Canadian Immigration: Top 5 Developments Expected in 2023

Many upcoming developments in Canadian immigration are expected in the coming months.

In general, September to December are for developments in Canadian immigration. Key announcements are made at the end of the year by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Top 5 development to watch out for in the near future -

1. Announcement of the new immigration plan
2. Announcement of categories for 2024 in Express Entry
3. Launch of a new Innovation Stream as per the Tech Talent Strategy
4. Issue of invitations under Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
5. Details on the Trusted Institutions Framework for international students

New immigration levels

The Canadian Government releases its immigration planning program for the upcoming years by year-end. The 2023-2025 Immigration Levels Plan was announced on November 1, 2022. The 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan is expected to be released in November.

The plan outlines the total number of Canada PR visas to be granted in the next 3 years. Program-wise allocations are given, with the visa spaces available for a specific year under the program in the coming years.

Express Entry system

Category-based selection was introduced in the Express Entry system this year. 6 categories were selected for 2023. The first category-based IRCC draw was held on June 28, 2023. So far, a total of 10,900 ITAs issued in 7 category-based EE draws -

• STEM occupations: 500 ITAs in 1 draw
• Healthcare occupations: 2,000 ITAs in 2 draws
• Trade occupations: 1,500 ITAs in 1 draw
• French language proficiency: 6,900 ITAs in 3 draws

An announcement on the categories selected for 2024 might be made in the coming months.

Tech Talent Strategy

On June 28, 2023, Canada announced a new Tech Talent Strategy to fill up existing in-demand jobs and to attract global talent to create jobs for tomorrow.

A new Innovation Stream is being developed under the International Mobility Program (IMP) of Canada, to be launched by end-2023. Exempted from the requirement of Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the new stream will support high-tech industries in Canada.

Parents and Grandparents Program

From October 10, 2023, Canada will begin sending out invitations to apply to 24,200 potential sponsors. Up to 15,000 complete applications will be accepted. The invitations will be sent out across 2 weeks.

The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) is a pathway for Canadian permanent residents and citizens to sponsor their parents and grandparents for Canada PR.

International students

As per an interview by the Immigration Minister Marc Miller, Canada is all set to welcome 900,000 international students this year. The Minister was speaking in an interview with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

In the coming months, more details are expected on the proposed 2-tier model for study permits, the Trusted Institutions Framework.

Want to immigrate to Canada? Check your eligibility online.