Canada is set to introduce a new permanent residency pathway in 2025 aimed at providing skilled refugees and displaced individuals with a long-term immigration solution. The upcoming program, which will replace the current Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), is expected to become a fixture in Canada’s immigration landscape, offering stability and opportunity to vulnerable populations while addressing labor shortages across the country.
The federal government confirmed this upcoming launch in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) 2025–2026 Departmental Plan. While specific details about the new program—such as application criteria, intake limits, and timelines—have yet to be unveiled, the plan underscores Canada’s commitment to making this refugee labor mobility initiative permanent.
Also Read Canada plans to launch a new permanent residency program for skilled refugees
Understanding the EMPP: A Foundation for the Future
First introduced in 2018, the EMPP was created to support skilled refugees and displaced individuals in gaining permanent residence (PR) by leveraging existing economic immigration streams. By linking qualified applicants with Canadian employers, the EMPP also helps employers fill gaps in key sectors that face chronic labor shortages.
Since its launch, the program has enabled nearly 1,000 individuals to resettle in Canada, integrating their talents into the workforce and contributing to economic growth. Recognizing its success, IRCC extended the EMPP until December 31, 2025, and has now taken the next step by confirming the development of a permanent version.
How the EMPP Works
The EMPP operates through two main avenues: the federal EMPP and the regional EMPP, which functions through programs such as the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
1. Federal EMPP Streams
There are currently two main streams under the federal EMPP:
- Job Offer Stream (up to 950 applicants annually): Applicants must have a full-time offer from a Canadian employer, at least one year of relevant full-time work experience, and meet education and language benchmarks based on the job’s TEER category under the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- No Job Offer Stream (up to 150 applicants annually): Designed for applicants with recent experience in higher-skilled roles (TEER 0–3), this stream requires one year of full-time work within the past three years, a Canadian high school diploma (or foreign equivalent), and a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four areas. Proof of settlement funds is also required.
Note: The no job offer stream is currently closed.
2. Regional EMPP Streams
Under the regional EMPP, applicants must first be eligible for a specific province or territory’s immigration program, either under the AIP or a PNP.
Key eligibility requirements may include:
- A valid job offer in the region;
- Language proficiency in English or French;
- Relevant work experience and/or education or training.
Applicants under the AIP enjoy some flexibility, such as not needing to submit an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) or meet specific hour thresholds for past work experience. Loans are also available to meet settlement fund requirements.
Cost and Settlement Support
Canada has taken meaningful steps to reduce the financial burden on EMPP applicants. IRCC currently waives all application and biometric fees for EMPP participants and their dependents. The government also covers the cost of required medical examinations and provides additional settlement and travel assistance, including help with the right of permanent residence fee.
These supports are expected to be carried forward or even expanded under the new permanent program.
Why This Matters
Canada’s labor market continues to experience talent shortages in many sectors, from healthcare and construction to IT and logistics. At the same time, millions of skilled individuals remain displaced globally due to conflict, persecution, and natural disasters. Programs like the EMPP offer a unique solution—connecting untapped talent with meaningful employment opportunities while giving displaced individuals a path to security and prosperity.
The upcoming permanent program signals Canada’s growing recognition of refugee labor mobility as not just a humanitarian obligation, but an economic advantage.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
While the full framework of the new permanent immigration pathway is still under development, stakeholders—including employers, immigration practitioners, and refugee-serving organizations—are watching closely. Once implemented, the program will replace the EMPP before its scheduled expiry at the end of 2025.
Prospective applicants and employers can prepare by:
- Monitoring updates from IRCC about eligibility and application procedures;
- Engaging with IRCC-approved referral partners for document verification;
- Exploring employment opportunities aligned with high-demand TEER categories.
As Canada continues to refine its immigration system to meet both economic and humanitarian goals, the forthcoming program represents a significant and progressive step forward in inclusive immigration policy.
Stay Informed
If you’re a skilled refugee, an employer in need of talent, or an immigration consultant supporting clients, stay updated with the latest from IRCC and be ready to seize the opportunities offered by this innovative permanent program.
