Refugees and displaced individuals often face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives from scratch when they flee their home countries. Recognizing the immense potential and talent they bring, Canada is taking a proactive approach to provide opportunities for skilled refugees and displaced individuals to utilize their education, training, and experience in continuing their careers within Canada. The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to tap into this overlooked talent pool, offering a streamlined pathway for skilled individuals to immigrate and contribute to Canada’s economy and society.
New Immigration Streams for Enhanced Opportunities: In an announcement made by the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Canada has introduced two new EMPP streams, as promised on March 27, 2023. These streams are designed to facilitate the integration of skilled refugees and displaced individuals, alongside existing regional EMPP economic pathways. By launching these streams, Canada aims to provide Canadian employers with greater access to a diverse talent pool from around the world, filling in-demand job positions and complementing its humanitarian commitments.
Improved Efficiency and Accessibility: Building on the lessons learned from the initial EMPP rollout, the IRCC has implemented efficiency measures and improvements in collaboration with its partners. As a result, newcomers utilizing the EMPP will now be able to move to Canada and start working more swiftly. Moreover, these new streams aim to reduce barriers to entry by eliminating the requirement of Canadian work experience for candidates.
EMPP Federal Skills Job Offer Stream: One of the newly introduced streams is tailored to candidates who have received a job offer from a Canadian employer. This stream allows Canadian businesses to hire qualified individuals for a wide range of in-demand positions. From nurse aides and personal support workers to software engineers and logistics and warehouse workers, this stream offers opportunities for skilled professionals across various sectors.
EMPP Federal Skills Without a Job Offer Stream: The second stream is specifically designed for highly-skilled refugees who do not have a job offer. It acknowledges that certain candidates possess skills that are in high demand, making it likely for them to secure employment upon arrival in Canada. This stream empowers individuals to utilize their expertise and contribute to the Canadian workforce.
Unlocking Potential and Creating Impact: The EMPP presents a unique chance for refugees and displaced individuals to leverage their skills, not only improving their own lives and those of their families but also making a positive impact on the communities and workplaces that welcome them. By expanding and scaling up the EMPP, Canada demonstrates its commitment to global labor mobility as the Chair of the Global Taskforce on Labour Mobility. The country aims to serve as a model for other nations and ensure that its immigration system remains responsive to both economic and humanitarian commitments.
Canada’s IRCC has taken a remarkable step forward in simplifying immigration processes and facilitating economic mobility for skilled refugees and displaced individuals. The launch of the new EMPP streams creates opportunities for talented individuals to contribute to Canada’s workforce and fulfill their potential. By removing barriers, streamlining processes, and leveraging international talent, Canada continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a diverse and thriving society that benefits both newcomers and the nation as a whole.