**Interview with Rishi Nagar: Insights on Immigration Trends and Challenges** I recently had the pleasure of being interviewed by Rishi Nagar, News Director of RedFM Calgary. We discussed several pressing topics that were highlighted at the recent Canadian Bar Association (CBA) National Immigration Conference in Montreal (the rise of automation in administrative decision making being the theme of the conference). Our conversation covered trends in temporary resident numbers, reverse or onward migration, issues within the international student community, and the evolving immigration policies in Canada.
Recalibration - Alignment - Balancing There was a lot of euphemisms at the Conference but it's clear that the next few years are going to be about "recalibration, alignment, and balancing". Both the Conference and the consistent comments by the Minister and others demonstrate a concerted effort to realign (read "reduce") and balance ("bring down") temporary resident numbers. The goal is to address the growing concerns regarding the influx of temporary residents and its impact on the job market and public services (and program integrity). This realignment is a perhaps necessary correction; things simply got out of hand. One consequence will be reverse or onward migration for those unable to settle in Canada or those that seek greener pastures elsewhere.
High-Profile Criminality Among International Students We also touched on the recent alarming reports of high-profile criminal activities involving international students. Clearly there's a greater need for better monitoring and compliance measures by Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and IRCC/Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). The apparent failure to inform and enforce compliance has led to significant issues, tarnishing the reputation of the international student program and posing risks to public safety.
Shift from Human Capital Model to Category-Specific Draws Another topic was the shift in Canada’s immigration policy from the traditional human capital model to category-specific draws. This change aims to address specific labor market needs and shortages more directly. While this approach has potential benefits, it also introduces complexities and challenges for applicants who must now navigate a more targeted and potentially restrictive system.
Challenges for Temporary Residents Seeking Permanent Residency We also discussed was the myriad challenges faced by temporary residents in their quest for permanent residency. Things have changed over the past few years. Gone are the days where an international student enters Canada, graduates, obtains a post graduate work permit, works for a year in a "skilled" occupation and scores a 6.0 IELTS and gets PR. Many temporary residents now find themselves in a precarious position, often due to changing immigration policies and the stringent requirements of the permanent residency process. The CRS is simply too high and there's no sign that it's going to come down.
Conclusion My interview with Rishi Nagar provided an overview of the current and future trends and challenges in Canadian immigration. From the need for realignment of temporary resident numbers to addressing high-profile criminality among international students and the shift to category-specific draws, immigration continues to be an ever evolving landscape. For practitioners and applicants alike, it is crucial to stay abreast of developments and understand policy-making, settlement and enforcement regimes.
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