Canada announces drastic new limits on skilled worker class and tightens investor class

On June 26, 2010 Canadian immigration minister Jason Kenney announced drastic new revisions to both the skilled worker category and the investor category. The skilled worker category has been changed by new "Instructions," and the investor category has been changed by new regulations.

According to the instructions, skilled worker cases filed on or after June 26, 2010 will be processed only if they meet one of the following criteria:

• The applicant has at least one year of experience in one of a new list of 28 occupations identified in the instructions. Click here for the list; or
• The applicant has an offer of arranged employment in Canada as defined in the regulations.

The new instructions do NOT apply to the provincial nominee programs, and do NOT apply to family class applications. They apply ONLY to the existing federal skilled worker class.

Successful applicants must still score 67 points in the assessment system, based on language ability, education, work experience and other factors. It is not enough to  meet the requirements to have the application processed in the first place as set forth in the instructions.

The investor category has been changed by doubling the net worth and investment amounts. Applicants must now have a net worth of $1.6 million, and must invest $800,000. This regulation is not yet in effect. Until the regulation goes into effect, the government will not accept any new investor applications. These changes do not yet apply to the Quebec program, which is still accepting applications. However, it is anticipated the Quebec program will increase amounts as well shortly.