Citizenship and Immigration Canada has put forward proposed changes to the Federal Skilled Worker Program which aim to help Canada select immigrants 'who have the best chance of integrating and making a better contribution to the Canadian economy'. CIC began consulting with stakeholders and the public on the proposed changes earlier this week.

The consultations follow the release of an evaluation of the program, which found that skilled workers are faring far better in Canada than their predecessors, thanks to their stronger language skills and arranged employment. The evaluation does show, however, that there is room for improvement.

Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, commented, “To stay competitive globally, we have to make sure the skilled immigrants we choose are the ones that we need, and the most likely to succeed when they get here,”

The input received through the consultations process will be taken into account in the development of new regulations. The proposed changes could place more emphasis on youth and language ability, and are expected to increase the number of skilled tradespeople.

CIC will consult on:

  • requiring federal skilled workers to have a minimum level of language proficiency;
  • making the program more accessible to skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices;
  • placing greater emphasis on younger immigrants who will adapt more easily and be active members of the work force for a longer time frame;
  • redirecting points from work experience to other factors that better contribute to success in the Canadian work force;
  • reducing the potential for fraudulent job offers.
The current Federal Skilled Worker Program was introduced in June 2002 with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The program is based on an objective and transparent points system, which considers factors such as language skills, age and education in the selection of immigrants. The system aims to be more effective at selecting those who will succeed economically.