Refugee applications for a federal program that aims to bring skilled workers to Canada are experiencing significant delays, stretching from months to years. This delay not only affects Canadian businesses that struggle to fill vacant positions but also puts skilled refugees at risk of exploitation, arrest, or detention.
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) was launched in 2018 by the federal government to allow employers facing skill shortages to recruit internationally from refugee populations. Successful applicants are granted permanent residency in Canada for themselves, their spouses, and children.
Over 1,200 individuals have been approved to enter Canada through the program since its inception.
Initially praised for its efficiency with processing times as short as six months, the program has seen a drastic increase in processing times to 54 months, as reported in a ministerial transition binder prepared in May for Immigration Minister Lena Diab.
Dana Wagner, managing director of TalentLift Canada, a non-profit organization assisting Canadian employers in hiring refugees internationally, expressed frustration over the prolonged wait times, stating that Canada is not honoring its commitment to both employers and refugees.
Impact on Businesses
TalentLift conducted a survey revealing that the extended processing times are causing production cuts, project cancellations, delayed expansions, and revenue losses for more than 20 businesses attempting to hire through the EMPP.
Meanwhile, refugees with job offers in Canada are facing severe challenges, including arrest, eviction, deportation, and financial strain while waiting for approval to immigrate through the EMPP.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne recently mentioned the government’s aim to maintain immigration at sustainable levels, acknowledging the need to attract skilled workers for the benefit of the country.
The EMPP program encompasses various skilled positions such as nurses, healthcare professionals, engineers, agricultural workers, and construction tradespeople.
Mary Rose Sabater, a spokesperson for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, explained that processing times are influenced by immigration targets, case complexity, and applicant responsiveness.
“The government is aware of the importance of this program for refugees, employers, and Canadian communities alike,” Sabater added.
Shifting Immigration Trends
Ottawa has revised its targets for both permanent and temporary residents over the next three years. Public opinion on immigration in Canada has shifted, with a notable increase in the number of Canadians believing that the country is admitting too many immigrants.
Recent population growth has put pressure on housing, healthcare services, and other government resources in Canada.
New polling suggests a shift in Canadian attitudes towards immigration. J.P. Tasker from CBC analyzes the findings. Former federal immigration minister Jason Kenney discusses the decline in support among Conservative voters.</span