Applications now open for the expanded Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot 

Ottawa, December 3, 2021— Applications are now open for the second phase of the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP). This pilot recognizes the talents and skills of refugees by welcoming them through existing economic immigration streams, such as the Provincial Nominee Program, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.

The second phase of the EMPP builds on lessons learned from the first phase, which shows that, with some help, skilled refugees can qualify for permanent residence through our economic pathways. By focusing on their skills, education, and experience, this pilot helps qualified refugee candidates overcome obstacles and become eligible for Canada’s economic immigration programs.

The pilot also serves to level the playing field by removing barriers unique to refugees. In this second phase, new measures will help to:   

• more quickly process permanent residence applications for EMPP applicants so that, in the majority of cases, they can start working within 6 months of applying
• allow EMPP applicants to use a loan to demonstrate they have settlement funds
• waive fees for permanent residence applications
• simplify the application process by allowing scanned copies of documents
• provide pre-departure medical services to assist with immigration medical exams

These measures and the expanded pilot will help up to 500 refugees, plus their families, come to Canada during the next phase of the program.

New pathways like the EMPP provide additional ways for refugees, who have skills Canadian employers need, to find a home in Canada while contributing to our country’s economic growth.

For more information about the EMPP and how to apply, visit our website.