New data was released on September 27, 2023, by Statistics Canada, which highlighted the growth of temporary residents in the country. According to the data, in one year, there has been a significant increase of nearly 700,000 temporary residents, and it is anticipated to surpass 2.5 million by the end of 2023. These temporary residents who contribute to the country’s evolving demographic landscape are:
- Individuals on study permits
- Work permits
- Asylum claimants
Challenges in Transitioning to Permanent Residency
There is uncertainty surrounding the transition of Canadian temporary residents to Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), which is a major concern. Even though about a million holders of work permits are trying for permanent residency through Canada’s economic immigration options, there are only a limited number of PR spots.
This has created quite a bit of competition, as the annual target for economic immigration, which was set at 266,210 for 2023, will be increasing to 301,000 by 2025. As the temporary residents vie for PR spots along with international talent, the competition gets tougher.
Implications for Canada’s Immigration Landscape
Canada’s overall population has also been impacted by the surge of temporary residents, which surpassed the mark of 40 million in July 2023. However, many international educational consultants have advised students to aim for other developed countries instead of Canada due to the challenges faced by temporary residents when transitioning to PR status.
Canada’s economic decline and the unpredictability of permanent residency options have contributed to this shift. Although Canada is welcoming a large number of temporary residents, the route to getting permanent residency is still complex for many.
The change in Canada’s immigration policies plays an important role in shaping the country’s future.
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