- Canada‘s unemployment rate hits 6.9% in April 2025 amid rising job cuts.
- Mark Carney faces economic challenges just weeks after taking office.
- Foreign nationals in Canada can apply for work permits under specific categories.
Canada’s economy is experiencing a troubling phase just weeks after Mark Carney’s election as Prime Minister. In April 2025, the unemployment rate surged to 6.9%, with the economy adding a mere 7,400 jobs.
Despite the grim economic outlook, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified the work permit eligibility criteria. This clarification is for foreign nationals already in the country. +
Canada’s Employment Struggls and Work Permit Opportunities Amid Economic Crisis
The Canadian economy is facing a precarious situation as unemployment soars to 6.9% in April 2025. This is the highest rate since late 2023. Prime Minister Mark Carney is under mounting pressure to address the economic fallout. He needs to act as the nation grapples with declining manufacturing output and increasing job cuts.
Economists point to the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports. These have led to substantial job losses in manufacturing sectors such as steel, aluminum, and automotive. The situation has resulted in 31,000 fewer jobs in these industries, compounding the economic downturn.
At the same time, the Canadian government is taking measures to support foreign nationals residing in the country. They are expanding work permit eligibility. IRCC has outlined specific categories. These categories allow individuals already in Canada to apply for new work permits. This includes those with valid study or work permits and recent graduates eligible for PGWPs.
These policy adjustments are seen as a strategic move to stabilize the labor market. They aim to provide foreign workers and students with viable options to remain employed in Canada. However, with rising unemployment and a potential recession looming, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.
Canada’s economic and employment landscape remains uncertain. Yet, policy adjustments aimed at supporting foreign workers and recent graduates could provide some relief.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” — Peter Drucke
