Canada has extended the program for employment of skilled refugees
EMPP will help companies find employees and assist refugees in obtaining permanent residency.
Canada continues to actively use immigration as a way to support its economy and resettle vulnerable groups. On June 12, 2025, the government announced the extension of the federal stream of the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) program until December 31, 2025.
EMPP is a unique pilot program that allows refugees and other displaced persons with experience and qualifications to move to Canada through economic immigration, not just through humanitarian options.
The program aims to:
- address workforce challenges in Canada (especially in healthcare, construction, and food service);
- give skilled refugees a chance to start a new life in a stable country;
- bring together employers and job seekers — companies get employees, and people get permanent resident status.
Since EMPP's launch in 2019, 970 people have already moved to Canada, with over 30% of them being healthcare professionals.
What will change in 2025:
- The program will run until the end of 2025.
- In 2025, the application limit for the job offer stream will be 950 applications.
- EMPP will continue to focus on applicants who have received protection but have professional skills and work experience.
- Participants will have the opportunity to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
For employers, this is a real chance to fill vacancies in a labor shortage, and for refugees, it's an opportunity not just to find safety, but to start a worthwhile career and life in Canada.
