Canada’s Immigration Cuts Are Costing Billions—And Thousands of Jobs

In a bid to curb the rising number of temporary residents, the Canadian government has taken drastic measures—slashing international student intake, tightening work permit restrictions, and reducing the flow of skilled foreign workers. While these policies may serve political agendas, they come at an enormous economic cost. Canada is now losing billions of dollars in fresh investment from abroad, thousands of badly needed jobs, and the global talent that fuels economic growth.

International students alone contribute over several billions annually to the economy. They pay significantly higher tuition fees than domestic students and support local industries such as housing, transportation, and retail. But with the government slashing study permit approvals, colleges and universities are being forced to downsize. In my own hometown, St. Lawrence College has cut 55 programs, resulting in lost faculty positions and fewer opportunities for students. This is happening across the country, as institutions scramble to make up for the sudden revenue shortfall.

Meanwhile, legitimate businesses are struggling. Employers in technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture—sectors already facing crippling labor shortages—are now unable to fill critical roles. The federal government’s restrictive policies on work permits and foreign talent recruitment are directly contributing to job losses, reducing business productivity, and forcing some companies to relocate or shut down.

This is happening at the worst possible time. Canada is in the middle of an economic war with the United States, competing for investment, trade, and skilled labor. While the U.S. is actively attracting global talent, Canada is shutting the door. The result? A weaker economy, fewer jobs, and declining competitiveness on the world stage.

Instead of cutting off the very people who contribute to Canada's prosperity, we need smart immigration policies that ensure economic stability, support businesses, and keep Canada competitive. Right now, the government’s actions are doing the exact opposite—costing us billions, killing thousands of jobs, and putting our economic future at risk.