Fraser discussed the use of AI in application processing by IRCC at a recent press conference. He further stated that they’ve brought about specific vital things by increasing the use of technology, advanced analytics, and organizing the application processing.
In short, Fraser emphasized the Temporary Residency applications for those seeking PR under Family Class Sponsorship programs.
However, the recent rise in the implementation of technology and advanced analytics have significantly impacted application processing by IRCC.
Moreover, in the upcoming years, Canada is prepared to receive the highest figure of new immigrants. Interestingly, IRCC finalized over five million applications across all business fields last year. This is twice the decisions taken in 2021.
IRCC speedily inclined towards modernization and digitization regarding Canada’s immigration system. Furthermore, it comprises the rise of AI and Advanced Data Analytics to expedite application processing.
For instance, Fraser even claimed that this streamlining process has even led to expedited processing of nearly 98 percent of Spousal TRV applications. As a result, new applicants will be expected to have a thirty-day processing period.
According to IRCC, converting the immigration system and services into a digitized one will enable them to meet the client’s standards and requirements. Furthermore, more use of technology will help them process the applications more efficiently. Besides this, the officers will also get sufficient time to target more complex applications.
Fraser discussed the use of AI in application processing by IRCC
IRCC utilized AI in the following aspects of processing:
- Computing the assessment of eligibility.
- Application allocation across officers based on the application’s specifications.
- Identify applications that might need extra verification.
- Allocation of the workload.
- Developing “annotations” that condense critical details about each client in our global case management system to cut down on officer searches.
- Prioritizing client emails to facilitate quicker responses and answering client inquiries by providing information that is already publicly available.
- Evaluation of biometrics.
No algorithms used by IRCC’s tools will approve or deny an application. The decision to provide or deny a visa or permit to a candidate is not made purely by a machine.
The existing issues
Several have concerns that the IRCC’s usage of AI may result in prejudice and a general lack of clarity regarding how judgments occur when processing applications.
For instance, a government-wide policy statement, the Treasury Board statement on Automated Decision-Making, warns that establishing an algorithm on historical data might worsen racial, social, and gender disparities. It states that not all skin tones or genders respond to facial recognition algorithms similarly.
A lack of clarity in decision-making may result from relying too heavily on AI. According to the directive, the federal government must be able to clarify the process it uses to make administrative decisions. Additionally, those who face refusal for services or benefits have a right to an explanation from the government that is rational and clear. This goes beyond just saying that a machine made the decision.
The usage of “Chinook,” which the IRCC implies as a Microsoft Excel-based tool to streamline the visual depiction of a client’s information, has also drawn criticism. The IRCC officers utilize it to evaluate applications for work permits, student permits, and temporary residence visas. According to the department, Chinook does not use AI, advanced analytics, or built-in decision-making algorithms to arrive at decisions.
The process through which IRCC creates algorithms
Regarding concerns, the IRCC states it abides by a Canadian Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms Directive. It provides equal rights and prohibits discrimination. Further, it claims that it adheres to standards of openness, responsibility, legality, and procedural fairness in determining decisions and what justifications must be given to those affected. The Algorithmic Impact Assessment is a requirement for any new algorithm that follows. As mandated by the Treasury Board’s Directive on Automated Decision-Making, the AIA is a tool for risk assessment. The instrument examines risk factors, mitigation, and the effect of suggested algorithms. It is one of the initial federal agencies to employ AIAs, according to IRCC.
According to the agency, other requirements include the following:
- Analysis of the effects of algorithms,
- Data and algorithm quality assurance mechanisms,
- Proactive disclosures about the use of algorithms.
According to IRCC, senior decision-makers, experienced officers, and legal, policy, data science, and privacy experts regularly review the rules used to support (but not finalize) the decision-making process. This is an attempt to ensure they are in sync with the requirements in the IRPA.
In order to make sure that these models continue to function as intended and that any unanticipated adverse effects may be recognized early and minimized, constant surveillance and quality assessment techniques are also in place.
Fraser’s outlook on the use of technology
Minister Fraser is still upbeat about how the IRCC will use modern technologies and sophisticated analytics. According to him, the IRCC has recently adopted technology that enables the department to examine some aspects of an applicant’s application. This will help assess their likelihood of being eligible for permanent residence. Moreover, it would place them in a category that the IRCC officers will approve more readily. He emphasizes that AI does not make final judgments and claims about increased productivity.
“At the end of the day, our offers continue to evaluate each applicant’s eligibility. Through this technological method, no one may be excluded.
This is how Fraser discussed the use of AI in application processing.
