Option 1 - but less restricted.
I understand the need for such priority list, but it should be really a priority list, giving priority to certain professions speeding up the process while still offering a chance to skilled workers not on the list to get processed, though after the priority list is through.
Initially there was a proposal to postpone the workers whose professions were not on the list and if within a year they still wouldn't be processed return the paid fees with the right to apply again. This would be similar to the Australian system, where if you don't get the full 120 points but you are still over 100 you are put on hold, this way the needed workers get in quickly while other still have a chance to get in.
To address two arguments brought up here:
1) If you don't get a job offer before immigrating to Canada and you're not on the 38-list, then if you are accepted you would take another Canadian's job.
Considering that most of the immigrants are skilled/educated but have to take on low skilled jobs when they immigrate because their qualifications are not accepted or they don't have Canadian work experience, it is hard to believe they take away very desirable jobs from the Canadians.
2) Get a job first then immigrate - this way you have proved that you are needed in Canada.
Please get real - Most of the immigrants need a visa to come to Canada, most of them don't have the possibility to do something like "working holiday", for most of them it is quite expensive to get to Canada.
How are they supposed to get a job offer without attending an interview?
Don't forget: even the people who have already immigrated to Canada often cannot get jobs according to their skill/professions due to the reasons mentioned above.
