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Section II — Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcome

This section describes CIC’s strategic outcomes and provides details on program activities with the related performance indicators and targets, 2011–2012 planning highlights and benefits for Canadians. This section also presents the financial and non-financial resources that will be dedicated to each program activity.

Strategic Outcome 1 — Migration of permanent and temporary residents that strengthens Canada’s economy

CIC plays a significant role in fostering Canada’s economic development. By promoting Canada as a destination of choice for innovation, investment and opportunity, CIC encourages talented individuals to come to Canada and to contribute to our prosperity. Canada’s immigration program is based on non-discriminatory principles—foreign nationals are assessed without regard to race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or gender. Those who are selected to immigrate to Canada have the skills, education, language competencies and work experience to make an immediate economic contribution.

CIC’s efforts, whether through policy and program development or processing applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Quebec Skilled Worker Program, the Provincial Nominee Program or other programs, attract thousands of qualified permanent residents each year. Under the 2008 amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the Minister for Citizenship and Immigration Canada has the authority to issue instructions establishing priorities for processing certain categories of applications. In that regard, the Department analyses and monitors its programs to ensure they are responsive to emerging labour market needs.

CIC also facilitates the hiring of foreign nationals by Canadian employers on a temporary basis and implements a number of initiatives to attract and retain international students.

Benefits for Canadians

Immigration continues to have a significant influence on Canadian society and economic development. Permanent residents who arrive in Canada every year enhance Canada’s social fabric, contribute to labour market growth and strengthen the economy. Changes that modernize and improve the immigration system not only strengthen the integrity of the Permanent Economic Residents program activity but also benefit Canada by targeting skills Canadian employers need and admitting qualified individuals more quickly.

Temporary foreign workers help generate growth for a number of Canadian industries by meeting short-term and acute needs in the labour market that are not easily filled by the domestic labour force. International students contribute economically as consumers and enrich the fabric of Canadian society through their diverse experiences and talents. Some temporary workers and international students represent a key talent pool to be retained as immigrants.

Canada’s Immigration Plan for 2011

The immigration levels set out in Canada’s immigration plan for 2011 reflect the important role of immigration in supporting Canada’s economic growth and prosperity. In addition, the plan fulfils the objectives of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act—to reunite families and uphold Canada’s international humanitarian obligations. Further details can be found in the Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration 2010.[note 10]

Immigrant Category	2011 Plan Target Ranges
	Low	High
ECONOMIC CLASS
Federally Selected Economic Class*	74,000	80,400
Principal Applicants†	33,200	36,600
Spouses and Dependants†	40,800	43,800
Provincially Selected Economic Class*	76,600	80,900
Principal Applicants†	31,900	33,800
Spouses and Dependants†	44,700	47,100
Provincial Nominee Program	42,000	45,000
Principal Applicants†	17,500	18,800
Spouses and Dependants†	24,500	26,200
Quebec-selected Skilled Workers and Business	34,600	35,900
Principal Applicants†	14,400	15,000
Spouses and Dependants†	20,200	20,900
Subtotal Economic Class—Principal Applicants	65,100	70,400
Subtotal Economic Class—Spouses and Dependants	85,500	90,900
Total Economic Class	150,600	161,300
FAMILY CLASS
Spouses, Partners and Children	45,500	48,000
Parents and Grandparents	13,000	17,500
Total Family Class	58,500	65,500
PROTECTED PERSONS
Government-assisted Refugees	7,400	8,000
Privately Sponsored Refugees	3,800	6,000
Protected Persons in-Canada	8,200	10,500
Dependants Abroad of Protected Persons in-Canada	3,800	4,500
Total Protected Persons	23,200	29,000
OTHER
Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds/Public Policy	7,600	9,000
Permit Holders	100	200
Total Other	7,700	9,200
TOTAL	240,000	265,000

* This year, projections for economic immigration are presented based on selecting and nominating jurisdictions because the direct involvement of provinces and territories in economic immigration has grown. Under the Canada–Quebec Accord Relating to Immigration and Temporary Admission of Aliens, the Government of Quebec has responsibility for selecting immigrants destined for its province; other jurisdictions participating in the Provincial Nominee Program are responsible for nominating foreign nationals for permanent resident status.
† The number of principal applicants and spouses and dependants is estimated based on historical averages and is included for illustrative purposes only.

Program Activity 1.1: Permanent Economic Residents

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
509	63.7	502	62.6	491	56.5

Explanation of Change: Planned spending decreases by $6 million in 2013–2014 from the previous year, primarily due to planned reductions in the funding to modernize the immigration system and manage the backlog.

Program Description

Rooted in legislative requirements outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the focus of this program activity is on the selection and processing of immigrants who can become permanent residents and contribute to Canada’s economic development. The acceptance of qualified permanent residents helps the government meet its economic objectives, such as building a skilled work force, by addressing immediate and longer term labour market needs. The selection and processing involve the issuance of permanent resident visas to qualified applicants, as well as the refusal of unqualified applicants.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Permanent residents selected to contribute to the growth of the Canadian labour force	Growth in labour force attributed to economic migration	Net labour force growth as of 2012–2015
	Degree to which lower end number of planning range in the annual immigration levels plan commitments is met for number of permanent residents selected for economic reasons	100% of 150,600 for 2011
	Economic success of permanent residents selected for economic reasons (as measured by employment rates, labour market participation, wages) compared with the economic success of the Canadian-born	Permanent residents’ economic success equal to Canadian-born within five to seven years after landing

Planning Highlights

• Improve the immigration planning model through the development of a long-term approach to planning immigration levels and increased involvement of provinces and territories in line with the federal/provincial/territorial vision announced in June 2010. The 2012 immigration plan (to be tabled by November 1, 2011) will consider the long-term pressures facing immigration and address structural challenges concerning annual planning.
• Leverage available tools to establish more comprehensive, sustainable approaches to immigration application intake. Monitor Ministerial Instructions and make adjustments to maintain progress on key immigration objectives, including responsiveness to labour market realities and reducing backlogs, informed by more coordinated and robust labour market information.
• Launch cross-country and on-line consultations to support proposed changes to the Federal Skilled Worker Program points system[note 11] in 2011–2012 and develop a report outlining results.
• Monitor the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program and outcomes, and establish data-gathering protocols related to performance measurement strategies in advance of the CEC evaluation slated for fiscal year 2012–2013.

Program Activity 1.2: Temporary Economic Residents

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
238	24.8	237	24.0	232	22.6

Explanation of Change: Planned spending decreases by approximately $2 million in 2013–2014 due to planned reductions in funding for the visa imposition on Mexico.

Program Description

Rooted in legislative requirements outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the focus of this program activity is on processing and facilitating the entry into Canada of temporary workers and students. Temporary economic migration benefits Canada’s economic growth. The selection and processing involve the issuance of temporary resident visas, work permits and study permits to qualified applicants, as well as the refusal of unqualified applicants.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Temporary foreign workers and students selected to benefit Canada’s economic development	Proportion of labour market opinions requiring temporary foreign workers that are paid minimum wage or above	100% for 2011
	Approval rates of temporary worker applications for temporary foreign workers permits	Not applicable (average acceptance rate for 2005–2009 at 90%)
	Approval rates of student applications for study permits	Not applicable (average acceptance rate for 2005–2009 at 84%)

Planning Highlights

• Continue to review the role of temporary foreign workers in the Canadian economy, including transition to economic immigration, to inform future program and policy improvements.
• Analyse the contribution of the Live-in Caregiver Program on economic and labour market needs in Canada within the context of CIC’s overall immigration plan and develop improvements to the program.
• Determine policy options to enhance the effectiveness of the Temporary Foreign Worker program to help address Canada’s short-term labour market needs. Consideration of the integrity of the program, especially concerning protection of temporary foreign workers, will be based on consultations with provinces, territories and stakeholders.
• Implement regulatory amendments for the International Student program by spring 2012, and negotiate, sign and implement bilateral agreements with provinces and territories on joint program management.
• Strengthen program integrity by ensuring compliance with the temporary foreign workers regulations (under IRPA) implemented in 2010–2011.

Strategic Outcome 2 — Family and humanitarian migration that reunites families and offers protection to the displaced and persecuted

CIC is committed to upholding Canada’s humanitarian tradition of reuniting families, resettling refugees and providing protection to those in need.

The Family Class, as set forth in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, allows permanent residents and Canadian citizens to sponsor their immediate family members (i.e., their spouse, common-law or conjugal partner, and dependent children), as well as parents and grandparents, for immigration to Canada. The permanent resident or Canadian citizen must undertake to provide for the basic needs of their sponsored relative for a set period of time, depending on the nature of the relationship. This program facilitates family reunification while ensuring that there is no undue cost to the general public.

As a signatory to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees,[note 12] the 1967 Protocol,[note 13]and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment[note 14], and further to provisions set forth in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Canada has international and domestic legal obligations to provide safe haven to individuals in need of protection. Canada meets these obligations through the in-Canada refugee status determination system. In addition, Canada partners with other countries and with international and civil society organizations to come to the aid of individuals in need of protection through resettlement. Every year, Canada resettles 10,000 to 12,000—or one out of every 10—of the refugees resettled globally. CIC engages both domestic and international stakeholders to develop and implement timely, efficient and effective refugee protection policies and programs.

Benefits for Canadians

Promoting human rights and protecting refugees has been a cornerstone of Canada’s humanitarian tradition since the Second World War. CIC plays a significant role in upholding Canada’s international and domestic obligations and reputation with regard to refugees and in promoting the Canadian values of democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law. Through family sponsorship, CIC’s efforts enable Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with family members.

Program Activity 2.1: Family and Discretionary Immigration

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
481	61.0	479	60.2	468	54.5

Explanation of Change: Planned spending decreases by approximately $5 million in 2013–2014, primarily due to planned reductions in the funding to modernize the immigration system and manage the backlog.

Program Description

CIC facilitates family reunification by enabling eligible foreign nationals to be sponsored by family members in Canada who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Spouses and partners, dependent children (including adopted children), and other eligible relatives such as parents and grandparents are welcomed to Canada under this program. CIC may also grant permanent resident or other status to persons who would not otherwise qualify in any immigration category, in cases where there are strong humanitarian and compassionate considerations, or for public policy reasons. Such exceptional and discretionary immigration measures provide the flexibility to approve deserving cases not anticipated in the legislation.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Canada reunites families and provides assistance to those in need while balancing Canada’s social, economic and security priorities	Degree to which lower end number of planning range in the annual immigration levels plan commitments is met for number of immigrants granted humanitarian and compassionate consideration	100% of 58,500 admissions for 2011 for family reunification 100% of 7,600 admissions for 2011 for humanitarian grounds
	Percentage of humanitarian and compassionate decisions that are upheld by the Federal Court	Not applicable

Planning Highlights

• Continue work on regulatory amendments to establish a bar on sponsored persons (new regulations to be pre-published in 2010–2011) and to consider policy options based on public consultations.
• Further strengthen measures to address problems associated with relationships of convenience through more detailed analysis of fraud patterns.
• Develop policy options to enhance the integrity of sponsorships.

Program Activity 2.2: Refugee Protection

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
300	31.1	299	30.0	292	28.3

Explanation of Change: Planned spending decreases by approximately $2 million in 2013–2014, primarily due to planned reductions in funding to reform the refugee determination system.

Program Description

The Refugee Protection program activity is in the first instance about saving lives and offering protection to the displaced and persecuted. One arm of the program starts overseas where refugees and persons in refugee-like situations are selected by Canadian visa officers to be resettled as permanent residents to Canada. Flowing from Canada’s international and domestic legal obligations, the in-Canada asylum system evaluates the claims of individuals seeking asylum in Canada and grants permanent residence when a positive decision is rendered by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.

Expected Results	Performance Indicators	Targets
Canada protects refugees in need of resettlement	Proportion of resettled refugees in the world that Canada resettles	Target not applicable (Proportion dependent on actions of other countries; historically around 10%)
	Number of arrivals of resettled refugees	11,200–14,000 admitted, as identified in the 2011 immigration levels plan
Permanent residence is granted to those determined to be protected persons in Canada and their dependants abroad	Number of individuals granted permanent residence who were determined to be protected persons in Canada (by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada or positive pre-removal risk assessment decision) and their dependants abroad	12,000–15,000 admitted, as identified in the 2011 immigration levels plan

Planning Highlights

• Continue to coordinate implementation of the Balanced Refugee Reform Act[note 15] across all affected departments to ensure that the domestic asylum system is efficient and fair.
• Develop and implement the regulations and policies necessary for the new asylum system, especially in relation to designated country of origin criteria and the process to be followed, processing timelines and other technical matters.
• Introduce mechanisms to challenge spurious claims for protection before the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada and meet the Department’s commitments, derived from the Balanced Refugee Reform Act, to ensure access to the asylum process only by those who require protection. This is expected to be a four-year pilot project beginning in December 2011 and ending in March 2015.
• Create and support new processes necessary to realize the opportunities created by the Balanced Refugee Reform Act as they apply to the refugee determination process in Canada.
• As part of a wider Government of Canada strategy, develop options for regional refugee protection, as well as measures that deter asylum seekers from using human smugglers, to address irregular migration and mass arrivals.
• Work with private sponsors to set the Private Sponsorship of Refugees program on a sustainable and efficient footing by implementing solutions that will lead to reduced backlogs and faster processing.

Strategic Outcome 3 — Newcomers and citizens participate to their full potential in fostering an integrated society

Through the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act, as well as a broader constitutional and legislative suite that includes the Canadian Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Official Languages Act and the Employment Equity Act among others, the Government of Canada is committed to facilitating the full participation of all Canadians in the social, cultural, economic and civic spheres of Canadian society. Accordingly, the focus of this strategic outcome is on a “two-way street” approach that works with communities and Canadian institutions to assist individuals to become active, connected and productive citizens.

Working with a wide range of social supports, including other levels of government, voluntary sector and community partners, employers, school boards and others, CIC seeks to minimize income disparities and strengthen social integration by helping to remove barriers; enabling individuals to fully participate in the labour market; encouraging social and cultural connections among people of different backgrounds and identities; encouraging active civic participation; and inculcating a sense of the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship and the value of diversity.

Benefits for Canadians

Canadians enjoy a higher quality of life when citizens and newcomers actively participate in all aspects of society; contribute to a prosperous economy; have a strong sense of civic pride and attachment; and help build culturally vibrant and harmonious communities.

Program Activity 3.1: Settlement and Integration of Newcomers

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
324	960.5	322	955.3	315	953.5

Explanation of Change: In 2012–2013, planned spending decreases by $5 million due to further reductions in Settlement Program contributions related to the strategic review of departmental spending.

Program Description

In accordance with the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, the Employment Equity Act and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, CIC develops policies and programs to support the settlement, resettlement, adaptation and integration of newcomers into Canadian society focused on information/orientation, language/skills, labour market access and welcoming communities. All permanent residents are eligible for settlement and integration programs. Programming is delivered by third parties (including provincial and municipal governments, school boards and post-secondary institutions, settlement service organizations and other non-governmental actors, and the private sector) across the country. However, accountability for expended funds and attaining outcomes remains with CIC.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Newcomers contribute to the economic, social, civic and cultural life of Canada	Percentage of labour market participation of newcomers versus non-newcomers	Maintain 2009 levels of 67.1% for very recent immigrants (those residing in Canada for less than five years) and 71.6% for recent immigrants (those residing in Canada from five to 10 years) compared with 68.8% for Canadian-born population
	Percentage of newcomers with language proficiency of the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB 4 or higher)	90% of immigrants applying for citizenship will have CLB 4 or higher level

Planning Highlights

• Complete a review of the Settlement Program to include recommendations on priorities, service delivery mechanisms, performance measurement strategy and governance structure.
• Collaborate with provinces and territories to develop an evidence base on settlement outcomes for immigrants and draft a pan-Canadian framework for settlement outcomes for consideration by Ministers.
• Plan and implement the methodology, research approach and launch of the Settlement Program evaluation.
• Complete implementation of action items derived from evaluations of the Official Languages Program, the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada program, the Immigrant Settlement and Adaptation Program, the Host Program and the Welcoming Communities Initiative, as well as the audit of the administration of settlement programs.
• Implement a new federal–provincial arrangement with Ontario (the current Canada-Ontario Immigration Agreement expires in March 2011).
• Complete field testing of the Portfolio-Based Language Assessment[note 16] and launch a pilot project to test the delivery infrastructure required for a new national test of language achievement. The objectives will be to provide newcomers with a language credential and improve CIC’s ability to evaluate the impact and outcomes of language programs.
• Implement a standardized approach to newcomer needs assessment and associated settlement plans across service delivery organizations, and ensure collection of baseline data.
• Include a website on best practices in settlement to share evidence-based practices among service delivery organizations across the country.
• Accelerate the economic integration of immigrants into Francophone minority communities by increasing employer engagement and facilitating processes that match employers with newcomers.
• Expand local partnerships and pilot projects from Ontario to other parts of Canada, focusing on larger urban centres.
• Support implementation of the Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications[note 17] focused on a target of an additional six regulated occupations, including physicians and teachers, by December 2012.
• Continue to coordinate the Federal Internship for Newcomers Program[note 18] on behalf of the Government of Canada and continue the success in expanding participation in the program to additional departments and agencies, as well as to other regions of Canada, by partnering with local immigrant service organizations and non-governmental organizations.
• In line with CIC’s broader overseas strategy, continue to provide Foreign Credentials Referral Office[note 19] overseas services through the Canadian Immigration Integration Project, in partnership with the Association of Canadian Community Colleges,[note 20] and expand the number of countries served by the CIIP to 25.
• Conduct a program evaluation of the three overseas orientation projects and begin the implementation of the overseas strategy including enhanced outreach to potential clients.
• Launch a new edition of CIC’s flagship settlement publication, Welcome to Canada, to better respond to the information needs of newcomers.
• Continue efforts to attract and retain francophone immigrants to help achieve the objectives of the Government of Canada Roadmap for Canada’s Linguistic Duality 2008–2013.[note 21]

Program Activity 3.2: Citizenship for Newcomers and All Canadians

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
404	42.2	402	42.0	402	42.0

Program Description

The purpose of the Citizenship Program is to administer citizenship legislation and promote the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship. CIC administers the acquisition of Canadian citizenship by developing, implementing and applying legislation, regulations and policies that protect the integrity of Canadian citizenship and allow eligible applicants to be granted citizenship or be provided with a proof of citizenship. In addition, the program promotes citizenship, to both newcomers and the Canadian-born, through various events, materials and projects. Promotional activities focus on enhancing knowledge of Canada’s history, institutions and values, as well as fostering an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Canadian citizenship is a valued status among newcomers and the Canadian-born	Take-up rates of citizenship among eligible newcomers	75% or higher
	Sense of belonging to Canada for newcomers and the Canadian-born	To be determined following establishment of baseline in 2011

Planning Highlights

• Develop policy approaches and programs to improve program integrity and to protect the value of Canadian citizenship, including ensuring adequate language proficiency of newcomers.
• Continue to develop and implement policies and programs to strengthen the citizenship process and increase its efficiency and transparency, taking into account the Citizenship Action Plan, the Citizenship Fraud Action Plan and recommendations following the Citizenship Operational Review Exercise.
• Develop supplementary materials to assist in the learning of Discover Canada[note 22] content and to further promote civic knowledge and education.
• Continue efforts to promote the value of citizenship, including broadening the use and distribution of Discover Canada.
• Modify the citizenship grant application form to improve client service while allowing for better assessment of risk and fraud in the program.
•  Implement new provisions contained in the proposed Act to amend the Citizenship Act.[note 23]
• Promote citizenship through activities such as Celebrate Citizenship Week, Canada’s Citizenship Award, reaffirmation ceremonies and citizenship ceremonies in community settings.

Program Activity 3.3: Multiculturalism for Newcomers and All Canadians

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
100	26.7	93	21.4	93	21.4

Explanation of Change: Planned spending decreases by $5 million in 2012–2013 due to the sunsetting of funding for contributions under the Community Historical Recognition program.

Program Description

The Multiculturalism Program is the principal means of carrying out the Minister’s responsibilities under the Canadian Multiculturalism Act for promoting the full and equitable participation of individuals and communities of all origins. Grants and contributions to not-for-profit organizations, the private sector, provincial and municipal governments, non-federal public institutions and individuals seek to advance overarching program objectives. These objectives are to: build an integrated, cohesive society (through intercultural understanding, civic memory and pride, democratic values, and equality of opportunity); improve the responsiveness of institutions to the needs of a diverse population; and, actively engage in discussions on multiculturalism and diversity at the international level. Direct public outreach and promotional activities by the program primarily target young people. The program assists federal partners to meet their obligations under the Act and ensures annual reporting to Parliament on its operation. It also engages with non-federal public institutions seeking to respond to diversity. The program provides a forum for cooperation with provinces and territories and is the locus for Canada’s participation in international agreements and institutions with respect to multiculturalism, anti-racism and related issues.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Program participants and beneficiaries are enabled to support an integrated society	Annual percentage of program participants and beneficiaries who report that they are more enabled to support an integrated society	To be determined following establishment of baseline in 2011

Planning Highlights

• Develop a new approach to address discrimination and to support the Government of Canada’s priority of building an integrated, socially cohesive society.
• Implement new direction by building intercultural and inter-faith understanding and specific programming for targeted communities.
• Develop a strategy that defines CIC’s role in addressing radicalization that is detrimental to social cohesion within the context of a whole-of-government approach to the issue.
• Ensure Inter-Action[note 24] call for proposals is aligned with priorities (such as inter-faith, youth at risk and citizenship promotion.)

Strategic Outcome 4 — Managed migration that promotes Canadian interests and protects the health, safety and security of Canadians

Canada welcomes thousands of permanent residents, temporary foreign workers, international students and visitors each year. CIC manages the movement of people within the context of a more responsive immigration system that benefits Canada’s economic, social and cultural development while at the same time protecting the health, safety and security of all Canadians. To manage health issues related to immigration, CIC develops and implements risk mitigation strategies in cooperation with the Public Health Agency of Canada, provinces and territories, and partner countries. Any residual public health risks regarding the transmission of infectious diseases are mitigated through medical surveillance of newly arrived permanent and temporary residents as required. To protect Canadians—and to ensure that the benefits of a more responsive immigration system are not undermined—CIC works with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police[note 25]and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service[note 26] to conduct appropriate background screening of both immigrants and temporary residents and to identify applicants who could pose a security risk to the country. CIC shares information with these organizations, fostering timely and effective delivery of its program.

Internationally, migration and humanitarian issues continue to gain the attention of governments, bilateral and multilateral forums, non-governmental organizations, and academic and other research institutes. CIC plays an important role in framing and advancing international dialogues on migration and integration policy, refugee protection and governance. These dialogues explore the links between migration policy and development assistance, health, the environment, trade and the movement of human capital. CIC works to develop and implement a strategic agenda on global migration and refugee protection, and to advance Canada’s policy and program priorities.

Benefits for Canadians

Growing international migration has increased the possibility of Canadians being exposed to disease outbreaks and infectious diseases. CIC and its partners in health management work to reduce the impact of identified risks on the Canadian population.

Policies and programs that affect the international movement of people—across Canada’s borders and outside them—have a direct bearing on the safety and security of Canada and Canadians at large, whether they are at home or travelling and conducting trade abroad. Strengthening Canada’s refugee programs and demonstrating continued leadership in refugee protection, human rights and the promotion of cultural diversity through active participation in various international and regional forums and partnerships support Canada’s broader contribution to a safe and secure world. Finally, coordinated and responsible sharing of information supports a fast response to threats to the safety and security of Canadians.

Program Activity 4.1: Health Management

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
57	95.4	57	101.5	57	56.4

Explanation of Change: Planned spending in 2012–2013 increases by $6 million due to additional funding to cover health care expenditures for refugee claimants under the Interim Federal Health Program. Expenditures under this program are expected to continue at the same level or higher in the future; however, the planned spending table for 2013–2014 does not yet reflect these additional requirements.

Program Description

This program activity aims to provide effective immigration health services to manage the health aspect of migrant access and settlement to Canada, and facilitate the arrival of resettled refugees to Canada and their integration while contributing to the protection of the health and safety of all Canadians and contributing to the maintenance of sustainable Canadian health and social services. The program activity aims to evaluate health risks related to immigration and coordinate with international and Canadian health partners to develop risk management strategies and processes to assess the health of applicants wishing to immigrate to Canada and develop pre-departure, in-transit, and post-arrival interventions. The strategies, processes and interventions are intended to reduce the impact of identified risks on the health of Canadians and on Canada’s health and social services.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Migrants who pose health risks are identified and are treated or refused entry	Number of cases of active TB found during an immigration medical examination, treated and rendered inactive	Not Applicable. According to historical trends this is expected to be 2.1% of the immigration medical examinations conducted
	Number of cases of active TB found during an immigration medical examination overseas over total number of new active cases of TB in Canada	Not Applicable. According to historical trends this ratio is expected to be around 17/100

Planning Highlights

• Detect medical inadmissibility cases through delivery of the immigration medical examination (IME).
• Align the immigration medical examiners network (designated medical practitioners, laboratories and x-ray facilities) to that of international partners and update the IME program quality assurance practices in preparation for implementing e-medical.
• Implement e-medical to enable electronic submission of IMEs and the automation of electronic processing. CIC plans to have e-medical ready for global deployment by March 31, 2013.
• Report and notify federal, provincial and territorial public health authorities of immigration cases requiring medical surveillance.
• Develop health annexes in provincial and territorial immigration agreements.
• Gather field intelligence on international outbreaks and situations in refugee camps.
• Implement existing health protocols tailored to specific refugee movements and develop standard protocols for the movement of refugee groups.
• Implement pre-departure interventions such as vaccinations and fit-to-fly assessments for refugees resettled to Canada.
• Manage the Interim Federal Health (IFH) Program contract transition, and review the IFH program with a view to updating the coverage policies[note 27] as well as the program authority.

Program Activity 4.2: Migration Control and Security Management

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
476	73.3	481	102.5	463	81.9

Explanation of Change: Planned spending increases by approximately $29 million in 2012–2013 due to additional resources for the Temporary Resident Biometrics Project. Funding for this project declines by approximately $20 million in 2013–2014.

Program Description

In accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations, this program activity aims to ensure the managed migration of people to Canada in order to protect the health, safety and security of Canadians. Even as CIC facilitates the travel of bona fide permanent residents, visitors, students and temporary workers, it also deploys an array of policy interventions to manage access and entry to Canada, including visa, admissibility, information sharing, travel document, and identity management policies. Effective partnerships with public safety-related departments and organizations are an essential component of this program activity. Under IRPA, all visitors to Canada require a Temporary Resident Visa except where an exemption has been granted under the Regulations. The Temporary Resident Visa requirement is Canada’s primary means of controlling migration and allows for the screening of individuals for health, safety and security risks before they begin travel to Canada. CIC also aims to ensure that admissibility policy continues to provide flexibility to address compelling circumstances that warrant a foreign national’s presence in Canada, while maintaining the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. Information sharing agreements and mechanisms support immigration management and provide security advantages. This program activity supports CIC’s policy initiatives related to identity management and entry document requirements, including the expansion of biometrics to accurately identify foreign nationals entering Canada and the provision of a highly secure proof of status document to all permanent residents. The Permanent Resident Card also serves as a travel document and is required for all commercial travel to Canada.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Managed migration of people to Canada facilitates the movement of low-risk, genuine travellers, while denying entry to Canada to those that pose a safety or security risk	Number of Temporary Resident Visa applications processed, issued and refused for security reasons	Not applicable
	Proportion of known immigration violations by visa-exempt and non-visa-exempt country	Not applicable
	Proportion of asylum claims by visa-exempt country and non-visa-exempt country	While it is not possible to forecast demand accurately, in 2009 60% of refugee claims received were from countries requiring a visa and 10% were from countries where a visa was not required, 6% were from the Czech Republic and 23% were from Mexico.[note 28] In 2010, these numbers were 79%, 15%, 0% and 5% respectively.

Planning Highlights

• Advance implementation of the collection of biometrics for visitors requiring a visa to enter Canada.[note 29]
• Work with partners and stakeholders to manage and address cases that are a national security concern.
• Continue to deliver the Permanent Resident Card program to provide permanent residents with a secure status document.
• Enhance relations with CBSA on fraud, immigration enforcement and immigration intelligence to support program integrity and improve accountability.
• Enhance collaboration with provinces, territories and international partners on program integrity, fraud and risk assessment initiatives.
• Continue working with partners and stakeholders to strengthen program integrity in economic and family immigration to Canada.

Program Activity 4.3: Canadian Influence in International Migration and Integration Agenda

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
5	2.5	5	2.5	5	2.4

Program Description

As part of its mandate, CIC aims to influence the international migration and integration policy agenda. This is done by developing and promoting, together with other public policy sectors, Canada’s position on international migration, integration and refugee protection issues, and through participation in multilateral, regional and bilateral forums. CIC works closely with partner countries to ensure the effective administration of immigration laws through the exchange of information, including biometric data. This international migration policy development helps Canada advance its interests in the context of international migration as well as meet its international obligations and commitments. CIC supports international engagement and partnerships through membership in the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and contribution arrangements with other international migration policy organizations.

Expected Result	Performance Indicators	Targets
Canadian positions on managed migration, integration and international protection are advanced in international forums	Number of international initiatives that promote Canadian goals	As CIC responds to ad hoc requests and emerging international issues, it is difficult to forecast demand accurately. Historically, CIC has consistently played a leadership role in framing and advancing policy issues in key international forums on migration and diversity; and through targeted bilateral engagement with key states and regional organizations, CIC has protected and advanced Canada’s interests and priorities.
	Number of positions initiated or supported by Canada at forums such as IOM, Intergovernmental Consultation, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and Puebla, which are eventually reflected in international policy debate
	Extent of influence on the direction taken by key international organizations
	Degree of success in promoting Canada’s interests in the negotiation of multilateral resolutions and in bilateral and regional discussions

Planning Highlights

• Engage U.S. and European partners to shape objectives and priorities with respect to international migration.
• Advance relationship with Mexico by engaging Mexican counterparts at other international and regional forums, including the Regional Conference on Migration, the Global Forum for Migration and Development (GFMD), the United Nations (UN) General Assembly and the Organization of American States.
• Steer discussion on the future of the GFMD by promoting a more focused and practical agenda that produces more tangible results and by leading the evaluation/assessment of the GFMD to date to prepare for the 2013 UN High-level Dialogue on International Migration and Development.
• Advance strategic thinking and discussion with Five Country allies[note 30] through the Migration Futures Network.
• Establish a data-sharing working group under the Five Country Conference and participate in development and implementation of a work program that would lead to strengthened relationships.
• Elaborate an information sharing policy framework establishing principles that will ensure the protection of client privacy and provide for ongoing compliance, adequate training and a governance strategy.

Program Activity 5.1: Internal Services[note 31]

Human Resources (FTEs) and Planned Spending ($ millions)
2011–12		2012–13		2013–14
FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending	FTEs	Planned Spending
1,865	194.0	1,863	187.6	1,816	176.9

Explanation of Change: Planned spending decreases by $6 million in 2012–2013, primarily due to planned decreases in funding related to refugee reform and the strategic review of departmental spending. Planned spending declines by $11 million in 2013–2014 due to further reductions in funding for refugee reform and the visa imposition on Mexico.

Program Description

CIC’s internal services are groups of activities and resources that help the Department achieve its strategic outcomes. Internal services apply across CIC and are not linked to a specific program. These services include management and oversight, communications, legal, human resources management, financial management, information management, information technology, real property, materiel, acquisition, and travel and other administrative services.

Planning Highlights

• Continue to enhance the Global Case Management System (GCMS) to improve citizenship and immigration services, maintain program integrity and strengthen security, and expand the use of GCMS by implementing in-Canada immigration processing starting with overseas Family Class sponsorship.
• Leverage GCMS as the platform to manage processing as one integrated workload with one global work force. Centrally received workload is distributed to where there is requisite capacity, expertise, access to information and tools to support decision making.
• Ensure all business lines have common levels of decision making and generic job descriptions that capture key functions required to process them.
• Implement CIC’s new Code of Conduct, integrate values and ethics into all aspects of the Department and carry on work force renewal by implementing the Clerk of the Privy Council’s Public Service Renewal Action Plan for 2011–2012.
• Continue to foster a collaborative and green work environment through ongoing implementation of web 2.0 technologies, and implement solutions to aging information technologies.
• Pursue development of a National Accommodation Strategy to identify program-specific requirements to address standard growth factors over the long term, including working with central agencies to ensure timely delivery of lease renewal strategies within existing fit-up standards.
• Optimize CIC’s on-line services by providing easy-to-understand content, adding new features such as interactive tools and leveraging emerging technologies to increase self-service to electronically apply, pay, track progress and schedule appointments, to improve quality of applications, reduce pressure on the call centre and enhance client satisfaction.
• Transform CIC’s call centre into a contact centre that can effectively and efficiently respond to global clients with active files.
• Develop and implement e-medical processes to streamline and modernize immigration medical examination screening and evaluation procedures.
• Implement service standards for all major business lines and collect and analyse client feedback to continuously improve service to respond to the recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General 2010 Fall Report (Chapter 3, Service Delivery).
• Work toward establishing an integrated operational data source and implement a next-generation reporting infrastructure and baseline processes.
• Respond to gaps identified in the 2010 report of the Commissioner of Official Languages.
• Implement an operational risk management framework to guide innovation, ensuring initiatives are aligned with a performance management strategy, subject to timely and relevant performance measurement and quality assurance across all business lines in the global network.

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