Canada’s immigration policies are set for another shift with the appointment of Rachel Bendayan as the new Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship in March 2025. With a strong legal and political background, she takes the reins at a crucial time when Canada’s immigration system is under significant reform.

The Express Entry draws, study permit caps, work permit policies, and pathways to permanent residency (PR) are all under scrutiny, making it important for international students, skilled workers, and applicants to stay updated.

In this article, we break down five key changes expected under Rachel Bendayan’s leadership and what they mean for future immigrants.

Who is Rachel Bendayan?

Rachel Bendayan is a Member of Parliament for Outremont, Quebec, and a seasoned politician with expertise in international trade law. Born into a Moroccan-Jewish family, she holds degrees in International Development and Law from McGill University.

Her appointment suggests a structured, policy-driven approach to immigration, much like her predecessor Marc Miller. However, given her Quebec roots, expect a strong emphasis on French-speaking immigrants.

1. Stronger Focus on French-Speaking Immigration

One of the first expected changes is an increased focus on French-speaking immigration streams, particularly in Quebec and francophone communities across Canada.

Why this matters:

• More opportunities for French-speaking applicants to qualify under Express Entry’s French-speaking Skilled Worker Stream.
• Quebec’s immigration policies may influence federal programs to favor French-proficient workers.
• Potential adjustments to work permit policies benefiting francophone professionals.

How to prepare: If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, consider learning French or improving your TEF/TCF scores to increase your chances under new selection criteria.

2. Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways for Temporary Residents

Canada’s new immigration strategy prioritizes those already living in the country. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government has hinted at streamlining PR pathways for:

• International students completing post-graduate work experience.
• Temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in high-demand occupations.
• Healthcare and essential workers contributing to Canada’s economy.

Why this matters:

• If you’re already in Canada on a work permit, your PR chances could improve.
• Employer-sponsored PR pathways may see fewer restrictions.
• The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program might receive more allocation in Express Entry draws.

3. Tighter Regulations for International Students

Under Marc Miller, Canada introduced a study permit cap to control the influx of international students. Rachel Bendayan is expected to continue this approach, leading to:

• Stricter eligibility criteria for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).
• Higher financial requirements for providing tuition and living expenses.
• Post-graduate work permit (PGWP) restrictions based on the institution and program.

What international students should do:

• Apply only to highly recognized DLIs that qualify for streamlined visa processing.
• Ensure you meet the new financial proof requirements before applying.
• Look for PR-aligned study programs in high-demand sectors like healthcare, tech, and skilled trades.

4. Changes to Work Permits and Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs)

Canada is facing labor shortages in healthcare, construction, and skilled trades. While Bendayan is expected to maintain work permit approvals, there could be stricter LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) requirements to ensure local hiring priorities.

Key expectations:

• More focus on high-demand sectors for work permits.
• Stricter scrutiny on low-wage temporary foreign worker applications.
• Pathways to PR for high-skilled workers may become easier.

How this affects you:

• If you’re in Canada on a work permit, check how your job aligns with the National Occupation Classification (NOC) list.
• Employers may face more LMIA hurdles, making employer-sponsored PR pathways competitive.

5. Express Entry: What to Expect in 2025?

Canada’s Express Entry draws have seen higher CRS score cut-offs, with the latest PNP-only draw on March 17, 2025, inviting 536 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 736.

What to expect in upcoming draws:

• Higher CRS scores are required for general draws.
• More category-based selections for healthcare, tech, STEM, and trades.
• PNP nominations to play a bigger role in invitations.

How to stay competitive:

• Increase language scores (IELTS/TEF) to boost CRS points.
• Secure a provincial nomination (PNP) to receive 600 bonus CRS points.
• Gain Canadian work experience through employer-sponsored programs.

Future Outlook on Canada’s Immigration Policies

Rachel Bendayan’s legal expertise suggests that Canada’s immigration strategy will remain structured and data-driven. However, the 2025 federal elections may influence future policies. Key trends to watch:

• Greater scrutiny on international student permits.
• More PR pathways for in-Canada residents.
• French-speaking applicants gaining preference.
• Work permit rules align with economic needs.

For now, immigrants should prepare for stricter documentation, higher eligibility criteria, and evolving PR pathways. Staying informed and planning strategically will be key to success in 2025 and beyond.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s immigration landscape is changing rapidly, and Rachel Bendayan’s appointment marks a new era of structured targeted reforms. While Canada remains open to skilled workers, international students, and entrepreneurs, new policies require applicants to be more competitive and prepared.

If you’re planning to move to Canada, make sure to: ✅ Stay updated on Express Entry and PNP draws.
✅ Choose study programs with strong PR prospects.
✅ Improve language scores and professional credentials.
✅ Work with licensed immigration consultants for expert guidance.

🔔 Stay tuned for the latest immigration news and updates!