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Have Temporary Foreign Worker Permits Surpassed Canada’s 2025 Targets?

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > Have Temporary Foreign Worker Permits Surpassed Canada’s 2025 Targets?

In recent weeks, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has claimed that the federal government issued 105,000 Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) permits in the first half of 2025, surpassing the “cap” of 82,000. On the surface, this seems like a dramatic breach of Canada’s immigration targets—but the numbers tell a different story.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The figure of 82,000 represents the planned target for net new arrivals under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in 2025, not a cap. This is part of the government’s Immigration Levels Plan, which is designed to reduce the share of temporary residents in Canada to 5% of the population by 2026.

The 105,000 permits cited by Poilievre include not only new arrivals, but also:

  • Extensions and renewals of existing permits.

  • Permits granted to individuals already in Canada.

When the numbers are filtered, the reality is clear: only 33,722 permits were issued to new workers entering Canada between January and June 2025. That represents just 41% of the 82,000 target—meaning Canada is not overshooting, but rather pacing toward its goals.

📉 In fact, Canada welcomed 125,903 fewer foreign workers in the first half of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024—a nearly 50% decline in new worker arrivals.

Why the Decline?

The drop is intentional. In 2024, Ottawa introduced a series of measures to tighten the TFWP and reduce reliance on temporary workers, including:

  • Shortening LMIA validity from 12 to 6 months.

  • Reducing employer workforce caps from 30% to 20% (and as low as 10% for low-wage streams).

  • Imposing a moratorium on low-wage LMIA applications in regions with unemployment over 6%.

  • Raising the wage threshold for high-wage stream applications to 20% above the median.

  • Limiting job offers to verified assessments, removing lawyer/accountant attestations.

These measures reflect the government’s balancing act: protecting Canadian jobs while still addressing labour shortages in essential sectors like construction, healthcare, and agriculture.

What Is the TFWP?

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program was created in 1973 to fill labour gaps when Canadian workers were unavailable. Employers must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) proving that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the local job market.

TFWP streams include:

  • Global Talent Stream – for high-demand, skilled roles.

  • High-Wage & Low-Wage Streams – depending on pay relative to the median wage.

  • Agriculture and Caregiver Positions – to meet critical workforce needs.

  • Academic Stream – for teaching and research roles.

While vital in certain industries, the program is now under tighter scrutiny as Canada shifts focus toward Permanent Residency (PR) pathways for long-term immigration stability.

Why PR Pathways Are Better Than Asylum or TFWP Reliance

With Canada’s immigration landscape evolving, many newcomers wonder whether to pursue asylum, temporary programs like TFWP, or direct PR pathways. The truth is, asylum claims often involve high uncertainty and long backlogs, while temporary permits offer no guarantee of long-term stability.

That’s why choosing Permanent Residency through programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or family sponsorships is a more secure option for your future in Canada.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Build a Secure Future in Canada

At ICC Immigration, we understand the complexity of Canada’s immigration system and the risks of relying on uncertain or temporary options. Our team of experts provides tailored solutions to help you achieve your Canadian dream with confidence.

We specialize in:

✅ Permanent Residency Applications

Whether through Express Entry or PNPs, we guide you through the process to ensure your PR application is handled smoothly and efficiently.

✅ Work and Study Permits

Looking for temporary entry? We help you explore study permits and work permits that can serve as stepping stones to PR.

✅ Family Sponsorships

Reunite with your loved ones in Canada through family sponsorship programs designed for spouses, children, and parents.

✅ Expert Legal Advice

Our regulated consultants provide professional legal guidance to help you comply with Canadian immigration law and maximize approval chances.

Instead of taking risks with asylum or depending on temporary measures like the TFWP, you can secure your future with a stable, long-term pathway to PR.

Final Thoughts

While political debates continue, the data shows that Canada has not exceeded its TFWP targets. In fact, the number of new foreign workers has dropped by 50% in 2025 compared to last year.

As Canada transitions toward a more sustainable immigration model, newcomers must make informed choices about their pathways. For those seeking stability, Permanent Residency remains the most reliable option—and ICC Immigration is here to help you achieve it.

📌 Ready to take control of your Canadian journey? Contact ICC Immigration today to explore your best options.