Trudeau Prioritizes Canadians, Announces Cutback on Foreign Temporary Workers

A month after limiting study permits for international students, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his government will cut immigration numbers starting in 2025. He also plans to enforce strict rules requiring companies to justify why they can’t hire local workers.

“We’re going to have fewer temporary foreign workers in Canada,” Trudeau tweeted on Wednesday. “We’re bringing in stricter rules for companies to prove why they can’t hire Canadian workers first.” This decision will make it harder for immigrants to secure jobs and settle in the country.

According to a government source quoted by Reuters, Canada will admit 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027, down from 485,000 in 2024. The immigration numbers will drop by about 30,000 in 2025, with the total falling to approximately 300,000.

Canada has traditionally welcomed immigrants to support its economy, but in recent years, the Trudeau government has faced public pressure due to rising housing costs. More immigrants have contributed to the housing crisis, increasing demand and driving prices up, especially as interest rates have risen over the past two years.

Polls indicate that an increasing number of Canadians believe the country has too many immigrants. This issue is expected to play a significant role in the federal election set for October 2025.

Trudeau’s decision to cut immigration numbers comes after his government announced a reduction in study permits for international students. This year, Canada will grant 35% fewer permits and has pledged to crack down on those exploiting the immigration system to take advantage of students.

The number of international student permits will be further reduced by 10% in 2025. Canada plans to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, down from 485,000 in 2024. This number will remain the same in 2026. In 2023, the country approved over 509,000 permits, with 175,920 already approved in the first seven months of 2024.

Trudeau’s Liberal Party has seen a drop in public opinion polls, with growing dissatisfaction over unchecked immigration and its strain on housing and social services. Many believe these issues will lead to a loss of power for Trudeau in the next election.