Canadian Ministers Agree on New Immigration Targets to Stabilize Population Growth
Federal, provincial, and territorial ministers met in Ottawa to discuss sustainable immigration levels, agreeing to cap permanent resident admissions below 1% of the population beyond 2027 and reduce the temporary population to less than 5% by the end of 2027.
On June 23, 2026, the Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI) convened in Ottawa to address sustainable immigration levels and strengthen collaboration between federal, provincial, and territorial governments. The meeting was led by Minister Lena Metlege Diab and Co-Chair Lin Paddock, who held a press conference following the discussions.
During the forum, federal ministers committed to stabilizing permanent resident admissions to less than 1% of the total population beyond 2027. Additionally, they agreed to reduce the temporary population to less than 5% of the total population by the end of 2027. These targets aim to restore balance to Canada’s immigration system and align it with economic objectives.
Key discussions focused on enhancing Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and improving foreign credential recognition. Provincial and territorial ministers emphasized that PNPs and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) are effective tools for addressing regional labour shortages. They also requested further information on the process for setting PNP targets and allocations.
Ministers discussed modernizing economic immigration programs, including the Express Entry system, to better meet regional labour market needs. To tackle barriers in foreign credential recognition, officials were directed to work through the newly created Forum of Labour Market Ministers - FMRI Joint Task Force.
The government reaffirmed its target of achieving 12% Francophone permanent resident admissions by 2029. Quebec maintains observer status at the FMRI table and retains sole responsibility for its own immigration levels and selection under the Canada-Québec Accord.