Ottawa, ON, December 6, 2023 – As Canada continues to attract individuals seeking new opportunities to work, study, travel, and build a life, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the opening of a new Global Operations Centre (GOC) in Bucharest, Romania. This marks a significant milestone in the agency’s efforts to streamline processing, improve client service, and meet the ever-increasing demand for immigration services.
Addressing Growing Demand and Streamlining Operations
With the influx of applications from diverse regions across the globe, IRCC is actively implementing strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce processing times. The Bucharest GOC, strategically positioned in a European hub, plays a crucial role in achieving these goals by:
Expanding Processing Capacity: Staffed by 20 new employees, including both Canadian and locally-engaged personnel, the center will process a broad range of immigration applications, from temporary resident visas to permanent residency pathways.
Leveraging Time Zone Differences: Operating across different time zones allows for extended working hours, enabling the GOC to address applications more efficiently and provide improved service to clients around the world.
Embracing Technology and Innovation: IRCC is relentlessly innovating and incorporating advanced technologies to streamline processing procedures and enhance the client experience. This includes implementing online application systems, digital verification tools, and data analytics platforms.
Supporting Canada’s Growth and Future
“Immigration is the cornerstone of Canada’s economic growth and prosperity,” stated the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. “By investing in our global processing capabilities and improving client service, we ensure our success in attracting the talent needed to drive innovation, fuel economic prosperity, and build a thriving and diverse society.”
Meeting the Needs of a Changing World
Canada’s immigration system is constantly evolving to adapt to changing global trends and demographic shifts. The Bucharest GOC, along with the existing GOC in Manila, plays a vital role in:
Facilitating the Integration of Newcomers: Streamlined processing and improved application management ensure smoother transitions for newcomers seeking to integrate into Canadian communities.
Addressing Labor Market Gaps: By attracting skilled professionals and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, the GOC helps fill critical labor market gaps and drive economic growth across various sectors.
Maintaining Canada’s Global Competitiveness: Efficient and transparent immigration processes contribute to Canada’s position as a leading destination for talent and innovation on the global stage.
Building a World-Class Immigration System
The opening of the Bucharest GOC marks a significant step forward in Canada’s commitment to building a world-class immigration system. By prioritizing efficiency, transparency, and client service, IRCC is ensuring Canada remains a welcoming and inclusive nation, attracting the talent and skills needed to build a prosperous future for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
As Canada continues to navigate the changing global landscape and embrace its role as a global leader in immigration, IRCC remains committed to continuous improvement and innovation. The GOC network, along with other strategic initiatives, will provide the foundation for a robust and efficient immigration system, ensuring Canada remains a beacon of opportunity for individuals from all corners of the world.