Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Canada is gearing up to welcome a substantial number of immigrants, with plans to admit 485,000 new immigrants in 2024, a figure set to increase to 500,000 by 2025. The Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, Marc Miller, unveiled immigration plans for 2024-26, revealing a cap of 500,000 from 2026. India, being the largest source of immigration and students for Canada, is expected to benefit significantly. The lion’s share of newcomers, with 281,135 under the economic category and 114,000 under the family category, is projected for Indians.
In the past year, 118,000 Indians obtained Canadian permanent residency (PR), accounting for a quarter of the total 437,120 newcomers to Canada. The ambitious immigration targets are set to increase Canada’s population by 1.3% annually, surpassing the 40-million mark. Despite grappling with a severe housing shortage, the Justin Trudeau-led government remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining high immigration levels, despite opposition reflected in opinion polls. This stance emphasizes Canada’s dedication to fostering diversity and addressing demographic and economic considerations through immigration.
Minister Miller emphasized Canada’s dedication to welcoming newcomers and ensuring their support in adapting to their new lives. This commitment underscores the country’s reputation for inclusivity and highlights the importance of providing necessary resources and assistance to facilitate the successful integration of immigrants into Canadian society. This approach reflects a broader ethos of fostering a diverse and thriving multicultural nation. While acknowledging the importance of immigration, he recognized the need to cap immigration levels at 500,000. This reflects a balanced approach that takes into account considerations such as housing, infrastructure planning, and sustainable population growth in the decision-making process. Striking a balance between welcoming immigrants and addressing the potential challenges associated with rapid population growth is crucial for fostering a sustainable and well-managed immigration system.
