Pathways to permanent residency for international students and temporary foreign workers critical piece of inclusive pandemic recovery

(OTTAWA) – April 14, 2021 – Today, Leah Nord, Senior Director of Workforce Strategies & Inclusive Growth at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, issued the following statement in response to the Government of Canada’s announcement regarding the new permanent residency program for temporary permit holders:

“Today’s announcement that the government will be implementing a one-time program for recent temporary permit holders, including international students and temporary foreign workers, is an important step towards the inclusive pandemic recovery we need.

Immigration will continue have an important place in filling labour market gaps as Canada starts planning for economic recovery and getting Canadians back to work. International students and temporary foreign workers are essential sources for talent pipelines for communities and industries across this country. We have long been advocating for the government to facilitate pathways to permanent residency for temporary residents.

Immigration plays a vital role in the inclusive growth and diversity of Canadian workforces and communities, and we will continue to encourage innovative and effective policies and programming to support new Canadians and permanent residents with community and labour market integration.”