Canada is adjusting its immigration policies in 2025, but is the slowdown as drastic as expected? A new Desjardins report suggests otherwise. In this article, we break down the real impact of these changes, PEI’s immigration-driven growth, and a skilled worker’s success story in Ontario.
Canada is slowing its population growth—but not as sharply as initially announced. A new Desjardins report reveals that while the government aims to cut temporary immigration, the actual reduction is progressing slower than expected. Permanent residency remains a key focus, ensuring that skilled workers continue to find opportunities. Here’s how these changes impact companies, the economy, and future immigrants.
Key Takeaways
Temporary Immigration Drops: Canada reduces new work and study permits, but numbers remain high due to extensions.
Economic Impact: Labor shortages could worsen in key sectors like healthcare and construction.
PR Pathways Remain Open: Skilled workers still have strong opportunities, with permanent residency targets stable.
A recent report from Desjardins, published on February 6, 2025, highlights that Canada’s efforts to slow its population growth are taking effect, but not as quickly as planned. The number of new temporary residents is declining, yet overall numbers remain high due to extensions and slower departures. In Q3 2024, temporary residents made up 7.4% of the population, exceeding government targets to bring it below 5% over the next three years.
Permanent residency admissions have remained stable. The government set targets at 485,000 for 2024 and 395,000 for 2025, maintaining a steady flow of skilled immigrants. While fewer study and work permits are being issued, many existing residents are transitioning to permanent status. This shift reinforces Canada’s focus on retention rather than a continuous influx of new arrivals. For more details on how these policy shifts impact immigration, check out this analysis on Canada’s 2025-2027 immigration outlook.
For businesses, especially in construction, healthcare, and tech, a slowdown in immigration could intensify labor shortages. Many sectors already rely on temporary foreign workers, and a sudden reduction could impact productivity and economic growth. Employers may need to rethink hiring strategies and focus on retaining skilled workers.
Desjardins warns that a sharp reduction in temporary residents could create workforce gaps that take years to fill. However, a gradual transition toward permanent residency ensures companies can still access global talent. Programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) remain strong options for hiring long-term employees. Provinces have flexibility to prioritize skilled workers in fields where demand remains high.
While Canada is tightening its policies on temporary immigration, it continues to welcome skilled workers through permanent residency pathways. The demand for qualified professionals remains strong, and those with experience in high-demand fields will find ample opportunities to settle in Canada.
At the end of 2024, 7.5% of the population was composed of temporary residents, underscoring the challenge of reducing these numbers quickly. Given Canada’s aging population and economic needs, skilled immigration will continue to be a priority. Those considering immigration should focus on securing job offers, improving language skills, and exploring Express Entry or PNP pathways to maximize their chances.
Despite policy changes, Canada remains open to immigration—especially for skilled workers looking for permanent residency. If you’re considering your options, now is the time to align your profile with Canada’s evolving priorities. Find out how you fit into Canada’s immigration landscape with AskAïa today.
Prince Edward Island (PEI) is seeing rapid population growth, largely fueled by immigration. With new arrivals from China, India, and the Philippines, the province’s foreign-born population is expanding. This trend is not limited to urban centers—smaller communities like Cornwall are also benefiting from this demographic shift, strengthening local economies.
In 2013, Eric Byrne became one of the first permanent residents under Canada’s Federal Skilled Trades Program. Originally from Ireland, he secured certification in Ontario and joined University Plumbing and Heating in Toronto. His journey highlights how skilled immigrants fill labor shortages and contribute to Canada's economic growth.