Media Releases

Canadian Veterinarians Express Concern Over Federal Immigration Target Reductions and Their Impact on the Veterinary Profession

October 28, 2024

OTTAWA, Ont. – The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is alarmed by the federal government’s recent decision to reduce Canada’s immigration targets over the next three years—from 485,000 in 2024 to 395,000 in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027. This change comes at a critical time, as Canada already grapples with a significant shortage of new veterinarians entering the profession and relies on internationally trained professionals to help address this gap.

According to Employment and Social Development Canada’s Canadian Occupation Project System, the veterinary labour market is facing a structural deficit that is projected to continue through 2031. This shortage has serious implications for animal health and welfare, public health, and the overall economy. Additionally, it poses a considerable threat to the veterinary profession's capacity to deliver high-quality care, as many practice owners struggle to recruit and retain skilled veterinary professionals. Current graduation rates from Canadian veterinary colleges only marginally meet the attrition rates in the field, while there remains an increased and growing demand for veterinary services.

The CVMA urges the federal government to address these pressing needs by developing and implementing strategies to recruit and help assess internationally trained veterinarians who can help fill current labour shortages. This includes the CVMA’s call for a national testing centre for streamlined accreditation. However, the recent cuts to permanent residence targets set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada make this solution increasingly difficult to achieve.

The CVMA calls on the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marc Miller to reconsider these proposed reductions and support initiatives aimed at alleviating veterinary workforce shortages through the recruitment of internationally trained veterinarians.

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The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) has been the national and international voice of Canada’s veterinarians, providing leadership and advocacy for veterinary medicine since 1948. The CVMA represents more than 15,000 veterinarians across the country who provide vital care and services to millions of clients and both small and large animals.

For further information, please contact:
Lori Ahronson
Manager, Communications and Public Relations
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
613-236-1162 ext. 128
lahronson@cvma-acmv.org