Canada deported 366 Nigerians between January and October 2025 as the country intensified immigration enforcement at its fastest pace in more than a decade, official data have shown.

Statistics obtained from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) removals programme further revealed that 974 Nigerians are currently listed in Canada’s “removal-in-progress” inventory and are awaiting deportation.

The data, last updated on November 25, 2025, indicated that Nigeria ranked ninth among the top 10 nationalities deported from Canada during the period under review. Nigeria also placed fifth among countries with the highest number of individuals awaiting removal.

A review of historical figures showed that deportations of Nigerians from Canada have fluctuated over the years. In 2019, 339 Nigerians were removed, a figure that declined to 302 in 2020, 242 in 2021, and 199 in 2022. Nigeria did not feature among the top 10 deported nationalities in 2023 and 2024 but returned to the list in 2025, with 366 deportations recorded within just 10 months—representing an eight per cent increase compared with 2019.

The rise in deportations coincides with Canada’s broader immigration crackdown, with the CBSA now removing nearly 400 foreign nationals weekly, the highest rate recorded in over 10 years. In the 2024–2025 fiscal year alone, Canada deported 18,048 people at a cost of approximately $78m.

Under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the CBSA is mandated to remove any foreign national with an enforceable removal order. Individuals may be declared inadmissible for reasons including security concerns, human or international rights violations, criminality, organised crime, health issues, financial reasons, misrepresentation, or failure to comply with immigration rules.

Data showed that failed refugee claimants accounted for about 83 per cent of all removals, while criminality-related cases made up roughly four per cent.

Canadian law recognises three categories of removal orders: departure orders, which require individuals to leave the country within 30 days; exclusion orders, which bar re-entry for one to five years; and deportation orders, which permanently prohibit return unless special authorisation is granted.

The Canadian government has said the intensified deportation drive is part of efforts to meet revised immigration targets and address mounting concerns over housing shortages, labour market pressures and border security. To support this, Ottawa allocated an additional $30.5m over three years to strengthen removal operations, alongside a separate $1.3bn commitment to border security.

Concerns have been raised by immigration advocates that deportations could increase further if Bill C-12, commonly referred to as the “border bill,” is passed into law. The President of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers, Aisling Bondy, warned that some provisions in the bill could permanently bar many individuals from making refugee claims in Canada.

An analysis of the CBSA figures showed that Nigeria was the only African country listed among the top 10 nationalities deported in 2025. Other African countries were grouped under “remaining nationals,” which collectively accounted for 6,233 removals during the year.

Mexico topped the list with 3,972 deportations, followed by India (2,831), Haiti (2,012), Colombia (737), Romania (672), the United States (656), Venezuela (562), China (385), Nigeria (366) and Pakistan (359).

Nigeria also emerged as the only African country in the top 10 list of individuals awaiting removal. The category was led by India with 6,515 cases, followed by Mexico (4,650), the United States (1,704), China (1,430) and Nigeria (974).

Despite the crackdown, Canada remains a major destination for Nigerians seeking improved economic and educational opportunities. According to the 2021 Canadian census, more than 40,000 Nigerians migrated to Canada between 2016 and 2021, making them the largest African migrant population and the fifth-largest recent immigrant group in the country.

Figures from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada showed that 6,600 Nigerians became new permanent residents within the first four months of 2024, ranking fourth behind India, the Philippines and China.

Between 2005 and 2024, no fewer than 71,459 Nigerians obtained Canadian citizenship, placing Nigeria 10th among source countries for new citizens.

Canada’s ageing population and persistent labour shortages have continued to drive demand for skilled professionals and international students, reinforcing its appeal among Nigerian migrants despite the tightening of immigration controls.

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Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday announced Build Canada Homes, a new federal agency with C$13 billion ($9.39 billion) funding to boost affordable housing across the country.

“We’re in a housing crisis, and it’s going to take all hands on deck to get us out of it,” Carney said at a press briefing in Nepean, Ontario.

The agency will focus on building affordable homes, working with private developers, and using public land to cut costs and speed up construction.

The initiative is part of the Liberal government’s plan to improve housing affordability, reduce homelessness, and address one of the biggest issues facing Canadians.

Carney, a former central banker, is also pushing policies to diversify Canada’s economy and ease reliance on the United States amid trade tensions. The government projects a C$62.3 billion deficit for 2025–26, higher than last December’s forecast of C$42.2 billion.

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The Canadian government has unveiled a pivotal change to its work permit regulations, granting greater latitude to temporary foreign workers seeking new employment opportunities. Under a newly adopted public policy, eligible individuals can now transition into different roles as soon as they submit a new work permit application, eliminating the need to wait for formal approval before starting their new positions.

This reform is intended to modernise Canada’s approach to labour mobility, reduce administrative delays, and address long-standing challenges faced by both employers and temporary workers, particularly in times of job transition or economic uncertainty.

Policy Designed to Minimise Disruptions
The new measure, which was confirmed by federal authorities and reported by international outlets such as the BBC, seeks to reduce periods of unemployment, streamline job changes, and enhance overall workforce efficiency. It is particularly beneficial to employers grappling with labour shortages and workers navigating job losses or seeking improved conditions.

By allowing job changes to proceed upon application submission rather than permit approval, the government is aiming to reduce the costly employment gaps that often result from bureaucratic delays.

Who Is Eligible?
The policy applies to three key categories of foreign nationals:

Workers on “Maintained Status”:
These are individuals whose work permits have expired but who have submitted renewal applications. Previously, they were required to remain with the same employer under their expired permit’s conditions. Now, they may begin working in new roles immediately after filing an application tied to a new job offer.

Permit Holders Seeking a Change in Employment:
Foreign nationals currently holding valid employer-specific or occupation-restricted permits can now switch positions as soon as a new application is lodged—an important change for those facing layoffs, better job prospects, or workplace issues.

Formerly Exempt Workers Now Requiring a Permit:
Some individuals who were previously permitted to work without a formal permit due to their role or employer may now fall under new requirements. They, too, are allowed to begin working once an application is submitted.

Applies to Key Employment Streams
The temporary policy is applicable to positions offered under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). As long as a valid job offer exists and the application is properly submitted under one of these frameworks, the worker can begin their new role without delay.

How Workers Can Access the New Pathway
To benefit from this updated flexibility, foreign nationals must:

Secure a legitimate job offer from a Canadian employer.

File a new work permit application corresponding to the new position.

Commence employment immediately without waiting for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to issue a formal permit decision.

Previously, such workers were required to remain idle until full approval was granted, often resulting in income disruption and lost productivity for businesses.

A Temporary but Strategic Shift
While this policy is currently temporary, it marks a notable evolution in Canada’s immigration and employment practices. It reflects a broader effort to build a more responsive system one that recognises the economic and social value of labour mobility while maintaining regulatory oversight.

By reducing friction in job transitions and improving access to talent for employers, the government hopes to support both economic resilience and the well-being of Canada’s diverse workforce.

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The country is racing toward a construction crisis that could drive housing prices far beyond what the average Canadian can afford.

This isn’t just about dollars. It’s about people — or more specifically, the lack of them.

Real estate developers, industry leaders, and construction insiders are raising red flags. They aren’t lacking blueprints or ambition. What they are missing is workers. Not the engineers or architects, but the so-called “unskilled” workers. These are the framers, tile setters, and window installers. These roles may not require degrees, but they are essential to getting homes built.

Sue Wastell, president of Wastell Homes in London, Ontario, paints a clear picture. She says delays and rising costs are becoming the norm. The workforce is aging out faster than it’s being replaced.

“We’re really struggling with getting the right type of workers,” she said.

The numbers are troubling. By 2030, around 259,100 construction workers are expected to retire. However, only 228,100 new workers are projected to join the industry. The pandemic made this worse by pushing more people into early retirement.

Making things more complicated is Canada’s immigration system. While the country welcomes many educated immigrants, it leaves out those with hands-on skills. The current system rewards degrees and certifications. But many construction jobs are learned through experience, not in classrooms.

That leaves a major gap. And as a result, projects stall, timelines stretch, and costs keep rising.

According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, 5.8 million new homes need to be built by 2030. This is the only way to return to the housing affordability seen in 2004. But with fewer workers, those numbers may be impossible to hit.

The crisis isn’t limited to home building. Municipal infrastructure is also in trouble. Patrick McManus from the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association says the lack of workers affects public safety too.

He points to reports showing that 30 percent of water systems and 40 percent of roads and bridges are in poor condition. Without the right people to maintain and rebuild them, the consequences could be severe.

The federal government claims to be working on solutions. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced plans to form an advisory council. The goal is to find new pathways for bringing in construction workers. This includes options for undocumented workers and apprentices.

Still, critics say it’s too little, too late. A pilot program launched in the Greater Toronto Area back in 2020 brought in only about 1,365 people and their families. That’s barely enough to make a dent.

Nova Scotia, on the other hand, has seen better results. A pilot program there let candidates use work experience instead of formal education. It also eased language rules for skilled trades. The result? Over 500 workers approved in just one year. Most were young people ready to join the trades.

Jeremy Smith of Nova Scotia’s Labour Department said many of these workers had left high school early to start working. Under normal rules, they wouldn’t qualify. But this program gave them a fair shot.

Despite these successes, national leaders say the provinces shouldn’t be left to solve this on their own. Kevin Lee of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association said, “We can’t just let provinces patch this together. We need federal leadership, and we need it now.”

That warning is echoed by others who fear the construction industry could slow to a crawl in the next 5 to 10 years. Without new action, construction sites could sit empty, waiting for workers who never arrive.

Rupa Banerjee, a professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, suggests diversifying who Canada brings in. She warns against over-relying on specific occupations in immigration planning.

“We’re always two steps behind labour market trends,” she said.

If nothing changes, the future is clear. Housing prices will keep climbing. Infrastructure will keep crumbling. And the average Canadian will keep falling further behind.

What’s needed is real, lasting change  not later, but now.

Because if the workers don’t show up, the homes don’t get built. And if the homes don’t get built, the dream of a safe and affordable life in Canada will begin to collapse  brick by brick.

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At a March 7 press conference in Woodbridge, Ontario, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced new measures to address labour shortages.

Effective immediately, qualified temporary foreign workers enrolling in apprenticeships can study without needing a separate study permit.

Previously, foreign workers were required to obtain study permits before registering for apprenticeship training programs in Canada.

Miller also introduced an advisory council to influence federal construction policy, including recommendations on wages and workforce intake.

He stated that up to 14,000 foreign construction workers may be admitted but did not specify permanent or temporary pathways.

Canada is relying on immigration to fill critical labour shortages in construction, worsening the nation’s ongoing housing crisis.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimates six million additional homes are needed by 2030 to restore affordability.

Miller admitted a domestic workforce gap, saying, “as hard as we try, we cannot train them all in Canada.”

On February 27, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expanded Express Entry, prioritizing 19 new trades, including construction managers.

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This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.

Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify, sponsors must be 18 years or older, meet income requirements, and sign an undertaking agreement for financial support.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) oversees the program, facilitating family reunification through permanent residency sponsorships.

Super Visa: Alternative for Extended Visits
For extended family visits without permanent residency, the Super Visa remains an alternative option for parents and grandparents.

The Super Visa allows multiple entries over 10 years, with each stay lasting up to five years.

IRCC recently revised health insurance requirements, making the Super Visa application process more accessible for families.

Applicants must apply from outside Canada, meet temporary residence requirements, and provide proof of valid health insurance coverage.

Visa holders must renew their health insurance if coverage expires before their departure from Canada.

Processing Times and Provincial Variations
As of February 5, 2025, processing times for PGP applications are 24 months outside Quebec and 48 months within Quebec.

Super Visa applicants are not eligible for public healthcare, requiring private insurance from approved providers before arrival.

Previously, IRCC only accepted Canadian health insurance, but applicants can now use international insurance providers as well.

For shorter visits of six months or less, families may opt for a standard visitor visa as an alternative.

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A total of 6,500 invitations were issued to French-speaking applicants, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement of 428.
This draw prioritizes French-language proficiency, demonstrating Canada’s commitment to bilingualism and attracting French-speaking immigrants nationwide.
In the event of multiple candidates sharing the same CRS score, earlier profile submissions before February 10th received preference.

Provincial Nominee Program Draw Boosts CRS Scores
On February 17th, 2025, Canada conducted a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, inviting 646 provincially nominated candidates.
The lowest CRS score required for this PNP draw was significantly higher, set at 750 points.
Provincial nominations automatically add extra CRS points, greatly improving candidates’ chances of receiving permanent residency invitations.

CRS Score Trends and Opportunities for Applicants
Data reveals most Express Entry candidates have CRS scores ranging between 451 and 500, totaling over 69,000 profiles.
Another group of 21,203 candidates falls within the 501-600 score range, offering room for profile improvements.
To boost CRS scores, applicants should improve language proficiency, gain Canadian work experience, or pursue educational upgrades.
Securing a provincial nomination also significantly increases CRS points, enhancing overall chances for receiving invitations.

Recent Express Entry Draw Summary (2025):

• February 19: French-language proficiency — 6,500 ITAs issued, minimum CRS score of 428.
• February 17: Provincial Nominee Program — 646 ITAs issued, minimum CRS score of 750.
• February 5: Canadian Experience Class — 4,000 ITAs issued, minimum CRS score of 521.
• February 4: Provincial Nominee Program — 455 ITAs issued, minimum CRS score of 802.
• January 23: Canadian Experience Class — 4,000 ITAs issued, minimum CRS score of 527.

Applicants receiving invitations have 60 days to submit applications, with average Express Entry processing times currently at five months.

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Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Thursday while receiving Letters of Credence from four envoys, including the High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, and the High Commissioner of Sierra Leone, Dr. Julius F. Sandy, Tinubu praised the achievements of Nigerians in the diaspora.

The Canadian High Commissioner highlighted the contributions of Nigerians in Canada across various fields such as education, sports, science, health, and business. He noted that Nigerians in Canada exhibit responsibility and purposefulness, further strengthening bilateral relations.

“Nigeria is a key partner for us. You are the largest country in Africa, with one of the largest economies and our biggest trading partner on the continent,” Salvaggio stated.

He also emphasized Canada’s interest in expanding cooperation with Nigeria in oil and gas, ICT, and agriculture.

In a separate meeting with the Sierra Leonean High Commissioner, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional development, stressing the longstanding ties between both nations. The envoy expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s support in Sierra Leone’s growth and stability.

President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from Legesse Geremew Haile, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, and Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, the Apostolic Nuncio of the Vatican.

Discussing Nigeria-Ethiopia relations, Tinubu emphasized the need for African nations to work together in addressing insecurity, which he described as a major obstacle to development.

“We need to work hard to promote peace and stability. Insecurity detracts from development, and only Africans can bring peace to the continent,” Tinubu said.

The Vatican envoy, Archbishop Crotty, received commendation for the Catholic Church’s contributions to education and poverty alleviation in Nigeria, with Tinubu recognizing education as a crucial tool in fighting poverty and ignorance.

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The multiple-entry visa, before its cancellation, allowed holders to enter and exit Canada as they pleased but an update by the government on Wednesday stated that it was no longer considered the “standard document.”

“Guidance has been updated to indicate that multiple-entry visas issued to maximum validity are no longer considered to be the standard document,” reads a statement by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

“Officers may exercise their judgement in deciding whether to issue a single or multiple-entry visa, and in determining the validity period,” the statement added.

Majority of Nigerians had fled the Sub-Saharan nation in light of inflation and rising insecurity to find refuge in Canada who welcomed immigrants to coubter a declining population and meet workforce demands.

But the country, now overwhelmed with immigrants, was backpedalling its approach to address the recent influx.

In October, the IRCC announced a reduction in its permanent resident target for 2025 from 500,000 to 395,000. The target for 2026 previously 500,000 will decrease to 380,000, and for 2027, Canada plans to admit 365,000 permanent residents.

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Given the current labour market conditions, newcomers may face obstacles ranging from cultural adjustments to understanding the nuances of the Canadian job landscape. However, with effective strategies, they can turn these challenges into opportunities for professional growth.

Immigration News Canada (INC) has revealed valuable insights for newcomers to smoothly adjust to their new environment and build a sustainable future without feeling lost upon arrival in search of income. Here are key strategies to consider:

Tailoring Your Resume for Canadian Standards

Creating a resume that aligns with Canadian expectations is the first step in the job search process. A well-organized and concise resume is crucial for making a strong first impression. Canadian resumes typically differ from those in many other countries; a “straight to the point” approach is preferred over lengthy narratives about past achievements. Newcomers should familiarize themselves with local norms to improve their chances of success.

READ ALSO: $1.32 billion approved for migrant aid, affordable housing in Chicago

In Canada, volunteer experience is highly valued and can be just as significant as paid work experience, particularly for newcomers. If you have volunteered, be sure to include it on your resume, detailing the skills you gained and how they relate to the position you’re applying for.

When constructing a resume for the Canadian job market, it is important to keep the following points in mind:

• Length: Resumes in Canada should generally be one to two pages. Most candidates should aim for one page unless they have over ten years of experience.
• Focus on Achievements: Highlight quantifiable achievements instead of simply listing job responsibilities. For example, stating “Managed an organization of 30 employees, leading to a 20% increase in project efficiency” is more impactful than just saying “Managed a team.”
• No Personal Information: Canadian resumes typically do not include personal details such as age or marital status.
• Keywords: Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter applications, making it essential to incorporate relevant keywords from job postings.

READ ALSO;Global Affordable Housing Shortages Can Harm Migrant Reception and Integration

Customizing resumes for each application can significantly enhance the chances of securing an interview, so highlighting specific skills and relevant experience tailored to the job description is advisable.

Networking as a Key Strategy

Networking is an essential component of job searching in Canada, as many positions are filled through referrals rather than traditional job postings. For newcomers, building a professional network may seem daunting but is crucial for job search success.

Networking offers several benefits, such as access to hidden job opportunities, valuable industry insights, and connections with potential employers.

Newcomers can expand their networks through professional associations, networking events, and online platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in informational interviews can also provide insights and connections in desired fields.

Utilizing Employment Services and Job Boards

Newcomers have access to various employment services designed to assist in navigating the Canadian job market. Government resources can help connect individuals with employers and improve job search strategies. Notable services include:

Job Bank: A government-run website where employers post job openings across Canada.
Employment Counselling: Many provinces offer tailored services for newcomers, including resume preparation and interview practice.
Skills Training Programs: Various training programs help newcomers gain necessary skills and certifications.
Popular job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, Workopolis, and Monster can also provide access to a wide range of job listings. Additionally, attending job fairs offers the opportunity to meet employers and submit resumes directly.

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