For example, in 1999 only 189,057 immigration visas were issued, and in 1998 even fewer (174,195). Thus, the trend of recent years is an increase in the number of immigrants and the establishment of an average annual norm at the level of 250,000 persons (which corresponds to previous statements by representatives of the government and the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration of Canada). Apparently, this course should continue in the near future.
However, there are also negative trends. While the number of persons who obtained permanent resident status under the Family class increased compared to previous years (primarily due to parents and grandparents), the number of those who qualified under the Skilled worker category noticeably decreased – 105,949 persons in 2006 compared to 130,242 in 2005. The number of business immigrants decreased slightly – 12,077 in 2006 compared to 13,469 in 2005. At the same time, the number of those who qualified under provincial programs increased significantly – 13,336 persons in 2006 compared to 8,047 in 2005. Overall, under the Economic immigrants class (which includes Skilled workers, Business immigrants, Provincial nominees and Live-in caregivers), 138,257 immigration visas were issued, significantly fewer than in 2005 (156,310).
It is especially worth focusing on the Skilled worker category, which is the most important and highest priority for Canada, primarily due to the shortage of skilled labor, especially in the context of the current economic boom. At the same time, the number of immigration visas under this category was only 105,949, which is one of the lowest figures since 1999.
It is possible that in the near future, softer selection criteria will be applied to attract more skilled workers to Canada. In particular, immigration visas may be issued to those who fall slightly short of the passing score. There have been no official statements on this matter (and are unlikely to be), but the current immigration law gives officials some latitude in decision-making. That is, opportunities for 'softening' requirements exist, and their use by officials in practice can be expected.
The top places in terms of the number of immigrants to Canada are: China, India, and the Philippines. Following these three are: Pakistan, the United States, Iran, the United Kingdom, South Korea, and France. Russia ranks 13th: in 2006, 2,851 Russians entered Canada on immigration visas, fewer than in previous years (the highest number of visa recipients was 4,073 in 2001). From Ukraine, 1,880 people came in 2006, also the lowest figure in all previous years. Interestingly, the number of immigrants to Canada from the United States and the United Kingdom has increased significantly.
The decrease in immigration flow from the countries of the former Soviet Union can be explained by two reasons. First, the economic situation in these countries has somewhat improved, and relative stability has appeared. Second, the tightening of immigration requirements, especially regarding knowledge of Canada's official languages (English and French).
The number of people wishing to immigrate to Canada from Ukraine and Russia will most likely not change significantly, unless serious political or economic upheavals occur there. We believe that in the near future, the situation with processing times at Canadian embassies in Moscow and Kyiv should not change substantially. Moreover, one can expect a softening of selection criteria for those who fall slightly short of the passing score (practice provides grounds for such 'cautious optimism').
Overall, the current year should not bring any surprises. The immigration situation to Canada remains favorable, and it is quite possible that going through the process during this period will be slightly easier.
Elena Ryabinina. 