Canada is set to reduce the number of temporary foreign workers it admits under new rules announced on Monday, signaling a shift in its immigration policy in response to a recent surge in population and rising unemployment.
The new regulations include reinstating a ban on temporary foreign worker permits for low-wage jobs in cities with an unemployment rate of six percent or higher. This change is part of a broader effort to ensure that immigration policies align with the current economic realities facing Canadians and the job market.
Canada has recently experienced its highest population growth in over 50 years, largely driven by immigration. As the population surpassed 40 million, the country also witnessed a rise in unemployment, which reached 6.4 percent.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized that migration rules must reflect the needs of the Canadian economy and job market. He also indicated that further measures could be implemented if necessary.
In addition to the rules announced in March that capped the number of temporary migrants, Canada will now allow 65,000 fewer temporary foreign workers per year. This cap has already reduced the share of temporary migrants in the population from 6.2 percent to five percent.
Previously, in response to labor shortages following the easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, Canada nearly doubled the number of temporary foreign workers admitted into the country, expanding the program to include sectors such as fast food, in addition to the agricultural industry, which traditionally relied on this workforce.
However, the rapid population growth and rising unemployment, coupled with increased pressure on housing and social services, have prompted the government to reassess and tighten its immigration policies.
