IRCC-RELATED ITEMS IN BUDGET 2021 - HIGHLIGHTS

Digital platform modernization 

Budget 2021 proposes to invest $428.9 million over 5 years to develop and deliver an enterprise-wide digital platform that would gradually replace the legacy Global Case Management System. This will enable improved application processing and support for applicants, beginning in 2023.

A new digital platform will enable Canada’s immigration system to function more efficiently behind the scenes, to advance policy priorities, and to deliver digital services that meet heightened client expectations. With this platform, IRCC will be able to leverage digital to better achieve Canada’s immigration objectives.

Budget 2021 also proposes to provide $2 million over 5 years starting in 2021–2022 to increase access to information and support for new Canadians facing family and gender-based violence, including enhancing the availability of anti-violence resources.

Enhancing the Temporary Foreign Worker Program

To support Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program, Budget 2021 is proposing

• $49.5 million over 3 years starting in 2021–2022 to support migrant worker-centric programs and services
• $54.9 million over 3 years starting in 2021–2022 to increase inspections of employers and ensure temporary foreign workers have appropriate working conditions and wages
• $6.3 million over 3 years starting in 2021–2022 to improve service delivery of open work permits for vulnerable workers, helping migrant workers in situations of abuse find a new job

Enhancing immigration service and support 

Budget 2021 proposes to provide $74 million over 3 years to maintain enhanced capacity and service standards within the Client Support Centre, ensuring timely support by phone and email for inquiries related to the services offered by the department.

Budget 2021 proposes $29 million over 1 year to be shared between IRCC ($19.6 million) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to maintain enhanced processing capacity for temporary residence applications

Accelerated pathways to permanent residency

Budget 2021 notes that Canada’s immigration system is critical to supporting the economic recovery, which is why IRCC announced an introduction of time-limited pathways to permanent residence for foreign nationals already in Canada.

Streamlining Express Entry

Streamlining Canada’s Express Entry system will allow the government to ensure our immigration system responds to Canada’s growing economic and labour force needs and help Canada reach its 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan.

Budget 2021 noted that the government intends to propose amendments to the Immigration Refugee Protection Act that would improve upon our ability to select the candidates who best meet Canada’s labour market needs among the growing pool of Express Entry candidates who wish to become permanent residents.