Maple News reports that Canada admitted 15,300 new permanent residents in November 2020, marking the third consecutive month with immigration levels around that figure. Although this reflects a slight rebound in arrivals compared to earlier in the year, total immigration numbers remain well below pre-pandemic norms due to continued global travel restrictions and public health measures.
Before the COVID-19 crisis, Canada typically welcomed between 25,000 and 35,000 newcomers each month. However, since tightening border controls in March 2020, monthly immigration figures have dropped significantly. The first 11 months of 2020 saw approximately 174,000 new immigrants, putting Canada on track to fall short of 200,000 for the year—a threshold not missed since 1999. In stark contrast, more than 341,000 new permanent residents arrived in 2019.
June 2020 was the strongest month during the pandemic in terms of immigration, with just over 19,000 arrivals. The subsequent months have gradually built up momentum, though numbers continue to trail historical averages.
Despite these setbacks, Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to high immigration levels. Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino reaffirmed this position in October 2020 by unveiling the 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan. The ambitious strategy aims to welcome over 400,000 new immigrants each year—the highest targets ever set in Canadian history. The majority of these newcomers, around 60%, are expected to arrive through economic streams like Express Entry.
Express Entry, Canada’s primary pathway for skilled workers, remains active. The federal government has conducted multiple rounds of invitations in early 2021, with additional draws anticipated in the coming weeks. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws have also resumed, with provinces like British Columbia and Saskatchewan already issuing invitations this year.
Meanwhile, Canada continues to combat a second wave of COVID-19. Rising cases have prompted renewed lockdowns and restrictions, including curfews in some regions. On the positive side, Canada has launched its largest-ever vaccination campaign, aiming to offer vaccines to all willing residents by September 2021.
Looking ahead, Canada’s immigration strategy appears both resilient and forward-looking—balancing public health priorities with a long-term vision to attract global talent and support economic recovery.