11,000 Immigrants Welcomed In August 2020

The latest government data released by Canada states that the country welcomed 11,315 new permanent residents during August 2020. On the other hand, Canada welcomed 13,645 immigrants in July. Not only did Canada welcome fewer immigrants in August as compared to July, but the August 2020 total was also much lower than the August 2019 total of 31,600 immigrants. There is no doubt that the coronavirus pandemic is to blame for the falling numbers. Canada was forced to impose travel restrictions back in March to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Current situation

Before the pandemic, Canada was aiming to welcome 341,000 new immigrants in 2020. In the period between January and August this year, Canada welcomed 128,400 immigrants. Current trends indicate that the country’s permanent resident intake will be lesser than 200,000 immigrants in 2020 for the first time in over two decades. The decrease in immigration levels is definitely temporary and a result of the travel restrictions along with other pandemic-related disruptions. The country is still committed to increasing immigration in the upcoming years and improving the economy.

One of the most important signs of Canada’s commitment to immigration is the organization of Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Express Entry draws during the pandemic. The bi-weekly Express Entry draws are still continuing in Canada. In fact, the country just issued a record-breaking number of permanent residence invitations to skilled worker candidates in the third quarter of 2020.

PNPs:

Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia have been organizing PNP draws. Quebec has also continued to hold draws according to its own immigration system.

The Canadian government announced that immigration will be a crucial factor in upholding Canada’s economic recovery after the pandemic.