Rather than increasing immigration targets, the Liberals plan to stabilize them at fewer than 1% of Canada’s total population after 2027. For example, annual permanent resident targets will reduce to 365,000 by 2027, down from 485,000 in 2024. This more predictable approach can benefit applicants by creating a less competitive, more streamlined application environment.

The Liberals promise to revamp the Global Skills Strategy to attract highly skilled professionals in key industries such as tech, construction, and healthcare. In addition, they aim to accelerate the recognition of foreign credentials—a major barrier that often leaves skilled newcomers underemployed. These reforms will help immigrants transition more quickly into jobs that match their experience.

To promote linguistic and regional diversity, the Liberal government has set a goal for 12% of all immigration outside Quebec to be francophone by 2029. This move will open up more pathways and resources for French-speaking immigrants, especially in provinces like Ontario and New Brunswick that aim to grow their bilingual communities.

The Liberals also emphasize improving settlement supports, such as access to affordable housing, public healthcare, and job readiness training. These services are especially critical as Canada welcomes newcomers into smaller cities and rural areas, where integration resources may previously have been limited.

Slowing immigration numbers may ease pressure on infrastructure, but it could hurt Canada's long-term economic growth. According to the Bank of Canada, immigration has been a key driver of labor market expansion and GDP. Lower admissions may reduce Canada’s ability to fill critical skill gaps in aging industries.

The Liberals plan to reduce the proportion of temporary residents to less than 5% of the total population by the end of 2027. This includes foreign workers, international students, and other short-term residents. While it may reduce strain on housing and services, it also limits pathways for people hoping to gain Canadian experience and eventually apply for permanent residency.

Policy changes have already begun tightening access for international students and their families. As of 2025:

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  Spouses of international students can only apply for open work permits if the student is enrolled in a master's, doctoral, or professional degree program.

  
  


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  Study permit caps remain in place, limiting intake by province.
  These moves may discourage some international applicants and reduce access to post-graduation work opportunities.

  
  

The 2025 Liberal victory marks a shift in Canadian immigration—from rapid growth to strategic refinement. The emphasis is on quality, sustainability, and integration, not simply numbers. While this could make the system more predictable and supportive in the long term, it also means newcomers will need to be better informed and more prepared than ever.

At Helpgram, we’re here to help you adapt to these changes—whether it’s through free chats with experienced volunteers or private meetings with certified immigration advisors. The path forward may be shifting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.