The Canadian government passed Motion 44 in 2018 to address gaps in the immigration system. The goal of this motion is to help fill labour shortages in key industries and retain skilled talent already living in Canada. It offers a faster and more accessible pathway to permanent residency for essential workers and international graduates.
What Is Motion 44?
Motion 44 is a Canadian immigration initiative designed to give essential workers and international graduates who are already in Canada an opportunity to apply for permanent residency. This motion was introduced to strengthen Canada’s workforce by filling job gaps in industries facing shortages.
The program also aims to retain talented graduates who studied in Canada and are contributing to the economy.
Who Is Eligible for Motion 44?
Motion 44 targets two groups: essential workers and international graduates. Both must already be living in Canada with valid status and meet specific eligibility criteria.
Essential Workers
During the COVID-19 pandemic, “essential workers” were identified as individuals working in sectors crucial to the functioning of Canadian society. These fields include healthcare, food processing, transportation, and other vital services.
To qualify as an essential worker under Motion 44, applicants must:
Have worked in Canada for at least 180 days in one of the designated essential sectors.
Hold a valid job offer in a skilled or high-level position.
Meet the required language and education standards.
International Graduates
International graduates must also meet specific criteria to apply under Motion 44. To qualify, they must:
Have completed a post-secondary program in Canada within the last four years.
Hold a valid work permit (such as a PGWP).
Have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada.
Meet the required language and education criteria.
Both essential workers and international graduates must apply within limited quotas, meaning not all applicants will be accepted once the program reaches capacity.
How to Apply for Motion 44
Applying for Motion 44 involves a step-by-step online process through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
1. Check Eligibility
Before applying, candidates must carefully review the eligibility requirements to ensure they qualify for the program. This is important because incomplete or ineligible applications may be rejected.
2. Gather Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload documents such as:
A valid work permit
Proof of completing a Canadian post-secondary program
Proof of relevant work experience
Language test results
Identification documents
Preparing all documents in advance makes the application process smoother.
3. Complete the Online Application
Once ready, applicants can fill out the online form on the IRCC website. The form collects personal information, work history, qualifications, and details about the applicant’s background.
4. Submit Application and Pay Fees
After completing the form and uploading the documents, applicants must submit the application online and pay the required processing fee. Only then will the IRCC begin reviewing the file.
5. Wait for a Decision
The IRCC will assess the application and determine whether the candidate qualifies for Motion 44. The review process may take several months, so patience is important. If approved, applicants can move forward with the permanent residency process.
Because the application steps can be complex, many applicants choose to consult an immigration lawyer or professional for guidance.
Benefits of Motion 44
Motion 44 provides many advantages for essential workers and international graduates who wish to build a long-term future in Canada.
1. Faster Access to Permanent Residency
The biggest advantage of Motion 44 is that it offers a direct and simplified pathway to permanent residency. Becoming a permanent resident provides stability and long-term security for individuals and families.
2. Access to Public Services
Permanent residents enjoy access to:
Public healthcare
Social services
Government programs
Provincial benefits
This support can greatly improve the quality of life for newcomers.
3. More Career Opportunities
Permanent residents do not need a work permit and can work for any employer in Canada. This flexibility helps individuals advance in their careers, find better opportunities, and secure higher-paying jobs.
4. Education and Travel Benefits
Permanent residency allows individuals to:
Apply for student loans and grants
Enroll in a wide range of educational programs
Travel freely in and out of Canada without needing a visa
This makes studying or visiting family abroad much easier.
Summary
Motion 44 is a Canadian immigration pathway that helps international graduates and essential workers gain permanent residency.
To qualify, applicants must meet requirements related to work experience, education, language skills, and valid work permits.
The application process includes checking eligibility, preparing documents, submitting an online application, and waiting for IRCC’s decision.
The program offers significant benefits such as access to healthcare, more job opportunities, education support, and travel freedom.
