An Immigration Plan to Boost Canada’s Economy
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Introduction to Canada’s New Immigration Levels Plan
The Canadian economy has rebounded swiftly from the COVID-19 pandemic, outpacing many advanced economies. However, labor shortages are creating uncertainty for Canadian enterprises and employees.
On November 1, 2022, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, introduced Canada’s 2023–2025 Immigration Levels Plan. This strategy leverages immigration to assist businesses in finding workers and securing essential skills in key sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and technology.
Key Highlights of the 2023-2025 Immigration Plan
Canada welcomed over 405,000 newcomers last year, a record high. The government plans to continue this momentum by targeting 465,000 permanent residents in 2023, 485,000 in 2024, and 500,000 in 2025, with a focus on welcoming newcomers to smaller towns and rural regions.
Economic Growth and Labour Market Focus
- By 2025, over 60% of admissions will focus on economic growth.
- New Express Entry features will invite individuals with skills in deficit areas such as healthcare and STEM.
- Regional program expansions will address specific labor needs through initiatives like the Provincial Nominee Program.
- Family reunification will be accelerated, and 4.4% of new permanent residents outside Quebec will be Francophone.
- Support for those facing persecution will be enhanced through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot.
Regional economic immigration programs, such as the Provincial Nominee Program, are vital for sustainable national growth. The plan emphasizes year-over-year growth to aid provinces in attracting skilled newcomers to overcome regional labor shortages and demographic challenges.
Expert Opinions and Insights
“This year’s immigration levels plan will help businesses find necessary workers, contribute to long-term success, and fulfill commitments to vulnerable people fleeing violence and persecution.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Increased economic immigration is key to addressing labor availability nationwide. We look forward to collaborating with Minister Fraser to find solutions moving forward.”
– Sean Strickland, Executive Director of Canada’s Building Trades Union (CBTU)
Essential Facts About Canada’s Immigration Strategy
- The levels plan projects the number of permanent residents for admission each year, with targets for each immigration category.
- Immigration is responsible for nearly 100% of Canada’s labor force growth and is anticipated to account for all population growth by 2032.
- Canada’s aging demographic will shift the worker-to-retiree ratio from 7:1 fifty years ago to 2:1 by 2035.
- The 2021 Census revealed that nearly 25% of the population are or have been immigrants or permanent residents, the highest proportion among G7 nations.
- Over 1.3 million new immigrants settled in Canada from 2016 to 2021, a record for recent immigrants in a census.
This immigration plan strengthens Canada’s position as a top destination for global talent, fostering economic growth and fulfilling humanitarian commitments. Canada continues to modernize its immigration system to provide a streamlined and efficient experience.
For Further Information
- Infographic
- 2023‒2025 Immigration Levels Plan and Supplementary Information
- 2022 Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration
Contact Information
Media Inquiries:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
Why is Canada focusing on economic immigration?
Economic immigration is vital for addressing labor shortages and demographic challenges, supporting national economic growth.
How does the plan support family reunification?
The plan aims to reunite families more quickly, ensuring loved ones can be together in Canada.
What is the role of regional immigration programs?
Programs like the Provincial Nominee Program help address specific local labor needs, fostering regional economic growth.
How will the new Express Entry features work?
Express Entry will prioritize candidates with skills in high-demand sectors, streamlining the process to meet labor market needs.
Learn more about Canada’s immigration policies by exploring our immigration guide today.
