A Journey Through the Ups and Downs of Canada Immigration
Canada has long been one of the most attractive destinations for migrants, a fact that is especially true in 2022. This was a unique year for Canada’s immigration system, to say the least, as Covid-19 altered the way people enter and settle into the country. Against this backdrop of immense uncertainty, we look back 12 months and highlight Canada’s immigration milestones throughout the year. Despite the challenges, 2022 held its fair share of successes and lessons to be learned.
Overview of Canada Immigration
In 2022, Canada welcomed over 400000 new permanent residents, with the highest level coming in the year’s fourth quarter. This was largely made possible due to the re-opening of certain immigration pathways, allowing the government to make up for lost ground from the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Canada also saw an increase in applications for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), as PNP applicants had a higher convocation rate than through Express Entry. This is indicative of the advantages of having a provincial nomination versus an Express Entry profile.
Impact of Covid-19
While Canada’s immigration record was positive overall in 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic had ramifications throughout the year. In particular, Canada had to make numerous changes to its application and entry process due to the restrictions on in-person processing. Examples include ramping up the use of digital technologies such as video interviews and virtual conferences and issuing more ITA’s through electronic means. These made the 2021 immigration process much more surprisingly efficient, with applications being accepted and reviewed quickly.
Temporary Immigration Changes
The pandemic also necessitated the introduction of various short-term immigration programs. These programs allowed for the speedy processing of medical professionals and other essential workers who had to come from abroad due to Canada’s domestic labour shortage. Additionally, in order to provide temporary residence status to foreign nationals who had to leave their home countries due to pandemic-related restrictions, Canada launched the Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) and Emergency Health Care Coverage (EHCC) which provided appropriate recognition to those entering Canada.
Introduction of new regulations
When the pandemic hit, Canada had to introduce new health regulations. Examples include mandatory quarantine upon entry, periodical health checks upon arrival, and providing a negative PCR test prior to boarding the plane. These served to ensure the entire country’s safety by screening the people entering Canada. Furthermore, the government also released the new ‘Public Safety Act’ which increased the federal government’s ability to deny entry to visitors whose presence would endanger public health.
Popular Immigration Programs
The Express Entry System and Provincial Nominee Program
The Express Entry system allows an eligible candidate access to permanent residency based on a points-based system. These points signify the candidate’s overall eligibility and competency, wherein they must achieve a particular score in order to be able to gain permanent residency. The Provincial Nominee Program on the other hand, is evidently tailored for those looking for a specific province. This is due to the idiosyncratic preferences of councils, based on the requirements of the region.
Immigration Under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program
The Quebec Skilled Worker Program looks at different factors to ascertain the applicant’s proficiency and residency eligibility. It focuses on three aspects: employability, age and level of education. All of these processes are managed by the Government of Quebec, where the applicant must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). The applicant must also meet language requirements such as English/French language proficiency and should also have a minimum of two years of work experience. The application’s success largely depends on a candidate’s ability to understand the local norms, customs and culture.
The Atlantic Immigration Program
The Atlantic Immigration Program is tailored towards those looking to expand their professional and business ventures in the area. The most common immigration schemes that Atlantic Canada offers are the Atlantic High Skilled Immigration Program and the Atlantic Intermediate Skilled Program. The latter is meant for semi-skilled trade workers. Under the Atlantic Immigration Program, one must be able to show at least one year of foreign work experience, and proficiency in the English/French language and must also be able to provide “Proof of funds” for settlement in Canada. Furthermore, such applicants must provide a signed settlement plan and also assure that they have all the necessary qualifications for international work authorisation.
Slower Migration Processes and the Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot Program
For those looking for a more traditional and relaxed immigration experience, Canada offers temporary visas and the Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot Program. The latter enabled local employers to hire qualified personnel from within Canada with no concerns of expiry or restrictions associated with other forms of visas. In addition, The Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot Program offered a variety of support and guidance, enabling easy and accessible access to the nation and its people.
Provincial Business Immigrant Schemes
For those who own a business or are looking for a business venture abroad, the Provincial Business Immigrant Schemes offer an opportunity to set up shop in Canada. This includes launching your own venture or investing in an existing enterprise, thus aiding businesses to gain permanent residency and begin a new venture. The Provincial Business Invest programs open up the possibility to invest over various provinces such as British Columbia and Nova Scotia. Depending on the region, different inviting standards must be met to ensure a smooth migration.
Increase in PNP applications
The reopening of PNPs led to a surge in applications for Canadian residency. This was due to the many advantages that come with having a provincial nomination versus an Express Entry profile. The most notable advantages of having a PNP is the ability to remain in the same province after being granted permanent residency, as well as having a higher probability of getting an ITA.
Canada Express Entry
Despite the fact that the pandemic threw endless obstacles to the nation’s immigration program, Canada managed to launch new initiatives and revive previous pillars, allowing for a smoother transition for those looking to come to the country in the future. Although Canada immigration during the pandemic was a unique year, the lessons we have now learnt, have set the stage for a brighter and better future. Are you looking for help with immigration in Canada? Look no further than Sangam Immigration. Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.