New Canada visa program unveiled

Mr Kenney first detailed plans of a new Canada visa stream back in April but held back specific details until now. Under the new stream, 3,000 skilled trades people with the skills and experience needed in the various states and territories will be allowed to enter the country in the first year of the program.

The immigration minister has been trying to overhaul the Canadian immigration system for some time in order to implement a system better able to respond to changes in the Canadian economy.

"The new skilled trades stream will help address serious labour shortages in some regions of the country, and support economy growth," said the minister.

"For too long, Canada's immigration system has not been open to these in-demand skilled workers. These changes are long overdue and will help us move to a fast and flexible immigration system that works for Canada's economy."

Mr Kenney suspended applications to the Federal Skilled Work program earlier this year and while applications are expected to open again in 2013, the new stream will remain separate, allowing it to begin processing applications immediately without any backlog.

In order to be eligible for the new stream, applicants will need to be 'job-ready' upon arrival, meaning they must have a job offer in place before they arrive. Applicants will also need to meet basic language requirements, although these will be significantly reduced in comparison to past programs. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in their intended role.

It is believed the program will be targeted towards electricians, welders, mechanics and pipe fitters, although a full list of occupations will be released by the Canadian government.

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The Canadian Visa Bureau is an independent migration consultancy specialising in helping people make their application to the Canadian Embassy.