Canada continues to lead globally in innovative immigration programs that serve both humanitarian and economic goals. On June 12, 2025, the Government of Canada announced the extension of the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)—a unique initiative aimed at connecting skilled refugees and displaced persons with Canadian employers in sectors experiencing acute labour shortages.
Originally launched to test the feasibility of complementary labour mobility pathways for refugees, the EMPP has proven to be a success. It offers refugees and others in need of protection a safe and legal route to permanent residence through Canada’s economic immigration streams, outside of traditional resettlement programs.
What Is the EMPP?
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot allows skilled refugees to apply for permanent residence in Canada through a streamlined economic immigration process. The program recognizes not only the protection needs of displaced individuals but also their skills, education, and professional experience, which are vital to Canada’s workforce.
Since its inception in 2019, the EMPP has helped place 970 skilled individuals across essential industries such as:
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Health care (over 30% of all admissions)
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Construction
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Food services
What’s New in 2025?
To meet ongoing labour demands and provide more opportunities to skilled refugees, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has:
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Extended the federal EMPP stream until December 31, 2025
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Set an intake cap of 950 applications under the job offer stream for 2025
This extension will further assist Canadian employers—particularly those in health care and other high-demand sectors—to recruit from a diverse, global talent pool. For refugees, the EMPP offers not only safety and stability but a dignified opportunity to contribute meaningfully to their new communities.
A Win for Employers and Newcomers
Employers participating in the EMPP gain access to motivated and qualified workers, while newcomers benefit from a pathway to permanent residence and support in building their lives in Canada. The pilot aligns with Canada’s broader immigration strategy focused on:
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Sustainable population growth
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Economic resilience
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Regional settlement in underserved communities
At Visaserve Immigration Law P.C., we support employers looking to recruit global talent and represent skilled refugee applicants navigating Canada’s immigration system. Whether you’re an employer seeking to understand eligibility for the EMPP or a candidate hoping to apply through this program, our legal team offers trusted, personalized guidance backed by years of immigration law experience.
