The Future of Immigration to Canada Under Mark Carney’s Leadership
With the victory of Mark Carney and the Liberal Party in the 2025 federal election, Canada’s immigration policy is on the verge of a fundamental transformation. While economic challenges, the housing crisis, and increasing pressure on public infrastructure dominated the campaign debates, Carney has pledged to align immigration levels with the country’s real capacities.
Why Does Canada’s Immigration System Need Reform?
In recent years, the uncontrolled growth of temporary residents, international students, and foreign workers—particularly in urban areas—has led to widespread public concern. Many Canadian citizens view immigration as a major contributing factor to housing shortages, strain on healthcare services, and rising competition in the job market. Simultaneously, immigrants have expressed frustration over a lack of transparency, abrupt policy changes, and prolonged processing times.
As of early 2025, Canada’s temporary resident population had surpassed 3 million, representing 7.25% of the country’s total population. Meanwhile, more than 2 million immigration applications—ranging from temporary and permanent residency to citizenship—remained in the processing queue.
The New Government’s Reform Plan: Sustainable and Targeted Immigration
As a well-respected economist and the newly elected Prime Minister, Mark Carney aims to base immigration decisions on real-time data and align them with the country’s economic and infrastructure capacity. His proposed measures include:
- Reducing the share of temporary residents to below 5% of the population by the end of 2027;
- Capping international student admissions based on regional housing and employment capacity;
- Increasing oversight of educational institutions and employers;
- Revising the Express Entry points system to give greater weight to Canadian work and education experience;
- Enhancing efforts to attract French-speaking immigrants outside of Quebec.
The Key Role of New Immigration Minister Rachel Bendayan
Rachel Bendayan, a prominent lawyer and Member of Parliament for Montreal, has been appointed as the new Minister of Immigration. She is expected to adopt a legally grounded and structured approach in line with Carney’s policy framework. Her priorities include:
- Tighter regulation of study and work permits;
- Streamlining permanent residency pathways for individuals already residing in Canada;
- Improving pre-arrival recognition of foreign academic and professional credentials.
Challenges Ahead and the Need for Long-Term Vision
Carney and his team will need to navigate several complex challenges, including technical issues with digital immigration portals, staffing shortages at IRCC, and a lack of continuity due to frequent changes in immigration ministers. Experts stress the importance of policy stability and long-term planning to ensure the effectiveness of any reforms.
Meanwhile, a targeted reduction in temporary immigration and a focus on economic migration may improve the social and professional integration of newcomers—an area where the current system has often fallen short.
A Message to Aspiring Immigrants
Although Canada’s immigration policies are undergoing revision and becoming more targeted, the path remains open and promising for those who act with knowledge, skills, and a well-prepared plan. Canada has always valued immigrants who contribute to the nation’s future through resilience and dedication. If you are ready to succeed, these changes represent not a barrier—but an opportunity to thrive and secure your place in a dynamic and inclusive society.
Final Words
In the complex journey of immigration, informed decisions and professional guidance are essential to achieving success.
The expert team at Uniland Immigration is ready to support and accompany you at every step of the way, with up-to-date knowledge and practical experience.
Sources & References:
- The Star – “Carney inherits an immigration system that’s losing public support.”
- Immigration.ca – “What the Liberals have in store for Canada’s immigration policy.”
- Immigration.ca – “Mark Carney Wins Canadian Election: What It Means for Immigration.”
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