How Expiring Permits Are Slowing Canada’s Population Growth

March 21, 2025

Ishita Soni

How Expiring Permits are Affecting Canada’s Population Growth

As many work and study permits in Canada are expiring, the country is seeing slower population growth. This is because fewer temporary residents, like students and workers, are staying in Canada. The government has introduced new rules to limit the number of people coming for temporary jobs or studies, aiming to reduce pressure on housing and other resources. While Canada’s population is still growing, the increase is happening at a slower pace than before.

Work and Study Permits Impact

Canada’s population growth has slowed down recently because many work and study permits are expiring. These permits helped boost the population in early 2024, but the effect wore off in the later months. This slower growth trend is expected to continue.

Canada’s Population Numbers

As of now, Canada’s population is 41.5 million. Despite some gains earlier in 2024, the rate of growth decreased during the second half of the year. This slower population increase is partly because of fewer temporary residents like workers and students staying in the country.

Policies to Limit Growth

Starting in December 2023, Canada’s immigration department (IRCC) took action to limit the number of temporary residents. This was done to address housing issues and to make sure the country’s population aligns better with available resources like housing.

Impact of New Policies

As a result of these changes, fewer people are being admitted as temporary residents. For example, the number of study permit holders dropped by about 32,000, and work permit holders also decreased by 18,000. Meanwhile, asylum claimants increased, helping to balance the changes.

Population Shifts Across Provinces

In terms of provinces, some areas, like Newfoundland and Labrador, saw a slight decrease in population. On the other hand, provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan saw small population increases. Even the territories, like Yukon and Nunavut, reported growth.

Why the Slowdown Happened

The slowdown is a result of Canada’s focus on managing its population size. New immigration policies were put in place to reduce the number of people coming to Canada on temporary work and study permits. These policies were aimed at easing pressure on housing and making sure the country doesn’t exceed its resource limits.

The Role of Immigration in Canada’s Economy

Immigration is crucial for Canada, especially given its aging population and low birth rate. As older workers retire, immigrants help fill labor shortages and contribute to the country’s economy. Immigration helps prevent potential economic downturns, especially in key industries like healthcare and construction.

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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