On This Page You Will Find:
- Why immigration is central to Canada’s future
- What the Immigrant Services Society of BC is calling for
- How the main political parties compare on immigration
- Why a renewed immigration vision matters in 2025
- Frequently asked questions
As Canada prepares for its federal election on April 28, the Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia has issued a national call to action: it’s time for a better vision for immigration.
The society – backed by more than 90 community organizations and business groups across the country – urged political leaders to commit to a fair, coordinated, and inclusive immigration system that works for all Canadians.
“We need a system that sees immigration not just as numbers, but as people and communities building a stronger future,” said Tom Saville, spokesperson for the society. “This election is a turning point. We can rebuild trust and reassert Canada’s place as a leader in welcoming and integrating newcomers.”
A Cross-Canada Call to Action
The coalition’s appeal is clear: Canada must not take its global reputation or future prosperity for granted. The society calls for an immigration system that is responsive, fair, and focused on real outcomes – not just intake targets. That includes:
- Attracting top international talent
- Supporting regularisation for people already working in Canada
- Improving access to housing, healthcare, and education
- Strengthening humanitarian and refugee programs
- Combatting rising anti-immigrant rhetoric
The Election Context
As campaigning intensifies, immigration has emerged as a major election issue. Prime Minister Mark Carney has spoken about improving newcomer supports and addressing housing shortages, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has criticised current immigration levels and promised to tie intake to housing availability. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has focused on rights and supports for migrants, including international students and undocumented workers.
The society’s message goes beyond political platforms: “It’s not about left or right,” said Saville. “It’s about building a country that lives up to its promise – where everyone has a fair shot and contributes to shared progress.”
Why Trust Matters
Public trust in the immigration system is under pressure, with rising concerns about affordability, healthcare wait times, and strained public services. The society says better coordination and long-term planning can ease these tensions and help newcomers thrive.
“Immigration is one of Canada’s greatest success stories,” Saville said. “But we must keep earning that story through action.”
FAQ
Why is immigration a major issue in the 2025 Canadian federal election?
Immigration is tied to housing, jobs, and public services – key concerns for voters. Parties are offering different visions, and groups like the Immigrant Services Society of BC want leaders to commit to fair and inclusive reforms.
What is the Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia asking for?
They want a renewed immigration vision focused on fairness, coordination, and outcomes. This includes better access to services, support for regularising undocumented workers, and resisting anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Who else supports this call for immigration reform?
More than 90 organisations from across Canada – including community groups and business leaders – have endorsed the call for a better immigration system ahead of the federal election.
How do the major parties differ on immigration policy?
The Liberals focus on integration and services. The Conservatives want to link immigration levels to housing. The NDP emphasises migrant rights and support for vulnerable newcomers.
Why is trust in the immigration system declining?
Concerns about rising housing costs, overloaded healthcare, and temporary worker exploitation have eroded public confidence. The society argues that smart policy and support systems can restore it.
