Canada’s Provinces Want Immigration Control — Ontario’s 100,000 Work Permit Plan Leads the Charge

At a recent premiers’ summit in Muskoka, Ontario, Premier Doug Ford captured headlines by announcing plans to issue 100,000 provincial work permits that circumvent decades’ worth of lengthy federal delays. This bold proposal could shake the very roots of how Canada manages newcomers and economic migration. And it all begins with the Ontario work permit plan in 2025.

Why the Provinces Are Speaking Up

Canada’s immigration system has long been centralized, and provinces have pushed back, saying that one size does not fit all.

Here’s why provinces are finding a voice:

Local labour shortages: Whether it’s in rural Manitoba or busy Ontario, provinces say they know the labour markets better than Ottawa.

Long processing times: Some migrants are waiting more than two years just to get a work permit.

Constitutional grounds: Provide an avenue that provinces can create their immigration laws under Section 95 as long as they do not conflict with the federal immigration laws.

Ontario Takes Action – Premier Ford’s Proposal for 100,000 Work Permits

Doug Ford is not sitting still. Frustrated by delays, especially in light of the asylum seeker backlog, Ontario wants to put thousands to work now, not two years from now.

Big idea? Start issuing work permits to people in Ontario who are already here—beginning with asylum seekers currently living in temporary accommodation. Get them working, off support, and building Ontario’s economy.

This proposal is not just symbolic; it potentially represents the first actual use of constitutional powers by a province that could circumvent immigration barriers. Other premiers will be looking on with great interest.

Wider Effects – A Look Across Canada

Other provinces aren’t sitting idle either. There is increasing frustration with cuts to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which has reduced immigration targets by half in some areas.

Manitoba’s premier is pointing out the unfilled factory jobs.
Quebec’s delays on asylum claims have spanned three years.
Nova Scotia wants greater authority to attract health workers.

These Canada provincial nominee updates highlight a core issue: Different regions need different solutions.

The Balancing Act

Yes, immigration provides an opportunity, but it also brings pressure. Housing prices are soaring. Health care waiting lists are growing longer. Funding gaps are increasing strains. Public sentiment towards immigration is cooling.

That said, many Canadians agree – if someone is here and willing to work, why should they wait?

That is the question Ford and other Canadian premiers are asking, and they are prepared to legislate for solutions.

What Does This Mean for You

If you are a skilled worker intending to move to Canada, or you are already in Canada on asylum status, this recent development could bring new opportunities for you.

Jobs in Ontario for skilled migrants are abundant across various sectors, including construction, healthcare, IT, and services. And with provincial permits potentially on the way, the wait time to be employed could be reduced to a matter of weeks.

Abhinav Immigration Services is here to help. Whether you are exploring PNP options or tracking the provincial permit plan, Abhinav will provide legal clarity, assistance with filing, and real-time updates, so you never have to guess.

Need advice about Canada’s new changing immigration landscape?

Visit us today – and let experienced immigration specialists guide you to your next move.