Maple News reports that Canada welcomed 21,105 new permanent residents in April 2021—its lowest monthly total so far this year. The decline marks the second consecutive monthly drop in newcomer admissions after a strong start to the year.
According to the latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), January 2021 saw 24,680 newcomers, while February recorded 23,395. In March, that number dipped to 22,425, and further decreased in April. The reasons behind this ongoing decrease remain unclear, especially given Canada’s ambitious immigration plans.
The federal government is currently operating under its 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan, which aims to welcome at least 401,000 new immigrants annually. This target—one of the highest in Canada’s history—is part of a post-pandemic strategy to boost economic growth and replenish the workforce.
In 2020, Canada had a goal of admitting 341,000 immigrants but managed to bring in only 184,000 due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions and operational slowdowns. April 2020 was particularly impacted, with fewer than 5,000 newcomers—a low not seen since World War II.
Although Canada’s current pace puts the 2021 target at risk, the coming months may offer a turnaround. Historically, immigration numbers tend to rise in the summer, as families aim to settle before the new school year and hiring cycles ramp up.
Optimism has also grown with recent public health improvements. As COVID-19 vaccination rates increase and case numbers decline, the Canadian government has started to discuss easing border restrictions. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has indicated that reopening will occur gradually, beginning with fully vaccinated travelers.
Health Minister Patty Hajdu has suggested that Canada could begin relaxing quarantine requirements for exempt travelers as early as July. These changes are expected to facilitate the entry of thousands of approved immigrants who have been stuck abroad due to pandemic-related barriers, including holders of Confirmations of Permanent Residence (COPRs).
While challenges remain, these developments could help Canada regain momentum in reaching its immigration goals for 2021 and beyond. Maple News will continue monitoring policy updates and demographic trends as Canada navigates the path toward post-pandemic recovery.