Maple News reports that Canada’s federal immigration authorities are considering major adjustments to their permanent residency intake, according to Immigration Minister Marc Miller. In an interview with CTV News on August 26, Miller revealed that the upcoming Immigration Levels Plan may feature substantial changes to how Canada manages long-term immigration, with “all options on the table.”
The Minister emphasized that any changes would go beyond superficial tweaks, describing the upcoming adjustments as “significant, not cosmetic.” One of the primary areas under review is the distribution among immigration categories. Currently, about 60% of new permanent residents fall under the economic immigration stream—a ratio Miller acknowledges is unusually high compared to other developed nations.
Miller confirmed that while adjustments are being considered, the government aims to avoid overcorrection. During the COVID-19 pandemic, immigration played a critical role in preserving economic stability, he noted. As such, any policy revisions will be made in a “thoughtful fashion.”
Each year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) releases an Immigration Levels Plan, outlining the targeted number of permanent residents Canada seeks to admit over a three-year period. This plan helps shape policy and guides immigration system resources. For the first time, the upcoming plan will also include levels for temporary residents, illustrating the federal government’s broader strategy shift.
The move comes as public sentiment toward immigration has cooled. Multiple surveys from 2023 show a decline in support, largely driven by concerns over housing affordability and strained infrastructure. Responding to these pressures, the IRCC has already implemented a series of policy changes aimed at reshaping both temporary and permanent resident flows.
Among the measures already in place: a cap on international student study permits, plans to prioritize in-Canada permanent residence draws, and restrictions on the hiring of low-wage temporary foreign workers in areas facing unemployment rates above 6%.
In his recent comments, Minister Miller noted that adjustments to the International Student Program are still ongoing and part of a “total package” of reforms. He also indicated that more policy announcements can be expected in the fall season.
These anticipated changes reflect Canada’s evolving immigration strategy as it balances economic growth, labor market needs, and public sentiment. Maple News will continue to provide updates as more details become available.