Maple News reports that Canada welcomed 471,550 new permanent residents (PRs) in 2023, surpassing its immigration target by over 6,000 individuals. This figure also reflects a year-over-year increase of more than 33,000 compared to 2022, when 437,600 permanent residents settled in the country. The steady growth underscores Canada’s commitment to attracting skilled global talent and bolstering its workforce through economic immigration pathways.
Most newcomers to Canada achieve permanent residency through economic immigration routes, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and specialized pilots. These programs are designed to welcome skilled workers who can contribute to Canada’s labor market and economy.
In 2024, applicants pursuing permanent residency through economic pathways should familiarize themselves with the fee structure governed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Understanding these costs is essential for proper financial planning throughout the application process.
For most economic immigration programs—including the Express Entry stream (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades Program), PNPs, and the Quebec-selected skilled worker stream—the fees are standardized:
– Primary Applicant: $850
– Spouse or Common-law Partner (if accompanying): $850
– Each Dependent Child: $230
All figures are listed in Canadian dollars and are subject to periodic updates by IRCC. These fees apply to several key initiatives, such as the Agri-Food Pilot, Atlantic Immigration Program, Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, and others that fall under the economic immigration umbrella.
These programs remain vital to Canada’s broader immigration strategy, which aims to address labor shortages in key sectors like healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and agriculture. In light of this, Government planning continues to evolve. The IRCC’s Immigration Levels Plan forecasts an annual target of over 465,000 new PRs in the coming years.
As the country stays on track to reach these milestones, prospective immigrants are encouraged to stay informed about both financial and procedural requirements. Maple News will continue to provide timely updates and expert insights into Canada’s evolving immigration landscape.