
Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced plans on Thursday to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada over the next three years, starting with a cap set for September. The reduction will affect international students, foreign workers, and asylum claimants, aiming to address affordability and housing concerns. Canada aims to decrease the proportion of temporary residents to 5% of the population from the current 6.2%, ensuring sustainable growth. Minister Miller highlighted the recent surge in temporary residents and stressed the need for efficiency in the immigration system. While acknowledging global obligations, he emphasized the importance of an open dialogue about the impact of international migration on Canada’s future. Certain sectors like construction and healthcare, facing labor shortages, will have exceptions to the new policy. Critics, however, argue that temporary foreign workers are being unfairly targeted. Additionally, visa requirements for Mexican nationals have been reinstated due to a surge in asylum seekers. Earlier limitations on international student admissions have also sparked controversy, with concerns raised by educational institutions about potential revenue losses. These measures mark a departure from Canada’s historical reliance on open immigration to address workforce needs and demographic challenges.
