Latest Updates on Canada Immigration Policies
As Canada continues to welcome an increasing number of immigrants each year, several new updates and changes to its immigration policies have been unveiled. These reforms contribute significantly towards ensuring smoother and more efficient processes for hopeful applicants eager to make Canada their new home. Here are some of the latest updates on Canada’s immigration policies from trustworthy sources such as CBC News, The Globe and Mail, The Star, and Global News.
Canadian Express Entry System
Underneath the Express Entry system, a primary route towards achieving Canadian permanent residence, updates have been made to prioritise applicants contributing to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a news release on Canada.ca, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently announced that 27 occupations aligned with health and trade sectors, including nurses and electricians, will be given priority. Consequently, these profiles would receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) on a priority basis.
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
CBC news reports that the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), a community-driven program that aids smaller communities overcome labour market challenges and attract foreign workers, will now feature expanded criteria for applicants. Modifications include the removal of a work experience requirement for certain international students. This update will facilitate varied opportunities for aspiring immigrants intending to settle in areas such as Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.
Provincial Nominee Program
Significant updates have also been made to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Canada’s second largest economic-class program after Express Entry. Recent data from The Globe and Mail show a significant increase in the number of invitations offered to immigrants under specific provincial streams targeting technology workers. The timely response to the ongoing demand for IT professionals in numerous provinces exemplifies Canada’s commitment to filling labour market gaps with skilled immigrant workers.
Family Sponsorship Policies
From updates on The Star, changes have also been made to reunite families faster and more efficiently which uplifts the immigrant experience in Canada. For instance, the application process for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) has been modernized, adopting a lottery-based system for fairer opportunities. This move has been largely celebrated as it streamlines the process and shortens the waiting period for application results.
Immigration Policies on Occupations in Demand
An important highlight from CIC News indicates a shift in policies in favour of immigrants with occupations in demand. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently issued a significant number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to Express Entry candidates with Canadian work experience in specific occupations. The focus on targeted professions discloses Canada’s increasing need for specialized skills and talent in various sectors.
New Temporary Public Policy to Reunite Families
Global News reports that the Canadian government announced a new temporary public policy to allow visitors to apply for a work permit while in Canada. In the past, visitors usually had to leave Canada to apply for their first work permit. However, this policy will help reunite families and encourage visitors to contribute to Canada’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
To conclude, Canada continues to revise and innovate its immigration policies to attract more immigrants, serve its labor market needs, and ensure a fair and efficient process for all applicants. With its doors open wide to talented, skilled, and hard-working individuals, Canada strengthens its appeal as a choice destination on the global immigration radar.