Canada’s population growth has slowed down due to fewer temporary residents (such as international students and foreign workers). The country’s total population now stands at 41.5 million people.
Why is Canada’s Population Growth Slowing?
Since December 2023, the Canadian government has introduced new immigration policies to control the number of temporary residents (TRs). The goal is to reduce housing shortages and improve affordability by limiting new international student and work permits.
Changes in Temporary Resident Numbers
Canada’s temporary resident population increased from 2.7 million in early 2024 to 3.02 million by January 1, 2025. However, this increase (291,165 new TRs) is much smaller than the increase seen in 2023.
Key Statistics:
- Study permit holders decreased by 32,643
- Work permit holders decreased by 18,435
- Asylum seekers and protected persons increased by 25,774 (reaching a record 457,285 people)
- 28,341 TRs left Canada in the last quarter of 2024
How Do Different Provinces Compare?
Population Decrease in Atlantic Canada
- Newfoundland & Labrador: -301 TRs
- Prince Edward Island: -21 TRs
- Nova Scotia: -50 TRs
- New Brunswick: No loss in population
Population Growth in Other Provinces
- Alberta: +0.6%
- Saskatchewan & Manitoba: +0.3%
- Yukon & Nunavut: +0.4%
- Northwest Territories: +0.3%
Why is the Government Reducing Temporary Residents?
The main reasons behind these changes include:
- Housing shortages: Fewer TRs means less demand for housing.
- Affordability concerns: With fewer newcomers, rental prices and living costs may stabilize.
- Labour market balance: Prioritizing permanent residents and citizens for jobs.
New Immigration Rules Implemented
To achieve these goals, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced these changes:
For International Students:
- A cap on study permit approvals
- Higher financial proof requirements for students
- New Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules, restricting work permits based on study field and language skills
For Foreign Workers:
- Stricter work permit rules (Spousal Open Work Permits, family Open Work Permits)
- Higher wage requirements for Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- Paused Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) for low-wage jobs in cities with high unemployment
Other Changes:
- Tougher entry rules for Mexican nationals
- Stricter Intra-Company Transfer requirements
Why Immigration is Still Important for Canada
Even though TR numbers are being controlled, immigration remains crucial for Canada’s future. The country faces two big challenges:
- Aging population – Many Canadians are retiring, reducing the workforce and increasing healthcare and pension costs.
- Low birth rate – Fewer babies are born, meaning fewer future workers.
How Immigration Helps:
- Provides workers for industries like healthcare and construction
- Boosts tax revenue to support social services
- Helps prevent economic slowdowns and recessions
At the announcement of the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, former Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized that immigration fuels Canada’s economic growth.
1. Will it be harder to get a study permit for Canada now? Yes, Canada has introduced a cap on study permits and higher financial proof requirements, making it tougher for international students.
2. Can I still apply for a work permit after graduation? It depends on your field of study and language skills. Some graduates may no longer qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
3. Is Canada stopping immigration altogether? No, Canada is still accepting immigrants, but they are focusing more on permanent residents rather than temporary ones.
4. Will housing become cheaper due to these changes? It’s possible, as fewer temporary residents might reduce demand for rental homes and lower rent prices in some cities.
5. Which jobs are still in demand in Canada? Fields like healthcare, trades, construction, and technology still have high demand for workers.
6. How does this affect permanent residency (PR) applications? Canada is still accepting PR applications, but they might prioritize specific professions and reduce pathways for temporary residents.
Final Thoughts
Canada is shifting its immigration policies to focus on permanent residents instead of temporary residents. While this may slow down population growth, it aims to improve housing affordability and job availability. However, immigration remains vital for Canada’s economy, workforce, and future development.
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