Are you a skilled refugee or displaced worker who wants to build a better life in Canada? The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. This innovative immigration pathway is designed to help skilled individuals from refugee backgrounds immigrate to Canada, addressing labor shortages in key industries while offering a chance for a fresh start.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about the EMPP—how it works, who can apply, the application process, and what to expect once you apply.
What is the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)?
The EMPP is a Canadian immigration initiative aimed at helping skilled refugees and displaced individuals immigrate to Canada through existing economic immigration programs. This pilot connects skilled workers with Canadian employers struggling to fill labor shortages, benefiting both the applicant and the Canadian job market.
The program offers two main ways to apply:
Regional EMPP – Apply through one of three economic immigration programs:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Program (RNIP)
Note: The RNIP is no longer accepting new applications as of now.
Federal EMPP – Apply directly to Canada through two specific streams:
- Job Offer Stream (for those with a confirmed job offer from a Canadian employer)
- No Job Offer Stream (available again starting January 1, 2025)
The EMPP is a great opportunity for skilled refugees who meet the eligibility criteria for these programs to move to Canada quickly, with additional support for their transition.
Who Can Apply for the EMPP?
The EMPP is specifically for skilled refugees or displaced persons who meet the requirements for one of the two application pathways. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a skilled worker with relevant work experience
- Meet the language proficiency and educational requirements
- Be displaced or a recognized refugee
This pilot program offers a streamlined immigration process that waives application fees for you and your dependents, ensuring that financial obstacles don’t stand in the way of your Canadian dream.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the EMPP involves a few simple steps. Whether you choose the regional EMPP or the federal EMPP, here’s how to get started:
Regional EMPP:
- First, ensure you are eligible for one of the three economic programs: the Atlantic Immigration Program, the Provincial Nominee Program, or the RNIP.
- Apply through the selected program (you must meet the requirements of the province, territory, or community to which you apply).
- If approved, you can then proceed with your immigration application under the EMPP.
Federal EMPP:
If you are applying through the federal route, you can either apply with a job offer from a Canadian employer or through the No Job Offer Stream once it reopens in 2025.
Ensure you meet all the required work experience, education, and language criteria.
Submit your application to the federal government for processing.
The process is designed to be faster and more accessible, with most applications processed within 6 months.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application is submitted, here’s what you can expect:
- Faster Processing: In most cases, applications are processed within 6 months or less.
- Fee Waivers: Application and biometric fees for you and your dependents will be waived.
- Medical Support: Get coverage for medical exams through the Interim Federal Health Program.
- Financial Assistance: If your application is approved, you’ll be eligible for travel-related support through the Immigration Loans Program.
- Settlement Support: Receive pre-arrival services and access to the Canadian Orientation Abroad Program, which helps you prepare for your new life in Canada.
Prepare to Settle in Canada
One of the standout features of the EMPP is the comprehensive settlement support available to applicants. The Canadian government offers numerous programs designed to ease your transition, including:
- Access to financial loans to help you meet settlement funds requirements for yourself and your family.
- Pre-arrival assistance from the International Organization for Migration.
- A dedicated orientation program to prepare you for Canadian life, helping you get acquainted with everything from housing to healthcare.
Why Choose the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot?
The EMPP is more than just an immigration program—it’s an opportunity to change your life and contribute to Canada’s growing economy. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Quick and efficient processing: Most applications are processed in under 6 months.
- Fee waivers and financial assistance: Application and biometric fees are waived, and travel and settlement support are provided.
- Medical and orientation programs: Access to health coverage and pre-arrival services to ensure a smooth transition.
Get Started with ICC Immigration
If you’re ready to take the next step and apply for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot, ICC Immigration is here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all the necessary criteria and have the best chance of success.
Start your journey to Canada today. Contact ICC Immigration for expert advice, application assistance, and personalized support on your immigration path.
Unlock your future in Canada through the EMPP, and start your new life with the support you deserve.