Provinces Seek More Control Over Canada’s Immigration Levels
Why Provinces Want More Immigration Control
There’s a growing call from Canada’s provincial premiers for enhanced control over immigration, especially regarding the ability to issue work permits and determine their own levels of economic immigration. This demand gained momentum at the annual Council of the Federation meeting held recently in Huntsville, Ontario.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed that provinces should have more autonomy in these matters, suggesting that they have a better grasp of local labour needs than the federal government. “We will be issuing our own work permits,” Mr. Ford stated emphatically, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Provincial Perspectives on Labour Needs
The premiers highlighted that decisions on immigration should reflect local job market realities. They are particularly keen on boosting allocations under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces (except Quebec) to nominate immigrants for specific job opportunities. The allocations were recently reduced, which the premiers argue threatens local economies, particularly in rural areas heavily reliant on skilled workers.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew voiced concerns that such cuts could hinder job availability. “There’s agreement among the premiers for a more proactive approach,” he affirmed, as more provinces push for the authority to select suitable candidates for local employment.
Delays in Asylum Work Permits
Premier Ford also raised serious concerns regarding delays in issuing work permits to asylum seekers, stating that many capable individuals are stuck waiting in hotels, unable to contribute to the economy. In Ontario alone, nearly 100,000 asylum seekers are affected, with many unable to work legally while they await processing.
Quebec Premier François Legault echoed this sentiment, lamenting that Canada’s processing times for asylum applications are significantly longer than in some European countries. He welcomed the federal government’s new Strong Borders bill aiming to address these delays but stressed that more immediate changes are necessary.
Federal Government’s Response
Despite facing criticism, federal Immigration Minister Lena Diab maintains a commitment to collaboration with provincial leaders. Her prior experience as Nova Scotia’s immigration minister informs her understanding of the needs at play. In a recent meeting, she announced a substantial investment of $3.2 billion over three years for immigrant settlement services, facilitating language training and credential recognition. This funding aims to assist over 520 organizations across Canada (excluding Quebec).
Minister Diab stated, “This investment is about giving newcomers the skills and opportunities they need to thrive and contribute to Canada.” However, many premiers feel that even more resources are necessary to help immigrants integrate quickly, especially amid ongoing public concerns regarding immigration’s impact on housing and public services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do provinces want more immigration power?
Provinces believe they are better equipped to identify local labour market needs and fill job gaps. They seek to set immigration levels and issue work permits to achieve their economic goals.
What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
The PNP allows provinces (except Quebec) to nominate individuals for certain jobs based on their local labour needs, providing an avenue for immigrants to settle in specific regions.
Why are asylum work permits a concern?
Delays in issuing work permits for asylum seekers leave many willing workers idle, which strains public resources. Faster processing of these permits is crucial.
What is the federal response to provincial concerns?
Minister Lena Diab has acknowledged the importance of provincial partnerships and has allocated funding for settlement services. However, some premiers express doubts about the federal government’s alignment with provincial needs.
How will this affect future immigration levels?
If provinces gain more control over immigration, we could see a system that better reflects regional needs. However, this might create challenges in maintaining a consistent national immigration policy.
What do you think?
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hi i am john from the Philippines, i recently passed my IELTS, for me to qualify as a home child care provider, but my dreams to Canada, went down the drain, when IRCC announced that a new immigration policy will be announced soon. and so it did…according to the report, the Canadian government will start to accept home care child provider by 2027, and it really broke my heart, i am 53 years old, and i really don’t know if i will take again another IELTS and will eb able to pass the said exam…my question is do i have still other options to use my IELTS in other jobs in Canada…say Housekeeping aside from being a Home Child Care Provider…please Help. Best Regards.
Hi John, thank you so much for sharing your story. I can only imagine how disappointing the recent changes must have felt after you worked hard to pass your IELTS and prepare for the Home Child Care Provider program.
While it is true that IRCC has announced the new caregiver pilot will begin in 2027, please do not lose hope. Your IELTS result is still a valuable achievement, and there may be other immigration options you can explore if you are open to different types of work, such as housekeeping.
Some Canadian employers in sectors like hospitality, cleaning, or food service do support foreign workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. This often involves an LMIA, or Labour Market Impact Assessment. If an employer is willing to support you through this pathway, your age might not be an obstacle. What matters more is your ability to meet the job requirements and the employer’s need for staff.
Housekeeping roles in hotels, resorts, or care homes can sometimes qualify for LMIA sponsorship. Since you already have an IELTS result, and depending on your score and its validity, you may be eligible to apply for these types of jobs if you can secure a job offer from a Canadian employer.
It is also worth looking into Provincial Nominee Programs. Some provinces have employer-driven or in-demand occupation streams that could match your background and experience.
If you would like, I can help you explore current job opportunities that are still open to overseas applicants with IELTS and work experience in caregiving or housekeeping.
You have already taken an important step by completing your IELTS. Please do not give up. The immigration system is shifting, but that does not mean the door is closed. Feel free to reach out if you would like a more personalised look at your options.
Warm regards,
Mark
VJC