November 8, 2024
The Canadian government has announced a new immigration levels plan for 2025 to 2027. In this plan, the previous goal of admitting 500,000 permanent residents annually has been reduced, providing greater clarity on the future direction of Canadian immigration. Although this adjustment has sparked discussion, Canada still plans to admit significantly more immigrants compared to 2019 and 2020.
With the recent adjustment to permanent residency intake numbers, Canada is rebalancing its labor market and demographics. This change aims to sustain immigration policy while easing pressure on social infrastructure. As a result, applicants with the skills and experience Canada values will be increasingly prioritized, making thorough preparation more essential than ever.
Trends in Canada’s Immigration Intake and New Targets
Let’s start by comparing intake numbers from the past few years with the new plan.
In the new strategy, the following targets have been set:
Although the target has been partially lowered, intake numbers remain high, with a strong emphasis on the following priorities:
Priority is given to applicants already working in Canada. By 2025, over 40% of Express Entry slots are expected to be allocated to residents within Canada. This shift expands permanent residency opportunities for those already employed in the country.
Targeted draws will continue for specific fields, including healthcare, IT, and French language proficiency. This allows applicants with over six months of experience in these fields to have a greater chance of receiving invitations for permanent residency—even if they are not currently in such roles, provided they have held them within the last three years. Moving forward, applicants with relevant skills and experience in these high-demand areas will continue to be prioritized.
French language proficiency
Healthcare
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Skilled Trades
Transportation
Agriculture, and Agri-Food Related
Check if Your Previous Job Falls Under Priority Occupations
Use this link to see if your previous work qualifies as a priority occupation. Applicants in eligible fields and French speakers have an advantage in the application process.
If applying for permanent residency through Express Entry proves difficult, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can be a more accessible alternative for immigration.
Rather than focusing solely on cities like Vancouver or Toronto, being open to obtaining permanent residency in other provinces or cities is a key factor for success.
If you’re considering studying in Canada and looking to eventually immigrate, it may be worth studying in a province where applying for permanent residency is easier.
Additionally, if you’re planning to work in Canada, narrowing your job search to regions or provinces where permanent residency is more attainable could be beneficial.
A common question we receive is, “Which provinces are easiest for applying for permanent residency?” Currently, 11 provinces have PNP programs. It’s important to carefully review the requirements of each province’s program to see if you qualify.
Search keywords: [Province Name] PNP.
For those considering immigration to Canada, it is crucial to research which regions and occupations offer opportunities for permanent residency applications, and to prepare thoroughly. Proper planning is a key factor for success, and focusing on industries with high demand in Canada can increase your chances of obtaining permanent residency. Additionally, since immigration rules frequently change, staying updated with the latest information is essential.
Related Articles
2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan
Notice – Supplementary Information for the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan
Yumi Ueda, LLB 【Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant】
埼玉県出身。法学部卒業。2003年カナダに移住。ブリティッシュコロンビア大学(UBC)移民法プログラム修了。カナダの様々な移民コンサルタント・弁護士事務所にて勤務。2007年より、大手法律事務所・Davis LLP(2015年よりDLA Piper LLPに統合)に勤務。2009年、カナダ政府公認移民コンサルンタントの国家試験に合格。2016年に移民コンサルタント事務所、YuPass Canada Immigration Inc.を設立。これまでに個人・企業を含め、世界28か国1,000人以上のビザ取得をサポート。Canadian Association Of Professional Immigration Consultants会員。
Originally from Saitama, Japan and immigrated to Canada in 2003. Graduated from the Immigration Practitioner program at University of British Columbia in 2005. Worked at an immigration division of Davis LLP (integrated to the world’s largest law firm DLA Piper) from 2007 to 2016. In 2009, passed the national exam of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC), and became a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant. Established YuPass Canada Immigration Inc. in 2016. Has experience with assisting over 1,000 customers from 28 countries. Member of Canadian Association Of Professional Immigration Consultants.
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