Immigration.ca - Canada Immigration News - October 2012
Though the government has announced intentions to maintain current immigration levels, they are shifting the quotas in different streams to make more room for those applying through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
The CEC is the fastest-growing immigration category, and allows those who have either worked or studied in Canada to apply for fast-track immigration status. It places an emphasis on people who have demonstrated the ability to adapt to Canadian society and contribute to the economy.
Over the past three years the number of immigrants entering via the Experience Class has more than doubled � up to 7,000 in 2012 from 2,500 in 2009. Prior to that, those who had been to Canada and wanted to immigrate here would have to return to their country of origin and wait while their application was processed.
The government is hoping that placing more emphasis on those who have proven the desirability of their skills will help to improve the public perception surrounding immigration. In recent years, polls have shown that Canadians think that the government is accepting too many newcomers.
"Findings from the 2012 tracking study suggest that attitudes towards immigration levels and the impact of immigration are somewhat tightening up," said a recent report from the Department of Citizenship and Immigration. "Residents of Ontario are among those who seem less convinced as to the positive economic impact of immigration."
The government aims to accept 10,000 applicants through the Canadian Experience Class in 2013.
Source: Globe and Mail
