Increased Rejections of Temporary Residents in Canada: A 2025 Perspective

In early 2024, Canada experienced a significant rise in the rejection of visitor visas, surpassing approvals, and a notable reduction in approved study and work permits. This trend has been driven by changing public opinion amid a cost of living crisis, leading to stricter immigration policies.

Over 6,000 travelers were refused entry in July 2024, marking the highest number since 2019.

The Surge in Visa Rejections

The rejection rate for visitor visas in Canada has seen a dramatic increase in recent months. In July 2024 alone, over 5,800 visas were rejected, including those for students, workers, and tourists. This surge in rejections is a reflection of growing public concern over the impact of immigration on housing shortages and the cost of living. The Canadian government has responded by tightening its immigration policies to balance the needs of newcomers with the interests of its existing population.

Impact on Study and Work Permits

The tightening of immigration policies has also affected the approval rates for study and work permits. The number of approved study permits has seen a significant reduction, with the government implementing caps on the number of international students. This has created uncertainty and anxiety among prospective applicants, particularly from countries like India, which has traditionally been a major source of immigration to Canada.

Job Availability and Temporary Work Permits

The job market in Canada has also been impacted by these changes. The temporary public policy allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within the country was ended in August 2024, further complicating the process for immigrants seeking employment. By October 2024, the International Mobility Program (IMP) issued 627,460 work permits, down from 762,905 in 2023. Similarly, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) saw a decline, with 162,100 permits issued by October 2024, compared to 183,530 in the previous year.

This policy change has added to the struggles faced by immigrants trying to secure temporary work permits and find decent jobs.

Suspension of Low-Wage Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs):

As of August 28, 2024, Canada suspended the processing of LMIAs for the low-wage stream in census metropolitan areas with unemployment rates of 6% or higher.

Struggles of Immigrants

Immigrants in Canada are facing numerous challenges in obtaining visas, staying in the country, and securing decent jobs. The increased scrutiny at borders and the stricter enforcement of immigration laws have further compounded the problems. The cost-of-living crisis has only exacerbated these challenges, leading to a more competitive job market and limited opportunities for newcomers.

The rise in visa rejections and the reduction in approved study and work permits reflect a broader shift in Canada’s immigration policies. While the government aims to balance the needs of newcomers with the interests of its existing population, this has created significant challenges for immigrants trying to enter and stay in the country.

Current Status and Future Outlook

As of early 2025, Canada’s immigration policies continue to evolve in response to economic conditions and public opinion. The government has signaled intentions to reassess immigration targets, with potential reductions in both permanent and temporary resident numbers in the coming years.

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Terry

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