Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released mid-year figures showing that Canada’s temporary worker numbers have already exceeded the government’s targets for 2025. Both the International Mobility Program (IMP) and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) are running ahead of projections, raising new questions about how Ottawa will manage temporary immigration in the months ahead.
On This Page You Will Find
- Canada’s 2025 temporary worker numbers compared to targets
- International Mobility Program trends
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program growth
- Study permit declines
- Implications for Canada’s immigration policy
International Mobility Program Surpasses Targets
The International Mobility Program issued 302,280 work permits in the first half of 2025. This is already well above the government’s annual target of 285,750 permits. While the IMP had been reduced from over 410,000 permits in 2024, the pace of issuance means the program will likely finish the year far above the planned number.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program Also Ahead
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program has issued 105,195 permits so far in 2025, compared to 109,310 in all of 2024. The 2025 target is only 82,000 for the whole year. This indicates the program has already exceeded its quota by more than 20 percent halfway through the year.
Decline in Study Permits
By contrast, study permits are well below target. Canada issued 149,860 study permits in the first half of 2025, compared to a full-year target of 305,900. This reflects Ottawa’s recent decision to reduce international student numbers in order to address housing and service pressures.
| Category | 2025 Mid-Year Numbers | 2025 Full-Year Targets |
| International Mobility Program | 302280 | 285750 |
| Temporary Foreign Worker Program | 105195 | 82000 |
| Study Permits | 149860 | 305900 |
Permanent Resident Numbers
Canada admitted 207,650 new permanent residents in the first six months of 2025. That puts the country on track to meet the 395,000 permanent resident target for the full year, but at a slower pace compared to previous years.
Policy Questions Ahead
The fact that temporary worker numbers are already well above targets halfway through the year could spark renewed debate over Canada’s immigration system. The government will need to clarify whether it intends to adjust the annual targets or impose stricter controls on work permit issuance.
FAQ
Why have Canada’s temporary worker numbers exceeded 2025 targets?
The International Mobility Program and Temporary Foreign Worker Program have issued more permits than expected by mid-year. This reflects employer demand and ongoing policy gaps in controlling temporary immigration streams.
What is the International Mobility Program (IMP)?
The IMP allows employers to hire foreign workers without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment. It includes categories such as intra-company transfers, trade agreements, and reciprocal work arrangements.
How does the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) differ?
The TFWP requires employers to secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment to prove the need for a foreign worker. It is designed to fill short-term labour shortages in specific sectors.
Why are study permit numbers down in 2025?
The government has capped study permits to address pressure on housing and public services. This explains why the 2025 mid-year numbers are well below the target compared to previous years.
Will Canada adjust its immigration targets for 2025?
The government has not confirmed any changes. However, with temporary work permits already over target, Ottawa may introduce tighter restrictions or revise figures later in the year.
