According to IRCC, Canada has surpassed its record-breaking target for 2022 permanent residency admissions.
431,465 new permanent residents represent a higher number than the previous record set in 2021, making this the largest influx of permanent residents in a single year in Canadian history.
Minister Sean Fraser stated “Today marks a historic milestone for Canada, as we welcome a record number of newcomers in a single year. This achievement is a testament to our nation’s strength and perseverance. The contributions of newcomers to our economy, culture, and society are essential and invaluable. I’m eager to see what the future holds as we welcome more immigrants in 2023 and anticipate another fruitful year.
A total of 5.2 million applications were handled by the IRCC in 2022 across all its business lines. Two times as many citizenships, temporary residency, and permanent residency applications are being processed in 2022 as compared to 2021.
As a result of increased resources, new technology, quicker processing, and an increase in online procedures. IRCC processes as many applications as possible as well as admits a record number of students. As of November 30, 2022, there were 1.09 million applications backlogged, as reported in the Fall Economic Statement. The $50 million commitment addressed this backlog.
Canada’s immigration level plan for 2023 to 2025
Canadian immigration levels are outlined in a yearly plan called the Immigration Levels Plan. Prior to the announcement of the 2023–2025 plan, the 2022 plan set the highest admission goals ever. It was revealed in February 2022.
It is virtually impossible for Canada’s labor force growth to be independent of immigration. Approximately one million jobs remain unfilled in Canada due to an aging workforce and a labor shortage. The total number of Canadians reaching retirement age is expected to reach nine million by 2030. So immigrants are essential to the country’s economy. A rising aging population is predicted to lead to a 2 to 1 worker-to-retiree ratio in Canada by 2035.
Moreover, just about 75% of Canada’s population growth is accounted for by immigration due to its low birth rate of 1.4 children per woman.
Over the last few years, Canada has been working to increase its population by accepting more immigrants. The immigration census of 2021 reported 1.3 million new permanent residents entering Canada between 2016 and 2021. The proportion of respondents who were or were landed immigrants or permanent residents in Canada is the highest since Confederation and among the G7 nations. In 2036, 36% of Canada’s population is expected to be immigrants.
Take a closer look at the immigration levels to plan 2023–2025, which was outlined in November. The target for 500,000 new permanent residency admissions per year looks even more ambitious. The goal is 465,000 for 2023.
