On This Page You Will Find:
- The data gap controversy surrounding IRCC
- Declines in Q1 2025 immigration figures
- Why critics say transparency is at risk
- Government’s response to accusations
- Possible impacts on Canada’s immigration system
Data Withheld as Immigration Figures Decline
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is facing criticism for withholding detailed immigration data from the public. This comes as new official figures reveal significant declines in most categories of newcomers to Canada during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
In Q1 2025, Canada welcomed 104,110 new permanent residents, down from 121,780 a year earlier. International Mobility Program (IMP) work permits dropped from 230,405 to 176,805. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) permits saw a slight increase from 42,730 to 44,675, while study permits fell sharply from 121,070 to 96,015.
Concerns Over Transparency
Brian Lilley of the Toronto Sun reported that the Carney government has not updated its public immigration data since March 2025, with the latest available numbers only covering up to the end of March. This is despite long-standing practice of monthly releases on the government’s open data portal. Conservative Immigration Critic Michelle Rempel-Garner has accused the government of deliberately hiding figures that are crucial for understanding pressures on housing, healthcare, and the job market.
Government’s Justification
The federal government says it is withholding the raw data temporarily while it updates how the numbers are presented. IRCC has stated that the goal is to provide “clearer explanations of trends and greater context” for Canadians. However, critics argue that replacing raw data with government-curated information could make it harder for researchers, journalists, and policymakers to analyse trends independently.
Why the Numbers Matter
Canada’s immigration system has traditionally been seen as a global model, but public debate has intensified in recent years. Changes to the TFWP, the rapid expansion of the IMP, and record levels of study permit holders have sparked concerns about labour market impacts and housing demand. Without timely and detailed data, it becomes harder to evaluate these effects and ensure policies are working as intended.
The Road Ahead
The Q1 2025 figures show a notable cooling in immigration flows, particularly among study permit holders and IMP workers. Whether this is the start of a longer-term trend or simply a temporary shift remains unclear. Until the government resumes full and transparent data releases, the debate over openness in Canada’s immigration system is unlikely to fade.
FAQ
Why is IRCC accused of hiding immigration data?
Critics say IRCC has not published updated immigration numbers since March 2025, breaking from its usual practice of monthly public data releases.
What do the latest figures show?
Q1 2025 saw declines in permanent residents, IMP work permits, and study permits compared to Q1 2024, with only a small increase in TFWP permits.
How has the government responded to criticism?
IRCC says it is redesigning its reporting format to give more context, but will only release the updated data once the changes are complete.
Why is timely immigration data important?
Accurate and up-to-date information allows researchers, policymakers, and the public to assess the impact of immigration on jobs, housing, and services.
Will the changes affect public trust in immigration policy?
Some critics believe withholding raw data could damage trust, especially if Canadians perceive that information is being filtered or selectively presented.
