Canada’s Economic Future: The Role of Immigration
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Transformative Immigration Plan Unveiled
November 1, 2017—Toronto, ON—Canada has long seen immigration as a driving force behind its innovation and economic vitality. Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, revealed a groundbreaking multi-year immigration strategy designed to increase the number of permanent residents Canada accepts each year.
Starting with 310,000 newcomers in 2018, the plan aims to welcome 330,000 by 2019 and 340,000 by 2020. This structured approach will help Canada reach its goal of immigrants making up one percent of the population by 2020, fostering innovation and significantly contributing to the nation’s economic prosperity.
Economic Growth and Community Integration
Addressing Labour Market Needs
The multi-year immigration framework is essential to support Canadian businesses and meet labour market demands, especially with an aging population and declining workforce growth. With 60 percent of new arrivals falling under the economic category, the plan responds to the unanimous call from provinces and territories for more immigrants to stimulate growth.
Fast-Tracking Family Reunification
Increased immigration levels will help reduce backlogs and expedite processing times for family reunification, including spouses, children, and grandparents. Additionally, the plan reaffirms Canada’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals.
Ensuring Effective Integration
Canada’s immigration system uniquely supports newcomers by helping them transition, learn official languages, secure employment, and integrate into communities. The gradual increase in immigration will allow partners to plan and collaborate with governments to maintain excellent results for newcomers.
Quotes
“This historic multi-year immigration levels plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants will contribute their talents to support our economic growth and innovation, helping to keep our country at the forefront of the global economy.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Related Products
- Backgrounder
- 2017 Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration
- 2018-2020 Immigration Levels Plan
- Report: 2017 Immigration Consultations
- Infographic: Growing Canada’s economic future
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
FAQ
What is Canada’s new immigration plan?
The plan aims to increase the number of permanent residents to 340,000 by 2020, enhancing economic growth and innovation.
How will this plan affect family reunification?
The strategy will reduce backlogs and speed up processing times for sponsoring family members.
What percentage of new immigrants will be in the economic category?
Approximately 60 percent of the increased immigration will fall under the economic category.
Why is there a gradual increase in immigration levels?
This approach allows for better integration planning and cooperation with government and community partners.
How does Canada support new immigrants?
Canada offers assistance with language learning, employment, and integration into communities.
