Maple News reports that Marco Mendicino, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, recently delivered a keynote speech titled “Modernizing Canada’s Immigration System,” highlighting the country’s forward-looking plans to upgrade its immigration infrastructure.
Speaking virtually at the Canadian Club of Ottawa on May 12, Mendicino emphasized that immigration remains vital to Canada’s identity and economic resilience. With roots tracing back before Confederation in 1867, Canada’s immigration policy has been a cornerstone of national development—and even more so in the context of COVID-19 recovery.
One of the central themes of Mendicino’s speech was the pressing need to digitize Canada’s outdated, paper-based immigration processing system. “The future of Canada’s immigration is digital,” he noted, stressing the importance of streamlining application procedures and enhancing accessibility through technology.
Mendicino also referenced Canada’s ambitious Immigration Levels Plan for 2021–2023. Unveiled in late October, the plan sets a target of welcoming over 401,000 newcomers annually—the highest level in Canadian history. The strategy aims to fuel economic recovery post-pandemic, and early 2021 data indicates the country is well on track to meet that goal.
Despite global travel restrictions, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has maintained momentum. According to Maple News, the department launched six new permanent resident pathways on May 6 and conducted the largest Express Entry draw ever on February 13, demonstrating a proactive approach amid uncertain times.
Canada has also reinforced its role as a global humanitarian leader. Mendicino highlighted that immigration channels for essential travelers remained open throughout the pandemic, and Canada continues to rank as the top international destination for resettled refugees.
Looking ahead, Mendicino reaffirmed the government’s commitment to innovation. Modernizing the system isn’t just about convenience—it’s about efficiency, transparency, and ensuring Canada can remain competitive in attracting global talent.
As the immigration landscape evolves rapidly, Mendicino’s address signals a broader shift toward a more agile and tech-enabled approach designed to meet the demands of a post-pandemic world.
Maple News will continue monitoring these developments to bring you the latest insights into how Canada is shaping its immigration future.