U.S. and Canadian Immigration Policies: A Comparison

North America immigration policies are constantly changing. Canada and the United States used to select migrants from the British and European countries. Now both Canadian and U.S. immigration policies have changed significantly. Immigration issues are currently more highlighted in both countries these days. Canada is in election mode, with many new Canadians expected to vote for the first time.

1. Economic immigration is Canada's priority : About 65% of new Canadian permanent residents arrive through economic immigration programs. In compare to only 16 percent of new Green Card holders in the U.S. arrive through economic immigration categories. Canada’s points-based economic immigration eligibility assessment and pointing system as a shining example of a positive, open immigration strategy That shines the new opportunities for both Canadians and new comers.

2.PNP programs (Provincial immigration programs: In Canada federal , provinces and territories share power over the selection of immigrants. Provinces and territories can create and adapt Provincial Nominee Programs based on the province requirements which allow the province to nominate those who are deemed likely to contribute positively to the community, both socially and economically. The federal government then will admit the applicants by completing the health and security matters before issuing the permanent resident visa.

3. International foreign students: Foreign students cannot stay after graduation in U.S. and post-graduation work and immigration options for international students in the U.S. remain limited to this day, with many graduates effectively forced to leave the country soon after graduation. These individuals take with them their ideas. in Contrast, Canada offers its international students something that is not available, or more difficult to obtain, in other countries .A post-graduation work permit for up to three years will be given to those who successfully complete their educational program . International students who go down this route also benefit from permanent immigration options, including the Canadian Experience Class and the Quebec Experience Class. All of this allows Canada to retain top talent.

4. Difference between green card and permanent residency: They are basically different. A Green Card is the popular name for a United States Permanent Resident Card. Instead, permanent residents of Canada have the right to a Canada Permanent Resident Card as proof of their Canada immigration status. The difference is not a question of semantics; there is a significant difference in the philosophies behind the issuance of a United States Green Card and a Canada Permanent Resident Card.

A Green Card grants the holder the permission to enter and live in the United States. In contrast, Canadian permanent resident status grants an individual the right to enter and live in Canada.

Having permission and having the right are two different claims. A right is something more, it is a legal right, inherent to the holder. Permanent residents of the United States must be in possession of their U.S Green Cards at all times and must be prepared to show them to U.S. authorities upon request. Canada permanent residents have no such obligation.

Over the past few years, many American lawmakers have tended to view immigration through the lens of security issues or national control, rather than as an opportunity to add vitality and flexibility to the labour market

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