Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
A program for skilled refugees and displaced people looking to work permanently in Canada.
About the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) helps skilled refugees and other displaced people immigrate to Canada. The program:
- Helps skilled refugees and other displaced people immigrate to Canada through economic programs
- Gives employers access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings
Recent Updates
Canada has made updates to make it easier to apply to immigrate through the EMPP. There are now 2 ways you can apply:
Regional EMPP
Apply through one of 3 selected economic programs:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Program (RNIP) - no longer accepting new applications
You need to be eligible for one of the above programs and apply first to a province, territory or RNIP community (depending on which program you choose).
Federal EMPP
Apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for just the EMPP. It includes:
- Job Offer stream
- No Job Offer stream
You need to meet the work experience, education and language requirements.
Benefits of the EMPP
Through the EMPP, the Canadian government will:
- Waive application and biometric fees for you and your dependants
- Review and process your application in 6 months or less (in most cases)
- Cover the cost of medical exams through the Interim Federal Health Program
- Let you access the Immigration Loans Program (ILP), if approved, to help with travel costs, some pre-arrival travel services, and the right of permanent residence fee
- Let you access the EMPP-specific Canadian Orientation Abroad Programme to help you settle in Canada
Additional Benefits for Regional EMPP
If you choose to apply for an economic immigration program through the regional EMPP, the government will also:
- Make it easier for you to be eligible and apply for the program
- Let you use a loan to meet financial requirements to support yourself and your family in Canada (your settlement funds)
Who Can Apply
For Refugees & Displaced People
As a skilled refugee or other displaced person, you may be eligible to immigrate to Canada based on your work experience, education and language skills—with or without a job offer.
For Canadian Employers
A unique opportunity for employers in Canada to hire skilled refugees and other qualified displaced people overseas. The program helps Canadian employers access a new pool of skilled employees.
Need help with the EMPP application?
Our team can guide you through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot process and help you navigate the requirements.