9765 45 Ave NW Edmonton, AB – T6E 5V8

Call: +1-587-400-3335

Facebook Twitter Youtube Instagram
Request Appointment

NEWS

NEWS

New PGWP Changes in 2024: What You Need to Know Before November 1st

/

The Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program has long served as a vital avenue for international students seeking Canadian work experience after completing their studies. This program enables graduates to gain valuable work exposure and potentially transition to permanent residency. However, the PGWP eligibility criteria are undergoing notable changes, with updated guidelines set to take effect on November 1, 2024. Initially announced on September 18, 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has now released a detailed list of study programs that will remain eligible for the PGWP after the deadline.  This article provides a thorough overview of these changes, clarifies what remains unchanged, and explains how the new criteria will impact PGWP applicants from November 2024 onward.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Key Elements That Remain Unchanged  While the new rules introduce more specific requirements, certain foundational eligibility conditions for PGWP applicants remain unchanged:  1.Designated Learning Institution Requirement  Applicants must still complete their studies at a PGWP-eligible designated learning institution (DLI). Only graduates from these accredited institutions are eligible for the PGWP.  2. Physical Presence in Canada  Students are required to be physically present in Canada for most of their program duration. This stipulation remains unaffected by the recent updates.  3. Existing Applications  Any PGWP applications submitted before November 1, 2024, will only need to meet the current eligibility criteria, meaning the new rules will not impact these applicants.  4. Flight School Graduates  Graduates from eligible flight schools remain exempt from the new criteria, regardless of whether they apply before or after November 1, 2024.  New PGWP Eligibility Criteria Effective November 1, 2024  Starting November 1, 2024, all PGWP applicants must meet newly introduced eligibility requirements based on when they submitted their study permit application and their level of education. Here’s a breakdown of these changes:  1. Students Who Submitted Study Permit Applications Before November 1, 2024  If your study permit application was submitted before November 1, 2024, you must meet the following criteria when applying for a PGWP:  University Graduates with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degree  Language Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate English or French proficiency at a minimum of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  Graduates from Other University Programs  Language Requirement: The same language requirement applies: CLB 7 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French across all four skill areas.  College or Other Programs  Language Requirement: For graduates of college or other programs, a minimum of CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French is required across all four language skills.  2. Students Who Submit Study Permit Applications On or After November 1, 2024  For students who submit study permit applications on or after November 1, 2024, the eligibility criteria become more stringent, particularly regarding language proficiency and field of study:  University Graduates with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degree  Language Requirement: Minimum of CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French across reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  Field of Study Requirement: No specific restrictions; all fields of study are eligible for PGWP under this category.  Graduates from Other University Programs  Language Requirement: Minimum of CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all four language skills.  Field of Study Requirement: Students must complete a program in a high-demand field in Canada.  College Graduates or Other Programs  Language Requirement: A minimum of CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  Field of Study Requirement: Only graduates from eligible fields of study tied to occupations facing long-term shortages are eligible.  Mandatory General Training English Tests  As of the new regulations, language proficiency becomes a crucial eligibility factor for the PGWP. Applicants must prove their language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with test scores being less than two years old at the time of PGWP application submission. Accepted language tests include:  CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program): CELPIP-General test required.  IELTS (International English Language Testing System): IELTS General Training test required.  PTE Core (Pearson Test of English): PTE Core test required.  Eligible Fields of Study for PGWP After November 1, 2024  The updated PGWP eligibility rules place particular importance on the field of study, especially for college and certain university graduates. IRCC has specified a list of fields aligned with occupations facing long-term labor shortages in Canada. Below are examples of eligible fields:  Agriculture and Agri-Food  Agriculture, General (CIP Code: 01.0000)  Agricultural Business and Management (CIP Code: 01.0101)  Agronomy and Crop Science (CIP Code: 01.1102)  Greenhouse Operations and Management (CIP Code: 01.0604)  Healthcare  Veterinary Sciences (CIP Code: 01.8101)  Disability Studies (CIP Code: 05.0210)  Nutrition Sciences (CIP Code: 30.1901)  Exercise Science and Kinesiology (CIP Code: 31.0505)  Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)  Molecular Genetics (CIP Code: 26.0802)  Genome Sciences/Genomics (CIP Code: 26.0807)  Computer Science (CIP Code: 11.0701)  Trade  Meat Cutting (CIP Code: 12.0506)  Equestrian/Equine Studies (CIP Code: 01.0507)  Transport  Aircraft Pilot (CIP Code: 49.0102)  Marine Transportation (CIP Code: 49.0309)  Heavy Equipment Operation (CIP Code: 49.0205)  These fields are just a sampling, and the full list of eligible study programs includes a wide range of disciplines. Students are encouraged to consult the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes for specific programs to confirm PGWP eligibility.  Preparing for the PGWP Changes  The upcoming changes to Canada’s PGWP program, effective November 1, 2024, introduce additional criteria for international students who wish to work in Canada after graduation. These updates particularly emphasize language proficiency and field-specific qualifications for programs related to Canada’s labor shortages.  For students planning to apply for a PGWP after the new rules take effect, consider the following steps:  Review Your Program’s Eligibility  Ensure that your chosen field of study aligns with the updated PGWP requirements, particularly if you are in a college program or a non-research university program.  Prepare for Language Testing  If you do not yet meet the required language proficiency levels, consider preparing for the accepted tests, as language skills are now critical to your PGWP application.  Consult Advisors 

NEWS

“How to Move to Canada from the U.S.: Step-by-Step Guide for 2024”

/

Americans should prepare for their immigration status in advance if they want to relocate to Canada. Even though Americans with passports are accustomed to having unrestricted access to Canada, they will require the proper authorization in order to work, study, or reside there permanently. When considering a transfer to Canada, Americans may want to take into account these three significant programs: Work permits for CUSMA/USMCA professionals; The Federal Program for Skilled Workers; and The class on the Canadian Experience. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Legal Standing to Work or Learn Without permission, it is against the law for foreigners, even US citizens, to work or study in Canada. To work or study in Canada, US residents who are not citizens of Canada must get authorization. One advantage of being visa-exempt is that, unlike foreign people from many other nations, Americans will not need a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) in order to enter Canada. There are two main ways to obtain legal status in Canada: Permits, which are temporary; and Permanent residency, which can be renewed indefinitely, provided you spend enough time in Canada. Work Permits for CUSMA/USMCA Professionals Americans who want to relocate to Canada for employment have an edge because to the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). In order to practice their profession in Canada, US citizens in particular professional disciplines may apply for an employer-specific work visa under this free trade agreement. Medical professionals, scientists, scientific technicians, and management consultants are among the 63 professions that qualify. Getting a CUSMA work permit is a solid way to gain status to work in Canada if you meet the conditions. The responsibilities you perform and how your profession is categorized under Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) determine your profession, which is distinct from your job title. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program and other work permits under the International Mobility Program will provide alternatives for Americans who do not work in CUSMA professions. Because work permits are temporary by nature, you’ll need to renew your permit before it expires in order to maintain your work status. If you do not renew your work permit, you will need to leave Canada upon the expiry of your work permit, unless you obtain some other form of legal status that allows you to remain in the country. Obtaining Canadian Permanent Residency Americans who wish to settle in Canada on a long-term basis may wish to pursue Canadian permanent residency–the equivalent of a green card in the United States. Permanent residency grants many—although not all—of the same privileges as Canadian citizenship. Canadian permanent residents can settle in any province, can enrol in studies, can be eligible for social services and provincial health insurance programs, and can work freely in Canada for any employer. After you’ve been a permanent resident for three years, and have spent enough time in Canada, you can apply for Canadian citizenship. To obtain Canadian permanent residency, a foreign national must first receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence from the Canadian immigration ministry, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). One way to receive an ITA is to qualify for a federal economic immigration program, upon which you can become a candidate and enter the Express Entry pool—a management system used by IRCC to determine which candidates to invite for permanent residency. Once you’re an eligible candidate in the pool, you are scored and ranked against other candidates, using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), and top-ranking candidates are invited in periodic draws held by IRCC. Americans seeking Canadian Permanent Residency may want to consider two Express Entry programs: The Federal Skilled Worker Program; and The Canadian Experience Class. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The Federal Program for Skilled Workers You must fulfill several standards throughout factoring in order to be qualified for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, including Learning Proficiency in the language; Settlement money; and Experience in the workplace. You can join the Express Entry pool if you qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker program. If you do well enough in the pool, you will have the chance to get an ITA in any draws. The Experience Class in Canada Another government route to permanent residence in Canada is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The Federal Skilled Worker Program has more complicated requirements than the CEC. One year of full-time, competent job experience in Canada within the previous three years is the primary prerequisite for CEC. Additionally, you have to be proficient in either French or English. After gaining a year of Canadian work experience, Americans who enter Canada on a work permit—such as a CUSMA professionals work permit—will probably be eligible for CEC. Particular Records for Programs with Express Entry You will need to provide specific papers as part of your Express Entry profile. You should be informed that in order to have a suitable profile, you must prepare two documents specifically for Express Entry in advance: language assessments; and Assessments of educational credentials (ECAs). To prove you have the necessary level of English or French language ability, you will need to take legitimate language tests from an authorized testing organization. Even if you are a native speaker of French or English, you still need to take these tests. You will also need educational credential assessments (ECAs) from an authorized provider if you did not complete your studies in Canada. Your education is evaluated by an ECA based on Canadian credentials. For every degree, you will need an ECA. Employing a Representative You can handle your own profile, candidacy, and (if successfully invited) application, or you can hire a representative. If you choose to use a representative, you should choose a reputable one, and you must fill out special forms declaring your use of a representative. Using a representative without declaring it can invalidate your candidacy and/or application, leading to refusal. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

“November 2024 Express Entry Pool Update: What’s Changing for Canadian Immigration?”

/

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) boosted the frequency of federal immigration choices in October following a slowdown in Express Entry draws throughout September. The second Express Entry trade vocations draw of 2024 was also held by IRCC; this was the first time this group had been selected since July of this year. In addition to discussing the makeup of the Express Entry candidate pool at the beginning of November, this article will analyze the October drawings. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The Express Entry pool’s current condition Which drawings took place in October? Six Express Entry drawings in four streams and selection categories took place in October. Through these draws, the immigration authorities sent out 5,961 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR), matching the 5,911 ITAs sent out the month before. Draw sizes tended to be smaller in October than in September because a comparable number of ITAs were issued over a greater number of draws. Additionally, compared to September, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off scores for every draw went up. The following table details Express Entry draws in October: Draw Number Date Round Type ITAs Issued CRS Cut-off Scores 316 October 7, 2024 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) 1,613 743 317 October 9, 2024 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) 500 539 318 October 10, 2024 French Language Proficiency 1,000 444 319 October 21, 2024 PNP 648 791 320 October 22, 2024 CEC 400 539 321 October 23, 2024 Trade Occupations 1,800 433 In the Express Entry pool, the IRCC has continued to regularly invite candidates from the CEC, PNP, and French-language categories to apply for permanent residence. Since July of this year, the immigration service has regularly staged lotteries for applicants in these streams/categories. Additionally, the IRCC has said in their 2018 Immigration Levels Plan that they would keep giving priority to these applicants for selection as permanent residents via the federal Express Entry system. Despite the fact that October saw a marginally larger number of ITAs than September, the overall number of ITAs issued was still lower than in prior months: Month ITAs Issued July 25,125 August 10,384 September 5,911 October 5,961 What is the Express Entry pool’s current score distribution? The breakdown of candidate scores in the Express Entry pool as of October 22, the date of the most recent draw at the time of writing, is as follows: CRS Score Range Number of Candidates 0-300 5,462 301-350 22,928 351-400 51,048 401-410 10,871 411-420 11,071 421-430 10,583 431-440 12,047 441-450 10,931 451-460 11,306 461-470 12,900 471-480 14,914 481-490 12,240 491-500 11,925 501-600 13,430 601-1200 124 Total 211,780 This data is also presented as a bar graph for further visualization: How do the pool’s scores compare to one another? To better understand how particular CRS scores fit within the general distribution of CRS scores in the Express Entry candidate pool, the following table use percentile scores. For the upper limit of each CRS score range, we have computed a percentile score, which indicates the percentage of applicants having scores at or below that cutoff point in relation to the entire pool. We only determined the percentile for the highest CRS score within each range because the IRCC data is displayed in ranges. The percentage of candidates who scored within each percentile range is shown below, along with the percentile ranges for the highest scores in each IRCC-reported range: CRS Score Range Number of Candidates Percentile Range Percentage 0-300 5,462 0 – 2.58% 2.58% 301-350 22,928 2.58 – 13.41% 10.83% 351-400 51,048 13.41 – 37.51% 24.10% 401-410 10,871 37.51 – 42.64% 5.13% 411-420 11,071 42.64 – 47.87% 5.23% 421-430 10,583 47.87 – 52.87% 5.00% 431-440 12,047 52.87 – 58.56% 5.69% 441-450 10,931 58.56 – 63.72% 5.16% 451-460 11,306 63.27 – 69.06% 5.34% 461-470 12,900 69.06 – 75.15% 6.09% 471-480 14,914 75.15 – 82.19% 7.04% 481-490 12,240 82.19 – 87.97% 5.78% 491-500 11,925 87.97 – 93.60% 5.63% 501-600 13,430 93.60 – 99.94% 6.34% 601-1200 124 99.94 – 100.00% 0.06% Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

“Immigration Levels Plan 2024: How It Impacts Express Entry Success Rates”

/

The most recent Immigration Levels Plan in Canada has important ramifications for foreigners using the Express Entry system to apply for permanent residence. The Plan states that additional seats for permanent residency have been set aside for Express Entry applicants in 2025. These modifications should be advantageous to two categories of candidates: Canadian candidates; and applicants who are eligible for drawings based on categories. In 2025, it will likely be more difficult for candidates who do not fit into the aforementioned emphasis categories to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) through Express Entry. Increase in the allotment for Express Entry The federal government actually boosted the funding for Express Entry even though it reduced the goals for admissions of permanent residents by around 20% for 2025: 2025 target – current Plan 2025 target – last year’s Plan 2024 target – last year’s Plan 124,680 117,500 110,770 The combined 2025 objective of 124,680 for the “In-Canada Focus” and “Economic Priorities” categories is higher than the 2024 target as well as the 2025 target from the Immigration Levels Plan from the previous year. In 2024, the IRCC set a target of 110,770 for the “federal high skilled” (FHS) category, which includes the three federal immigration programs controlled by Express Entry: the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The IRCC set a goal of 117,500 for FHS in 2025 in the Immigration Levels Plan from the previous year. Applicants hoping to enter through programs run by Express Entry should anticipate receiving more invites in 2025 than in 2024. Canadian candidate prioritization The IRCC added a new category called “In-Canada Focus” to the budget for economic immigration for programs run by Express Entry in this year’s Plan. With the creation of this category, candidates who are already residing in Canada might anticipate that their chances of being invited to apply (ITA) would rise in 2025. For 2025, IRCC set a target of 82,980 for this category—about 42% of the federal economic immigration target of 197,650.* Overseas candidates for the FSWP or FSTP can expect reduced chances of receiving ITAs. *We’ve taken the total economic immigration target of 232,150 and subtracted the 34,500 for Quebec Skilled Workers and Business. Quebec controls its own immigration targets and admissions. Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

NEWS

“Quebec Halts Two Major Permanent Resident Pathways: What You Need to Know”

/

Two important avenues for permanent residents have been halted in Quebec. The Quebec Experience Program-Quebec Graduates (PEQ-Dplômés) is no longer accepting applications, and the province will no longer be inviting applicants for the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ). These initiatives serve as stepping stones to Canadian permanent residence. The period of these suspensions will end on June 30, 2025. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Decrease in PR admissions targets and PEQ-DPL CSQ results The Quebec government anticipates that the halt will significantly lower the number of Quebec Selection Certificates (CSQs) awarded to PEQ Graduates from the anticipated 14,500 in 2024 to a target of 4500 to 5700 for 2025, as stated in the province’s Immigration Levels Plan, which was made public today. According to the Ministry, the suspension will help achieve a lower goal of 13,500 to 15,000 admissions to permanent residence through this program in 2025. Between 15,000 and 19,000 admissions were anticipated in 2025 in the absence of this ban. Those chosen through the PEQ graduate program will now be included in the province’s 50,000 top level permanent residence admissions target for 2025. Last year, Quebec’s yearly Immigration Levels Plan took into account the number of graduates accepted through the PEQ Diplômés separately. The actions are intended to reduce the number of immigrants entering the province in the upcoming years, according to Jean-François Roberge, Minister of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration. The PEQ has only suspended its graduate stream. The PEQ worker stream is still available. The Skilled Worker Selection Program and the Regular Skilled Worker Program are on hold. The PRTQ and the Skilled Worker Selection Program (SWSP), which will take its place on November 29, 2024, will no longer be used to invite applicants for permanent selection, according to confirmation from the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration. The largest number of admissions in Quebec immigration is attributable to the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ). The province will have time to restructure the program and launch the Qualified Skilled Worker Selection Program on November 29 as a result of the program halt. According to Quebec’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2025, the government anticipates admitting up to 32,900 economic immigrants in 2025. Eligibility for PEQ worker stream To be eligible for the worker stream of the PEQ, applicants must show an intention to settle in Quebec to hold a job. Employment cannot be in a ineligible sector; have stayed temporarily in Quebec for the purposes of work; have had full-time work experience in Quebec for at least 24 months of the 36 months preceding the submission of an application in a 0, A or B level job; have legal status in Quebec as a temporary worker or as part of a youth exchange program, such as International Experience Canada (IEC) (Working Holiday, Young Professionals or International Co-op Internship); and be legally in Quebec at the time of the application. Additional recent advancements Quebec’s immigration system has undergone several adjustments recently. For instance, the province placed a cap on the total number of foreign citizens from a single nation who might be admitted under the Regular Skilled Worker Program earlier this month. According to Quebec, only 25% of admissions under the PRTQ could be made by foreign nationals from a single nation. Additionally, the province said that it would no longer accept applications from Montreal-based firms looking to hire temporary foreign workers for positions paying less than the median hourly rate in the province. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

“Quebec Reveals 2025 Immigration Levels Plan: What It Means for Newcomers!”

/

The specifics of the Quebec Immigration Plan for 2025 were revealed today by Quebec Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge. The province intends to maintain its annual plans for permanent immigration, which are set at 50,000, in accordance with the most recent announcement. The province plans to admit 48,500 to 51,500 immigrants by 2025. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The highest percentage of newcomers, between 31,000 and 32,900, fall into the economic category. There will be continuous admissions under the Quebec Graduates component of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)* in addition to these “regular admissions.” As a result, 72% of all scheduled admissions fall under the economic immigration category. Other routes, such as family reunion (between 10,200 and 10,600 persons) or refugee programs (between 6,600 and 7,200 people), are anticipated to bring in the remaining permanent residents (PRs). * Each year, the Quebec Immigration Department presents the Quebec Immigration Levels Plan, which outlines the amount of new immigrants the province plans to admit as well as the categories in which it will do so. A strong emphasis on French In order to remain competitive and draw in talent in important economic areas, the strategy restates the province’s emphasis on “strengthening the status of French.” By 2025, 79% to 80% of immigrants are expected to speak French at the time of entry. For key applicants in economic immigration, this increases to 95%. Two well-liked pathways for permanent residents are suspended. The province said today that it would be discontinuing two well-liked initiatives that have served as avenues to permanent residency in addition to the Immigration Levels scheme. The Regular Skilled Workers Program (RSWP) is the inaugural program. Until at least June 30, 2025, the province will not extend invitations to apply for permanent selection under the RSWP or the Skilled Worker Selection Program, which will take its place as of November 29. Second, applications under the Quebec Experience Program’s “Quebec graduate” stream will no longer be accepted. International students frequently use this as a means of obtaining citizenship. The latest date that these policies will be in effect is June 30, 2025. Temporary foreign employees The province has not incorporated temporary resident limits, in contrast to the federal Immigration Levels Plan 2025-27. It does, however, specify that a multi-year immigration planning process, including a public consultation, will be conducted in 2025, with a focus on temporary immigration. The creation of multi-year immigration guidelines for 2026 will benefit from this. The Regular Skilled Worker Program’s national cap The declaration today follows a flurry of reforms to Quebec’s immigration laws this year. The province declared earlier this month that it would only allow up to 25% of foreign nationals from any one countries to be invited under the Regular Skilled Worker Program. For a year beginning October 9, 2024, the policy will limit the percentage of invites sent to foreign nationals of any one nation to 25% for each draw. Quebec and immigration Because it controls the yearly entry of skilled workers and immigrants, Quebec stands out among the Canadian provinces. It is notable for its focus on Francophone immigration across Canada, which has been steadily increasing annually. Quebec declared last year that it would accept 50,000 newcomers annually in 2024 and 2025. This figure excludes temporary foreign workers and graduates chosen under the Quebec Experience Program. A week before to this statement, Canada announced that it would be reducing its 2025 targets by 21% in its Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-27. Over the next three years, the federal government wants to admit 395,000 permanent residents in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

Canada to Reduce Immigration Targets by Nearly 100,000 

/

Canada is poised for a substantial change in immigration policy as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government prepares to announce reduced immigration levels. After years of consecutive increases, the new plan will lower the intake of permanent residents by 90,000 in 2025, setting the target at 395,000—down from this year’s 485,000.  This shift mirrors the prediction made in INC News on July 9, 2024, in an analysis titled, “Will Canada reduce immigration targets in November 2024?” The updated targets reflect a significant reversal from previous government plans to reach an annual intake of 500,000 new immigrants by 2025.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Gradual Decline in Targets  The revised immigration goals continue to decrease, with projected targets of 380,000 for 2026 and 365,000 for 2027. These figures underscore a more cautious approach to immigration over the coming years, as the Trudeau administration adjusts to current economic and social challenges.  Sector-Specific Impact of the New Immigration Plan  According to early reports, the federal economic class will see the most substantial reductions under the new policy. Immigration Minister Marc Miller is expected to confirm these changes in an official announcement on October 24, 2024.  Cuts to Economic-Class Immigration  Economic-class immigration, which includes programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades (FST), and the Start-Up Visa program, will face a drastic 60% reduction in 2025, limiting intake to around 41,000. Though modest increases are expected in 2026 and 2027, numbers will remain significantly lower than previously anticipated.  Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)  Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) will also see a notable decrease, with intake halved to 55,000 in 2025, maintaining this reduced level through 2027. This reduction will considerably impact provincial immigration efforts and opportunities across Canada.  Family Reunification Programs  The new policy reduces family reunification visas by 20,000 in 2025, bringing the total down to 98,000 from its current 118,000 level. This change is expected to generate some backlash from family immigration advocates.  Refugee and Protected Persons Programs  Refugee and protected person programs will also see reductions, though these numbers may fluctuate based on annual refugee and asylum demands.  Temporary Resident Targets  For the first time, Canada’s immigration plan will set targets for temporary residents, with applications expected to drop by nearly 30,000 in 2025, setting the intake just over 300,000. This aligns with Immigration Minister Miller’s recent comments on aiming to reduce the temporary resident population from 6.5% to 5.2% over the next three years.  Immigration Category  2025 Target  2026 Target  2027 Target  Total Permanent Residents  395,000  380,000  365,000  What’s Behind the Change?  The Trudeau administration’s shift in immigration policy appears to reflect a mix of economic considerations and public sentiment. This pivot follows a tense meeting within the Liberal caucus, where members voiced concerns over the unpopularity of current immigration targets.  With a federal election set for October 2025, the government’s recalibrated immigration stance appears to be aimed at responding to mounting public pressure. Rising public concerns over population growth, coupled with criticism from both opposition parties and voters, have positioned immigration as a critical election issue.  A Balanced Strategy or a Departure from Canada’s Core Values?  Canada’s reduced immigration targets reflect a significant policy adjustment, as the Trudeau government navigates domestic economic concerns while addressing the evolving views of the Canadian public. The government hopes this revised strategy will alleviate pressures on housing, public services, and employment.  As the 2025 federal election approaches, immigration will be a defining topic in Canada’s political landscape. Whether this shift will be seen as a pragmatic response to public concerns or a departure from Canada’s multicultural vision will hinge on how well the government manages the policy’s broader economic and social implications.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

Candidates Receiving ITAs Through Category-Based Selection Draws 

/

Candidates in Canada’s Express Entry pool with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores below 500 now have an improved pathway to permanent residency through eligibility for category-based selection draws. These draws, initiated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in 2023, focus on certain skills and professions crucial to Canada’s labor market and demographic goals. Unlike general and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws, which have required CRS scores above 500 throughout 2024, category-based selection draws often set lower CRS cut-offs, giving candidates in specific fields a greater chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).  Get a Free Express Entry Assessment Overview of Category-Based Selection  IRCC’s category-based selection draws were launched to prioritize candidates in occupations or skills deemed high-need by Canada. These categories currently include:  French-language proficiency  Healthcare occupations  Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations  Trade occupations  Transport occupations  Agriculture and agri-food occupations  To qualify for a category-based selection draw, candidates need at least six months of full-time, continuous work experience within their field in the past three years, either in Canada or abroad. Those applying through the French proficiency category must have Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) test results with a minimum score of seven across all language abilities.  Examples of Candidates Eligible for Category-Based Selection Draws  The following profiles illustrate how category-based selection draws assist candidates with CRS scores under 500 in receiving ITAs:  Example 1: Transport Occupations  Ahmad, a 32-year-old aircraft assembly inspector from the United Arab Emirates, has a master’s degree in aviation technology and advanced English proficiency (CLB 9). Though he has no Canadian work experience or degree from a Canadian institution, his CRS score is as follows:  Core Human Capital: 353/460  Skill Transferability: 100/100  Additional Factors: 0/600  Total CRS Score: 453  Factors determining CRS scores Qualifications Points accrued Age 32 94 Education Master’s degree 135 English language proficiency CLB 9 124 Skills Transferability: Education (language + post-secondary degree)  CLB 9 + Master’s degree 50 Skills Transferability:Foreign work experience (language + foreign work experience)  CLB 9 + 4 years of work experience 50 In March 2024, a Transport category draw had a CRS cut-off of 430. Ahmad’s score would have made him eligible for an ITA, had he been in the Express Entry pool at that time.  Example 2: Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations  Alvin, a 34-year-old from the Philippines, completed a three-year post-secondary degree in landscape design and horticulture in Canada and has worked as a landscape supervisor in Canada for three years. With high intermediate English skills (CLB 8), his CRS score is calculated as follows:  Core Human Capital: 367/460  Skill Transferability: 50/100  Additional Factors: 30/600  Total CRS Score: 447  Factors determining CRS score Qualifications Points accrued Age 34 83 Education Two or more post secondary courses 128 English language proficiency CLB 8 92 Canadian work experience 3 years 64 Skills transferability: Education (language + Canadian work experience)  CLB 8 + 3 years of work experience 50 Additional factors: Canadian post-secondary education   30 The February 16, 2024, agriculture occupations draw had a cut-off score of 437, meaning Alvin’s score would have qualified him for an ITA.  Example 3: French-Language Proficiency  Sara, a 27-year-old accountant from Morocco, holds a three-year degree in finance and has three years of relevant work experience. With advanced French (CLB 9) and intermediate English (CLB 5), her CRS score is as follows:  Core Human Capital: 358/460  Skill Transferability: 75/100  Additional Factors: 50/600  Total CRS Score: 483  Factors determining CRS score Qualifications Points accrued Age 27 110 Education Post secondary degree 120 French language proficiency CLB 9 124 English language proficiency CLB 5 4 Skills transferability: Education (language + Canadian work experience)  Points for language skills 25 Skills transferability:Foreign work experience (language + Canadian work experience)  Points for language skills 50 Additional factors: Proficient in French CLB 9 50 The most recent French language proficiency draw, held on October 10, 2024, had a cut-off of 444, so Sara’s score would qualify her for an ITA in this category.  Evolving Focus of Category-Based Selections  Canada’s category-based draws are responsive to evolving economic and labor market requirements. In 2023, nearly a third of ITAs went to candidates with STEM experience, while 2024 has seen increased emphasis on French language proficiency. IRCC anticipates that French-language candidates will receive approximately 30% of all ITAs this year, aligning with the federal goal of attracting more French-speaking immigrants outside of Quebec. Targets for francophone newcomers settling outside Quebec are set to increase to 6% in 2024, 7% in 2025, and 8% in 2026.  The IRCC plans to introduce new categories based on input from provincial representatives, industry stakeholders, and immigration experts.  Impact of Category-Based Selections on CRS Cut-Off Scores  Since the adoption of category-based draws, general Express Entry draws have decreased, with the last one held in April 2024. Draws for CEC, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and category-based selections have become more frequent, with some weeks seeing up to three draws.  Category-based draws have influenced CRS cut-offs, with general draw cut-offs rising from an average of 489 in early 2023 to 536 in 2024—a nearly 50-point increase. Meanwhile, CRS cut-offs for category-based draws have varied, sometimes dropping significantly, as seen in the French proficiency draw on February 29, 2024, where the cut-off was 336.  All candidates eligible for category-based draws should ensure their profiles remain updated to take advantage of future selections that match their qualifications and expertise.  Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

NEWS

Five Common Immigration Application Mistakes That Can Lead to Misrepresentation 

/

Providing incorrect information on your immigration application—intentionally or unintentionally—can lead to serious consequences under Canadian immigration law. Misrepresentation refers to giving untrue, misleading, or incomplete information to the Government of Canada that may cause errors in applying immigration laws. This includes any information that the applicant provides or omits, even if someone else prepared the application.  Get a Free Express Entry Assessment Consequences of Misrepresentation  Misrepresentation is a serious offense according to Section 40 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). It can result in application rejection, fines, charges, bans from applying for Canadian immigration for five years, or even deportation. It can also lead to the revocation of Canadian citizenship.  Examples of Misrepresentation  Common instances of misrepresentation include:  Omitting important information (e.g., past marriages).  Submitting false or altered documents.  Misrepresenting health status during a medical exam.  Claiming unearned employment or educational experience.  Honest Mistakes and Misrepresentation  Even honest mistakes can be deemed misrepresentation if they relate to “material” facts. For example, listing an incorrect job start date or failing to disclose changes in marital status can be problematic. Innocent misrepresentation may carry the same consequences as intentional misrepresentation.  Common Mistakes to Avoid  Not Reporting Past Marriages: Omitting previous marriages, especially when sponsoring a partner, can lead to misrepresentation.  Failing to Disclose Criminal Offences: All criminal offences, regardless of when or where they occurred, must be reported.  Not Mentioning Visa Refusals: Any past visa denials must be disclosed, whether they occurred in Canada or elsewhere.  Omitting Military Service or Political Activity: Disclose all previous military service or political affiliations.  Providing Approximate Information: If unsure about specifics, it’s better to admit uncertainty than to provide incorrect details.  What to Do If You’ve Made a Mistake  If you realize you’ve made a mistake in your application, contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) immediately. This proactive step may be viewed more favorably than if IRCC discovers the error on its own.  If you receive a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL) regarding misrepresentation, respond promptly with a clear explanation and any supporting documents. Many applicants find it beneficial to consult a lawyer to help draft their responses to ensure clarity and avoid further complications.  Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

NEWS

“Top 5 Things You Need to Know About Renting in Canada”

/

Navigating the rental market in Canada can be challenging, especially for newcomers. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant is crucial for making informed decisions. Here’s a concise guide to help you get started.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Rent Control Regulations  Some provinces in Canada have rent control laws designed to protect tenants from excessive rent increases. These regulations dictate:  When and how much landlords can raise rent.  The potential for significant savings if you choose a property under rent control.  If your property isn’t covered by rent control, be prepared for possible substantial rent hikes upon lease renewal.  The following table provides some detail on rent control in the applicable provinces:  Province Rent increase caps (2024, 2025) Additional restrictions Exemptions to rent control British Columbia 2024 rent increase limit: 3.5% 2025 rent increase limit: 3% Rent can be increased once every 12 months Landlords must provide 3 months’ notice Utilities and other fees can only be increased with tenant’s agreement   Manitoba 2024 rent increase guideline: 3% 2025 rent increase guideline: 1.1% economic adjustment factor Rent increase guideline applies to most rental units  Units exempt from the guideline include high-rent units and government-owned properties Ontario 2024 rent increase guideline: 2.5% 2025 rent increase guideline: 2.5% Note: Rent control policies only apply to residential buildings first built or occupied before November 15, 2018 Rent can be increased once every 12 months Proper written notice of at least 90 days required Exceptions include new buildings and most new basement apartments Prince Edward Island 2024 rent increase guideline: 3% 2025 rent increase guideline: To be set annually by the Director of Residential Tenancy Rent increases can occur once a year Landlords must provide 3 months’ notice Increase above the allowable amount requires application to Rental Office Lease Terms and Evictions  Before signing a lease, consider the following factors:  Lease Renewal: Understand whether your lease automatically renews or if you need to vacate at the end of the term.  Notice Period: Know how much notice you must give to terminate a month-to-month lease. Generally, this is one month, but in provinces like Prince Edward Island and Ontario, you may need to provide two months’ or 60 days’ notice.  Eviction Grounds: Familiarize yourself with the reasons landlords can evict you. Common grounds for eviction include:  Non-payment of rent  Property damage  Breach of lease terms  Health and safety violations  Disrupting other tenants  Landlords may also evict you for reasons outside your control, such as the need to sell the property, personal use of the unit, or if the building is deemed unsafe. They must provide written notice of eviction, and you have the right to dispute it through local tenancy boards or tribunals.  How much should I expect to spend?  The cost of renting can vary significantly depending on the property and its location. Be sure to budget accordingly.  The table below shows the median monthly rent for some major cities for bachelor, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments (source: zumper.com rent research portal).  City Bachelor/Studio apartment (median rent in Canadian dollars) 1-bedroom apartment (median rent in Canadian dollars) 2-bedroom apartment (median rent in Canadian dollars) Toronto (ON) $1,900 $2,335 $2,969 Vancouver (BC) $2,315 $2,650 $3,650 Calgary (AB) $1,599 $1,790 $2,297 Edmonton (AB) $1,154 $1,389 $1,650 Winnipeg (MB) $931 $1,325 $1,725 Montréal (QC) $1,487 $1,700 $2,195 Understanding Condo Regulations  Condominiums (condos) are a unique type of rental property in Canada, often subject to specific bylaws. When renting a condo, keep the following in mind:  Condo Bylaws: These may impose stricter rules than residential leases, including:  Restrictions on pets  Limits on the number of occupants  While the Residential Tenancies Act in Ontario prohibits such restrictions for other residential properties, they may be permissible in condos. Be aware that condo regulations can change, potentially affecting your living situation.  Avoiding Rental Scams  Unfortunately, rental scams are common and can jeopardize your finances and personal information. Here’s how scams typically operate:  Fake Landlords: Scammers pose as landlords or agents, showing you a rental unit at an attractive price. After you sign a lease and pay a deposit, you discover they are not authorized to rent the property and have disappeared with your money.  Identity Theft: Scammers might request personal information and use it to impersonate you for fraudulent activities.  To protect yourself from scams, verify the legitimacy of the landlord or leasing agent. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) suggests watching for these warning signs:  Rent significantly below market value  Requests for deposits without a formal lease  Security deposits requested to be sent to an address outside Canada  Offers for rentals without a background check  Emails directing you to websites asking for personal or financial information  Ads featuring only external photos or mismatched property images  By staying informed and vigilant, newcomers can successfully navigate the rental market in Canada.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

Book Appointment

Need an Advice for your Immigration Query
Get an Appointment Today!

Contact us today for expert assistance with visa applications, residency, citizenship, and more.

  • Call +1 (587) 400 3335

Contact Detail

Add: 9765 45 Ave NW Edmonton, AB – T6E 5V8

Call : 1-587-400-3335

Email: info@gsicanada.ca

Our Services

Express Entry

Provincial Nominee Program

Rural Renewal Stream

Work Permit and Visitor Visa

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Follow Us

Facebook-f Twitter Linkedin-in Instagram Youtube

Newsletter

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

© 2024 Copyright by GS Immigration Advisors

Client Login

Scroll to Top