On March 16, 2010 (local Canadian time), the Canadian Minister of Citizenship and Immigration announced that in order to respond more quickly and effectively to Canada's economic recovery, the skilled immigration policy needs to be adjusted as soon as possible to attract skilled workers and professionals in sectors experiencing labor shortages. Immigration authorities are placing greater emphasis on the applicant's language skills, age and education.
The new policy introduced in November 2008 significantly reduced the backlog of applications. By the first half of 2010, the backlog had decreased from over 600,000 to fewer than 400,000. Under the new policy, immigration applications are generally processed within one year, significantly shortening the waiting period. This priority processing policy will continue, though the priority occupations will be adjusted based on Canada's current employment situation. The consultation period for the new draft is from March 17, 2010, to April 16, 2010; the new policy will be announced at any time following the consultation period.
The newly introduced federal skilled immigration policy in Canada will not only adjust the list of occupations in demand but may also modify the existing points-based system. The new points-based system will place greater emphasis on the applicant's age, language skills, and professional background.
