This report by the Business Council of Alberta advocates for a prosperity-driven immigration system that prioritizes attracting the individuals who are most likely to contribute significantly to Canada’s economy, selecting the candidates with the highest economic potential, and ensuring they are supported to succeed.   

Canada is grappling with population surges, housing shortages and financial strain, all of which are forcing the country to balance the need to tailor labour market needs to economic and population growth.  

Canada introduced a points-based immigration system in 1967. The goal at the time was to select potential immigrants objectively by considering age, language proficiency, educational attainment and work experience. With some refinement, selection based on these attributes evolved into today’s Comprehensive Ranking System. The Express Entry pool, which is part of this system, ranks applicants against each other, and the top scorers who meet the target thresholds of any given draw are invited to apply for permanent residence.  

According to the Business Council of Alberta, Canada’s points system requires improvements to prioritize candidates with the skills and competencies that are vital to our economy.  

Advocates worry that the current system doesn’t give due consideration to current labour-market demands. For example, consider that health-care and trades workers are in demand, but an individual who completed a two-year diploma or certificate in one of those fields could receive fewer points than one who completed a master’s degree or certificate in a field that is not as highly in demand.  

The report suggests creating a framework for sustainable immigration and economic strategies that includes these phases:  

• Attract—make Canada the top destination for prospective economic immigrants 

• Select—identify immigrants with the highest economic potential 

• Support—help newcomers successfully integrate into life in Canada