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Prime Minister Carney outlines Immigration Priorities for Canada

Prime Minister Carney outlines Immigration Priorities for Canada

May, 2025 — Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent mandate letter introduces a pivotal shift in Canada’s immigration policy, emphasizing a balanced approach that aims to reduce overall immigration to sustainable levels while attracting top global talent to bolster the nation’s economy. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/migrate/canada-pm-carney-outlines-immigration-priorities-in-new-mandate-letter/articleshow/121389698.cms?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Canada’s New Immigration Direction: What It Means for You

The government’s plan includes decreasing permanent resident admissions to 395,000 in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 by 2027. This strategy addresses concerns over housing shortages and strained public services, ensuring that immigration levels align with Canada’s capacity to integrate newcomers effectively.

Simultaneously, the policy underscores the importance of attracting highly skilled individuals to support Canada’s economic growth. Efforts will focus on streamlining work permits and improving foreign credential recognition, facilitating the integration of professionals into critical sectors.

With these significant policy shifts, it’s crucial for prospective immigrants and current applicants to understand how these changes may impact their plans. Whether you’re considering applying for permanent residency, seeking work opportunities, or aiming to study in Canada, staying informed and prepared is essential.

Professional immigration consultation can provide personalized guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of the new policies and identify the best pathways for your unique situation.

Take the Next Step: Book a Professional Immigration Consultation with us

To ensure you’re making informed decisions in this evolving immigration environment, consider scheduling a consultation with us. As licensed immigration professionals, we can  assess your eligibility, advise on the most suitable programs, and assist with your application process and increasing your chances for a successful outcome.

Don’t navigate these changes alone—seek our expert advice to chart your course to Canada.

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Canada Seeks Extension on First-Generation Citizenship Limit – 2025 Update

Canada to request a further extension to maintain first-generation limit to Canadian citizenship by descent

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Statement

Ottawa, March 13, 2025—The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, issued the following statement:

“Canadian citizenship is highly valued around the world. As Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, I’m committed to making the citizenship process as fair and transparent as possible.

The Citizenship Act currently includes a “first-generation limit” to citizenship by descent, which means that children born abroad to Canadian citizens beyond the first generation generally do not acquire Canadian citizenship automatically at birth.

On December 19, 2023, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice declared that key provisions setting out the first-generation limit for those born abroad are unconstitutional.

The government agrees that this law as it currently stands has had unacceptable consequences for Canadians whose children were born outside the country. For this reason, we did not appeal the ruling. On May 23, 2024, we introduced former Bill C-71, An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2024) to address the Court’s decision while upholding the value of Canadian citizenship.

To address delays in passing Bill C-71, I am approving an interim measure to support those affected by the first-generation limit while Parliament considers legislative amendments to the Citizenship Act. Individuals in the following groups will be offered consideration for a discretionary grant of citizenship under subsection 5(4) of the Act:

  • those born or adopted before December 19, 2023, who are subject to the first-generation limit
  • those born or adopted on or after December 19, 2023, if their Canadian parent had at least 1,095 cumulative days of physical presence in Canada before their birth or adoption (they will be offered consideration for a discretionary grant on a prioritized basis)
  • certain individuals born before April 1, 1949, who remain affected by the first-generation limit
  • those who lost their citizenship under the former section 8 of the Citizenship Act due to unmet retention requirements

The government was granted an extension to the suspension of the Court’s declaration until March 19, 2025. The Government of Canada is now requesting a 12-month extension to provide time to reintroduce former Bill C-71 and allow Parliament to consider and enact the legislation.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Renée LeBlanc Proctor
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Renee.Proctor@cic.gc.ca

Media Relations
Communications Sector
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca

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Navigating Canada’s Evolving Immigration Landscape: Understanding Category-Based Selection

Navigating Canada’s Evolving Immigration Landscape: Understanding Category-Based Selection

Canada’s immigration system is dynamic, adapting to the nation’s evolving economic and social needs. One of the most significant recent developments is the implementation of category-based selection within the Express Entry system. This strategic shift by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to address specific labor shortages and bolster key sectors of the Canadian economy.

What is Category-Based Selection?

Traditionally, the Express Entry system has primarily relied on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to select candidates. While the CRS remains a crucial factor, category-based selection introduces a targeted approach. IRCC now identifies specific categories of candidates with in-demand skills, experience, or language abilities, and conducts targeted draws.

Why Category-Based Selection？

This new approach allows Canada to:

  • Address Labor Shortages: By prioritizing candidates with expertise in high-demand sectors, IRCC can help fill critical workforce gaps.
  • Support Economic Growth: Targeted selection ensures that Canada attracts skilled professionals who can contribute to the country’s economic prosperity.
  • Promote Francophone Immigration: Category-based draws support the growth of Francophone communities outside Quebec.

Key Categories

IRCC has identified several key categories, including:

  • Healthcare and social services: Addressing the need for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
  • STEM occupations: Attracting talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
  • Trade occupations: Filling shortages in skilled trades like carpentry and plumbing.
  • Agriculture and agri-food occupations: Supporting Canada’s vital agricultural sector.
  • Education occupations: filling the needs of teachers and childcare educators.
  • French-language proficiency: Prioritizing candidates who can contribute to Francophone communities.

What This Means for Prospective Immigrants

If your skills and experience align with one of the targeted categories, your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence may increase. It is now more important than ever to:

  • Ensure your Express Entry profile is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Stay informed about the latest category-based draws.
  • Consider improving your language proficiency, especially in French.

Staying Informed of Canadian Immigration Policies

The Canadian immigration landscape is constantly evolving. It is crucial to stay informed about the latest changes and updates.

Book a Consultation with Us

Navigating the complexities of category-based selection can be challenging. If you believe your skills and experience align with one of the targeted categories, or if you have any questions about your eligibility, we encourage you to book a consultation with us. We can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your Canadian immigration goals. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards your future in Canada.