Maple News reports that Canada welcomed 184,370 new permanent residents in 2020, marking a significant decline in immigration levels due to global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This figure represents the lowest number of new immigrants admitted to Canada in over two decades, dating back to 1998 when just over 174,000 newcomers arrived.
The drop came in sharp contrast to Canada’s original plan. In March 2020, Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino reaffirmed the nation’s intent to welcome 341,000 immigrants that year — matching the 2019 target. However, days later, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau imposed strict travel restrictions as Canada began its pandemic response, severely limiting cross-border movement.
According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), immigration levels began falling around the time travel restrictions were implemented. Despite efforts to keep the immigration system running through remote processing and virtual services, total arrivals diminished significantly.
Yet, Canada’s long-term immigration vision remains unchanged. The federal government continues to treat immigration as a vital pillar of post-pandemic economic recovery. In October 2020, Canada unveiled an ambitious Immigration Levels Plan for 2021–2023, aiming to welcome over 400,000 new permanent residents annually — the highest targets in the country’s history.
To adapt to current global circumstances, IRCC has focused on inviting candidates already inside Canada, primarily through the Express Entry system and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). Quebec is also operating its own immigration streams to retain and attract skilled newcomers. Furthermore, exemptions have allowed certain groups — including close family members of citizens and permanent residents — to enter the country during travel bans.
Despite major logistics challenges, Canada’s immigration departments have continued processing both new and pending applications. This dual-track effort aims to reduce backlogs while preparing for an immigration system rebound once restrictions ease further.
Immigration Minister Mendicino has expressed confidence that Canada will achieve its future immigration goals, citing the adaptability of Canada’s immigration infrastructure and the strategic use of domestic talent pools to meet labor and demographic needs.
Canada’s resilience in maintaining immigration as a national priority reflects its commitment to population growth, labor market sustainability, and economic revitalization in the post-pandemic era.