Canada, known for its easy and open immigration policies, is taking steps to improve its system. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, has announced a slew of measures mapping out a vision to bolster Canada‘s immigration framework, ensuring it remains a driving force for the nation’s economic growth and overall prosperity.

Hearing from stakeholders and newcomers provided important insight into how we can develop a stronger and more integrated immigration system in Canada. With these measures, we aim to build a system that is easier to navigate, with an inclusive and coordinated plan that aligns our immigration programs and policies with the needs of the country,” Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said.

As we move forward, the people who come to Canada will continue to be at the heart of our work, whether they wish to work, study, or call this place their home,” he added.

It its report ‘An immigration system for Canada’s future’, the IRCC has outlined the following measures:

1. Swift Response to Global Crises: Canada aims to make its immigration system agile and equipped to address global humanitarian crises efficiently and equitably.
2. Empowering Francophone Communities: A new Francophone Immigration Policy will be developed to enhance the vitality of Francophone minority communities while also bolstering the demographic presence of French linguistic minorities in the country.
3. Improving the International Student Program: Collaboration with provinces and territories will lead to the establishment of a Recognized Institutions Framework, which will expedite study permit processing for post-secondary institutions that maintain high standards in crucial areas like integrity and student support.
4. Integrated Planning: Canada plans to align housing, healthcare, infrastructure, and other vital services with immigration levels, in close cooperation with provinces, territories, and municipalities.
5. Newcomer Advisory Body: An advisory body comprising newcomers with immigration experience will be formed to offer insights for enhancing programs, policies, and service delivery.
6. Chief International Talent Officer: The creation of a Chief International Talent Officer position will better align immigration programs with the labor market, including industry and sector strategies.
7. User-Friendly Website: The immigration department will make its website more user-friendly to help applicants easily access the information they require.

“These actions can help shape a system that meets the needs of Canada’s economy and labour market. Changes will be implemented through whole-of-government collaboration and a focus on welcoming the people needed for the future, while maintaining the safety, security and integrity of the system,” the IRCC said in a statement.

Immigration remains the main driver of population growth in Canada. In 2021, more than 8.3 million people, or almost one quarter (23%) of the population, were or had been a landed immigrant or permanent resident in Canada.

The proportion of Canada’s population within the working-age category is diminishing. Five decades ago, the ratio stood at around seven workers for every senior citizen in the country. Currently, Canada has roughly three workers for each senior, and it is anticipated that this proportion will further decline to nearly two workers per senior in the near future. The aging workforce carries significant economic implications, such as persistent labor market shortages.

A recent study by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship and the Conference Board of Canada have highlighted a growing trend of newcomers in Canada opting to leave, posing a significant challenge to a nation heavily reliant on immigration for its population and economic growth.

The report highlights the potential risks of Canada failing to meet the expectations of its newcomers, who are grappling with issues like deteriorating housing affordability, strains on the healthcare system, and challenges related to underemployment. It also emphasizes how disillusionment among immigrants can hurt progress, even in a country that consistently achieves new records in terms of population growth.