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NEWS

Program Delivery Update: Bilateral Agreements and Arrangements – IEC – [R205(b) – C21] – Reciprocity – International Mobility Program

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The International Mobility Program (IMP) continues to evolve as part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to foster international cooperation and reciprocal opportunities for work experience. A recent update highlights the role of bilateral agreements and arrangements under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, specifically addressing work permit issuance under R205(b) – C21, a significant component of the program. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration This blog explores the key updates, their implications, and what they mean for applicants and employers in Canada. Understanding R205(b) – C21: Reciprocity in Work Permits The International Mobility Program allows Canada to issue work permits without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in certain cases. One such category under R205(b) – C21 promotes reciprocity, allowing foreign nationals to gain work experience in Canada if their home country offers similar opportunities for Canadians. This provision primarily supports the goals of the IEC, a program facilitating young individuals from partner countries to travel and work in Canada while providing reciprocal opportunities for Canadian youth. What Are Bilateral Agreements and Arrangements? Bilateral agreements under the IEC are formal arrangements between Canada and other countries that outline reciprocal work and travel opportunities for young people. These agreements encourage cultural exchange, skill development, and mutual understanding by offering: Work Holidays: Short-term work and travel opportunities. Young Professional Programs: Skill-based jobs aligned with applicants’ career goals. International Co-op Placements: Internships tied to an academic program. Such agreements ensure a fair and balanced exchange, where both parties (Canada and partner countries) benefit from the mobility opportunities. Key Updates in Program Delivery The recent updates focus on improving clarity and efficiency in program delivery under the R205(b) category. Here’s what’s new: Enhanced Reciprocity Mechanisms: Greater emphasis on ensuring that partner countries offer equal opportunities to Canadians. For instance, if a foreign country increases caps or modifies eligibility criteria for Canadian participants, reciprocal adjustments may occur in Canada’s program. Streamlined Application Processing: Improvements in processing times and documentation requirements aim to facilitate smoother application experiences for foreign nationals under bilateral agreements. Expanded Participation Opportunities: Updates may include additional countries in the IEC program or expanded quotas for existing partners, broadening access for eligible participants. Closer Monitoring of Agreements: Enhanced oversight ensures participating countries adhere to reciprocal commitments, maintaining the integrity of the program. Benefits for Applicants Foreign nationals participating under R205(b) – C21 can expect several benefits: •LMIA Exemption: Avoid the lengthy and costly LMIA process. •Work Flexibility: Gain diverse work experience in Canada. •Cultural Exchange: Immerse in Canadian culture while contributing to its workforce. •Career Growth: Build a global resume that benefits future career opportunities. Implications for Canadian Employers For Canadian employers, these updates provide access to a larger, skilled workforce from around the world, without the administrative burden of an LMIA. However, employers must ensure their hiring aligns with the conditions of the IMP and the IEC program. Conclusion The updates to bilateral agreements and arrangements under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program reaffirm Canada’s commitment to fostering international mobility and cultural exchange. By enhancing the R205(b) – C21 category, the International Mobility Program strengthens global partnerships while benefiting both foreign nationals and Canadians. For applicants and employers, understanding these updates is crucial for leveraging the opportunities offered by the program. If you’re considering applying under the IEC or hiring through the International Mobility Program, stay informed about these changes to maximize your success. Need Help?For more details on eligibility, application requirements, or hiring processes, visit the official Government of Canada website or consult an immigration expert. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

“BREAKING: Canada Conducts First Healthcare Express Entry Draw Since July!”

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Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently conducted a new Express Entry draw, issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to eligible candidates. In this healthcare-specific category-based draw, 3,000 ITAs were sent to applicants with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 463. This marks the third Express Entry draw within a single week, following a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on November 19 and a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on November 18. It is also the second consecutive week of multiple Express Entry draws. Get a Free Express Entry Assessment The previous week saw a total of 1,933 ITAs issued across various categories, including CEC, PNP, and French-speaking candidates.   According to IRCC’s latest Immigration Levels Plan, the federal government is set to increase Express Entry targets for next year, aiming to welcome 124,680 candidates.   Of these, over 82,000 admissions will be allocated to a new category, the In-Canada Focus category. This will predominantly include candidates from the CEC but may also feature those in the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and PNP-aligned streams.   Additionally, 41,700 permanent residence admissions are reserved for the “Federal Economic Priorities” category. This stream targets candidates with expertise in in-demand occupations critical to Canada’s labor market needs. What is Express Entry? Express Entry is Canada’s application management system for three primary economic immigration programs: Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)   Applicants are evaluated using the CRS, which awards points based on factors like age, occupation, language proficiency, education, and work experience.   Additional CRS points can be earned for having a sibling in Canada, applying as a couple, or combining Canadian and foreign work or education experience.   Candidates with a provincial nomination under an enhanced PNP stream receive an extra 600 CRS points, significantly increasing their chances of securing an ITA.   Those with the highest CRS scores are most likely to receive an ITA in future Express Entry draws, provided they meet the draw’s specific criteria. Summary of 2024 Express Entry Results The recent draws reflect IRCC’s commitment to meeting Canada’s immigration targets while addressing labor market demands and prioritizing qualified candidates across different streams. Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Minimum CRS November 20 Healthcare occupations 3,000 463 November 19 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 November 18 Provincial Nominee Program 174 816 November 15 French language proficiency 800 478 November 13 Canadian Experience Class 400 547 November 12 Provincial Nominee Program 733 812 October 23 Trade occupations 1,800 433 October 22 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 October 21 Provincial Nominee Program 648 791 October 10 French language proficiency 1,000 444 October 9 Canadian Experience Class 500 539 October 7 Provincial Nominee Program 1,613 743 September 19 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 509 September 13 French language proficiency 1,000 446 September 9 Provincial Nominee Program 911 732 August 27 Canadian Experience Class 3,300 507 August 26 Provincial Nominee Program 1,121 694 August 15 French language proficiency 2,000 394 August 14 Canadian Experience Class 3,200 509 August 13 Provincial Nominee Program 763 690 July 31 Canadian Experience Class 5,000 510 July 30 Provincial Nominee Program 964 686 July 18 French language proficiency 1,800 400 July 17 Canadian Experience Class 6,300 515 July 16 Provincial Nominee Program 1,391 670 July 8 French proficiency 3,200 420 July 5 Healthcare occupations 3,750 445 July 4 Trade occupations 1,800 436 July 2 Provincial Nominee Program 920 739 June 19 Provincial Nominee Program 1,499 663 May 31 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 522 May 30 Provincial Nominee Program 2,985 676 April 24 French proficiency 1,400 410 April 23 General 2,095 529 April 11 STEM occupations 4,500 491 April 10 General 1,280 549 March 26 French language proficiency 1,500 388 March 25 General 1,980 524 March 13 Transport occupations 975 430 March 12 General 2,850 525 February 29 French language proficiency 2,500 336 February 28 General 1,470 534 February 16 Agriculture and agri-food occupations 150 437 February 14 Healthcare occupations 3,500 422 February 13 General 1,490 535 February 1 French language proficiency 7,000 365 January 31 General 730 541 January 23 General 1,040 543 January 10 General 1,510 546 Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

NEWS

“IRCC to Revise Application Fees Starting December 1!”

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On December 1, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will increase application and processing fees for several types of temporary resident applications, including: Applications to restore temporary resident status (for visitors, workers, and students) Applications for authorization to return to Canada Criminal rehabilitation applications (including cases of serious criminality) Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) applications Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Current fees Application type Current application fees (CAD) Restoration of visitor status $ 229.00 Restoration of student status $ 379.00 Restoration of worker status $ 384.00 Authorization to return to Canada $ 459.55 Inadmissible on grounds of criminality $ 229.77 Inadmissible on grounds of serious criminality $ 1,148.87 Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) $ 229.77 Applicants submitting their applications with the old fees may not need to worry about the fee increase if specific conditions are met. Online Applications: Applications submitted online are received immediately, allowing for instant or near-instant validation of the submission. Mailed Applications: For applications sent by mail, there is typically a delay between when the documents are mailed and when IRCC receives them. If the fee changes during this time, the application is unlikely to be rejected as long as: The full, old fee was paid, A complete application was submitted, and The application was mailed before the fee change took effect. If additional payment is required due to a fee increase, IRCC will provide instructions on how to pay the difference. Paying the Fee Difference for Applications Applicants who submitted applications using the old fee before the fee increase and are required to pay the difference will be given instructions by IRCC. Here’s how to manage this: Calculate the Fee Difference: Determine the difference between the old fee and the updated fee. This also applies to fees for family members included in the application. Make the Payment: Use the “Make an additional payment or pay other fees” option on IRCC’s online payment tool. Enter the total fee difference under “Quantity.” A receipt will be issued for each payment. Multiple receipts can be generated in a single transaction or across separate transactions. Log in or create an IRCC account to complete the payment. Submit the Receipt: Follow the instructions provided in IRCC’s fee adjustment request on how to submit the payment receipt. This process ensures that applications remain valid even if fees change after submission. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

“IRCC Invites CEC Candidates for the Second Week in a Row!”

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Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently conducted an Express Entry draw, issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates. A total of 400 ITAs were issued in a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw, with candidates requiring a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 539 to qualify. This draw follows a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on November 18, which invited 174 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 816. It also marks the second consecutive week of Express Entry draws. Last week, IRCC issued 1,933 ITAs to candidates in the CEC, PNP, and French-language proficiency streams. Get a Free Express Entry Assessment According to IRCC’s latest Immigration Levels Plan, federal immigration targets through the Express Entry system are set to rise in the coming year. The department aims to welcome 124,680 Express Entry candidates in 2025. Of this total, over 82,000 admissions will focus on a new “In-Canada Focus” category, primarily targeting CEC candidates but also including those in the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and PNP-aligned Express Entry streams. The remaining 41,700 permanent resident admissions will be allocated to the “Federal Economic Priorities” category, which prioritizes candidates with experience in high-demand occupations across the Canadian labor market. What is Express Entry? Express Entry is the system used to manage applications for three key economic immigration programs: the CEC, FSWP, and FSTP. Candidates in these programs are evaluated through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns scores based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and occupation. Additional points are awarded for factors like having a sibling in Canada, applying with a spouse, or combining education and work experience in Canada and abroad. Those with a provincial nomination through an enhanced PNP stream receive an extra 600 CRS points, significantly boosting their chances of receiving an ITA. Candidates with the highest CRS scores are most likely to receive ITAs in upcoming Express Entry draws, provided they meet the specific criteria of the draw. Express Entry in 2024 This year, IRCC has consistently focused on draws targeting various categories, aligning with its strategy to meet Canada’s economic and labor market needs. Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Minimum CRS November 19 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 November 18 Provincial Nominee Program 174 816 November 15 French language proficiency 800 478 November 13 Canadian Experience Class 400 547 November 12 Provincial Nominee Program 733 812 October 23 Trade occupations 1,800 433 October 22 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 October 21 Provincial Nominee Program 648 791 October 10 French language proficiency 1,000 444 October 9 Canadian Experience Class 500 539 October 7 Provincial Nominee Program 1,613 743 September 19 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 509 September 13 French language proficiency 1,000 446 September 9 Provincial Nominee Program 911 732 August 27 Canadian Experience Class 3,300 507 August 26 Provincial Nominee Program 1,121 694 August 15 French language proficiency 2,000 394 August 14 Canadian Experience Class 3,200 509 August 13 Provincial Nominee Program 763 690 July 31 Canadian Experience Class 5,000 510 July 30 Provincial Nominee Program 964 686 July 18 French language proficiency 1,800 400 July 17 Canadian Experience Class 6,300 515 July 16 Provincial Nominee Program 1,391 670 July 8 French proficiency 3,200 420 July 5 Healthcare occupations 3,750 445 July 4 Trade occupations 1,800 436 July 2 Provincial Nominee Program 920 739 June 19 Provincial Nominee Program 1,499 663 May 31 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 522 May 30 Provincial Nominee Program 2,985 676 April 24 French proficiency 1,400 410 April 23 General 2,095 529 April 11 STEM occupations 4,500 491 April 10 General 1,280 549 March 26 French language proficiency 1,500 388 March 25 General 1,980 524 March 13 Transport occupations 975 430 March 12 General 2,850 525 February 29 French language proficiency 2,500 336 February 28 General 1,470 534 February 16 Agriculture and agri-food occupations 150 437 February 14 Healthcare occupations 3,500 422 February 13 General 1,490 535 February 1 French language proficiency 7,000 365 January 31 General 730 541 January 23 General 1,040 543 January 10 General 1,510 546 Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

NEWS

“IRCC Invites PNP Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw!”

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Invitations to apply (ITAs) for the latest Express Entry draw have been sent out by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 174 ITAs were distributed by the department through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw. To be taken into consideration, candidates needed to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 816. Get a Free Express Entry Assessment This is the second week in a row that Express Entry draws have occurred. The previous week issued a total of 1,933 ITAs to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program, PNP candidates, and candidates with French-language proficiency. Federal targets for immigration through the Express Entry system are set to increase next year, per IRCC’s latest Immigration Levels Plan. The immigration department hopes to welcome 124,680 Express Entry candidates to Canada in the next year. In addition, more than 82,000 of these admissions will be dedicated to a new category for Express Entry candidates in Canada, known as the In-Canada Focus category. This category will be comprised primarily of CEC candidates in the Express Entry pool, but may also include candidates in the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and PNP-aligned Express Entry streams. Per the latest Levels Plan, the remaining 41,700 permanent residence (PR) admissions will be reserved for the “Federal Economic Priorities” category. This category will invite candidates in the Express Entry pool who have professional experience in in-demand professions and occupations in the Canadian labour market. What is Express Entry? Express Entry is an application management system for three major economic immigration programs for those seeking permanent residence: the CEC, the FSWP, and the FSTP. Candidates in these programs are evaluated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns scores based on key factors like age, occupation, language proficiency, education, and work experience. Additional points may be granted for having a sibling in Canada, applying with a spouse or partner, or combining Canadian and international education and work experience. Receiving a provincial nomination through an enhanced PNP stream adds 600 CRS points, greatly boosting the likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Those with the highest CRS scores are the most likely to receive an ITA in upcoming Express Entry draws, as long as they meet the criteria for the specific draw. Summary of Express Entry draw results in 2024 Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Minimum CRS November 18 Provincial Nominee Program 174 816 November 15 French language proficiency 800 478 November 13 Canadian Experience Class 400 547 November 12 Provincial Nominee Program 733 812 October 23 Trade occupations 1,800 433 October 22 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 October 21 Provincial Nominee Program 648 791 October 10 French language proficiency 1,000 444 October 9 Canadian Experience Class 500 539 October 7 Provincial Nominee Program 1,613 743 September 19 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 509 September 13 French language proficiency 1,000 446 September 9 Provincial Nominee Program 911 732 August 27 Canadian Experience Class 3,300 507 August 26 Provincial Nominee Program 1,121 694 August 15 French language proficiency 2,000 394 August 14 Canadian Experience Class 3,200 509 August 13 Provincial Nominee Program 763 690 July 31 Canadian Experience Class 5,000 510 July 30 Provincial Nominee Program 964 686 July 18 French language proficiency 1,800 400 July 17 Canadian Experience Class 6,300 515 July 16 Provincial Nominee Program 1,391 670 July 8 French proficiency 3,200 420 July 5 Healthcare occupations 3,750 445 July 4 Trade occupations 1,800 436 July 2 Provincial Nominee Program 920 739 June 19 Provincial Nominee Program 1,499 663 May 31 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 522 May 30 Provincial Nominee Program 2,985 676 April 24 French proficiency 1,400 410 April 23 General 2,095 529 April 11 STEM occupations 4,500 491 April 10 General 1,280 549 March 26 French language proficiency 1,500 388 March 25 General 1,980 524 March 13 Transport occupations 975 430 March 12 General 2,850 525 February 29 French language proficiency 2,500 336 February 28 General 1,470 534 February 16 Agriculture and agri-food occupations 150 437 February 14 Healthcare occupations 3,500 422 February 13 General 1,490 535 February 1 French language proficiency 7,000 365 January 31 General 730 541 January 23 General 1,040 543 January 10 General 1,510 546 Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

NEWS

“British Columbia and Prince Edward Island Invite New Candidates in Latest Provincial Nomination Draws”

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Through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), two Canadian provinces have invited candidates to submit nomination applications. To assist disseminate the economic advantages of immigration throughout regions of Canada where newcomers are less likely to think about immigrating, the PNP was initially established in Manitoba in 1998. Except for Quebec and Nunavut, every province and territory currently has a PNP. Provincial governments can use the scheme to choose economic immigrants who have the best chance of thriving in their new communities. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The federal Immigration Levels Plan specifies the maximum number of nominations that each province may make. In the Plan for 2025, which was unveiled on October 24, the total number of PNP nominations that will be made in 2025 would be drastically reduced from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000. A candidate’s application for permanent residence is strengthened when they receive a province’s nomination. Given that receiving a provincial nomination raises an Express Entry candidate’s total Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score by 600 points, this is particularly true for them. It is one of the most well-liked economic immigration routes in Canada for foreigners looking to settle there permanently. Results for provincial immigration from October 26 to November 1. British Columbia More than 83 invitations to submit for nomination in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) were sent out by British Columbia on October 30. Thirty-one applicants from the entry-level, semi-skilled, skilled worker, and international graduate streams were invited to the province’s one general draw. With the exception of Entry Level and Semi-Skilled applicants, who needed a minimum score of 117, all candidates needed to receive a minimum score of 134. Additionally, B.C. conducted four targeted draws for applicants in certain occupations in the International Graduate and Skilled Worker streams: Childcare occupations: 20 candidates with a minimum score of 90. Construction occupations: 20 candidates with a minimum score of 96. Healthcare occupations: 12 candidates with a minimum score of 104. Veterinary occupations: Fewer than five candidates with a minimum score of 80. Island of Prince Edward In the Labour and Express Entry categories, the PEI PNP extended invitations to 89 candidates. Candidates currently employed in PEI’s manufacturing, construction, and healthcare industries were taken into consideration by the province. From the Business Work Permit Entrepreneur category, two further applicants were invited. The minimum score for these people was 92. 98% of the 1,237 invitations that PEI has sent out to PEI PNP candidates over the last 12 months have gone to those in the Labour and Express Entry streams. Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

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

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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 

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

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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

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

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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

Canada to Reduce Immigration Targets by Nearly 100,000 

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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

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