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Canada to cut over 3,300 immigration jobs, raising concerns over processing delays

Canada’s immigration system is bracing for major changes as the federal government moves to cut over 3,300 jobs, raising alarms about longer wait times for visa and residency applications.

The decision, announced to immigration staff on Monday, will reduce the workforce by more than 20%. The Canada Employment and Immigration Union, which represents thousands of workers in Immigration, Service Canada, and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), confirmed the layoffs, with further details expected in mid-February.

Union president Rubina Boucher did not mince words, calling the move reckless. “Processing times are already at record-breaking levels, and these cuts will only make things worse,” she warned. Families trying to reunite, businesses struggling with worker shortages, and a healthcare system in desperate need of skilled professionals will all feel the impact, she added.

This announcement follows the federal government’s recent plan to slow immigration over the next three years, citing concerns over affordability and population growth. At the same time, funding cuts to settlement programs—such as employment services, language training, and community support—have further unsettled those who assist newcomers.

Canada’s immigration workforce grew significantly during the pandemic, increasing from 9,207 employees in 2020 to 13,685 in 2023. Many of these hires were temporary workers brought in to clear the backlog caused by COVID-19 disruptions. Despite these efforts, as of late November, more than 2.27 million applications remained in the system, with over one million exceeding the department’s target processing times.

In response to concerns, the Immigration Department clarified that the job cuts will affect all branches, both in Canada and abroad. They plan to achieve 80% of the reductions by eliminating temporary positions, while the rest will be managed through internal workforce adjustments. Officials insist that these cuts are necessary to align with reduced immigration targets and return spending to pre-pandemic levels.

The department defended its decision, stating that its rapid expansion in recent years was fueled by temporary funding to handle record immigration numbers and modernize its systems. “This funding was never intended to be permanent,” officials explained.

While the government insists this is a return to normal operations, critics argue that the impact on immigration services—and the people depending on them—could be severe.

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