Canada’s recent immigration policy changes, unveiled by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, could compel millions of foreign nationals, including a significant number from India, to leave the country when their permits expire in the coming years.
Impact of Permit Expirations
Set to expire by December 2025, approximately five million existing permits present foreign nationals with a critical decision, either apply for permanent residency or renew their permits to continue residing in Canada. Without taking action, these international individuals may find themselves needing to exit the country.
Immigration Policy Updates
The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced in October a scaled-back acceptance plan for new permanent residents. The country aims to admit 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025—down from the previously targeted 500,000—with numbers further declining to 380,000 in 2026 and hitting 365,000 in 2027. The strategy emphasizes “pause population growth in the short term” to foster “well-managed, sustainable growth in the long term.” Consequently, those on temporary visas—including international students and workers—featuring prominently amongst applicants for permanent residency will confront more stringent processes.
Projected Influence on Indian Nationals
India maintains its position as one of Canada’s top sources for immigrants with over a million Indians currently living there. Among them are professionals across diverse fields such as engineering and science. The impending cuts in temporary work visas could pose challenges specifically to Indian nationals aiming for visa renewals or extensions.
Furthermore, Indian students facing permit expirations are abundant within this group; about 766,000 study permits will lapse by December 2025 under these new plans.
Conclusion
Canada’s shift in immigration policy reflects an effort towards sustainable population management but poses significant implications for many residents abroad. International communities contemplating life beyond temporary schemes must adapt swiftly amid these evolving regulations to retain seamless continuity of their journeys as part of Canadian society.
