In 2006 artisans and craftsmen were given recognition in NOC classification as a profession under its own code. Statistics Canada shows that between the years 1980 and 2016 among newcomers 0.05% is taken by artisans and craftsmen (compared to other NOCs). In fact, we believe that a larger untapped talent potential exists.
In the year of 2019, Canada plans to accept from 43 000 to 58 500 immigrants under such programs as Refugees, Protected Persons, and Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds. Top 10 origin countries of persons claiming refugee status in Canada include Nigeria, Hungary, China, Pakistan, Iraq, Turkey, Syria, Colombia, Eritrea, Burundi (according to Statistics Canada). Interestingly enough, every single country from the list is believed to have strong traditions in artistry and craftsmanship; often times each family has at least one family member proficient in some type of traditional art or craft, that family preserves through generations. See the extended list of potential mastership.
Therefore, if Canada succeeds to accept that amount of new immigrants under the programs mentioned above and at least 10% of those possess any of the skills mentioned in the extended list, there is a chance we would get around 4 000 – 6 000 craftsmen to help with immigration and turn their cultural craft skills into their solid foundation for self-sustained future in Canada.