Canada’s Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab has revealed that the federal government will restore additional nomination spaces to provincial immigrant nominee programs (PNPs) this 2025.
This decision reverses earlier reductions made in 2024 that led to formal concerns from multiple provinces.
According to Immigration News Canada (INC), the original cuts nearly halved national PNP allocations for 2025, from 110,000 to 55,000 slots, which in turn sparked criticism from provincial governments that rely on these programs to address labour shortages and regional economic needs.
Federal Government Adjusts PNP Reductions After Provincial Backlash
Reports cite that in a ministerial forum earlier this month, Diab informed provincial and territorial counterparts that the federal government would increase some jurisdictions’ PNP allocations before the end of the year. The minister described the decision as a corrective measure to address “slippage” in the federal government’s broader immigration targets.
The initial November 2024 reductions had affected all provinces, with many voicing concern over their diminished ability to attract skilled immigrants. The cuts were viewed as limiting regional flexibility in addressing local labour market needs.
Nova Scotia, Manitoba Among Provinces to Receive Additional Nominations
During a press conference in Halifax, Diab stated that Nova Scotia will receive a “significant” increase in its 2025 PNP allocation. While exact figures were not disclosed, this move partially restores the province’s numbers after its allocation was cut in half last year, from 3,570 to 1,785 slots.
Other provinces have also secured revised agreements. Manitoba will receive about 1,500 additional nomination spaces. British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador have also finalised deals with the federal government to raise their 2025 PNP quotas.
These increases are meant to help regions meet ongoing workforce demands in sectors such as:
- Healthcare
- Construction, and
- Skilled trades
Policy Reversal Acknowledges Provincial Needs and Pressures
The PNP allows provinces and territories to nominate immigrants for permanent residence based on specific regional labour market requirements. The 2024 cuts had raised concerns that provinces would be unable to respond effectively to shifting workforce needs.
Diab stated that while these adjustments provide immediate relief, the government remains committed to managing immigration levels in line with housing, infrastructure, and service capacities. The upcoming 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan will determine long-term allocations.
Next Steps: 2026 Plan and Provincial-Federal Coordination
The restored allocations for 2025 are not guaranteed to continue into future years. Final numbers for 2026 and beyond will be determined in the upcoming immigration levels plan, expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Provinces are expected to continue advocating for more control over immigration selection to better match local labour market demands. Some observers also call for greater transparency and consistency in allocation processes to avoid future disruptions.
