On This Page You Will Find
- Why provinces are demanding more immigration control
- Ontario’s plan to issue its own work permits
- Criticism of federal immigration delays
- Push to increase PNP allocations
- Settlement service funding details
Canada’s provincial premiers are calling for greater control over immigration, including the ability to issue work permits and set their own levels of economic immigration. This growing demand was a key outcome of the annual Council of the Federation meeting, which concluded on July 24, 2025, in Huntsville, Ontario.
At the press conference wrapping up the meeting, Ontario Premier Doug Ford said provinces would use powers under the Constitution to gain more autonomy. He accused federal Immigration Minister Lena Diab of not aligning with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s vision to grant provinces more say in immigration decisions.
“We will be issuing our own work permits. We aren’t going to sit around and wait for the federal government,” said Mr. Ford, as he handed over the Council’s chairmanship.
Provinces Say They Know Best
The premiers agreed that provincial governments are better positioned than Ottawa to assess labour needs. They want more allocations under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces and territories (except Quebec) to select immigrants for jobs in priority sectors. The PNP allocations were halved under Justin Trudeau’s government in 2024 in a bid to reduce immigration levels.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew warned that such cuts threaten local economies, particularly in rural areas that depend on workers in manufacturing and services. “There’s consensus among the premiers that we’re going to take a much more active approach,” he said.
New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt also voiced support for greater provincial say in who is allowed to work locally. Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston echoed that sentiment, calling for a more efficient system to reduce delays.
Asylum Work Permit Delays Under Fire
Mr. Ford was especially critical of the delays in issuing work permits for asylum seekers. He said many healthy, job-ready individuals are living in hotels while their paperwork lags. In 2024, nearly 100,000 asylum seekers were in Ontario, many of them unable to work legally.
Quebec Premier François Legault added that asylum processing in Canada takes far too long. He compared Canada’s three-year average to France’s three-month timeline and called the system a strain on public services.
The federal government recently introduced a Strong Borders bill, which would tighten rules on asylum claims and give Ottawa more power to cancel applications. Mr. Legault welcomed this move as a long-overdue step to reduce backlogs.
Federal Response and Settlement Supports
Minister Diab has faced criticism from multiple premiers but insists she is committed to collaboration. Her office noted her background as a former Nova Scotia immigration minister gives her a strong understanding of provincial needs. A recent meeting with provincial ministers was described as “productive.”
Ms. Diab also announced $3.2 billion in new federal funding for immigrant settlement services, including language training and help with credential recognition. The funding, spread over three years, will support 520 organisations outside Quebec.
“This investment is about giving newcomers the skills and opportunities they need to build their lives here and help build Canada at the same time,” she said.
Still, premiers argue more support is needed to help immigrants settle quickly and enter the job market, especially given public concerns over the impact of immigration on housing and public services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do provinces want more immigration power?
Provinces say they are best positioned to assess labour market needs and fill local job gaps. They want to set immigration levels and issue work permits directly to meet their economic goals.
What is Section 95 of the Constitution?
Section 95 allows provinces to make laws on immigration, giving them shared jurisdiction with the federal government. It has rarely been used but could now form the basis for new provincial action.
Why are asylum work permits a concern?
Premiers say delays in issuing work permits for asylum seekers keep willing workers idle, placing strain on public resources like hotels and shelters. Faster processing is a top priority.
What is the federal response to provincial concerns?
Minister Lena Diab has promised partnership with provinces and announced $3.2 billion in funding for immigrant settlement services. However, some premiers remain critical of her alignment with Ottawa.
How will this affect future immigration levels?
If provinces gain more control, Canada could see more regionally tailored immigration. This could improve responsiveness to local needs but may also challenge national consistency in immigration policy.
