April 12, 2012

Recent Changes to Strengthen the Provincial Immigration Programs

Minister Jason Kenney has recently announced changes to strengthen the provincial immigration programs. Those applying for semi and low skilled professions will have to undergo mandatory language testing on their listening, speaking, reading and writing abilities. This will help ensure that those applying through the PNPs will arrive with much better language skills to better support the economic growth.

The Provincial Nominee Program was designed to be aligned with Canada’s economic and labour needs; however, in some provinces it is being used as a way to re-unite families. Minister Jason Kenney assured they will work with the provinces and territories to make sure the program is solely focused on supporting economic growth rather than duplicating non-economic federal immigration stream.

In addition, Minister Kenney said that further changes to the program are expected to continue to focus on economic streams.