Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed Lena Metlege Diab as the new Minister of Immigration,Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), following the Liberal Party’s latest federal election victory. Diab replaces Rachel Bendayan, who had taken over from Marc Miller during a cabinet shuffle earlier in 2025.
As the Member of Parliament for Halifax West, Diab brings a wealth of legal and political experience to the federal cabinet. She is widely respected for her previous work as Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration from 2013 to 2021, where she helped expand the province’s immigration programs and launched several Express Entry-aligned and entrepreneur streams.
Who Is Lena Metlege Diab?
Diab is a lawyer, small business owner, and long-time community leader born in Halifax to Lebanese immigrant parents. She speaks English, French, and Arabic, and holds degrees in commerce and law from Saint Mary’s University and Dalhousie University.
In provincial politics, she held multiple roles, including Attorney General and Minister of Justice – the first woman of Lebanese descent to do so in Canada. Diab is well known for promoting newcomer integration and advocating for Francophone and racialized communities. Her appointment signals a continued focus on inclusion and policy-driven reform.
What Her Appointment Means for Immigration Policy
Lena Metlege Diab’s background in law and her previous government work suggest she will bring a structured and balanced approach to federal immigration. While immediate changes are not expected, her tenure may include:
- Renewed support for French-speaking immigration outside Quebec.
- Continued streamlining of permanent residence (PR) pathways for temporary residents.
- Careful policy updates to work permit systems and international student programs.
Impact on International Students
The international student sector has undergone significant reform under former ministers Marc Miller and Rachel Bendayan, including study permit caps and limitations on post-graduation work permits. While Diab has not announced new measures, the Carney government is expected to continue monitoring this area. Institutions may face tighter rules, and students should stay updated.
Permanent Residency and Work Permits
Carney has made it clear that those already living and working in Canada will be prioritised for permanent residence. Diab is expected to continue this direction, potentially easing the transition to PR for temporary foreign workers and international graduates, while tightening entry conditions for new temporary workers.
Future Outlook for Canadian Immigration
Diab’s appointment signals stability, not disruption. With a federal election on the horizon, sweeping changes are unlikely. Instead, Canadians and immigration stakeholders can expect incremental refinements, particularly in:
- PR access for in-Canada applicants
- Regulations for post-secondary institutions
- Expansion of Francophone immigration pathways
Her leadership could lead to more predictable and transparent immigration policies, especially for communities that have long advocated for representation and equity in the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Lena Metlege Diab?
Lena Metlege Diab is Canada’s new Minister of Immigration. A former Nova Scotia immigration minister and lawyer, she brings years of political and legal experience to the federal role.
What changes can we expect under Lena Metlege Diab?
Diab is likely to continue a structured immigration approach, with a focus on French-speaking immigrants and smoother PR options for those already living in Canada.
Will Canada introduce new rules for international students?
No major updates have been announced, but the sector remains under review. Further regulations could be introduced for study permits and post-graduation work options.
How will PR pathways be affected under Diab?
Diab is expected to make it easier for temporary foreign workers and international students in Canada to obtain permanent residency, reflecting the government’s current priorities.
What is Prime Minister Mark Carney’s stance on immigration?
Carney supports immigration that strengthens Canada’s economy while easing housing and infrastructure pressures. His policies prioritise those already in Canada over new entrants.
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