The federal government has mandated provinces and territories to cut their economic immigration program spaces by 50% for 2025, igniting worries about significant impacts on labor markets and economic growth.
Provincial nominee programs (PNPs), utilized by all provinces and territories except Quebec and Nunavut, are facing these reductions. Saskatchewan, for example, will see its allocation drop to 3,625 spots—the lowest since 2009. Deputy Immigration Minister Drew Wilby expressed concerns over the lack of consultation before these cuts were announced, emphasizing the program’s critical role in economic immigration.
Ottawa’s revised immigration plan also aims to lower permanent resident targets to 395,000 in 2025, down from 485,000, with further reductions to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.
Affected provinces and territories, including Ontario, Alberta, and Yukon, have criticized the cuts, arguing they undermine economic growth and fail to address specific labor market needs. Yukon has postponed accepting its first cohort of PNPs this year, while New Brunswick faces challenges meeting employer demands in trades, education, and healthcare.
Immigration experts warn the reductions may lead to increased vulnerabilities for migrants and create challenges for smaller territories that depend on international talent pools. Critics argue the federal government is applying a one-size-fits-all approach, ignoring the unique realities of individual provinces and territories.
Source: Swifteradio.com
