Enhancing Immigration Benefits Through Canada-Ontario Partnership
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Strengthening Immigration Collaboration
Canada and Ontario are amplifying their joint efforts to boost Francophone immigration, aiming for a robust and flourishing economy. The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, alongside the Honourable Laura Albanese, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, unveiled the signing of annexes to the Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement (COIA).
The agreement, initially signed in November 2017, includes three annexes focusing on French-speaking immigrants, international students, and municipal government roles in immigration. This collaboration will fortify Canada’s and Ontario’s partnership to welcome and integrate immigrants, enhancing economic growth and fulfilling shared humanitarian duties.
Key Annexes and Their Impact
French-Speaking Immigrants Annex
This annex promotes Francophone immigration through recruitment, selection, and integration strategies. It aims to increase French-speaking immigrants in Canada and Ontario, striving to meet immigration targets.
Municipalities as Collaborative Partners
The Municipalities annex encourages Ontario’s municipal governments to collaborate on immigration-related issues, such as attracting, retaining, and integrating newcomers, ensuring municipal interests are addressed.
International Students Annex
This section facilitates the entry of international students into Ontario, smoothing their transition to post-graduation employment and potential permanent residency.
Official Statements
“These initiatives showcase our commitment to cooperation, maximizing immigration’s economic, social, and cultural benefits in Ontario. Federal and provincial collaboration is vital for the success of Canada’s leading immigration system.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship
“Ontario welcomes the most immigrants in Canada. By signing the COIA Annexes, we can better support municipalities and attract French-speaking newcomers, skilled workers, and international students, enhancing Ontario’s global reputation.”
– The Honourable Laura Albanese, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration
Key Facts
- The COIA will guide the Canada-Ontario immigration relationship for the next five years.
- Ontario hosts 622,415 Francophones, the largest population outside Quebec.
- Ontario has 26 areas designated for French-language government services.
- In 2017, Ontario received 156,670 international students, representing 49.2% of Canada’s total.
Related Links
- French-Speaking Immigrants 2018 Annex
- Partnerships with Municipalities 2018 Annex
- International Students 2018 Annex
- Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement
Media Contacts
For media only
Hursh Jaswal
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Sara Amash
Minister’s Office
Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
416-325-6205
Laura Sylvis
Communications Branch
Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
416-314-7010
FAQ
What is the Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement (COIA)?
The COIA is a collaborative framework guiding immigration relationships between Canada and Ontario, focusing on French-speaking immigrants, international students, and municipal partnerships.
How does the COIA benefit Francophone immigration?
It aims to boost Francophone immigration by enhancing recruitment, selection, and integration processes, meeting provincial and national targets.
Why is municipal involvement important in immigration?
Municipalities play a crucial role in attracting, retaining, and integrating newcomers, ensuring local interests are considered in immigration policies.
How does the COIA support international students?
The agreement facilitates international students’ entry into Ontario, aiding their transition to employment or permanent residency post-graduation.
Contact us today to learn more about how these initiatives can benefit you.
