On March 21st, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced plans to focus more on selecting immigrants already in Canada for permanent residency. This move is aimed at easing the strain on essential services by utilizing the pool of temporary residents, such as those on work or study permits, for permanent residency opportunities.
“Domestic draws,” as mentioned by the Minister, are a method of selecting candidates within Canada for permanent residency based on specific criteria like work experience or language skills. This approach intends to simplify the transition from temporary to permanent resident status for those already contributing to Canadian society and the economy.
What This Means for Immigrants in Canada This initiative signals a potential increase in opportunities for individuals already living and working in Canada to secure permanent residency. While details are still emerging, past actions, such as the historic Express Entry draw during the COVID-19 pandemic that favored Canadian Experience Class candidates, indicate a favorable outlook for those with Canadian experience.
Provincial Nominee Programs, which often prioritize candidates with local ties or contributions, are also expected to align with the federal government’s focus on domestic draws.
Why This Focus on Domestic Draws?
The strategy behind targeting temporary residents for permanent residency is twofold: it supports immigrants with proven success in integrating into Canadian life and helps meet Canada’s immigration goals without placing additional pressure on vital services like housing and healthcare. By leveraging the experience and connections of those already in Canada, the government aims to bolster immigration outcomes and manage the country’s needs effectively.
As Canada continues to navigate its immigration strategy, this emphasis on domestic draws represents a significant shift toward maximizing the potential of individuals already contributing to the country, ensuring a more sustainable and integrated approach to immigration.
