Canada Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab has officially taken the helm at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), following a federal cabinet reshuffle under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s newly elected government.

The announcement, made shortly after the 2025 federal election, replaces former minister Rachel Bendayan and marks a notable return to seasoned leadership in immigration. Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, brings both provincial and federal expertise into one of the country’s most closely watched ministries.

Who Is Canada’s New Immigration Minister?

Lena Metlege Diab is no stranger to immigration policy. She served as Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration from 2013 to 2021, where she played a critical role in developing the Atlantic province’s nominee programs and aligning new streams with the federal Express Entry system. Her appointment to the federal cabinet now brings that experience to the national level.

Key Background Highlights

A daughter of Lebanese immigrants and a lawyer by profession, Diab has long been a vocal advocate for Francophone, racialized, and immigrant communities. Her leadership often emphasizes inclusion and pragmatic reform over sweeping or reactionary policy shifts.

What Can We Expect From Her Term?

As the new Canada Immigration Minister, Diab is expected to continue the Carney government’s measured approach to immigration, with a focus on long-term economic growth and national unity.

Anticipated Focus Areas

• Support for Francophone Immigration: Building pathways for French-speaking immigrants, especially outside Quebec.
• Simplifying PR Transitions: Easing the shift from temporary status to permanent residency for workers and students already living in Canada.
• Better Regulation of Institutions: Stricter oversight of post-secondary institutions accepting international students.
• Balanced Entry Systems: Prioritizing those already contributing to the economy over new entrants in high-pressure sectors.

These approaches align with Prime Minister Carney’s view that immigration must serve both economic recovery and long-term sustainability in sectors such as housing, health care, and labor.

International Students: Still Under Watch

Though Diab has not made formal announcements about international student policies, the sector remains a top priority.

Past ministers introduced caps on study permits, tighter eligibility for post-graduation work permits, and stronger compliance requirements for institutions.

While no drastic changes are expected in the immediate term, Diab may:

• Maintain caps on study permits
• Tighten rules for designated learning institutions
• Review eligibility rules for PGWPs

Tip for Students: If you’re planning to study in Canada, keep a close eye on institutional approvals and policy updates from IRCC.

Permanent Residency and Temporary Workers

Canada’s immigration strategy is increasingly centered on transition pathways. That means helping those already working or studying in Canada to stay permanently, without overloading housing and social infrastructure.

With Diab at the wheel, look for:

• Improved access to PR for international graduates
• Pilot programs for high-demand sectors like health care and skilled trades
• Updated work permit systems that support long-term integration

This signals continued support for foreign workers already in Canada, especially those contributing to essential sectors.

What This Means for the Future of Immigration in Canada

Diab’s appointment offers a degree of stability at a time when Canada’s immigration programs are under intense scrutiny. With a federal election not far off, radical shifts are unlikely—but strategic fine-tuning is already underway.

Here’s what to expect moving forward:

In short, her arrival may bring more predictability to the system—an important reassurance for applicants, employers, and education providers alike.

A New Chapter Under the New Canada Immigration Minister

With Lena Metlege Diab stepping into the role of Canada Immigration Minister, the federal government sends a clear message: structure, fairness, and inclusion will remain at the heart of immigration decisions.

Her leadership brings valuable legal insight and real-world provincial experience. While dramatic changes aren’t expected right away, the policies and programs under her guidance will likely be refined to better reflect Canada’s labor needs, social priorities, and economic realities.

Those already living in Canada – students, workers, and families may find the immigration system becoming more streamlined and accessible over time.

Add ImmigCanada to Your Google News Feed