What does it mean for a country to have a "points-based immigration system"?

A points-based immigration system is designed to assess potential immigrants based on a set of predetermined criteria that reflect the skills and qualifications needed by the country. This system typically evaluates various factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other personal attributes, assigning points accordingly. The aim is to attract individuals who will contribute positively to the economy and society.

For example, in Canada, candidates for immigration are awarded points for relevant work experience, educational qualifications, and language skills, among other factors. By using this method, the country aims to select immigrants who possess the attributes considered advantageous for successful integration and contribution to the labor market.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a points-based immigration system. While financial status, additional language skills, or lottery systems may play roles in immigration processes in different contexts, they do not represent the structured and criteria-driven approach that a points-based system embodies. This structured evaluation helps ensure a fair and transparent selection process for admitting newcomers to the country.