16 September 2008

Opposition party in Canada promises immigration changes

Liberal Leader Stephane Dion promised $800 million for immigration and settlement programs last week in an attempt to secure the traditionally strong support from Canadian immigrants, reports the Canadian Press. Dion also promised his party would implement visa changes and improve foreign credential recognition.

Firstly, the party leader said he would reverse the recent changes in the immigration system that have given the power to the Immigration Minister to fast-track Canadian visa applications, as he believes certain applications will unfairly take the back seat to others deemed more important. 

He also said he would give $400 million to help clear the backlog of visa applications, $200 million for language training and $200 million for employment services for immigrants.

Dion also said his party’s policy would include a new five year visa for family members to have multiple entries to the country, and a new express Canadian business visa for business travellers from around the world.  

Dion delivered his immigration policy changes at a luncheon crowd of predominately Chinese-Canadians, and were received with a “roaring ovation”, reports the news provider.

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The Canadian Visa Bureau is an independent consulting company specialising in helping people apply for Canada visa and immigration services.

Article by Jessica Bird, Canadian Visa Bureau.