Canada’s immigration system is currently grappling with the repercussions of an uncontrolled surge in international students and temporary workers. As the country works to rectify these issues, it is imperative to reassess the long-term objectives of its immigration policies. The prevailing notion that immigration primarily alleviates labour shortages and expands the workforce, heavily endorsed by business associations and the Liberal government, is flawed. Research indicates that increasing the labour force does not necessarily resolve labour shortages or enhance economic prosperity. Instead, the focus should shift towards attracting skilled individuals who can contribute innovation and expertise, thereby enriching the country.