What is Canada's Economic Mobilities Pathways Pilot (EMPP)?
The government of Canada has announced three new initiatives to welcome and help refugees adapt to Canada. RefugeAid is excited to break down each of these initiatives over the next few weeks into digestible posts! The first initiative we are detailing is the introduction of the second phase of the Economic Mobility Pathways Piloit (EMPP)
The is a ground-breaking initiative that recognizes the talents and skills of refugees by welcoming them through economic immigration streams. This not only allows Canada to welcome more refugees, but also flips the stereotype of refugees as solely victims by demonstrating all that they contribute to our country. In December 2021, the Minister announced a new policy that will help settle 500 refugees and their families.
On 3 December 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that the second phase of the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) initiative is now open to refugees around the globe. The pilot is intended to recognize “the talents and skills of refugees by welcoming them through existing economic immigration streams” and offers 500 spots for refugees plus their families.
Through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), refugees will have shorter Permanent residence processing times so they can become eligible to work and study in Canada. The initiative will also waive permanent residence fees for refugees and make their application process more flexible.
(Credit: Government of Canada- IRCC)