Canada May Increase Immigration in a Controlled Way

After a period of restrictions and adjustments to Canadian immigration, a statement from Prime Minister Mark Carney offered a new perspective for those planning to study, work, or live in the country.

In an interview with The New York Times, covered by the press on September 29, Carney said he considers the immigration system to be “under control” again. According to him, the discussion now turns to when Canada could resume controlled population growth.

The statement deserves attention. But what does it mean for your Canada Plan? It signals a possible shift, with no timeline yet. Carney’s remarks suggest that the government is considering a return to population growth. They do not yet constitute an announcement of increased immigration admissions.

No new targets, start date, or changes to program requirements were announced. Saying that Canada will increase immigration “soon” would therefore anticipate a decision that has yet to be formalized.

For those following the news, this distinction matters: a statement points to a possible direction; an official policy sets out what actually changes. In the discussion outlined by Carney, growth needs to be sustainable and take into account the country’s capacity to welcome newcomers.

In recent years, the government has reduced the intake of international students and temporary workers, citing pressures on housing, the labour market, and public services. The possibility of increasing immigration again now comes with an emphasis on maintaining that balance.

This does not mean that every program will receive more spots or that applications will become easier. One document to watch is the 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, which will outline the government’s targets for the next three years. We expect it to be released soon, potentially in October 2026.

The plan will help clarify whether Carney’s comments will translate into concrete changes to immigration levels. Until then, planning should continue to be based on current rules and opportunities.

Remember, you do not need to wait for a new announcement to start preparing. Assessing your profile, improving your English or French, gathering documents, and building a budget can all help you create a stronger plan.

If studying is part of that plan, consider how your chosen program connects with your experience, career goals, and potential immigration pathways. If you are already in Canada, keep track of when your status expires and plan your next steps well in advance.

A potential future increase is worth following. Your planning, however, can begin with the opportunities available today. The e-Visa team follows Canadian immigration developments to help you understand what they could mean for your profile.

Want to explore your options to study, work, or pursue permanent residence in Canada? Book your consultation with e-Visa and take your next step with professional guidance.