Canada has a proud and long history of welcoming newcomers from across the world. The newly arrived residents support the Canadian economy and enrich the country. The federal government of Canada took some urgent steps to recover its economy from the aftershocks of the pandemic. Businesses in Canada were facing labour shortages because of the lockdown, and immigration was one of the many rescue measures.
In the present time, the Canadian economy has evolved and its immigration policies reflect the needs of the future. Earlier this year, the government announced that it would decrease the number of temporary residents in the country from 6.5% to 5% of the total population by 2026. To achieve this goal and hold employers misusing the system accountable, several actions have already been taken by the government.
Strengthening Immigration Programmes for Sustainable Development
In its effort to further adjust international students, foreign workers, and permanent resident numbers, Canada’s immigration system will see more changes coming up. The increase in international students in Canada has become a cause of concern for the country as its system is not able to adjust at the same pace. Providing the best experience in terms of living and education standards is important for Canada and all the proposed changes are an effort in this direction.
In one month, the government of Canada will announce the new look of its Immigration Levels Plan, detailing how immigration will take place for the next three years. The minimum language proficiency in French and English levels will be raised for those who want to apply for a work permit. Those applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit are also included in this requirement, and they will also have to show proficiency in the language to be eligible to apply. Applicants who can exhibit the revised language proficiency will be able to apply for permanent residence easily, plus, they will be in a better position to adapt to changing conditions.
Higher Language Proficiency Means Better Adaptability
Starting in November 2024, university graduates applying for a post-graduation work permit will have to show a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 and college graduates will need to score CLB level 5. Higher language proficiency level opens up areas to work in varied industries. It becomes easier to switch from one place of employment to another as you will not face any problems in communicating with anyone.
Graduates from programmes at public colleges will remain eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to three years. Students should have graduated from a field that is linked to occupations in long-term shortage.
Another area that will be revamped is the open work permits for spouses. Canada wants to bring in further changes to limit work permit eligibility for spouses of students in doctoral and certain master’s programmes. By bringing these changes Canada expects that it will have to issue 50,000 fewer work permits to spouses of students.
Implications and Key Points
Even though Canada has reduced the yearly intake of immigrants, the silver lining is that it still needs immigrants. For the year 2025, a total of 437,000 study permits will be issued. The lesson is that the competition will increase and it becomes important that you put your best foot forward. The developing situation indicates you need to talk to overseas education consultants in Chandigarh before you submit your visa application.
The Takeaway
Canada has adopted its immigration policies as per its changing requirements and we as an end user have to make our plans accordingly. More than ever before, you need to get your visa file prepared by an experienced and knowledgeable immigration consultant. Leave nothing to chance and your intuition when you prepare your visa application, and talk to a visa counsellor for the best results.
(Written by ESS Global)
