Economic Mobility Pilot project (EMPP)
Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) - A Labour-Based Complementary Pathway for Refugees
Refugee Pathways and Integration Canada Inc. supports skilled refugees in accessing permanent residence in Canada through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), a federal initiative that connects displaced individuals with unmet labour needs in the Canadian economy. EMPP allows refugees to apply for immigration through existing economic programs, not because of their vulnerability, but because of their skills, training, and potential to contribute. This pathway offers an alternative to traditional resettlement and is part of a broader commitment by Canada to expand third-country solutions in line with the Global Compact on Refugees. Refugees who qualify for EMPP benefit from expedited processing, fee waivers, and dedicated pre-arrival and post-arrival services. Employers, in turn, gain access to a pool of motivated, qualified talent who have been displaced by conflict or persecution. We work with both refugee applicants and Canadian employers to help them navigate this process, ensuring integrity, support, and long-term success.
Our Role in EMPP
As a Canadian charity working across the intersection of forced displacement and workforce inclusion, Refugee Pathways and Integration Canada identifies qualified refugee candidates, supports documentation and applications, liaises with Canadian employers, and provides settlement coordination once a candidate is approved. We work closely with private sector partners, provinces, and community organizations to remove structural and legal barriers for EMPP participants. Our services cover every stage of the pathway, from initial candidate screening and employment matching to visa coordination and arrival preparation. This work is grounded in humanitarian protection, but it is also highly practical. Refugees bring with them real experience, trades, and professions that Canada needs. EMPP is not a charity model, it is a labour model, informed by equity and implemented with care.
Information for Canadian Employers
Canadian employers with persistent labour shortage, especially in sectors like health care, skilled trades, construction, food services, and long-term care, can hire qualified refugee candidates through EMPP. We provide a one-stop resource for employers, from assessing job roles to navigating immigration processes.
To explore the opportunity and learn more:
๐ Information for EMPP Employers
To register your interest as an
employer:
๐ EMPP Employer Registration Portal
Information for Refugee Applicants
Refugees living in host countries with professional or technical skills may be eligible to immigrate to Canada through EMPP. This is not a humanitarian resettlement stream, it requires meeting employment, education, and language criteria. However, we provide direct support in completing applications, verifying credentials, preparing for interviews, and accessing travel assistance once selected.
To learn more and begin the process:
๐ EMPP Applicant Hub
To apply directly when ready:
Key Benefits of EMPP
Waived application and biometric fees
Processing time of 6 months or less in most cases
Medical costs covered through the Interim Federal Health Program
Access to the Immigration Loans Program for travel and settlement costs
Canadian Orientation Abroad pre-arrival support
Eligibility through federal or provincial economic streams
This pilot is not only a migration solution, it is a demonstration of how refugee skills can meet market needs. By removing administrative barriers and aligning economic policy with humanitarian realities, EMPP represents one of the most promising innovations in modern refugee protection.
Policy Context and International Frameworks
The EMPP is grounded in both Canadian and international legal frameworks that promote complementary pathways for refugee admission. These pathways are additional to resettlement and focus on skills, education, and family ties. Labour mobility, in particular, enables refugees to access protection and permanent status while contributing to the economy of their host country.
Read more about the international context here:
Official EMPP policy and program evaluation documents:
For questions, partnerships, or referrals, please contact:
Refugee Pathways and Integration Canada Inc.
Email: admin@refugeecanada.org
Phone: (437) 566-2789