IRCC is advancing its Skills Missions initiative, a key component of the Strategic Immigration Review released in October 2023. The program aims to attract high-skilled workers to Canada to support its labour market and economy.
The initiative involves sending IRCC staff and stakeholders, such as businesses and provincial officials, abroad to recruit talent. These missions, led by the Chief International Talent Officer (CITO), will streamline the immigration process for employers and address specific talent needs.
The focus will be on countries with similar training standards for regulated professions and regions with significant labour pools for non-regulated jobs. Additionally, the missions aim to boost the number of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec, supporting Canada's Official Languages Act.
IRCC plans to consult with provincial governments and industry experts to refine the mission logistics and target occupations identified through the Canadian Occupational Project System, focusing on shortages in healthcare, STEM, and skilled trades.
This strategy aligns with IRCC's long-term goal of matching immigration with Canada's labour market needs and sectoral strategies.
