New Immigration Rules That May Force Millions to Leave Canada | Canada Immigration 2025

Canada’s recent updates to its immigration policies could create significant challenges for many Indians living in the country. The current permits held by foreign nationals are set to expire by the end of 2025, which could force millions to leave. Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced important changes to Canada’s immigration rules that will likely affect a vast number of workers, especially those from India.

The Impending Permit Expirations

Approximately five million permits are due to expire in December 2025. With these expirations, foreign nationals may have no choice but to leave Canada unless they apply for permanent residency or renew their permits. Recently, Miller addressed the Commons immigration committee, stating that many individuals are likely to depart voluntarily.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) will monitor compliance with immigration laws for those who remain beyond their allowed duration.

Key Updates to Immigration Policies

In an announcement made in October, the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada revealed plans to decrease the number of new permanent residents it intends to accept. The target will drop from 500,000 to 395,000 in 2025, followed by a further reduction to 380,000 in 2026. For 2027, the goal has been set at 365,000.

According to the government’s news release, these adjustments aim to “pause population growth in the short term” to achieve “well-managed, sustainable growth in the long term.” The revised targets will also impact temporary residents—international students and foreign workers currently residing in Canada—who will need to apply for permanent residency.

Implications of Reduced Permanent Residency

A report from the Economic Times highlights that this decrease in the number of accepted permanent residents will result in a 21% drop. Additionally, the reduction in issuing both permanent and temporary residency permits could lead to a 40% decrease in the number of international students entering Canada.

Impact on the Indian Community

Canada has long been a favored destination for Indians seeking to migrate. Data from the Ministry of External Affairs indicates that over 1 million Indians currently reside in Canada. The Indian diaspora works in various sectors, including executive roles, engineering, technical positions, and scientific research.

The initiative to limit the number of temporary foreign workers may significantly affect Indian nationals holding temporary visas. This change could complicate their ability to renew or extend their residency. Moreover, a substantial number of Indian students are currently studying in Canada. Miller indicated that around 766,000 study permits are set to expire by December 2025.

The Path Forward for Affected Individuals

Given these changes, many Indians in Canada may need to reassess their immigration strategies. Those on temporary permits should consider applying for permanent residency as soon as possible. This proactive approach will help secure their status before the deadlines.

Additionally, international students should explore pathways to transition from study permits to permanent residency. Understanding the new guidelines and navigating the application process will be crucial for their continued stay.

Further Thoughts

Canada’s updated immigration rules present significant challenges for many foreign nationals, particularly Indians. The impending expiration of millions of permits by the end of 2025 creates a pressing need for individuals to act. With reduced targets for permanent residency and stricter rules for temporary workers, the landscape of immigration in Canada is changing rapidly.

As the situation evolves, it is essential for affected individuals to stay informed and seek guidance on their options. By taking proactive steps, they can navigate these changes and secure their future in Canada.

Canada’s Immigration Stance Amid U.S. Policy Changes

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has stated that the Canadian government is prepared to collaborate with the United States. This cooperation comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to implement his immigration policies. However, Miller emphasizes that anyone wishing to enter Canada must do so legally.

Ottawa faces mounting pressure from opposition MPs, the Premier of Quebec, and immigration lawyers. This pressure has increased since the recent U.S. election, as concerns rise that Trump’s plans to deport millions could lead to a surge of asylum seekers entering Canada. Miller explained to The Globe and Mail that claims regarding the incoming president’s policies impacting Canada are mere speculation.

“We will always act in the national interest. Any measures we undertake will ensure our borders remain secure. We want individuals to come to Canada via regular pathways. The reality is that not everyone will be welcomed here,” he stated.

Trump’s Campaign Promises and Their Potential Impact

During his campaign, Trump vowed to carry out the largest deportation of undocumented migrants in U.S. history. Approximately 11 million individuals currently live in the U.S. without legal status.

Stephen Miller, known for his strict immigration views, is expected to serve as Trump’s deputy chief of policy. Recently, Tom Homan, the incoming border enforcement chief, indicated that the new administration would prioritize the deportation of undocumented migrants who pose security and public safety threats.

Quebec Premier François Legault and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet have voiced concerns about potential asylum seekers flooding into Quebec. They worry that individuals facing deportation in the U.S. could cross the border to claim asylum in Canada. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) informed *The Globe* that they have plans in place to handle an influx of migrants from the U.S.

On Monday, several immigration lawyers urged Ottawa to modify a policy that permits migrants fleeing the U.S. to claim asylum if they cross the border illegally and avoid authorities for two weeks.

In 2017, a wave of Haitians entered Canada from the U.S. after the Trump administration ended temporary protected status for Haitians. This shift led to a surge of asylum claims at the “irregular” Roxham Road border crossing in Quebec.

U.S. Policy Changes and Canadian Response

Following negotiations with the U.S., the Safe Third Country Agreement was revised, leading to the closure of Roxham Road in 2023. These changes tightened the rules but allowed individuals entering Canada illegally from the U.S. to file a refugee claim if they remained undiscovered for 14 days. Typically, those arriving from the U.S. at airports and regular border crossings are turned back.

Lawyers have warned that if Ottawa does not act swiftly to change this policy, record numbers of individuals facing deportation under Trump will attempt to reach Canada. These individuals could qualify for work permits and health care while their claims are processed.

Winnipeg immigration lawyer David Matas urged the government to engage with the Biden administration before Trump assumes office in January. He stated that the 14-day provision serves as an “incentive to traffickers” seeking to exploit the system.

The federal government has been temporarily accommodating asylum seekers in hotels, while shelters in urban areas struggle to provide enough beds.

Vancouver immigration lawyer Richard Kurland expressed concern about a potential surge in undocumented migrants attempting to flee deportation from the U.S. after the election. He urged Ottawa to eliminate incentives for illegal border crossings. He suggested altering the agreement to prevent individuals who enter Canada illegally from claiming asylum.

“President Trump will likely target criminals for removal, making this group particularly motivated to seek sanctuary in Canada,” he warned.