Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scaling back the country’s migrant worker program following domestic criticism and increasing pressure from the United States.
The Canadian government has faced growing demands from the U.S. to reduce the influx of migrant workers crossing the border, prompting the rollback of one of the world’s most lenient immigration policies.
This development comes as Trudeau confronts mounting domestic criticism over Canada’s foreign worker program, marking a shift from his previous praise of the country’s open immigration policies.
With an election looming next year and facing declining poll numbers, Trudeau told reporters last week that his administration is “reviewing the various migration streams to ensure Canada continues to support immigration positively, but also responsibly integrates and provides pathways for success.”
Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has accused Trudeau of mismanaging the country’s immigration system, advocating for slower population growth.
Under the new regulations, Trudeau announced a reduction of 10%-20% in the number of low-wage workers Canadian companies can hire, with the possibility of broader immigration reforms later this year.
Some business leaders have expressed concerns that scaling back the program could reduce the availability of affordable labor for Canadian businesses. Others, however, argue that the influx of migrants has contributed to rising youth unemployment, soaring housing costs, and increased strain on the healthcare system.
