Public Consultations in Canada: What Every Immigrant Should Know
In the context of Canadian immigration law, public consultations play a fundamental role in how the immigration ministry formulates its immigration policies. Although many are unaware of this process, understanding it is key for those who wish to emigrate or are already in the country and seeking permanent residence in Canada.
What is a public consultation in Canada?
A public consultation in Canada is a mechanism for citizen participation through which the federal, provincial, or municipal government, or even a regulatory agency, invites citizens, interest groups, and experts to share their opinions on policies, programs, laws, projects, or regulations.
In the area of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this process allows the government to identify the real concerns of society before implementing changes to immigration programs.
In other words, a public consultation is not a final decision, but rather a space to listen to the community.
Purpose of a public consultation
The main purpose is to gather different perspectives before adopting official measures, so that government decisions better reflect the needs of the population. However, it is important to understand that:
Public consultations are not binding.
The Parliament of Canada is the only body with the power to approve or reject bills and, consequently, to turn them into official laws.
Therefore, although public consultations offer an idea of where immigration policy might be headed, only the legislative process determines formal changes.
Recent examples of public consultations on immigration
Between 2022 and 2025, the Canadian government has held seven public consultations.
One of the most relevant examples was the public consultation on Express Entry in 2024. This process directly influenced the creation of new priority selection categories, including:
• Francophones (to promote the French language).
• STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
• Medical services.
• Agriculture.
• Skilled trades.
However, it is important to note that other strategic sectors such as quantum technology, biomedicine, and biotransformation have not yet been included in the Express Entry categories.
Who approves public consultations?
While public consultations provide guidance, the Canadian Parliament is responsible for debating, analyzing, amending, and approving any bill before it receives Royal Assent and becomes law.
Why is it important for migrants to understand public consultations?
Public consultations in Canada represent a key mechanism for citizen participation that allows the government to gather perspectives before making official decisions. While they are not binding and do not constitute law, they offer clear signals about the direction of policies and programs under development. For those who closely follow immigration changes, understanding this process is essential, as it allows them to anticipate regulatory adjustments and prepare appropriately for an ever-evolving legislative framework.
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