What are the main differences between liberal and conservative immigration policies?
How have previous Conservative governments shaped immigration policies?
Liberal immigration goals (2025-2027)
The Liberal government set ambitious immigration targets to afghanistan telegram lead support economic growth and address labour shortages. Plans included 395,000 permanent residents by 2025 , 380,000 by 2026 and 365,000 by 2027. These targets emphasized economic immigration, focusing on skilled workers, family reunification and humanitarian programs.
The Liberals also wanted to reduce temporary residents from 6.5% to 5% of the population by 2026 , while maintaining programs for international students and workers in high-demand sectors.
Conservative approach to immigration
Pierre Poilievre's conservatives are in favour of reducing immigration levels based on housing availability and service capacity. Although no concrete targets have been announced, they are focusing on economic immigration with stricter controls on temporary permits and student visas .
Poilievre's plan also prioritizes faster recognition of foreign credentials to address labor shortages in key sectors such as health and construction. Humanitarian programs could be cut, giving priority to private sponsorship and refugees who can quickly integrate into the labor market.