Canada introduces changes to Express Entry program
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CANADA: GOVERNMENT has introduced changes to its Express Entry program in a move designed to improve the immigration scheme which enable highly skilled immigrants to migrate to Canada.
In the new initiative, it stated that points would be awarded for job offers to qualified candidates who are already in Canada on Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) exempt work permits.
Similarly, government explained that this new approach would benefit international students who completed their studies in Canada.
Also, government stated that it would give more time to candidates to submit their application for permanent residence once an invitation to apply has been received.
“We have committed to doing more to attract highly skilled immigrants to come to Canada and become permanent residents, because this is important to build our economy and strengthen our society,” the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, John McCallum, said in a news release.
McCallum added: “I am confident that the changes to Express Entry will be one of the many positive outcomes of the changes we will be bringing to our immigration system.”
According a release on the government website, the changes which began yesterday, November 19, are part of the improvements government have been introducing to ensure “fair and responsive immigration system that will address emerging needs and ensure long-term economic growth for the middle class.”
The Minister explained that these improvements to Express Entry support the Global Skills Strategy, contribute to Canada’s economic growth, drive innovation leading to new businesses, and assists employers in meeting labour market needs.
He said: “Highly skilled immigrants, such as those who come through the Express Entry system, help strengthen Canada’s competitiveness in the global marketplace and are able to quickly contribute to Canada’s economy and society.”
“They help create jobs, spur innovation and provide opportunities that benefit Canada’s middle class,” the Minister added.
