Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, recently reflected on his tenure, admitting that his biggest mistake regarding international students was “trusting people too long.”
In early September, U.S. magazine Compact published an article titled “How Canada Turned Against Immigration.” While the headline may have overstated the situation, it does highlight a noticeable shift in policy, public sentiment, and rhetoric since Miller’s appointment in July 2023.
This year, Miller introduced a two-year cap on international student visas, cutting numbers by approximately 35%. His office has implemented changes to the temporary foreign worker program and hinted at further adjustments. Additionally, the federal government is reevaluating its immigration targets for 2025 and 2026.
In a comprehensive interview in early October, Miller insisted that these changes are not a response to anti-immigrant sentiment but are aimed at ensuring the immigration system remains valued by Canadians. He emphasized that reforms are necessary, even if they involve tough choices and acknowledgment of past missteps.
A survey from September 2022 found that only 27% of Canadians felt there was too much immigration, but by September 2023, that number had risen to 44%. Miller believes that while the consensus on the value of immigration remains, people want to feel the system is under control. He pointed to areas like international students where the system has become overstretched.
When asked what “under control” means, Miller described an immigration system that balances population needs—labor demands, family reunification, and humanitarian goals—while ensuring economic motives are clear and labor markets align with immigration rates. He acknowledged that the system has been slow to adapt and took responsibility for that.
The recent surge in immigration, particularly post-COVID, has raised concerns. In 2022, Canada’s population grew by over a million, with 96% being newcomers. Miller explained that the government’s response to labor shortages necessitated higher permanent residency levels and an influx of temporary residents, especially international students.
He emphasized the need to find equilibrium in immigration numbers to prevent strains on housing and infrastructure, acknowledging public anxiety about the rapid increase in newcomers.
Miller also noted that the ongoing conversation about immigration rates must avoid reducing the discussion to polarizing value judgments about newcomers. Engaging with citizens’ concerns respectfully is crucial, and he encourages politicians to have open conversations without dismissing fears or lecturing constituents.
Despite the diversity of views within his party, Miller is committed to ensuring that immigration policies serve Canadians’ interests while maintaining a balanced perspective. While future immigration numbers may be subject to change, Miller underscored the importance of adapting to current realities rather than adhering to outdated assumptions.
He confirmed that the federal government has tightened scrutiny on international travelers, emphasizing the need for discipline within the immigration system. While he finds it regrettable to deny visas, he believes it was necessary to maintain system integrity.
When discussing international students, Miller acknowledged that the program had become problematic, as many students were drawn more by the potential for permanent residency than the quality of education. He recognized the need for stricter regulations on designated learning institutions to ensure accountability and quality.
Miller also mentioned that the temporary foreign worker program is under review, with industry demands for more access to low-wage labor driving changes. He highlighted the need to balance labor market needs with the protection of domestic workers’ wages.
Overall, Miller’s comments reflect a complex landscape where immigration remains a critical component of Canada’s economic future, yet requires careful management to align with public sentiment and national interests.