Canada's population fell by 0.2% in the third quarter of 2023 to 41.6 million, marking the biggest drop in over 50 years. Statistics Canada reported this decline, the first since the Covid-19 pandemic's 2020 border closures. This fall is mainly due to cuts in the number of international students after the government reduced study permits and migrant worker visas. A year ago, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised immigration as a key economic booster. But since then, public opinion soured, pushing the government to slow immigration. Immigration Minister said the arrival numbers had become “overheated” and promised to “infuse some discipline.” New Prime Minister Mark Carney, elected earlier this year, confirmed this new approach. In November, Carney told students Canada is “getting immigration under control.” The government has halved study permits, cut work permits for migrant workers, and increased deportations. Keith Neuman of Environics Institute called the drop a “correction” after rapid immigration increases during the pandemic. Economist LJ Valencia noted that while fewer immigrants might raise GDP per capita, slower population growth could slow overall economic growth. Polls show Canadians want lower immigration levels than before, with Conservatives the most critical. Neuman said immigration has become a sharp political divide. Economic pressures like housing and living costs have made people focus more on immigration numbers than cultural issues. Carney said Canada needs to balance immigration with its capacity. Waiting times for some refugees to process their status can be up to 10 years, showing ongoing system challenges. These recent moves highlight a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policy and public mood after years of rapid growth.