28 August 2008

New types of immigrants allowed into Canada

Changes to Canada’s Provincial Nomination Programs (PNP) have opened up new categories of workers for the skills-in-demand lists. Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador have each added a category for hospitality workers and international graduates, meaning more workers can migrate to Canada to ease the skills shortages.

The Saskatchewan immigration programme introduced the hospitality category to its demand list in response to shortages in food counter attendants, food and beverage servers, and light-duty cleaners.  To apply for a Canadian permanent residency visa under the hospitality category in this province, applicants must have been working in Saskatchewan for six months on a temporary Canadian work permit, and have minimum Grade 12 qualifications and good English language skills.

The Newfoundland and Labrador province has introduced international graduates to its nomination program in response to a lack of skilled workers in the workforce.  It is hoped by the provincial government that by attracting foreign students, more people will be able to contribute positively to the workforce and stay in the region for a longer period time.

People wishing to apply under the international graduate category must have graduated within the past two years from a recognised post-secondary institution, and have gained a diploma, degree or certificate.  They also must have guaranteed employment in that field of study, a post-graduation work permit, and good English language skills.

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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.