The federal government is asking Canadians for their say on the future of immigration by answering a series of questions in an online survey.

For the next month Canadians can access the questionnaire on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website to give their views on everything from the annual numbers of immigrants to the importance of the role they play and how they fit in with the country’s values.

The online survey will form part of the decision-making process also including round-table discussions and stakeholder engagement.

Immigrants Central to Canada’s Success

“Canada’s strength lies in its diversity,” the IRCC statement said.

“Our diversity is closely tied to immigration and is a valued part of Canada’s story—we are asking Canadians to help us write the next chapter.

“The feedback gathered from Canadians will be used to help guide decisions on how many people we will welcome in the coming years and the future of immigration in Canada.

“Immigrants have always been a central part of Canada’s success. The contributions of newcomers result in jobs, innovation and economic growth. Immigrants also strengthen our country socially and culturally.”

Questions from the Canadian Immigration Survey

On Strengthening Canadian Fabric

1. How many newcomers should we welcome to Canada in 2017 and beyond?
2. How can we best support newcomers to ensure they become successful members of our communities?
3. Do we have the balance right among the immigration programs or streams? If not, what priorities should form the foundation of Canada’s immigration planning.

On Unlocking Canada’s Diverse Needs

1. How can immigration play a role in supporting economic growth and innovation in Canada?
2. Should there be more programs for businesses to permanently hire foreign workers if they can’t find Canadians to fill the job?
3. What is the right balance between attracting global talent for high-growth sectors, on the one hand, and ensuring affordable labour for businesses that have historically seen lower growth, on the other?
4. How can immigration fill in the gaps in our demographics and economy?
5. What Canadian values and traditions are important to share with newcomers to help them integrate into Canadian society?

On Modernizing the Immigration System

1. Currently, immigration levels are planned yearly. Do you agree with the thinking that planning should be multi-year?
2. What modernization techniques should Canada invest in for processing of applications?
3. What should Canada do to ensure its immigration system is modern and efficient?
4. Is there any rationale for providing options to those willing to pay higher fees for an expedited process?

On Leadership in Global Migration and Immigration

1. Is it important for Canada to continue to show leadership in global migration? If so, how can we best do that?
2. How can Canada attract the best global talent and international students?
3. In what ways can Canada be a model to the world on refugees, migration and immigration?

The IRCC statement added: “The government of Canada is committed to an immigration system that supports Canada’s diversity and helps grow our economy as it strengthens our society.

“This is an ambitious undertaking that will help determine the way forward on immigration to Canada.”

The Liberal government has been promising a review and wholesale changes to the immigration system since in was elected in 2015.

Fundamental Changes

It is current examining the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, and recently announced a freezing of caps at 20 per cent following feedback from businesses.

Immigration Minister John McCallum was also part of a joint announcement with the provincial premiers of Atlantic Canada, that 2,000 more newcomers and their families would be welcomed in 2017 to New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland & Labrador.

However, the online questionnaire is an indication that additional, more fundamental changes are on the way.

Interested employers: Kindly contact us here to receive further information.

Interested candidates: Find out whether you qualify to Canada by completing our free on-line evaluation. We will provide you with our evaluation within 1-2 business days.

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