Canada's Immigration System in 2025: Declines, New Borders Act, and LMIA Delays

Canada's immigration system in 2025 is expected to face significant challenges and policy shifts. From a drop in international student and worker arrivals to the advancement of the Strong Borders Act, as well as significant LMIA backlogs, applicants must prepare for a new reality.

Decline in International Student & Worker Arrivals

IRCC reports a sharp decline in international student and temporary worker arrivals in 2025, reversing recent growth trends.

Key factors include:

• Stricter visa rules

• Economic pressures

• Growing global competition for talent

👉 Impact: This decline could affect both Canada’s labour market and post-secondary institutions reliant on international enrolments.

Strong Borders Act (Bill C-2) Advances

Introduced on June 3, 2025, the Strong Borders Act expands border enforcement powers and restricts asylum access.

Main provisions:

• Greater powers for border agents

• Increased intelligence sharing

• Restricted access to asylum for:

  • Claimants in Canada over a year

  • Entrants via irregular crossings

⚠️ Critics argue the bill undermines refugee protections and limits access to fair hearings.

Migrants Losing Work Status Amid Processing Delays

Work permit applicants face unprecedented backlogs.

• LMIA processing times: now up to 165 business days, compared to 58 previously.

• Result: Many migrants are losing valid work status, risking job security and healthcare access.

• Those awaiting PR transitions are particularly vulnerable.

👉 Temporary residents must monitor expiry dates and renew early to avoid gaps in status.

Prime Minister Carney’s Immigration Mandate

Prime Minister Mark Carney has outlined a leaner, skill-focused immigration vision.

Key priorities:

• Sustainable, reduced immigration levels

• Attraction of top global talent

• Selective growth, prioritizing high-skilled immigrants

Quick Facts and Key Dates

• Student & Worker Arrivals: Declining in 2025, affecting institutions and workforce planning

• Strong Borders Act: Introduced June 3, 2025

• Processing Delays: LMIA now 165 business days (vs 58)

• PM’s Mandate: Learner system, focused on high-skilled talent

What This Means for Applicants and Employers

• Prospective Students & Workers: Expect slower processing and stricter admissions — plan.

• Temporary Residents & Job-Seekers: Avoid status lapses by tracking timelines and renewing early.

• Refugee & Asylum Seekers: Be aware of restricted access under the Strong Borders Act.

• High-Skilled Immigrants: Canada is prioritizing your profile — use this moment strategically.

Final Takeaway

Canada’s immigration system in 2025 is marked by lower intake, tighter asylum policies, processing delays, and a stronger focus on skilled talent. Applicants who plan early, monitor timelines, and adapt strategies will be better positioned to succeed.