In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry break down Canada’s new 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and what it really means for workers, students, and families trying to stay in Canada.

They explain how the government is cutting new temporary residents, modestly shifting permanent residence toward economic classes, boosting some PNP quotas, and hinting at future TR to PR–style options—all while warning that these are some of the toughest times in years for people on temporary status.

Key Topics Discussed

Why Levels Plans Matter

• Three-year rolling targets now cover both permanent and temporary residents.

• Drive everything from Express Entry draw sizes to PNP quotas and study permit approvals.

Economic vs. Family Balance

• Around 65% of PR spots are slated for economic immigration.

• Slight decline in family class to make room for more economic applicants.

Express Entry & PNP Shifts

• “Federal high skilled” now bundles FSW, CEC, and FST under one label.

• Some Express Entry numbers have been shifted back to the Provincial Nominee Programs, which see their targets climb again.

Big Cuts to New Temporary Residents

• Planned new temporary resident arrivals for 2026 are dropping sharply.

• Driven by pressure on housing, healthcare, and services as temporary residents hit historic highs.

Key Takeaways

• Competition is intense: fewer new temporary residents and stricter PR targets.

• PNPs are critical, but integrity checks are tougher than ever.

• Be ready now: keep language tests, ECAs, and Express Entry profiles valid.

• French can be a game-changer for those who can add it.

• In some cases, leaving Canada in status may preserve better long-term options.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
“These are dark times for many people in Canada. The government is very serious about reducing the temporary population.”

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
“Make sure your ducks are in a row—language, education, documents—so if a new pathway opens, you’re ready on day one.”

Links and Resources

• Watch this episode on YouTube

• Canadian Immigration Podcast

• Book a consult

• Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass

Subscribe for More
Stay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process.

Disclaimer

This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and immigration lawyer Alicia Backman-Beharry relaunch the Business Immigration Series with a timely update on the evolving LMIA process in 2025. As IRCC and ESDC crack down, employers face stricter rules, higher wage thresholds, and rising refusal rates.

They explore what’s changed, why it’s harder than ever to get an LMIA, and how employers can improve their chances. From new advertising requirements to the end of Express Entry LMIA points, this episode offers critical insights for both employers and immigration professionals navigating today’s high-stakes landscape.

Key Topics Discussed

• New Wage Thresholds: High-wage vs. low-wage LMIA explained, with updated 2025 provincial cutoffs (e.g., $36/hr in Alberta and Ontario).

• Tightened Restrictions: 10% cap on low-wage TFWs and automatic refusals in regions with 6%+ unemployment.

• Advertising Requirements: 4-week minimum, national scope ads, and strict Job Bank/Job Match compliance now critical.

• Processing Delays: Official timelines vs. real-world wait times—why 3–4 months is the new normal.

• Business Legitimacy Scrutiny: Even large employers must prove they can pay and comply.

• No LMIA Points in Express Entry: Loss of arranged employment points changes PR strategies.

• Employer Liability: LMIA applications are the employer’s legal responsibility—precision and legal support are essential.

Key Takeaways

• LMIAs are tougher than ever—especially for low-wage or high-unemployment areas.

• Follow Job Bank, wage, and ad rules precisely.

• Be prepared for a 3–4 month process.

• Seek legal help—errors are costly.

• LMIA points no longer benefit Express Entry.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
“There’s a concerted effort to make it as difficult as possible for employers to get LMIAs approved.”

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
“Fail to engage with Job Match and your ad—and LMIA—could vanish without notice.”

Links and Resources

• Watch this episode on YouTube

• Canadian Immigration Podcast

• Book a consult

• Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass

Subscribe for More
Stay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process.

Disclaimer

This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.