In a significant development for Canada’s immigration landscape, Lena Metlege Diab has been appointed as the new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This appointment follows the Liberal Party’s victory in the 2025 federal election, with Mark Carney assuming the role of Prime Minister. Diab’s extensive experience and commitment to diversity and inclusion are expected to shape Canada’s immigration policies in the coming years.
Background and Qualifications
Lena Metlege Diab represents Halifax West in the House of Commons and brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Before entering federal politics, she served as Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration from 2013 to 2021. During her tenure, she was instrumental in introducing Express Entry-aligned pilots and creating new immigrant entrepreneur streams. Diab holds degrees in commerce and law from Saint Mary’s University and Dalhousie University, respectively, and is trilingual in English, French, and Arabic.
Immigration Policy Under Prime Minister Mark Carney
With Mark Carney now leading the country, Canada’s immigration policies are poised for transformation. Carney has emphasized the need for a balanced approach to immigration, focusing on sustainability and economic integration.
Key Policy Directions:
- Stabilizing Permanent Residency Levels: The government aims to maintain permanent resident admissions at less than 1% of Canada’s population annually beyond 2027. The 2025 Immigration Levels Plan sets targets at 395,000, decreasing to 365,000 by 2027.
- Reducing Temporary Resident Numbers: The proportion of temporary residents, including international students and temporary foreign workers, will decrease from 7.25% to less than 5% by the end of 2027.
- Enhancing Francophone Immigration: The government plans to increase francophone immigration outside Quebec to 12% by 2029, aiming to strengthen French-speaking communities across Canada.
- Revamping the Global Skills Strategy: The government aims to attract top global talent by streamlining work permit processes and improving the recognition of foreign credentials.
- Modernizing Immigration Processing: Investments in digital tools are expected to reduce processing times, eliminate backlogs, and modernize border enforcement to combat immigration fraud.
Impact on Prospective Immigrants
For individuals seeking to immigrate to Canada, these policy shifts may present both challenges and opportunities. While the government is focusing on integrating those already in Canada, there may be increased competition for work permits and permanent residency slots. Prospective immigrants should stay informed about policy changes and consider pathways that align with Canada’s current priorities.
Lena Metlege Diab’s appointment as Canada’s new Immigration Minister marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s immigration policy. Under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s leadership, Canada is poised to implement a more sustainable and economically integrated immigration system. Prospective immigrants are encouraged to stay updated on policy developments and consult with immigration experts to navigate the evolving landscape.
For personalized guidance on Canada’s immigration pathways and to assess your eligibility, contact Mansory Immigration Consultants today. Our team of experts is here to assist you in making informed decisions about your future in Canada.
