Canada is to block middle-aged British expats from settling in a bid to encourage younger workers.
The country has long been a favourite destination for British professionals – but government statistics show that the average Brit heading for Canada is aged over 40 and does not fit the new younger expat profile the country is seeking.
The move is part of a revamp of the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
Digging in to the statistics, the Canadian government has realised that expats from the UK are older than those from other countries and are adding to rather than resolving the issue of an ageing workforce.
So, from next year, the skilled worker program will mark down British expats over 35 years old.
Canada looks for younger skilled workers
Canada is also finding many expats struggle to find work in their chosen field because their overseas qualifications and work experience are not recognised by employers.
Although British expats may be marked down on age, they can win points back for speaking English, as marks for language are increasing as part of the changes.
Nearly 650 British expats and their families took on permanent residency in Canada through the Federal Skilled Worker Program last year.
“The federal skilled worker program will favour younger workers from next year,” said a Citizenship and Immigration Canada spokesman. “The changes will favour younger immigrants who will make a more important contribution to the Canadian economy over the longer term but Canada remains open to older, highly accomplished immigrants.”
Best worldwide destination for expats
Around 20,000 British expats move to Canada every year.
Canada is rated highly in expat surveys as one of the best worldwide destinations, while international workers rank Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary among the best cities to live.
“The changes we are making to update the selection criteria are based on a large body of data and evidence we’ve accumulated over the years showing what skills and qualifications are most likely to lead to success for skilled immigrants,” said Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney recently.
Meanwhile, in a move to reduce organised crime and human trafficking, the Canadian government is refusing entry to travellers from Namibia, Botswana and Swaziland who do not have visas.
It makes sense for future economic growth and the need to support a growing retired base from increased life expectancy, to target the younger & more highly skilled immigrants, while the middle-aged ones have the benefit for potential employers of more experience to offset their extra years.