New Visa Rules in Canada | Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026

The Canadian government has recently introduced new immigration rules for Canada. The Immigration Level Plan 2023-2025 not only make the process more efficient but also includes the increase of economic immigrants admitted each year. It lays the new pathway for international students. The economic system in Canada has been dodging bullets over the years but failed to exhibit stagnant growth. In order to strengthen their economy, it was important for the country to help their ever-increasing number of 140,621.00 refugees (as of 2022) and their families.

Since 2015, the first draw held under Express Entry, the minimum CRS score required for a Canadian PR is around 450 points but the number of immigrants admitted kept increasing. 2023 saw more than 465,000 immigrants receiving the Canadian PR under the previous level plan. The number is targeted to reach at least 485,000 in 2024. With the Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026, Canada sets to mark history by welcoming 500,000 new immigrants annually with their new levels plan.

However, the government could have a temporary limitation while approving the study permits. 2024 could witness a decrease of 35% in the number of approvals. This sums around 360,000 applications. Not only that, the proof of funds while applying for a Student Visa also saw a rise to CAD 20,635. After September 1st, 2024, private college students will no longer be eligible for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGVP). This benefit is transferred to the students enrolled in master’s programs as well as their spouses.

Existing Programs

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new points-based system for Express Entry in this year’s plan. An electronic system of Express Entry has managed permanent residency applications in Canada since 2015. It is the most popular program in Canada. Based on the current needs of the Canadian labour market, Express Entry issues the invitations to working immigrants reviewed by the IRCC. Invitations are sent to the individuals with the highest scores reflected by the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS uses its metrics to factor in details like age, education, work experience, job experience and more to make a definite ranked list. The process could take up to 6 months.

On the other hand, the Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) guide a shorter route to Canadian PR. Applicants with one year of work experience can apply through their strong connection to the province they are applying from. The Immigration Levels Plan also targets PNP landings to rise to 110,000 in 2024 and 117,500 in 2025. The new rules encourage economic programs in Canada that support refugee resettlement while addressing their labour shortage. Additionally, the government is strategically boosting population growth.

Why Canada Needs Immigrants

The world’s oldest population, Canada, has created economic and fiscal pressures. Their birth rate, however, stays low, leading to even lower rates of labour force and economic growth. Services like education, healthcare and education among others sustain the living standards in the country. The government has no option other than to raise taxes to support their social spending on such services. The solution to it all was proactively increasing its immigration levels.

The pandemic set everyone back at least 10 years. Similarly, COVID-19 weakened the economy in Canada. The government was bound to spend on the locals and their needs out of their funds to sustain their living. And it’s still recovering from it. Immigration would not only help put a balance on its population but also strengthen its labour force. With revised taxation planning and reinforcing favourable immigration laws, this is Canada’s chance to drive itself back on the map.

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