Canada expands pilot to help more skilled refugees build careers in Canada

Ontario Construction News staff writer

Canada is expanding the Economic Mobility Pathways pilot to welcome 2,000 skilled refugees to fill specific labour shortages in high-demand sectors, such as skilled trades, health care and information technology.

Through the EMPP, partner organizations help skilled refugees overseas connect with employers who need to fill critical labour shortages in occupations including skilled trades. Once candidates receive a job offer, they can apply to immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs, using EMPP measures that remove barriers refugees may experience due to their displacement.

To make it easier for qualified candidates to apply, Canada is rolling out a new and more flexible process to directly refer and support candidates.

In addition, $6.2 million was announced to support six projects that will build capacity of parter organizations and support the work that helps EMPP newcomers with affordable microloans.

“Resettlement provides refugees with the opportunity to live in safety and rebuild their lives, but it shouldn’t mean their career experience gets overlooked in the process,” said Sean Fraser, minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship. “Through this groundbreaking program, our government is highlighting skilled refugees’ professional achievements by allowing them to continue their careers in Canada, while giving employers access to a pool of global talent.”

According to the Global Trends Report 2021 from the United Nations Refugee Agency, Canada resettled more refugees than any other country in the world that year, with over 20,400 refugees finding a permanent, safe home.

“The Canadian economy is experiencing chronic talent shortages across multiple sectors. Meanwhile, millions of refugees around the world are seeking durable solutions to secure better lives for their families,” said Bassel Ramli, co-founder and global programs director, Jumpstart Refugee Talent

“In partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Jumpstart is supporting employers across Canada in hiring and relocating people from displaced populations. Jumpstart is thrilled to be an EMPP trusted partner as that will help scale the program and relocate more refugees to Canada.”

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