Canada’s higher immigration targets worsened housing, healthcare, and climate issues

The Government of Canada’s significant increase in immigration targets over the past few years has exacerbated challenges in housing affordability, healthcare resources, and climate objectives. With immigration numbers rising from 271,845 in 2015 to a target of 500,000 by 2025 and an unanticipated surge in non-permanent residents, Canada’s population growth has outpaced the availability of essential services. Despite the government’s intent to manage post-COVID labour shortages, the rapid population increase has strained existing infrastructure. The federal government now seeks to reduce temporary residents to 5% by 2027, aiming to align population growth with housing and healthcare capacities.