Canada proposes changing skilled immigration rules

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has proposed changes to the Federal Skilled Worker Program in the hope that these changes will result in immigrants that better meet their economic goals. CIC has begun consulting with key stakeholders as well as the public on the proposed changes.

A recent evaluation of Canada's skilled immigration program found that changes implemented in the last few years have resulted in more immigrants who can fit into and be successful in Canadian society. However, the CIC still feels that there is room for improvement.

"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," said Immigration Minister Jason Kenney.

"Research points to some key changes that will help us meet those goals," he added.

The proposed changes would place a higher emphasis on youth and language ability. Another interesting proposal is to make it much easier for skilled tradespeople to qualify for immigration. Countries are increasingly finding that they have too many professional level people and not enough tradespeople.

CIC will consult on:

• Requiring skilled immigrants to have a minimum level of language skills
• Making skilled immigration easier for tradespeople, technicians and apprentices;
• Making skilled immigration easier for younger applicants;
• Readjusting points scored for work experience to "other factors that better contribute to success in the Canadian work force"
• Reducing the potential for fraudulent job offers.

The Federal Skilled Worker Program -- introduced in June 2002 -- is a points based system which scores applicants on criteria such as language skills, age and education. For more information and a free Canadian skilled immigration assessment, see our Canadian immigration section.