New Permanent Residence Pathway for Semi-Skilled Workers in Canada
October 21, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is set to introduce a new pathway allowing semi-skilled workers to become permanent residents. This move is part of the government’s initiative to better integrate these workers into the economy and reduce reliance on temporary residents.
TEER Levels
Canada's job classification system, TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities), breaks down occupations as follows:
TEER 0: Management roles (e.g., senior managers, restaurant managers).
TEER 1: Occupations requiring a university degree (e.g., doctors, engineers).
TEER 2: Jobs needing a college diploma or apprenticeship (e.g., electricians, chefs).
TEER 3: Roles requiring a college diploma or shorter apprenticeship (e.g., bakers, dental assistants).
TEER 4: Jobs needing only a high school diploma and on-the-job training (e.g., retail salespersons, office clerks).
TEER 5: Positions with no formal education requirements but short-term training (e.g., delivery drivers, cashiers).
Current Problem
Workers in lower-skilled roles (TEER 4 and 5) face limited opportunities for permanent residency. Many remain temporary residents, earning lower wages and facing slower career growth.
Proposed Changes
The new policy will establish a pathway for TEER 4 and 5 workers to apply for permanent residency. The goal is to modernize Canada's immigration system to include a wider range of skills and experiences.
Rationale for Change
Labour Market Trends: Many temporary foreign workers and students are employed in lower-skilled jobs, which offer less economic mobility.
Economic Impact: These jobs, while essential, often come with lower pay and fewer opportunities for career progression, making it challenging for workers to settle permanently in Canada.
Managing Temporary Residents
In 2023, over 2 million temporary residents were in Canada.
New policies aim to limit international student applications and focus on transitioning temporary residents into permanent status before admitting new immigrants.
Adjustments in Express Entry will prioritize those already living in Canada, particularly through provincial nominations and the Canadian Experience Class.
Benefits
For Semi-Skilled Workers: The proposed pathway will make it easier for these workers to achieve permanent residency, ensuring more job stability and career advancement.
Economic Integration: Canada aims to enhance economic integration for these workers by granting permanent status,.
More details on the proposed changes will be published on our website this fall. Additionally, specifics will be included in the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, expected by November 1.
Thoughts on this New Permanent Residence Pathway
The introduction of this new pathway for semi-skilled workers reflects Canada's recognition of the essential role these individuals play in the economy. Canada not only addresses labor market needs but also promotes social and economic stability for these workers, by creating a permanent residence option for TEER 4 and 5 workers,. This shift could help the country retain a diverse workforce, reduce the strain on temporary programs, and provide better support for those aspiring to build long-term futures in Canada.