Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) New Immigration Figures

On November 1, 2017, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (“IRCC”) released new immigration targets for 2018, 2019, and 2020. These figures represent an increase from previous years.

The new immigration targets are as follows:

2018: 310,000 new permanent residents, including 177,500 economic migrants;
2019: 330,000 new permanent residents, including 191,600 economic migrants; and
2020: 340,000 new permanent residents, including 195,800 economic migrants.

IRCC Immigration targets look to represent 1% of Canada’s current population over the three year period with the majority allocated for economic immigration followed by family, humanitarian, and refugee classes.

Given the increase it is anticipated Express Entry candidates will have a better chance of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence. In addition, provinces will be authorized to accept more economic immigrants through their provincial nominee programs (PNP) which suggests qualifying applicants may wish  to consider submitting an application under one of these programs.

IRCC has noted the increased numbers allocated to the family class should theoretically lead to additional capacity and reduced backlogs/processing times. Consequently for those who have submitted applications to sponsor an eligible family class member it would be reasonable to  expect a response regarding their application sooner than previously anticipated.

For more information please contact Oneterra Business Immigration.