Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada has reduced immigration pressures, with fewer temporary workers, students and asylum seekers entering the country.
Carney claims immigration levels are now under control
Prime Minister Mark Carney says his government has “taken back control” of Canada’s immigration system after months of concerns about rising numbers of newcomers.
Speaking at a press conference in Red Deer, Alta., Carney said immigration had reached levels that were “far too high” when his government came into office. According to the prime minister, Canada had lost control of temporary worker and international student numbers.
However, he said recent steps have helped bring those figures down and have created room for a new discussion about the future of immigration policy.
Temporary workers and students see major declines
Carney highlighted sharp drops across several immigration categories. He said asylum seeker arrivals have fallen by one-third, while temporary foreign workers have been reduced by half.
Meanwhile, the number of foreign students entering Canada has dropped by two-thirds, according to the prime minister.
“These changes show that the government is now tracking immigration numbers more closely,” Carney said, adding that Canada is better positioned to manage future growth.
Housing pressures remain a key concern
Despite the recent reductions, Carney acknowledged that immigration continues to place pressure on housing across the country.
He said there is a strong case for keeping a more cautious approach for the next few years. As a result, the federal government may continue limiting growth in immigration levels while communities adjust.
The prime minister added that Canada is now “on top of the numbers,” allowing Ottawa and provincial leaders to focus on the next steps.
Alberta referendum puts immigration debate in spotlight
Carney’s comments came as Alberta prepares for a referendum asking residents how the province should approach immigration.
The vote has brought renewed attention to questions about immigration targets, housing availability and the role provinces should play in decision-making.
Still, Carney said the federal government now has an opportunity to work with premiers across Canada to find a balanced path forward.
Government signals cautious approach ahead
While the government says recent measures have improved control over immigration flows, Carney suggested that a period of restraint may continue.
For now, Ottawa appears focused on maintaining lower temporary immigration levels while addressing housing challenges and supporting long-term planning.
The prime minister’s message is clear: Canada is no longer reacting to immigration pressures but is trying to manage them with a more controlled approach.
