Select Immigrants

Abstract

This thesis is concerned with skilled migration to Canada occurring through the Express Entry system from Lebanon. It explores the operation of the Express Entry application requirements which prospective immigrants should be subjected to, namely, the points-based system (Comprehensive Ranking System), the medical examination, and the requirement to demonstrate proof of funds. This thesis’ aim is to establish whether the application prerequisites are discriminatory and to determine the broader implications of these requirements for the applicants and for Canada as an immigration country. The methodological approach used to conduct this investigation is a qualitative and a quantitative one (mixed-methods approach). The qualitative methodology involves conducting interviews with a panel physician and immigration consultants. The quantitative methodology involves conducting an anonymous questionnaire for the applicants about their experience with the immigration application process. This investigation found that these application requirements are discriminatory. The Comprehensive Ranking System discriminates against Express Entry candidates on the basis of their education, employment experience, age, language proficiency, and spouse inclusion. The requirement that applicants must pass a medical examination discriminates against applicants based on their health. The requirement that applicants must prove that they have sufficient funds to establish themselves in Canada was found to be discriminatory by several applicants who also find that the economic crisis in Lebanon places them at a further disadvantage. These application requirements and apparatuses which include and exclude certain individuals contribute to crafting the Canadian population. This investigation has constructed the social profile of the ideal Express Entry applicant who is well educated, professionally experienced, multilingual, young, healthy, and financially well off. The main research question is: Are the application requirements for skilled immigration occurring through the Express Entry system discriminatory?