About 4,600 federal public servants have applied for an early retirement package since the application window opened last month, as the Canadian government moves to reduce the size of its workforce by 2029, according to a government official.

Mohammad Kamal, director of communications for Treasury Board president Shafqat Ali, told CTV News Ottawa on Wednesday that applications have been coming in since the process opened on March 27. Public servants have until July 24 to apply for the Early Retirement Incentive (ERI) program. Those approved must leave their positions by Jan. 20, 2027.

The push for a smaller public service stems from the Canada Strong Budget 2025, released in November, which outlined a plan to eliminate 28,000 positions by 2029 – including 12,000 jobs and 350 executive roles through attrition and early retirement packages.

Immediate pension

Approximately 68,000 early-retirement notices were sent in December, informing workers of their potential eligibility.

“Under this program, eligible employees can apply to retire with an immediate pension based on years of service, with no reduction for retiring early,” the federal government said. “Eligible employees will receive a letter with instructions on how to apply.”

Kamal told CTV News Ottawa on April 2 that participation remains “entirely voluntary,” adding that workforce reductions will be achieved “to the greatest extent possible through attrition and voluntary departures.”