What’s Changing in Canadian Immigration Under PM Mark Carney?

Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has introduced a major shift in immigration policy to deal with rising pressure on housing, healthcare, and jobs. While Canada still welcomes newcomers, the system will now be much more selective and controlled.

🔍 Key Changes Explained with Examples

1️⃣ Lower Permanent Residency (PR) Targets

Before: Canada planned to welcome 500,000 PRs yearly
Now: The numbers are being reduced to:

• 395,000 in 2025
• 380,000 in 2026
• 365,000 in 2027

➡️Example: A Pakistani student in Canada hoping to apply for PR after study will face more competition and longer waiting times, as fewer PR spots will be available.

2️⃣ Temporary Residents Will Be Cut

This includes international students, work permit holders, and spouses of students.

• Canada wants to reduce temporary residents from 7.25% to below 5% of its population.
• More strict visa caps and conditions are being introduced.

➡️Example: If a Pakistani student applies for a study visa in late 2025, there will be fewer spots available, and visa rejection chances may increase due to the cap.

3️⃣ Tighter Rules for Student & Work Visas

• Stricter approval criteria
• Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) may be restricted or removed
• Study permit limits will make it more competitive to get into Canadian institutions

➡️Example: A Pakistani student bringing their spouse may no longer be able to apply for a SOWP, and might have to study alone in Canada.

4️⃣ Transition to PR Will Be Possible — But Selective

• Those already in Canada may have better chances of getting PR through transition pathways (especially if in-demand or French-speaking).

➡️Example: A Pakistani student already studying in Canada with good grades and work experience may still be able to stay, but must meet stricter PR criteria.

5️⃣ Francophone Immigration Increase

• Canada wants more French-speaking immigrants, especially outside Quebec.

➡️Example: Pakistani students with French language skills may have a higher chance of acceptance or PR eligibility.

6️⃣ Fewer Study Permit Approvals from High-Risk Countries

• Canada has already rejected over 2 million visa applications.
• 50,000+ international students (including from Pakistan, Nigeria, Ghana) got permits but didn’t show up at schools.

➡️Example: Canada may see Pakistan as a high-risk country, which could lead to tighter scrutiny or lower approval rates for new applications.