In a recent announcement on Thursday, March 21st, Immigration Minister Marc Miller unveiled plans to increase “domestic draws” for temporary residents already in Canada who are candidates for permanent residence (PR). These draws, which reference PR selection rounds through pathways like Express Entry managed programs, aim to select candidates based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores or specific professional experience and French language ability, issuing invitations to apply (ITAs) for PR.
Miller’s comments were part of a broader strategy to manage temporary resident levels in Canada, particularly to alleviate pressures on critical support sectors such as housing and healthcare. Temporary residents, in this context, include individuals living or working in Canada on a non-permanent basis, including foreign nationals on work or study permits.
What Does This Mean for Newcomers in Canada?
For those currently in Canada on work or study permits, Miller’s comments suggest a potential shift towards targeting more permanent resident candidates already in the country. However, it is crucial to note that predicting the exact implications of Miller’s statements on policy remains challenging.
Canada’s immigration system has previously favored candidates already in the country. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its largest Express Entry draw, issuing 27,332 ITAs to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates with a CRS score of 75, considerably lower than the average CRS scores for Express Entry draws.
The CEC, a part of the Express Entry-managed programs, serves as Canada’s federal pathway for immigration candidates who have already established themselves in the country’s labor market and society. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are another example of immigration pathways that often target individuals who have integrated into Canadian life, managed primarily by provincial and territorial governments.
Why Did the Immigration Minister Make These Comments?
By potentially increasing the opportunities for temporary residents in Canada to receive PR, Miller aims to select candidates who are more likely to have successful immigration outcomes in Canada. Pre-immigration Canadian experience is widely recognized as one of the best predictors of positive outcomes in the country.
Additionally, this strategy allows the department to meet its immigration targets outlined in the immigration levels plan without introducing new entrants to the economy, which could further strain sectors such as housing, healthcare, and other key support areas.
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