Earlier in 2012, Canada announced a temporary pause on its Federal Skilled Worker Program to allow it time to overhaul the immigration system - making it faster, more flexible and more responsive to the needs of Canada's labour market.

Following a flurry of recent changes, Citizenship & Immigration Canada has now launched its new Federal Skilled Worker Program. The new program will be effective May 4, 2013 - and will begin accepting applications on this date.

The final changes to the Federal Skilled Worker Program selection criteria include:

1. Minimum official language thresholds *(new step to this new selection system)
This includes increased points for official language proficiency (English or French) and makes language the most important factor in the selection process.

The minimum language threshold is level 7 of the Canadian Language Benchmark assessment system. Click here to view what is acceptable proof of language ability.

2. Increased emphasis on younger immigrants

More points will be awarded for age - a maximum of 12 points (currently the maximum is 10 points) will be awarded to applicants aged 18 to 35.

Canada is putting emphasis on younger immigrants due to the likelihood of them acquiring valuable Canadian work experience, being better positioned to adapt to changing labour market conditions and spending a greater number of years contributing to Canada's economy.

3. Introduction of the Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) *(new step to this new selection system)

Potential immigrants' education credentials will now be assessed prior to their arrival in Canada to ensure that the foreign credentials reflect their true value in Canada.

The idea is that newcomers will see how their education compares to the educational standards in Canada and to give them the opportunity to upgrade their education prior to coming to Canada, if they choose.

A list of designated assessment organisations will be made available early in the New Year.

4. Changes to the arranged employment process

This means that Canadian employers can hire applicants quicker, if there is a demonstrated need in the Canadian labour market.

5. Additional adaptability points will be awarded for spousal language ability and Canadian work experience