“Last year, we set an ambitious goal. Today, we achieved it. This is a historic moment for our country, as we welcome the highest number of newcomers in one year in our history. I want to thank all the employees in my department, especially our Operations Sector, who made this possible. Canada is built on immigration, and we will continue to welcome the immigrants that Canada needs to succeed. I can’t wait to see the incredible contributions that our 401,000 new neighbours make in communities across the country.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Last year Canada switched immigration strategies, targeting temporary residents already in the country, like international students and foreign workers, and converting them to permanent residency.
This strategy worked! 2021 broke the prior record from 1913 for welcoming newcomers into the country.
In an interview, Fraser said he is “very much open to” even higher levels if there is an appetite from businesses and communities for more workers. With the ageing population, it might make sense to increase the numbers to fill the gaps.
The Immigrations Levels Plan 2022-2024 is due to be announced by February 10, 2022 at the latest.
Press release from IRCC – link