Maple News reports that immigration from Cameroon to Canada has seen significant growth in recent years—despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2015 and 2019, the number of Cameroonians granted permanent residency in Canada increased by 45%, with nearly 2,950 newcomers in 2019 alone. However, due to pandemic-related restrictions, only 780 Cameroonians immigrated by mid-2020.
According to Statistics Canada, at least 10,265 Cameroonians resided in Canada as of the 2016 Census. The country has also emerged as a key source of Black immigrants through the economic class programs between 2011 and 2016, further highlighting its growing significance in Canada’s immigration landscape.
With over 100 economic immigration pathways available, navigating the Canadian immigration system can be complex. However, several key programs offer well-defined routes for Cameroonian applicants seeking permanent residency.
The Express Entry system stands out as the most popular and efficient route for skilled workers. It administers three federal programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates are evaluated based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which scores profiles according to factors such as education, work experience, age, and language proficiency in English or French. Top-scoring candidates receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence during periodic draws.
Many applicants boost their CRS scores by securing a provincial nomination, which can add up to 600 points—often enough to guarantee an ITA. This brings us to another effective route: the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Each Canadian province and territory (except Quebec and Nunavut) operates its own PNP, targeting workers who match local labor market needs. Cameroonian applicants who align with a province’s criteria can apply for a nomination, providing a regional pathway to immigration.
These programs reflect the Canadian government’s dual-level strategy, where both federal and provincial authorities collaborate to welcome immigrants who can contribute to the economy and integrate into communities across the country.
Whether through Express Entry or a PNP, Cameroonian nationals with strong professional backgrounds, language skills, and adaptability stand good chances of building a new life in Canada.