In a recent development, Canada has announced that it will now establish annual targets for temporary residents, starting in the fall of 2024. This move aligns with the existing practice of setting targets for permanent residents, but with a specific focus on reducing the population of temporary residents by 5%.
What Does This Mean?
Setting annual targets for temporary residents means that Canada will have specific goals to manage and regulate the number of individuals entering the country on a temporary basis. These targets will be reviewed and adjusted periodically to ensure they align with the country’s economic and social needs.
What are the changes that will be implemented?
- As of May 1st, 2024, the validity period of an LMIA will now return to 6 months. Note, employers part of the Recognised Employer Pilot program will not be impacted by this change.
- As of May 1st 2024, only the construction and health care sectors will be allowed to have up to 30% of their workforce on low-wage TFWP work permits. Note, the cap exemption for agriculture sector and seasonal employers will remain unchanged.
Why the Focus on Reducing Temporary Residents?
The decision to decrease the population of temporary residents by 5% reflects Canada’s commitment to maintaining a balanced and sustainable immigration system. By reducing the number of temporary residents, the government aims to create more opportunities for permanent residents and ensure that the country’s resources are utilized effectively.
Additionally, this move may also address concerns about the potential exploitation of temporary workers and ensure that individuals who come to Canada on a temporary basis have a clear pathway to permanent residency if desired.
It’s important to note that this new policy will not affect individuals who are already in Canada as temporary residents. The targets will primarily apply to future applicants and will be implemented gradually over time.
By setting annual targets for temporary residents, Canada demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a well-managed and sustainable immigration system that benefits both temporary and permanent residents alike.
“Recently Canada’s temporary resident volume has increased significantly now reaching up to 2.5 million, or 6.2% of our population in 2023… We are targeting a decrease in our temporary resident population to 5% over the next 3 years,” said Immigration Minister Marc Miller. “We want every new family and resident to be set up for success and be able to access the services they need. Our ultimate goal is to ensure a well-managed, sustainable immigration system based on needs.”
