Welcome to this insightful blog, where we will embark on a journey to uncover the potential transformations in Canada’s Immigration System. We’ll delve into policy priorities, permanent residence quotas, and the latest updates concerning programs designed for parents and grandparents, international students, and work permits.
New Ministerial Mandate Letter: 
The Canadian government may issue a new Ministerial Mandate letter in the coming months. This letter will set out the government’s priorities for immigration. Therefore, it will be important to watch for any changes in focus or direction that may influence Canada’s immigration policies and strategies in the near future.
Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026:
The IRCC is legally required to release its Immigration Levels Plan by November 1st. This plan sets out the government’s targets for the number of permanent residents admitted each year. Upcoming Auditor General Report on Canada’s Immigration System Application Processing
The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) is expected to release an audit of IRCC’s processing of permanent resident applications by the end of the year. Consequently, this audit could identify areas where IRCC can improve its efficiency and effectiveness.
Express Entry:
Express Entry is the main pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. In May 2023, IRCC introduced six new categories for category-based selection draws. These draws target candidates with specific skills and experience in in-demand occupations. It will be interesting to see how these new categories impact the number of invitations issued through Express Entry.
Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP):
The PGP is a program that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence. In September 2023, the IRCC announced that it would invite 24,200 potential sponsors to apply for the PGP in 2023.
International Students:
Canada is a popular destination for international students. In 2022, Canada welcomed over 640,000 international students. IRCC is currently reviewing Canada’s international student program, and it is possible that there will be changes to the program in the fall. These changes could impact the experience and opportunities available to future international students.
Tech Talent Strategy:
In June 2023, the IRCC announced a new Tech Talent Strategy to attract more skilled workers in tech occupations. This strategy includes the launch of an Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program, which will allow Canada’s employers to hire foreign workers without a labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Conclusion
These are just some of the key developments to watch for in Canada’s immigration system in the fall of 2023. It is important to stay informed about these developments so that you can make informed decisions about your immigration plans.
If you are interested in learning more about Canada’s immigration system, I encourage you to visit the Seasalt Immigration website or contact a qualified immigration consultant.