Applying for selected permanent resident (PR) programs in Canada for foreign skilled workers, international graduates, entrepreneurs became fully digital since March 31, 2021.
With the launch of a new online application portal, IRCC has signalled a shift from the previous paper-based mode for select PR programs to improve the overall efficiency of the Canadian immigration system. Experts see it as a precursor to immigration priorities outlined in the budget 2021.
This new portal is available for applicants qualifying for the following programs:
- Non-Express Entry (base) Provincial Nominee Program;
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot;
- Agri-Food Pilot;
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot.
Take this free assessment online to determine your eligibility for immigration.
Future of Canadian Immigration is Digital
The introduction of the Express Entry system in 2015 marked a significant step towards the digitalization of Canadian immigration. As a result, hundreds and thousands of foreign immigration candidates made their way into Canada in quick time.
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that is responsible for issuing permanent residency certificates, setting up immigration targets, and facilitating easy immigration will massively benefit from this procedural change to have a digital application forum. In turn, it is expected that aspirants will now have a clear breakdown of all the documents needed to submit, thereby avoid rejections due to incomplete applications previously in paper-application mode.
Another advantage for immigration aspirants will be reduced processing times. For instance, a PNP applicant submitted through the Express Entry system can expect a processing time of around 6 months whereas a base PNP applicant, that is a paper-based submission can expect to wait 20 months to see their file processed.
With the introduction of the new portal, even the base PNP applicant can reduce its processing time significantly.
Stay in touch with our consultants or follow this space for more such updates on Canadian immigration.