An analysis of work permits issued by the federal government in 2025 has raised questions about the accuracy of claims made regarding the ‘cap’ for the year.

Misleading Figures

Claims suggesting that the government has exceeded the planned cap for work permits in 2025 have been deemed misleading based on the data presented.

Understanding the Numbers

The Conservative Party highlighted that 105,000 new Temporary Foreign Worker permits were issued in the first half of 2025, surpassing the intended target of 82,000. However, it’s essential to note that the 82,000 figure represents a target for net new arrivals under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and not a strict cap.

Government data indicates that the 105,000 permits issued include renewals, extensions, and permits for foreign nationals already in Canada, with only 33,722 permits issued to new workers entering the country.

Impact of Immigration Changes

Changes to immigration programs implemented in 2024 have resulted in a decline in temporary resident arrivals in 2025. Data shows a significant decrease in new worker arrivals, with 125,903 fewer foreign workers entering Canada in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Government Initiatives

In an effort to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada, the government introduced various changes to the TFWP in 2024, including reducing LMIA validity periods, workforce caps for employers, and employment durations within the low-wage stream of the program.