International

Canada to announce reduction in immigration levels today

Published

1 year ago

October 24, 2024

Canada to announce reduction in immigration levels today

Canada is set to make a significant change to its immigration policy as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government prepares to announce a reduction in immigration levels.

This announcement follows years of consecutive increases in immigration numbers.

According to Immigration News Canada (INC), the decision is expected to be revealed on Thursday, with new permanent resident intake targets dropping by 90,000 individuals in 2025, reducing the total from 485,000 to 395,000.

This aligns with INC’s prediction made in July 2024 regarding potential reductions in immigration targets. The revised figures mark a departure from earlier government projections that aimed for 500,000 new immigrants annually by 2025.

Revised immigration targets

INC reports that the new immigration targets will continue to decline, reaching 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.

This approach indicates a more careful view of immigration for the future. The change shows that the Trudeau administration is reacting to public opinion and economic factors.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller is set to provide a detailed breakdown of immigration programs on November 1st, 2024. Initial reports indicate that the federal economic class will face the most significant cuts.

Economic class cuts

Further reports disclose that the economic-class immigration intake is projected to decrease by approximately 60%, resulting in the acceptance of just over 41,000 applicants in 2025.

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It means that the number of applicants accepted into the economic-class immigration program is set to decrease significantly, with only about 41,000 expected to be accepted by next year.

Although the numbers are expected to slightly recover in 2026 and 2027, they will remain far below previous targets. The overall numbers will still be much lower than what was planned before.

Economic immigration encompasses various programs, including the Agri-Food Pilot Program, Canadian Experience Class, Caregiver programs, and the Federal Skilled Worker program.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Intake through Provincial Nominee Programs will be halved to 55,000 in 2025 and will maintain that level until 2027. This reduction significantly limits the opportunities available through provincial immigration streams.

This means that the number of immigrants accepted through Provincial Nominee Programs will reduce in 2025 and will stay at that level until 2027. This cut will greatly decrease the chances for people to immigrate through these provincial programs.

Family Reunification Programs

Family reunification programs will also see a notable reduction. The plan includes cutting 20,000 family reunification visas in 2025, bringing the total down from 118,000 to 98,000.

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INC reports that this change may face backlash from advocates for family immigration, who argue that family reunification is a vital aspect of immigration policy.

Refugee programs and temporary residents

The refugee program is also set to face reductions, although these numbers may fluctuate based on changing asylum claims and refugee applications.

Reports inform that for the first time, the government will set official targets for temporary residents, aiming to reduce applications by nearly 30,000 in 2025, bringing the total to just over 300,000.

It is noted that the Trudeau administration’s decision to cut immigration targets reflects both public sentiment and practical economic realities.

‘Following a recent Liberal caucus meeting, MPs expressed concerns over the popularity of the government’s policies, particularly as immigration becomes a contentious political issue in Canada,’ INC reports.

It means that after a recent meeting among Liberal Party members, some Members of Parliament raised worries about how popular the government’s policies are. This is especially relevant as immigration has become a divisive political topic in Canada.

Political implications

With a federal election scheduled for October 2025, the government is reported to be adjusting its stance in response to increasing public pressure.

According to INC, the reduction in immigration levels indicates a notable shift in the Liberal government’s policy, moving away from the ambitious targets set in previous years.

More reports noted relate that critics from opposition parties and the public have voiced concerns about the rapid pace of population growth. The government’s decision to reduce immigration is likely a strategic move to regain voter trust as the election approaches.

The administration hopes that a more measured immigration strategy will alleviate the housing crisis, reduce strain on public services, and address rising unemployment. However, the long-term effects of these policy changes on Canada’s economy and demographics remain uncertain.

Canada to announce reduction in immigration levels today

International

Canada Opens New Express Entry Draw for Nigerian Workers, Others

Published

5 hours ago

February 19, 2026

Trends Admin

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Canada Opens New Express Entry Draw for Nigerian Workers, Others

The Government of Canada has announced a new Express Entry draw, offering fresh opportunities for skilled workers from Nigeria and other eligible countries to obtain Canadian permanent residency. The latest draw underscores Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract global talent to meet labour market demands and support economic growth.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the new round of invitations targets candidates under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class, all managed through the Express Entry system. Eligible applicants are ranked through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), with higher scores increasing the likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

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This development is particularly significant for Nigerian workers, who have increasingly sought opportunities in Canada due to strong employment prospects, favourable immigration policies, and the country’s high standard of living. Applicants are advised to update profiles, review eligibility criteria, and submit supporting documents promptly, as IRCC draws often target candidates with competitive CRS scores.

The Express Entry system remains a primary pathway for skilled migration, with Canada aiming to meet ambitious immigration targets in 2026. The federal government has emphasized that these draws are part of a broader strategy to boost the Canadian workforce while supporting diversity and inclusion within the country’s labour market.

Canada has historically welcomed Nigerians in sectors including information technology, healthcare, engineering, and skilled trades, and this draw continues to open doors for qualified professionals seeking permanent residence.

Launched in 2015, Express Entry is a points-based immigration system designed to attract highly skilled foreign workers. Applicants are evaluated on education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. Candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency, allowing them to live and work anywhere in Canada.

Express Entry draws occur regularly, and eligibility requirements may vary by program and draw. Skilled workers from Nigeria and other countries are encouraged to maintain updated profiles to maximize chances of selection.

Canada Opens New Express Entry Draw for Nigerian Workers, Others

International

South Korea Former President Park Geun-hye Jailed for Life Over Martial Law Attempt

Published

6 hours ago

February 19, 2026

Trends Admin

Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye

South Korea Former President Park Geun-hye Jailed for Life Over Martial Law Attempt

Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye has been sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in attempting to impose martial law during a political crisis, marking one of the most significant rulings in the country’s modern democratic history.

The Seoul Central District Court found Park guilty of abusing presidential powers, attempting to suppress dissent, and manipulating state security forces for political purposes. Prosecutors argued that her actions threatened the constitutional order and undermined democratic governance.

Park, South Korea’s first female president, was impeached in 2017 following mass protests triggered by corruption scandals and abuse-of-office allegations. The former leader has faced multiple prosecutions over the years, including charges of bribery, influence-peddling, and illegal control of state institutions.

The court emphasized that her attempt to enforce martial law was a severe violation of South Korea’s democratic principles. Legal experts have described the ruling as a clear message that executive overreach will not be tolerated, even at the highest levels of government.

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The sentence comes amid growing international attention on South Korea’s judicial independence. Analysts say the life term reinforces accountability in the country’s political system while serving as a deterrent to future leaders who might consider circumventing democratic institutions. Park may appeal the verdict to the South Korean Supreme Court, prolonging legal proceedings.

Human rights groups have praised the transparent judicial process, noting that fairness and due process remain critical, especially in politically sensitive cases. Meanwhile, the decision has reignited public debate over the balance of power between the presidency and democratic institutions in South Korea.

Background: Park Geun-hye and Martial Law Controversy

Park Geun-hye, daughter of former military ruler Park Chung-hee, governed South Korea from 2013 until her impeachment in 2017. Allegations during her tenure included attempts to deploy martial law powers to suppress opposition and consolidate control over government agencies. These efforts, combined with corruption and bribery scandals, culminated in her removal from office and subsequent criminal trials.

The case has been widely cited as a landmark test of South Korea’s democratic accountability and judicial independence, illustrating the nation’s commitment to prosecuting high-level abuses of power.

South Korea Former President Park Geun-hye Jailed for Life Over Martial Law Attempt

International

Israeli Airstrikes Kill 12 in Gaza as Violence Persists Despite Ceasefire

Published

3 days ago

February 16, 2026

Trends Admin

Israeli Airstrikes Kill 12 in Gaza as Violence Persists Despite Ceasefire

At least 12 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, the territory’s civil defence agency reported on Sunday, marking one of the deadliest days since a fragile ceasefire was implemented. The strikes hit multiple areas, including Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis, leaving several others injured.

The Gaza Civil Defence, responsible for rescue and emergency operations under Hamas, said one airstrike struck a tent sheltering displaced civilians in Jabalia, killing at least five people and wounding others. Another strike in Khan Younis also claimed five lives, while additional shelling in Beit Lahia and western Gaza City caused further casualties. Local authorities said most victims were civilians, including families displaced by previous attacks.

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The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said its operations targeted armed militants and underground infrastructure allegedly used to launch attacks, describing the strikes as a response to ceasefire violations. Palestinian authorities condemned the strikes as a massacre and a breach of the truce, while international observers expressed concern over the continuing civilian casualties.

Since the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in October 2023, tensions in Gaza have remained high, with sporadic clashes and violations on both sides. Gaza health authorities report that over 600 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,600 injured by Israeli strikes since the truce took effect. Humanitarian organisations warn that repeated airstrikes have devastated infrastructure, leaving displaced families vulnerable and worsening living conditions.

International observers note that the ongoing violence threatens reconstruction efforts and regional stability. With limited access for media and aid agencies, verifying casualty figures remains difficult, though reports consistently highlight the severe impact on civilians and displaced families.

The Gaza civil defence called on residents to stay vigilant, avoid military targets, and seek safety as authorities continue to respond to emergency situations across the territory. The situation underscores the fragility of the ceasefire and the urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further civilian casualties.