Revised Federal Skilled Worker Program Unveiled

Proposed regulatory changes  to the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) were announced August 17, 2012.

Citizenship Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney says the FSWP is Canada’s largest economic immigration program and the changes proposed to update the selection criteria are based on data and evidence accumulated over the years showing which skills will most likely lead to success for immigrants.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is proposing the following changes.

• ·Make language the most important selection factor; establish new minimum official language thresholds; increase points for language
• ·Increase the emphasis on younger immigrants who will remain the workforce longer
• ·Increase points for Canadian work experience; reduce points for foreign work experience
• ·Simplify arranged employment process to prevent fraud and abuse yet enable employers to staff positions quickly
• ·Award points for spousal language ability and Canadian experience.

CIC also proposed the Educational Credential Assessment – wherein points are awarded according to how an applicant’s foreign educational credential compares to a completed educational credential in Canada. However, it will not guarantee that they will become licensed to practice in a regulated occupation.

Kenney says this is an important step to address the problem of immigrants arriving and not being able to work in their field. This new requirement, he adds, will help potential newcomers make informed choices about immigration and Canadian career paths.

SOURCE: Link