Why is IRCC Focusing on In-Canada Candidates?
Canada has been making adjustments to its immigration policies throughout 2024 to address domestic concerns, such as housing affordability and labor demands, while still meeting its annual immigration targets. Currently, around 7% of Canada’s population consists of non-permanent residents (NPRs), including international students and temporary workers. By 2026, Canada aims to reduce this proportion to 5%.
As part of this goal, IRCC wants to make it easier for qualified individuals already living and working in Canada to transition from temporary to permanent residency. This approach is not only efficient but helps stabilize the workforce without putting additional pressure on resources like housing.
Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has emphasized that supporting in-Canada candidates is a way to ease domestic pressures. According to Miller, “As part of our efforts for temporary residents to transition to permanent residency, we will have more domestic draws and ask provinces and territories in the Provincial Nominee Program to do the same with their allocations.” The Minister has advocated for increasing invitations to apply for permanent residency among this group to balance the needs of the economy with housing and affordability concerns.
What Does This Mean for Prospective Immigrants?
In practice, this shift means that Canada’s immigration system will prioritize individuals already contributing to Canada’s communities and workforce, supporting those who have begun building their lives here. Since July, the IRCC has actively invited candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) through Express Entry, a trend that is expected to continue.
For those considering a move to Canada, this plan underscores the value Canada places on candidates with existing ties to the country. Temporary work or study permits could serve as pathways to permanent residency, especially for those aiming to take advantage of the In-Canada Focus category.
Balancing Opportunity and Domestic Stability
By prioritizing candidates already in the country, IRCC aims to meet labor demands while managing the practicalities of housing and affordability for all residents. This initiative shows an approach to immigration that reflects both the need to meet economic targets and a commitment to support current residents.
Ultimately, Canada’s updated Immigration Levels Plan demonstrates a proactive step to balance population growth with domestic challenges. For those already in Canada, this plan sends an encouraging message that their contributions are valued and that pathways to permanent residency are becoming more accessible.
