Federal skilled worker program will reopen in May, 2013
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has announced that the new selection system for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) will take effect on May 4th, 2013. At that time, the program will begin accepting applications for review. In addition to the long-awaited announcement, important new details about the program have been revealed, helping to paint a fuller picture of what Canadian immigration will look like in the coming year.
The FSWP changes, as described by CIC, are as follows:
• Minimum official language thresholds and increased points for official language proficiency, making language the most important factor in the selection process;
• Increased emphasis on younger immigrants, who are more likely to acquire valuable Canadian experience, are better positioned to adapt to changing labour market conditions, and who will spend a greater number of years contributing to Canada's economy;
• Introduction of the Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), so that education points awarded reflect the foreign credential's true value in Canada;
• Changes to the arranged employment process, allowing employers to hire applicants quickly, if there is a demonstrated need in the Canadian labour market; and
• Additional adaptability points for spousal language ability and Canadian work experience.
Important Additional Announcements:
In addition to announcing that applications will be accepted starting May 4th, 2013, CIC made three important statements:
• A list of organizations designated by the government to perform educational credential authentication and assessment will be made available in the new year;
• A limit will be placed on the number of skilled worker applications the FSWP will accept for review each year. The specific number for this limit has not yet been announced; and
• New applications to the FSWP will be processed in a matter of months, as opposed to a year or more.
Prospective Applicants – Moving Forward:
Prospective applicants now have a time frame for preparing their applications in advance, if they so choose. An early preparation may be the key to ensuring that one's application arrives before quotas are filled. Due to the fact that In previous years, quotas have filled quickly, leaving otherwise eligible individuals to wait another year for their chance to gain Canadian Permanent Residency.
We at ICP Immigration Inc. suggest those who are serious about immigrating through the FSWP be proactive about preparing their applications so they are first in line on May 4th."
