Immigration

Canada always has been a magnet for immigration. People from many countries and cultures have flocked to our shores, and the resulting diversity of our society is a vital element in both the Canadian soul and Canada's economic potential. Canada's diverse society is becoming an important advantage in attracting investments geared to the global marketplace.

• In the intense global competition for talent, Canada's immigration officials must become key partners in attracting the highly skilled employees and entrepreneurs that Canadian companies and communities need most. Canadian employers need all the help they can get in simplifying and speeding up immigration procedures and in marketing Canada's virtues to potential recruits abroad.
• While understanding the economic importance of attracting highly skilled immigrants, Canadian immigration policy must continue to ensure that this country remains a welcoming haven for legitimate refugees.
• To support both social cohesion and economic growth, Canada must improve its efforts to integrate immigrants. Greater efforts are needed to recognize credentials and expertise that immigrants have acquired abroad and to develop opportunities for learning tailored to their specific knowledge gaps.
• The global threat of terrorism has highlighted the need for rigorous procedures to identify and handle potential risks to Canadian and North American security. This will require close cooperation with Canada's neighbour and ally, the United States, but will not inhibit Canada's ability to make independent policy choices in welcoming refugees as well as family and economic migrants.