Maple News reports that Canada’s immigration system is expected to remain active through December, wrapping up what has been a dynamic and transformative year. With multiple policy announcements and immigration activities anticipated, prospective immigrants and stakeholders will want to keep a close eye on several developments before year-end.
First, Express Entry draws are expected to continue despite the holidays. Historically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held at least two draws in December, and this trend is likely to persist. Following a sizable November 25 draw, which issued 5,000 Invitations to Apply with a relatively low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) threshold of 469, another round is anticipated around mid-December.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) activities are also projected to carry on through the final weeks of the year. Several provinces traditionally hold PNP draws right up until the Christmas holidays, offering further immigration opportunities across Canada’s regional jurisdictions.
One of the most anticipated updates is the release of a new mandate letter to Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. These mandate letters outline federal policy goals and provide important insights into the immigration priorities moving into 2021. The forthcoming letter is expected to reaffirm commitments to Canada’s 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan and may touch on innovations such as the Municipal Nominee Program and the possible elimination of citizenship application fees.
Additionally, updates are expected regarding the Parents and Grandparents sponsorship program. Many are awaiting news following the fall intake process and temporary policy changes introduced earlier in 2020 due to the pandemic.
International students and temporary foreign workers in Canada could also see new or extended pathways to permanent residence. These groups have been a central focus for Canada in maintaining population growth and meeting labor market demands during and following the COVID-19 crisis.
As immigration slowly recovers from the disruptions caused by the global pandemic, these developments mark Canada’s continued commitment to welcoming newcomers and fueling its economic recovery through immigration.
Stay tuned to Maple News for real-time updates and analysis as these stories unfold in the coming weeks.