Key Shifts in Immigration Policies for the United States and Canada in 2024

United States Immigration Developments

On June 18, 2024, President Joe Biden announced the introduction of two extensive immigration policies that are set to fundamentally transform the landscape for certain groups of undocumented individuals. The first major policy focuses on providing undocumented spouses and minor stepchildren of U.S. citizens an easier pathway to legal residency without leaving the country. This policy is expected to affect approximately 500,000 undocumented spouses and 50,000 non-citizen stepchildren, thereby promoting family unity by eliminating the previous requirement to apply from abroad.

The second policy targets the employment prospects of DREAMers, particularly those who hold Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. This measure aims to simplify the employment visa application process for DACA recipients who have obtained a degree from an accredited U.S. educational institution and pinpoints their employment opportunities within the U.S. The policy not only facilitates smoother transitions from education to employment but also helps in retaining skilled talent by offering work visa pathways to those already integrated within American education and work sectors.

Moreover, the new policies integrate the Parole in Place (PIP) program to allow undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens the ability to remain in the U.S. while they apply for permanent residency. To qualify, these individuals must have been continuously present in the country for at least 10 years as of June 17, 2024. In conjunction with this, those benefitting from PIP will be granted the opportunity to apply for U.S. employment authorization during this three-year application period.

Canada’s Evolving Immigration Strategy

Canada is simultaneously adjusting its immigration strategy to meet both current and projected economic demands. The government has broadened its Immigration Levels Plan to include temporary resident arrivals along with permanent residents. This inclusive approach aims to better align the nation’s immigration framework with its labor market needs, recognizing the critical roles that temporary residents often play.

In a bold move, Canada has set ambitious targets, planning to welcome 485,000 permanent residents in 2024, a number set to rise to 500,000 by 2025, and remain steady at that level through 2026. The government is also seeking public consultations to shape the next phase of the Immigration Levels Plan for 2025 to 2027. These consultations aim to strike a balance among various immigration categories while addressing economic and regional requirements to ensure that the inflow of immigrants continues to support national growth and development.

To further bolster its educational sector, Canada has implemented changes to its international student program by capping the intake at 360,000 students for 2024 and tightening financial eligibility criteria. Additionally, a new five-year plan to boost Francophone immigration has been unveiled. This initiative includes setting specific targets for French-speaking permanent residents and promotes collaboration among multiple stakeholders to enhance and support Francophone communities across Canada.