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Three of these programs are aimed at some 90,000 essential workers and international students enrolled in Canadian universities. The other three programs are intended for French-speaking applicants with no cap. These six new programs should therefore determine whether they can become permanent residents from May. This year, Canada is likely to grant permanent residency to nearly 401,000 foreign nationals. In fact, some 50,000 immigrants have already acquired their permanent residence permit in January and February 2021.

Why the Canadian economy depends on immigrants

Canada is world-famous for being a land of immigrants, as evidenced by the number of immigration programs that have been set up over the years. Today, there are more than one hundred active immigration programs. Moreover, the country has never really closed its borders to foreigners amid the global health crisis, although the trend has slowed. Still, Canada aims at welcoming at least 1.2 million newcomers over the next three years.

Overall, the country recognises the vital contribution of foreigners to its economy. This is probably why additional points are often granted to people with previous working experience in Canada. According to research, these people find it easier to integrate into the labour market and Canadian society. However, the Canadian government has set up a program to help foreigners integrate, whether or not they have experience, including international students.

Two of the main challenges for Canada are the low fertility rate and its ageing population. According to official figures, nearly 9 million Canadians are expected to retire in the next few years. So if Canada wants to remain economically competitive, there's an urgency for renewing and preserving its workforce.

Who is eligible?

These programs are aimed at 20,000 temporary workers employed in hospitals and long-term care homes, 30,000 front-line workers in other essential sectors, and 40,000 international students who have graduated from a Canadian university. Around 40 medical professions and 95 essential sectors are concerned, including food production and distribution. These workers must have at least one year of experience in their field of activity. Regarding international students, they must have completed their studies within the last four years, that is, not before January 2017, to be eligible.

All applicants must meet the language criteria to be considered and the other requirements defined by the different programs. When submitting their application, they must also be physically present in Canada, except in Quebec, which its own immigration programs, and be authorised to work. It's worth noting that through these programs, the government is hoping that the smaller cities and communities in Canada will be able to retain the international students and professionals that they have welcomed in recent years. This should guarantee a fair distribution of foreign talent across the country.

Other immigration programs

In February, more than 27,000 were invited to apply to the Express Entry program. This is the highest number of invitations ever sent since the program was launched in 2015. Like the previously mentioned programs, it aims at retaining foreign professionals working in certain sectors. Since early 2021, these draws are being held every two weeks, so consider trying your luck if you are already in Canada and meet the requirements set. The Express Entry Program is open to individuals who are eligible for the Experience Canada (CEC) class and those who have been selected under the Provincial Nomination Program.

There are also other programs, such as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and the Family Class Immigration, that pave the way to permanent residency in Canada. Find out more on the Canadian Immigration website.