Canadian Immigration: Comprehensive Study Notes

Immigration

The process of people entering Canada to live permanently.

Emigration

Leaving one's home country to settle elsewhere.

Push Factors

Reasons for leaving home country, including economic challenges, political persecution, and natural disasters.

Pull Factors

Reasons for choosing Canada, such as opportunities, safety, and better quality of life.

Economic Impacts of Immigration

Benefits include workforce diversity and economic growth; challenges include language barriers and potential job recognition issues.

Political Implications of Immigration

Benefits include providing a safe haven; challenges include potential social division and risk of discrimination.

Health Considerations in Immigration

Benefits include access to healthcare; challenges include longer wait times and cultural practice differences.

Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (2002)

The legal framework governing immigration categories such as refugees, economic immigrants, and family class.

Points System (Established 1967)

A qualification criteria for economic immigrants evaluating skills, education, and professional capabilities.

Disqualifying Health Conditions for Immigration

Include communicable diseases, conditions risking public safety, and excessive healthcare demand.

Historical Context of Immigration Policies

Pre-1985 policies were racially discriminatory; post-1985 policies promote multiculturalism and equality.

Refugee Policy Evolution

Includes milestones such as the signing of the UN Refugee Convention in 1951 and the establishment of a consistent refugee immigration category in 1976.

Multicultural Perspective

Canada is recognized as a diverse, immigrant-welcoming nation, emphasizing mutual integration and societal contribution.

What are the key benefits of immigration for Canada's economy?

Benefits include workforce diversity, the ability to fill labor shortages, and economic growth.

What major challenges does immigration pose concerning healthcare in Canada?

Challenges include longer wait times and cultural differences in medical practices.

What objectives does the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (2002) aim to achieve?

Pursue social, cultural, and economic benefits, respect multiculturalism, and promote immigrant integration.

What are push factors in the context of migration?

Reasons that compel individuals to leave their home country due to economic or social challenges.

What is a key implication of providing a safe haven for refugees?

Demonstrates Canada's international humanitarian commitment.

What significant change occurred in Canadian immigration policies post-1985?

The Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects all individuals, leading to a merit-based, skill-oriented approach to immigration.