Maple News reports that Canada will introduce a new permanent immigration pathway in 2025, building on the achievements of the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP). The new permanent program aims to continue providing skilled refugees and displaced individuals with a direct route to settle and work in Canada long-term.
Established in 2018, the EMPP connects Canadian employers with qualified refugees and displaced persons abroad, enabling them to address critical labor shortages across industries. Originally framed as a pilot, the program has gained recognition for its dual impact—supporting vulnerable populations while addressing Canada’s workforce needs.
As of March 2025, the program has admitted 970 newcomers through its various streams. Eligible applicants can currently apply via the federal EMPP or regional versions tied to the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed in its 2025–2026 Departmental Plan that the new permanent program will be launched before the EMPP pilot expires on December 31, 2025. While full program details—such as eligibility requirements and application steps—are yet to be announced, this move signals a long-term commitment to integrating skilled refugees through economic immigration routes.
Under current EMPP guidelines, applicants must demonstrate refugee or displaced status through one of five accepted documents or an official referral from an IRCC-approved partner organization. These requirements ensure that those with the greatest need and relevant skill sets are prioritized for entry.
The transition to a permanent model reflects Canada’s broader goals of combining humanitarian support with economic growth, providing Canadian employers with access to an underutilized but highly capable talent pool.
Future updates from IRCC are expected to include more granular information on how the permanent program will operate, ensuring a smooth shift from the pilot to a long-term fixture of the Canadian immigration landscape.
Maple News will continue to monitor this development and provide updates as details emerge from IRCC.