Abstract

Canadian immigration policy is regarded as an integral part of government planning and is influenced by the high demand for immigration and Canadian values as articulated in the legislation itself. This thesis examines the Canadian immigration laws with particular emphasis on the selection criteria for independent immigrants. It then analyses the integration barriers and assimilation experiences of Chinese immigrants who came to Montréal in the Skilled Worker Class after July 2002. It identifies reasons why many Chinese immigrants leave Montréal within 5 years from their arrival and provides recommendations for policy makers of how to reach the immigration objectives while minimizing the opportunity loss caused by underutilization of immigrants' skills.