Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial immigration ministers are moving toward a new approach to managing immigration, with a focus on sustainability, labour market needs, and stronger support for newcomers.
The Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI) met on June 23, 2026, to discuss priorities for the upcoming 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, including how Canada can balance economic growth with responsible immigration management.
During the meeting, ministers discussed returning immigration levels to what they described as sustainable levels while continuing to attract skilled workers needed across key industries. Discussions focused on addressing labour shortages, supporting rural and northern communities, strengthening economic sectors, and improving the coordination of immigration programs across the country.
A major focus of the meeting was the federal government’s commitment to stabilize permanent resident admissions at less than 1% of Canada’s total population beyond 2027 and reduce the temporary resident population to less than 5% of the population by the end of 2027.
Ministers said careful planning and stronger coordination between governments will be essential to maintaining public confidence while ensuring businesses and communities continue to benefit from immigration.
“The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said Canadians expect governments to manage migration responsibly while balancing sustainability and the need to attract global talent.
“Canadians expect their governments to manage migration responsibly, balancing sustainability and system integrity with efforts to attract the best talent in the world. Alongside our partners, we are doing that work now. By restoring confidence and control to our system, we will maximize the social and economic benefits that newcomers can bring to communities across Canada. I look forward to collaborating further on our shared priorities in the months and years ahead.”
Photo Credit: IRCC
Provincial and territorial leaders emphasized that immigration decisions must reflect the unique needs of communities across Canada. They highlighted the importance of programs such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) in helping provinces select skilled workers who match regional labour demands.
Ministers discussed the need for stable and adequate PNP allocations, with provincial and territorial representatives requesting more information on how immigration targets and allocations are determined.
The Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Immigration for Newfoundland and Labrador and Provincial-Territorial FMRI Co-Chair, said provinces and territories remain key partners in building an immigration system that supports economic development.
“Provinces and territories play a critical role in shaping immigration pathways that reflect regional labour market needs, support economic growth, and help communities of all sizes thrive. I am encouraged by the progress we’ve made together on many issues including advancing collaboration on immigration levels, strengthening programs such as the Provincial Nominee Program, and improving foreign credential recognition. We remain committed to working closely with our federal partners and provincial and territorial colleagues to ensure newcomers are supported and that Canada’s immigration system continues to deliver meaningful outcomes across the country.”
Ministers also discussed improving pathways for temporary residents, including international students and foreign workers, to transition into permanent residence where they meet Canada’s economic needs.
The meeting included discussions on modernizing the Express Entry system, reducing duplication in candidate selection, and ensuring immigration programs better respond to regional labour shortages.
Officials also examined the future of the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, with provinces and territories supporting further collaboration to align international student pathways with local workforce needs.
Another priority was improving foreign credential recognition, particularly for professionals entering regulated occupations such as health care. Ministers directed officials to continue working through a newly created joint task force focused on removing barriers from the immigration process — from pre-arrival support to employment.
Ministers reaffirmed support for Francophone immigration as a priority, recognizing its role in strengthening French-speaking minority communities outside Quebec.
The federal government is working toward a target of 12% Francophone permanent resident admissions by 2029 and continues discussions with provinces and territories on a renewed action plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
The FMRI said continued cooperation between governments will be necessary to build an immigration system that supports economic growth, addresses labour needs, and helps newcomers successfully integrate into Canadian communities.
The meeting comes as Canada continues to adjust its immigration strategy amid changing economic conditions, housing pressures, labour shortages, and the need to ensure immigration programs remain responsive to communities across the country.
