Canada to Launch New Permanent Immigration Pathway in 2025
A New Door Opens for Refugees and Skilled Displaced Workers
In a major update to its immigration strategy, the Government of Canada has announced it will launch a new permanent immigration pathway in 2025, transitioning from its current pilot program the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP).
This upcoming program aims to build on the EMPP’s success by offering a dedicated route to permanent residence (PR) for skilled refugees and displaced persons connecting them with Canadian employers in sectors facing ongoing labor shortages.
Why This Matters
The upcoming pathway represents Canada’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and humanitarian immigration, offering skilled refugees a long-term opportunity to rebuild their lives while contributing to the workforce.
With traditional refugee pathways often limited by resettlement quotas and time, this program could serve as a global model for integrating displaced talent into national labor markets particularly in sectors with chronic vacancies.
About the EMPP: The Foundation of the New Pathway
Launched in 2018, the EMPP has enabled skilled refugees and displaced individuals to settle and work in Canada through various economic immigration streams. Since its inception, 970 individuals have successfully immigrated under the EMPP framework, according to government data from 2019 to March 2025.
Applicants currently apply from outside Canada via two primary streams:
• Federal EMPP (two streams: with or without job offer)
• Regional EMPP, through:
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Federal EMPP Breakdown
1. Job Offer Stream
• Must have a full-time Canadian job offer
• Minimum 1 year of full-time work experience
• Meet education and language requirements based on job’s TEER category
2. No Job Offer Stream (Currently closed)
• 1 year of recent full-time work in TEER 0–3 jobs
• High school diploma (or equivalent)
• Language benchmark: CLB 7 in all areas
• Proof of settlement funds required
Regional EMPP (AIP or PNP Route)
• Requires a full-time job offer
• Language proficiency in English or French
• Relevant education, training, or work experience
Some provinces may waive certain requirements, such as credential assessments, and offer loans for settlement costs.
What’s Coming in 2025
According to IRCC’s Departmental Plan (2025–2026), the new permanent pathway will be introduced before the EMPP expires on December 31, 2025. While full details such as eligibility and application processes are still pending, the goal is to solidify refugee economic integration as a permanent part of Canadian immigration policy.
Key EMPP Benefits
• No application or biometric fees
• Medical exam and travel costs covered
• Dedicated settlement support and right of PR fee waived
Immigration pilots, such as the EMPP, are typically temporary programs meant to test innovative policy approaches. When successful, they often become permanent as is now the case with this pathway.
As Canada continues to evolve its immigration strategy, the new program is expected to make the country more accessible to refugees with skills and potential, not just need.
Are you a skilled refugee or displaced worker?
Keep an eye on the IRCC’s official announcements in the coming months for eligibility guidelines and timelines. This may be the life-changing opportunity you’ve been waiting for.