The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are gearing up for an array of changes set to impact newcomers to Canada in 2024. As outlined in the Immigration Levels Plan for 2024-2026, Canada is on a mission to welcome 485,000 permanent residents (PRs) this year. Accompanying this surge in immigration, Canada plans to implement updates across multiple programs and capitalize on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the client experience.
Express Entry System Evolution
Building on the category-based Express Entry draws initiated in 2023, IRCC continues its quest to match foreign nationals with the country’s critical labor gaps and demographic needs. The focus areas for 2023 included individuals with French language proficiency and those with recent work experience in sectors such as Healthcare, STEM, Trades, Transport, and Agriculture. In 2024, IRCC is expected to maintain category-based draws, potentially broadening the focus categories to align with evolving labor market demands.
Revamped Provincial Nominee Program Guidelines
The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are slated to take center stage as the most significant immigration pathway in 2024, as per IRCC’s Immigration Levels Plan. Provinces now have a fresh set of guiding principles, and the introduction of multi-year plans from 2024 onward will provide better strategic planning for provinces and territories in managing their immigration allocations.
Expansion of Parents and Grandparents Program Admissions
Canada aims to increase the intake for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) from 28,500 in 2023 to 32,000 in 2024. The success of this expansion hinges on IRCC’s ability to refine intake management and optimize application processing, potentially allowing more PGP applicants to join their families in Canada.
Enhanced International Student Program Measures
To fortify the International Student Program, IRCC has launched an improved Letter of Acceptance (LOA) verification system. Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) are now mandated to confirm each applicant’s LOA directly with IRCC, aiming to prevent fraud and ensure study permits are granted based on genuine LOAs. Additionally, IRCC is set to review the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program to align it better with labor market needs and immigration goals.
Advancements in AI and Technology Usage
IRCC is committed to leveraging technology and AI to out-compete other countries for talent. This digital transformation aims to enhance client experiences by improving service standards, strengthening partnerships, and utilizing digital and virtual technologies for more user-friendly applications.
Establishment of IRCC Advisory Board
A novel advisory board, including individuals with lived immigration experiences, will be established. This human-centric approach seeks to incorporate the perspectives of newcomers into policy and program development.
Introduction of Chief International Talent Officer (CITO)
The creation of the Chief International Talent Officer role emphasizes the alignment between Canada’s immigration system and national labor market strategies. This role holds the potential to bring substantial changes to Canada’s annual immigration landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates on these significant developments in Canada’s immigration landscape for 2024.
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