Introduction
The year 2022 witnessed significant developments in Canada’s immigration system as the country grappled with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continued to adapt to Canada’s evolving economic and societal needs through immigration, leading to critical changes with far-reaching implications for the nation’s immigration system in 2023.
The Immigration Levels Plan
A game-changing announcement of the year was the unveiling of the immigration levels plan. On November 1st, IRCC revealed its ambitious plan to welcome over 1.45 million new immigrants between 2023 and 2025, spanning economic, family, humanitarian, and refugee class streams. Notably, by 2025, the annual intake of newcomers will increase to 500,000, marking historic immigration levels not seen in decades. This initiative underscores the pivotal role of immigration in Canada’s post-pandemic recovery.
Resumption of All-Program Express Entry Draws
In July, Canada marked a significant milestone in its COVID recovery by resuming all-program Express Entry draws, encompassing the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). These programs collectively welcome a substantial number of economic immigrants each year, demonstrating Canada’s commitment to addressing labor market needs.
Enhanced Work Opportunities for International Students
Starting on November 15th, 2022, a pivotal change in the employment landscape unfolded for international students in Canada. They gained the temporary flexibility to work more than 20 hours a week during academic sessions, a stark departure from previous employment restrictions. This change aims to address labor shortages, especially in sectors where students often seek employment, such as food services, retail, and hospitality.
NOC 2021 Updates and Expanded Express Entry Eligibility
On November 16th, 2022, Canada introduced the 2021 National Occupation Classification (NOC) system. The update brought shifts in Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) codes, expanding the eligibility of 16 new occupations in the Express Entry system while removing three previously eligible occupations. This change garnered attention due to unforeseen glitches affecting some Express Entry candidates.
New Brunswick’s Innovative Immigration Pilot
In early November, Immigration and Opportunities New Brunswick launched the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP), designed to welcome critical workers to the province. This program, driven by select employers in industries like manufacturing, food production, farming, and aquaculture, prioritizes immigrant settlement services. The initiative aligns with IRCC’s broader efforts to welcome newcomers to regions with pressing labor needs.
Open Work Permits for Families of LMIA-Based Work Permit Holders
Responding to labor shortages and a retiring workforce, IRCC introduced a groundbreaking policy change to maximize Canada’s potential workforce. Families of LMIA-based work permit holders became eligible to apply for Open Work Permits (OWPs). This initiative, set to roll out in phases starting January 2023, offers greater employment flexibility by allowing OWP holders to work for any employer across various industries.
Express Entry Targeting Specific Occupations in 2023
Bill C-19, passed on June 23rd, empowers the immigration minister to create Express Entry groups based on policy aims such as in-demand occupations. This change reflects Canada’s proactive approach to addressing labor market needs, transitioning from the Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS) system.
Broad Trends Moving into 2023
Several key trends from 2022 are expected to shape the Canadian immigration landscape in 2023:
- Renewed efforts to welcome newcomers to less populated regions, as evidenced by the Provincial Nominee Program, NBCWP, and the Atlantic Immigration Program’s growing importance.
- Targeting specific professions for immigration, especially in response to record job vacancies. The removal of barriers for professions like physicians is a sign of this trend.
- A continued focus on maximizing Canada’s potential workforce, as seen through changes like OWP eligibility for families of LMIA-based work permit holders and investments in immigrant accreditation for healthcare workers.
In summary, the year 2022 has set the stage for transformative changes in Canada’s immigration landscape. At Unitia Immigration Consulting Inc, we specialize in navigating these immigration programs. Contact us to embark on your immigration journey and stay updated on the latest opportunities.
