b'IMMIGRATIONA WINDING PATH TO PERMANENT RESIDENCYBy Matthew BradfordAs shifting policies make it harder to retain foreign workers, businesses need to stay on top of immigration developmentsA s talent shortages and labourThis is counterbalanced, however, by aWe dont yet know the full details of what gaps persist, Canadianpolicy shift to limit the overall numberchanges may be introduced to reduce the employers continue to rely onof temporary residents in Canada andoverall number of temporary residents. We foreign workers to access inter- the introduction of a levels target forhave already seen updates to the student national talent pools. However,temporary residents. Ottawa may pullprogram and accompanying spousal shifting policy direction and programdifferent levers to reduce the overallpermit eligibility. There may be changes to updates will require companies to staynumber of students and workers inother programs as well, including a stricter nimble and adaptable to keep their foreignCanada which in turn could impactinterpretation of existing program criteria talent strategies on track.the accessibility of international talentor shifts in processing priorities. foremployers. Several developments will impactThe exact way in which the federal employers ability to source and retainRight now, there is a recognition that thegovernment will address rocketing immi-foreign workers in the coming years. Foroverall number of foreign students andgration levels is unclear. As always, the one, increased immigration level capsworkers is fairly significant, and the federaldevil will be in the details. Anytime there for permanent residence will allow moregovernment is looking at ways to reduceare program changes, uncertainty in eligi-individuals to transition from temporarythe overall number of temporary resi- bility criteria or a lack of predictability to permanent status, affording more flex- dents, explains Roxanne Israel, partnerin timing, employers will struggle to plan ibility within the labour market.at EY Canadas People Advisory Services.from a talent strategy perspective, says 18PERSPECTIVESFall 2024'