnership or "curriculum licensing agreement" programs will no longer be eligible for the PGWP. This measure aims to strike a balance between accommodating international students and safeguarding opportunities for Canadian residents.

Temporarily Halting the Self-Employed Program

The Self-Employed Person Program, a route to permanent residence for individuals with expertise in cultural or athletic fields, has been put on hold pending review till 2026. As the program undergoes scrutiny, no new applications are being accepted, signaling a potential overhaul in its structure and criteria.

Caps on the Startup Visa Program

In a bid to manage the flow of immigrant entrepreneurs, the government has capped the number of spots available under the Startup Visa program at 2,500 per year, down from the previous limit of 5,000.

In addition, as of April 30, 2024, the number of business proposals that each designated organization (venture capital funds, angel investor groups, business incubators) can submit annually for the Startup Visa program is limited to 10.

Rising Refusal Rates

We have noted a concerning trend of increased refusal rates across various immigration streams, posing challenges for prospective applicants. From temporary resident visas to work permits and permanent residency applications, a stricter vetting process has made entry into Canada more arduous for many.

Looking ahead, additional reforms are anticipated as the government strives to strike a delicate balance between fostering economic growth and preserving the integrity of its social services. Prospective measures may include further restrictions on temporary foreign worker positions, heightened requirements for study and work permit applications, and an enhanced focus on permanent immigration channels.

In light of the complexities surrounding current circumstances, it's crucial to ensure you're equipped with the right guidance. We urge you to consider scheduling a consultation with us via our website www.handoo.legal. This will allow us to work together in devising a comprehensive strategy tailored to your goals of attainting permanent residency in Canada. Your peace of mind and successful navigation through these challenges are our utmost priorities.