In a significant political shift, Rachel Bendayan has been named Canada’s new Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC), replacing Marc Miller in a cabinet reshuffle led by Prime Minister Mark Carney. This change follows Carney’s appointment as Prime Minister after securing a landslide victory in the Liberal leadership race on March 10, 2025.
Who is Rachel Bendayan?
Bendayan, a Member of Parliament from Outremont, Quebec, has held several key government roles since her election in 2019. She previously served as:
- Minister of Official Languages
- Associate Minister of Public Safety
As the first Canadian of Moroccan descent to hold a federal ministerial position, her appointment marks a diverse and dynamic addition to Carney’s 24-member cabinet, which includes 11 female ministers.
What This Means for Canada’s Immigration Policies
While major policy changes are unlikely before the 2025 federal election, stakeholders in immigration and international education are hopeful about Bendayan’s approach.
Key Expectations from Bendayan’s Tenure
- A Fresh Start for Immigration – Many feel Canada’s immigration policies under Miller made the country seem less welcoming to international students and families. Lawyer Matthew McDonald believes Bendayan could introduce a more positive tone to Canada’s immigration strategy.
- A Strong Focus on Francophone Immigration – Given her previous role as Minister for Official Languages, Bendayan is expected to continue prioritizing French-speaking newcomers in Canada’s permanent residence programs.
- A Legal and Technocratic Approach – With a background in law, Bendayan may adopt a structured and policy-driven method similar to her predecessor, ensuring efficient and transparent immigration processes.
What’s Next?
As Canada prepares for the 2025 federal election, all eyes will be on Bendayan’s leadership at IRCC. Whether she reshapes immigration policies or continues existing strategies, her approach will play a crucial role in determining Canada’s future immigration landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates on Canada’s evolving immigration policies under Minister Rachel Bendayan!