Reflection on Canadian Immigration in 2024 and Outlook for 2025

Main Point Summary

• ▶Strengthening Immigration Laws Loosened After the pandemic.
• ▶Stricter visa regulations were applied to student, work, and spousal visas.
• ▶New pilot programs promote regional growth and linguistic diversity.
• ▶Removal of LMIA points calls for reassessment of Express Entry strategies.
• ▶Potential Policy Changes Ahead of the 2025 Federal Election.

Changes and Prospects for Canadian Immigration in 2024

2024 was a pivotal year for Canadian immigration, marking a turning point with significant changes in policy. While tightening post-pandemic immigration laws, the government also showed a strong determination to reduce the excessively large population of temporary visa holders. This led to addressing loopholes in existing policies and implementing stricter review criteria. This week, we will reflect on the past year of Canadian immigration and discuss the direction forward for 2025.

 

Last year was filled with negative news surrounding Canadian immigration. However, it wasn’t all about a trend of reduction. The introduction of new immigration programs, as well as the announcement of relaxed caregiver programs, also took place. Notably, the newly announced programs reflect the current trends in Canadian immigration, focusing on the occupational categories required by Canada and adjusting policies to encourage regional balanced development. Moreover, the political situation in Canada and global trends had a significant impact on changes in immigration laws.

Major Immigration Changes in 2024

1. Program Reductions

Canadian immigration saw many reductions in 2024. In particular, student visas, work visas, and spousal visas faced strong restrictions. This was in response to the excessively large number of temporary residents and the inadequately functioning programs.

The specific changes were previously explained in detail in earlier columns, so they will not be repeated here, but the main points are as follows:

• The review process for student visas, which are being applied for purposes other than education, has become much stricter.
• Spousal open work permits (SOWP) have also seen increased restrictions, showing a strong determination to prevent and punish fraudulent cases involving fake student visas.
• There were many cases of fraudulent use of student visas, and experts themselves agreed that some level of restriction was necessary. These changes may not affect students who genuinely intend to study, but those applying for post-graduation work permits or spousal visas are likely to face difficulties.
• Regarding work visas, Canada plans to prioritize high-wage skilled workers. As a result, there will be a stronger review process of employers' sincerity in addressing labor shortages, along with a more in-depth evaluation of the financial capacity of employers to attract high-wage skilled workers.

2. Introduction of New Immigration Programs

In December 2024, the Canadian government announced two new pilot programs:

• Rural Community Immigration Class (RNIP replacement): This program encourages employment and settlement in small towns and communities.
• Francophone Community Immigration Class: Aimed at French speakers, this program seeks to enhance linguistic and cultural diversity.

These programs will be implemented from November 26, 2024, for five years, with a focus on job offers from regional employers and the willingness to settle within the community as key criteria.

3. End of LMIA Points

The additional points for Express Entry through LMIA have been abolished. This measure is intended to prevent score inflation through fraudulent job offers and to strengthen the fairness of the immigration system. As a result, the overall invitation scores are expected to decrease.

4. Strengthening of Visa and Permit Policies

Visitor visas must now clearly prove the purpose of stay, and the duration of stay has been shortened. Additionally, the ability for visitors to apply for work visas within Canada, which was allowed during the pandemic, has been suspended. The path to transition from a visitor status to a work visa through job-seeking activities within Canada has become more difficult. This change is particularly disadvantageous for nationals from visa-required countries, who will now have to apply for work visas through overseas visa offices.

Additionally, the flagpoling procedure has been largely suspended, making it difficult to switch from a visitor status to a work visa within Canada. However, nationals from visa-exempt countries, such as Koreans, can still transition to a work visa through a departure and re-entry procedure after leaving Canada.

Political Changes and Outlook for 2025

With the upcoming 2025 federal election, the support for the Conservative Party (CPC) is rising, increasing the possibility of policy changes. The Conservative Party tends to maintain strict measures against the misuse of refugee and temporary foreign worker programs (TFWP). However, with the change in government, it is highly likely that policies will be actively adjusted in line with the demands of the Canadian economy.

Additionally, Canada is currently facing external pressures, particularly regarding the border issue with the United States. If Canada does not tighten controls on illegal immigration, it may face the possibility of tariffs from the U.S. and other external pressures.

Preparing Strategically for Changes in 2025

1. Utilizing New Programs

The newly implemented Rural and Francophone Community Immigration Classes are expected to offer a relatively easier path to permanent residency compared to existing programs. It is essential to consider the potential of these two programs first. Specifically, if you are proficient in French, it is advisable to prepare your qualifications in advance and take advantage of opportunities early in the implementation phase of the Francophone program.

2. Reworking Express Entry Strategies

With the abolishment of LMIA points, there is a high likelihood of changes in CRS scores. If the point allocation changes, it will be necessary to adjust strategies in a way that is more favorable to individual applicants. Since Express Entry has been inviting applicants separately based on occupation categories since last year, it would be a good strategy to explore ways to qualify for these specific occupations.

2024 marked a year of significant change in Canadian immigration policy, with adjustments that reflect national interests and social needs. As we move into 2025, it will be a time to seek new opportunities in the transformed environment. Thorough preparation and flexible responses will be key to successful immigration.