Annual Canada immigration levels from now to 2020
The plan states that, by 2018, numbers of economic migrants, reunited families, and admitted refugees will rise to 310,000. This is an increase from 300,000 in 2017. In 2019, the numbers will go up to 330,000, peaking at 340,000 by 2020.Canada's immigration minister stated that these new figures mean that, by 2020, Canada immigration will account for almost 1% of the population. The goal is to help with an aging demographic. The plan has been hailed as extremely ambitious. However, the Minister explained the reasoning behind the plan, stating that, back in 1971, each senior was represented by 6.6 people of working age. In recent years, this ratio has slipped to 4:2 and is likely to fall to 2:1 by 2036 if nothing is done.
The government's Advisory Council on Economic Growth recommends increasing immigration numbers to an annual 450,000 immigrants come 2020. However, the government wants to take a more measured approach to make sure the scheme is a success. Reaching the figures in the current plan involved carefully listening to many different stakeholders and a measured approach will ensure all newcomers have the proper set-up to make a success of coming to Canada.
Immigration will boost Canada's ecomony
The Minister for immigration stated that immigration promotes innovation and boosts the economy. In the same breath, he rejected accusations that immigrants simply deplete resources and put a strain on society.Also, as part of the new immigration initiative, the government is trying to cut immigration backlogs and make application processing faster and smoother. This will help families to be reunited and will lead to faster citizenship applications. No doubt a more efficient system will also impact on Canada visa and Canada ETA applications. At present, the Canada visa and Canada ETA processes are smooth and efficient, but an overall improvement in the immigration system can only further promote all programs that help people to visit Canada.
Criticism and support of the government's plans
Conservatives have criticized the new plan and believe the government should handle the task of integrating newcomers in a better way. They say that the government is only interested in a feel-good campaign to promote their current immigration system. One conservative MP said that the government needs to reorder Canada's immigration system by ending the Safe Third Country Agreement loophole and concentrating on assisting immigrants with language barriers, health, and mental health issues.However, the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants responded positively to the announcement but hinted at the fact that numbers could be higher still. A spokesperson from the Association suggested that Canada would really prosper and thrive once the 350,000 level is reached. The Canadian Council of Refugees also responded positively to the announcement. However, they also wanted to see higher numbers of immigrants coming to Canada.
