PEI PNP issued 211 invitations to skilled workers and entrepreneurs

On January 22, 2020, Prince Edward Island released the results of the January 21 draw in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP). In the first invitation round in 2021, the government issued 211 invitations to apply for a provincial nomination. PEI invited 196 skilled workers in the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 15 candidates in the Business Work Permit Entrepreneurs stream. The lowest score for business-candidates was 80 points, five points fewer than in December 21 draw. Last year, Prince Edward Island invited 1,955 candidates including 213 entrepreneurs. The next PEI PNP draw is scheduled for February 18, 2021.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers, #Entrepreneurs, #PNP

Nova Scotia and New Brunswick updated the lists of Designated Employers in the AIPP

Nova Scotia has updated the list of provincial employers designated to participate in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). In December 2020, Nova Scotia designated 44 new employers. Since the last update, the total number of its designated employers is 1,386 companies. As for New Brunswick, the province designated 3 new companies in December. At the moment, there are 838 New Brunswick employers who can hire foreign workers in the framework of the AIPP. In total, there are 2,836 employers in all four Atlantic provinces who can hire foreign workers in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_Canada, #Designated_employers, #Nova_Scotia, #New_Brunswick

IRCC approved 14,816 spousal sponsorship applications in the last quarter of 2020

The spousal immigration program has been expedited since last year. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the processing of spousal sponsorship in 2020. The federal immigration minister announced they will speed up the spousal immigration processing and planned to process 6,000 applications each month between October to December last year. Of those 18,000 applications, 16,000 were processed. 14,816 (92.6%) of them were approved, 837 (5.2%) refused and 346 (2.1%) withdrawn. In 2021, according to Immigration Levels Plan, the government will process nearly 70,000 spousal sponsorship applications.

#IRCC, #spousal_sponsorship, #family_immigration, #IRCC, #COVID_19

Joe Biden starts his mandate with measures in favour of undocumented immigrants in the US

President Joe Biden is going to change the US immigration system. On the one hand, the competition over the skilled workers and international students may become tougher between Canada and the US. On the other hand, Biden intends to implement measures to accept 115,000 refugee claimants in 2021, which will obviously reduce the number of people entering Canada from the US, giving a break to the Canadian refugee system. This new focus will have a very positive effect on Canada as many illegal migrants who entered the country from the US during the Trump administration may decide to go back to the United States. Nevertheless, Canada plans to accept 35,000 refugees in 2021.

#refugees, #United_States, #asylum_claimants, #illegal_migrants
 

Canada issued 4,626 ITAs in the Express Entry draw for CEC candidates

On January 21, 2021, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw. In the program-specific draw #174, Canada issued 4,626 Invitations to Apply for permanent residence in Canada in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Program. The lowest score was 454 points, seven points fewer than in the previous CEC-specific round. The tie-breaking rule for this round was July 23, 2020 at 17:32:00 UTC. In 2021, Canada already issued 10,000 invitations to apply in four draws of Express Entry. In the first month of the year, IRCC keeps the practice of program-specific invitation rounds. Unfortunately, Canada is not inviting candidates from abroad at the moment.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #CEC
 

Saskatchewan invited 502 candidates in the second SINP draw in 2021

On January 21, 2021, Saskatchewan conducted the second draw in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) in 2021. In this round, Saskatchewan invited 502 candidates to apply for the provincial nomination. In the Express Entry category, Saskatchewan issued 189 ITAs. Another 313 invitations have been sent to the Occupations In-Demand category candidates. The lowest score in both categories was 77, six points higher than in the last draw. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this draw, the Saskatchewan government invited candidates in 79 different NOCs. So far, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 887 candidates in 2021.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand, #PNP

International students coming to Canada will get cheaper air tickets

Air Canada and the University of Windsor have made an agreement to provide air tickets at concessional rates to International students coming to Canada for studies at this University. Other educational institutions in Canada are also making such arrangements. Air Canada brings flights from 200 airports across the globe. It is an attempt by Air Canada to make its contribution to Canada's progress and prosperity. This move will save some money for international students who were struggling with the very high prices of air tickets as an effect of the pandemic. Institutions will send the details of the concessions to enrolled students to enable international students to enable them to book their flights with Air Canada.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada
 

Canada held a second PNP-specific Express Entry draw

On January 20, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) a third Express Entry draw in 2021. In invitation round #173, Canada issued Invitations to Apply (ITA) to 374 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program. The lowest score in this round was 741 points, 72 points less compared to the previous PNP-specific draw that occurred on January 6. The tie-breaking rule for this round was September 5, 2020, at 19:39:04 UTC. As of January 18, 2021, there are 147,324 profiles registered in the pool, 829 profiles more compared to the previous update. In total, Canada invited 5,374 foreign nationals to apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry in 2021.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #PNP

BCPNP issued 195 invitations to apply for provincial nominations

On January 20, 2021, British Columbia published results of the new draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) which occurred on January 19. In this round, the BCPNP issued 195 invitations to apply for the provincial nomination. The lowest scores in this round increased for all categories:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 96 (+1 point)
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 96 (+1 point)
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 80 (+3 points)  
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 106 (+7 points)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 103 (+4 points)
BCPNP excluded the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In 2021, British Columbia already invited 443 invitations under all streams of the BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

New Brunswick announced a new recruitment event for Sawmill Machine Operator

On January 21, 2021, New Brunswick announced the Virtual Recruitment Mission for Sawmill Machine Operators in Ukraine in the framework of New Brunswick's Provincial Immigration Programs. The event is aimed at Sawmill Machine Operators (NOC 9431) and will take place in February. To be eligible, candidates must have relevant education, training, and work experience in this skilled trade. The registration is open until February 12, 2021.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session

International travel restrictions extended until February 21, 2021

As expected, following the extension of the US-Canada border closure until at least February 21, 2021, on January 20, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair tweeted that Canada is extending restrictions on non-US international travel into Canada. According to him, the government will never hesitate to take the strong action needed to keep Canadians safe from COVID-19 while maintaining essential trade with the international partners. Canada implemented travel restrictions in March 2020. Since then, every month those measures are being extended.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #PHAC, #COVID_19, #TRV, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #work_permits #travel_restrictions

British Columbia will review a decision to exclude tourism and hospitality occupations from BCPNP

On January 20, 2021, the government of British Columbia announced that the BC PNP is going to review its decision to exclude 31 occupations in tourism, hospitality, retail and other personal services from participation in the BC PNP draws. This decision was implemented on March 30, 2020, amidst the pandemic of COVID-19 which hit several sectors in the province and increased unemployment in these sectors. Due to many public inquiries, the government will review this decision and publish the new information once it is available.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #PNP, #COVID_19
 

Nova Scotia invited financial officers in the first draw of the year

On January 19, 2021, Nova Scotia held the first invitation round in the Labour Market Priorities Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). In this round, Nova Scotia issued Letters of Interest to Express Entry candidates whose primary occupation is other financial officers (NOC 1114). All candidates invited in this round must possess letters of reference from employers to prove four or more years of experience and demonstrate the language skill at a CLB level 9 or higher in English in all four bands. All candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree or three-year program at a university, college, trade or technical school, or other educational institution. The deadline to submit the application for all invited candidates is set on February 18, 2021, before 11:59 PM. In 2020, NSNP targeted French-speaking candidates, nurses, motor vehicle body repairers, and automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers, and programmers and interactive media developers.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #financial_officers, #PNP

Alberta invited 50 candidates to apply for a  provincial nomination

 

On January 19, 2021, Alberta updated the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) inventory. As of today, the province received 2,600 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream and 20 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment. Besides that, the AINP released the results of the first invitation round in the Alberta Express Entry Stream. On January 8, 2020, Alberta issued 50 Notifications of Interest (NOI) and the lowest score of the round was 406 points. Last year AINP invited 1,933 Express Entry candidates to apply for a provincial nomination in the Alberta Express Entry. Since June 17, 2020, AINP did not hold Alberta Express Entry draws.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #Express_Entry

IRCC released new instruction regarding co-op work permits

On January 19, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new update of the instructions regarding study permit holders who were impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The updated information is related to the Co-op Work Permits. In certain cases, if the educational institution and the job placement agree, international students are allowed to do their co-op overseas as work conducted outside Canada does not require a work permit. It also introduces a temporary policy allowing students who are waiting for their co-op work permits to begin their work under certain conditions.

#international_students, #work_permits, #Co_op, #work_in_Canada, #IRCC, #COVID_19

Canadians are leaving big cities

According to Statistics Canada, residents of large cities are leaving them and moving to the suburbs, small towns, and villages. Between July 2019 and July 2020, Toronto, lost 50,357 of its residents, while Oshawa, east of the Ontario capital, grew 2.1%, the highest growth among municipalities in the entire country. In Kitchener, Cambridge and Waterloo, west of Toronto, the population grew by 2%. During the same period, 24,880 people left Montreal, and most of them settled in the neighbouring towns of Farnham and Saint-Hippolyte. Experts believe that the trend of relocation from large cities to small ones has been accelerated by the coronavirus pandemic because under quarantine conditions, people are able to work from home, and for them, life in urban centers, where they quickly get to their office, has lost its meaning, while they feel much more comfortable in nature, where the cost of living is much cheaper.

#demography, #Toronto, #Montreal

New Brunswick modified its entrepreneurial immigration project

In January 2021, New Brunswick has changed its Entrepreneur Stream of the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program to a new model where the applicant must obtain a work permit before applying for a provincial nomination. All entrepreneurs will also have to sign the Business Performance Agreement and operate a business for a minimum of 1 year. Only after this stage, candidates will be able to apply for permanent residency. Earlier, New Brunswick was the only province in Canada that offered a one-step application for permanent residency through the entrepreneurial stream. From now on, the entrepreneurial streams in all provinces, except Quebec, will adopt a model in which the provincial immigration departments will first review the investment and entrepreneurship of enterprises in the local area, and then issue provincial nomination invitations.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Entrepreneurs, #Business_Immigration

Ontario announced a new intake in the Regional Immigration Pilot

On January 18, 2021, the government of Ontario announced a new intake in the Regional Immigration Pilot in the framework of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). In 2021, Ontario will issue 150 nominations in the Regional Immigration Pilot. This provincial initiative is intended at attracting immigrants to remote and rural parts of the province. The pilot was launched in 2020 and in the first year, OINP nominated 150 candidates. Currently, there are three communities accepted in the program: Chatham-Kent, Cornwall, and Quinte West/Belleville.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Regional_pilot, #OINPRIP, #PNP

Statistics Canada released a new report on the country's population growth

As of July 1, 2020, Canada had a population of 38,005,238. That number is the highest it has ever been and grew by 411,854 from the previous year. Between 2018 and 2019, population growth was higher, at nearly 530,000. This new figure is the lowest of Canada's population growth has been from 2015 to 2016. The country finally reached more than 38 million people last year, mainly due to international immigration, which accounted for 337,283 new Canadians. Natural increase, the variation due to births and deaths, went up by 74,571 between 2019 and 2020. In 2019, it was estimated Canada's population could reach 70 million by 2068.

#Canada, #demography, #population_growth, #statistics_Canada

A fifth of spousal sponsorship applications are submitted incomplete

Immigration Canada disclosed that out of the permanent resident application materials received by the department for sponsoring spouses, one in every five applications is classified as "incomplete", which adds unnecessary pressure to case processing and causes trouble for applicants. In the latest issue of Immigration Information Collection, it discloses a document issued by Michael Kalin, Director of Client Experience at IRCC titled Improving Paper-Based Applications through Human-Centred Design. The document shows that “a large proportion of applicants struggled to submit a correct and complete set of application materials to IRCC”. This adds unnecessary tension to the approval and makes applicants feel frustrated. The department has taken a number of measures to try to improve this, but problems still exist, especially in applications submitted in paper documents.

#IRCC, #spousal_sponsorship, #family_immigration

In 2021, Ontario already nominated 693 foreign nationals

On January 15, 2021, Ontario published the first figures on the issuance of nomination certificates in the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). As of January 14, the OINP issued 693 certificates of nomination. Last year, Ontario was allocated a quota of 7,600 candidates, which also included 250 persons under the federal NOC C initiative. In late 2020, OINP received additional 400 nominations and an extra 50 nominations under the federal NOC C initiative. In total, OINP nominated 8,050 candidates in 2020. The Ontario nominations allocation for 2021 will be published later this year.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

IRCC updated instruction regarding duration and extensions for AIPP work permits

On January 15, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published a new program delivery update regarding Work Permits duration under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP).  According to the updated instruction, the duration of the work permit will now begin from the date of the decision. Should the worker need to extend the work permit, the application must include a new referral letter, issued by the provincial government. However, if the candidate has submitted a PR application within 90 days of the initial work permit, the new referral letter is not required.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_pilot, #work_permits, #PR, #IRCC

Fewer immigrants getting citizenship amid the pandemic

According to the official figures by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the number of new citizens to Canada drastically decreased in 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis. According to IRCC, 103,020 applicants attained Canadian citizenship from Jan. to Oct. in 2020, a decrease from 212,147 people becoming citizens in the same period of 2019. Surprisingly, 14,757 newcomers from the Philippines obtained Canadian citizenship in 2020, making up the biggest portion of new citizens, followed by 14,535 new citizens from India. The other countries in the top ten were Iran, China, Pakistan, Nigeria, the USA, Egypt, Iraq, and France.

#citizenship, #IRCC, #COVID_19

Marco Mendicino received a Supplementary Mandate Letter

On January 15, 2021, the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau published a Supplementary Mandate Letter for Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marco Mendicino. In fact, the new letter does not add additional goals for IRCC nor clearly set the previous. The government calls IRCC to keep reaching the targets of the Immigration Levels Plan, expanding the pilot program for refugees, support expedited family reunification, and work on sectoral and regional pilot programs. The letter also mentions the PR pathway for front line health care workers and call for exploration of PR options for temporary foreign workers. Unfortunately, there are still no updates about the Municipal Nominee Program, making Atlantic Immigration Pilot permanent, or removing citizenship fees - news long expected by the public.

#IRCC, #Mandate_letter, #Trudeau, #Mendicino, #immigration_policy, #immigration_levels

Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Supplementary Mandate Letter

January 15, 2021
 
Dear Mr. Mendicino:
Thank you for continuing to serve Canadians as Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Since my previous mandate letter to you, our country has been confronted by the most serious public health crisis we have ever faced. The global pandemic has had devastating impacts on lives and livelihoods and exposed fundamental gaps in our society. Challenges that existed before the pandemic remain and others have been exacerbated. In light of these realities, I am issuing this supplementary letter to outline further responsibilities and considerations that I expect you to undertake on behalf of Canadians. Nothing in this letter replaces any previous commitments or expectations. It is necessary for us to continue making progress on the commitments laid out in 2019, while ensuring our actions are centered on fighting the pandemic and building back better.
Even as we continue to distribute vaccines across Canada, bold action continues to be required to fight this pandemic, save lives, support people and businesses throughout the remainder of this crisis and build back better. We need to work together to protect and create jobs, and to rebuild our country in a way that will create long-term competitiveness through clean growth. As articulated in the Speech from the Throne 2020 and Fall Economic Statement 2020, our four main priorities for making tangible progress for Canadians continue to be: protecting public health; ensuring a strong economic recovery; promoting a cleaner environment; and standing up for fairness and equality.
Ongoing struggles around the world – and here at home – remind us of how important it is to keep working toward a brighter future. We are at a crossroads and must keep moving Canada forward to become stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient. It is part of your job to look out for Canadians, with particular attention to our most vulnerable.
We need to continue delivering on our commitments by working together in a positive, open and collaborative way with Parliamentarians, with partners and with all Canadians. Where legislation is required, I expect you to continue working with the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons to make progress for Canadians within this minority Parliament.
To be ready for what lies ahead, our Government must continue to be agile and use the best available science and evidence. Canadians are counting on us to ensure that today’s policies, programs and services are calibrated and targeted to match their needs. Therefore, I expect you to uphold our ongoing commitment to delivering real results and effective government for the people we are elected to serve. 
Many of our most important commitments continue to require a sustained partnership with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, and Indigenous partners, communities and governments. Always remember that our mandate comes from citizens who are served by all orders of government, and that it is in everyone’s interest that we work together to find common ground and make life better for Canadians. The President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs is the Government-wide lead on all relations with the provinces and territories.
There remains no more important relationship to me and to Canada than the one with Indigenous Peoples. With respect and dignity, we remain committed to moving forward along the shared path of reconciliation. You, and indeed all ministers, must continue to play a role in helping to advance self-determination, close socio-economic gaps and eliminate systemic barriers facing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. As Minister, I expect you to work in full partnership with Indigenous Peoples and communities to advance meaningful reconciliation.
The Government has significantly increased spending during the pandemic in order to achieve our most pressing priority: to help protect Canadians’ health and financial security. Going forward, we must preserve Canada’s fiscal advantage and continue to be guided by values of sustainability and prudence. Therefore, our actions must focus on creating new jobs and supporting the middle class to preserve the strength of our economy. 
While fighting the pandemic must be our top priority, climate change still threatens our health, economy, way of life and planet. Clean growth is the best way to create good jobs and power our long-term economic recovery. I expect you and all ministers to pursue complementary partnerships and initiatives that will support our work to exceed our emissions reduction target, seize new market opportunities to create good jobs and prepare our country to adapt to the impacts of a changing climate.
We remain committed to evidence-based decision-making that takes into consideration the impacts of policies on all Canadians and fully defends the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. You will apply Gender-based Analysis Plus (GBA+) in the decisions that you make and consider public policies through an intersectional lens in order to address systemic inequities including: systemic racism; unconscious bias; gender-based discrimination; barriers for persons with disabilities; discrimination against LGBTQ2 communities; and inequities faced by all vulnerable populations. Whenever possible, you will work to improve the quality and availability of disaggregated data to ensure that policy decisions benefit all communities.
It is clear that this pandemic has disproportionately affected different communities throughout our country. Therefore, we must ensure our recovery includes all Canadians, with an emphasis on supporting those most affected. To this end, I expect that you will seek the advice and hear the perspectives of a diverse group of Canadians, in both official languages. Moreover, you will continue to rely on and develop meaningful relationships with civil society and stakeholders, including businesses of all sizes, organized labour, the broader public sector and the not-for-profit and charitable sectors across Canada.
Now more than ever, Canadians are relying on journalists and journalism for accurate and timely news, especially in the face of a concerning spread of misinformation. I expect you to foster a professional and respectful relationship with journalists to ensure that Canadians have the information they need to keep themselves and their families safe.
Our ability to implement our Government’s priorities depends on consideration of the professional, non-partisan advice of public servants. Government employees perform their duties in service to Canada, with a goal of improving our country and the lives of all Canadians. I expect you to maintain a collaborative working relationship with your Deputy Minister, whose role, like the role of the public servants under their direction, is to support you in the performance of your responsibilities.
Important ministerial responsibilities have been entrusted to you, notably delivering on the Government’s commitments that were set out in your 2019 mandate letter. I expect that you will keep me updated and proactively communicate with Canadians on the progress you are making toward our priorities. Always know that you can turn to me, and the Deputy Prime Minister, at any time for support.
In addition to the priorities set out in my mandate letter to you in 2019, as Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, you will implement on a priority basis the following commitments, as set out in the Speech from the Throne 2020 and building off the investments in the Fall Economic Statement 2020:
•    Continue to bring newcomers to Canada safely to drive economic growth and recovery, as recently set out in the 2021-2023 Immigration Levels Plan, including by:
o    Expanding pilot programming to welcome skilled refugees through economic immigration streams;
o    Continuing to support expedited family reunification; and
o    Continuing work on sectoral and regional pilot programs.
•    Continue to implement measures that create pathways to permanent residency for those who have provided health care in long-term care homes or medical facilities or performed other essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
•    Continue working with the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and the Minister of Health to protect the health and safety of Canadians through safe, responsible and compassionate management of the border with the United States and other ports of entry into Canada.
•    Continue exploring pathways to permanent residency and citizenship for temporary foreign workers.
•    Support the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion to continue to fully support and protect workers who are vulnerable to COVID-19 and secure labour to fill workforce gaps in farming and food processing.
•    Continue working with provinces and territories to support high-quality settlement services and facilitate the successful settlement and integration of new Canadians. This includes continuing to support French-language training, while respecting provincial jurisdiction and complementing existing measures, supported by the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages.
•    Support the Minister of Transport and the Minister of Foreign Affairs to implement recommendations and lessons learned from the report of the Special Advisor for Canada’s ongoing response to the Ukraine International Airlines tragedy, including commemorating the lives of the victims and supporting their families, pursuing truth and accountability from Iran, and preventing future disasters through the Safer Skies Initiative.
Sincerely,
 
Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, P.C., M.P.
Prime Minister of Canada

Manitoba invited 272 foreign nationals in the EOI Draw #106

On January 14, 2021, the government of Manitoba held the first draw in 2021. In EOI draw #106 of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), the province issued 272 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) for a provincial nomination. 236 of them were issued to candidates in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score did not change from the last draw of 2020 and was 461 points. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 7 LAAs under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative and the lowest score was 722 points, four points more than in EOI draw #105. In the International Education Category Manitoba invited 29 candidates. 18 candidates out of 272 candidates invited in this draw were from the Express Entry pool. Last year, MPNP invited 5,105 candidates and issued 5,656 provincial nominations.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #PNP, #International_students, #In_demand_occupations, #SWO, #SWM

Fake COVID-19 tests will lead to fines

With the introduction of the mandatory COVID-19 test for passengers arriving by plane in Canada, there were several reports that some passengers may show fake test results. The federal government has reported that a fake COVID-19 test result can be fined up to $5,000. Those arriving in Canada will be required to provide information on where the test was taken. If the passenger cannot provide information or provide illegal documents, this will result in a fine. Air carriers can receive a fine of up to $25,000 if they allow a passenger to board a plane without the necessary documents and test results.

#COVID_19, #travel_restrictions

Canada added 185 post-secondary DLIs with COVID readiness plans

From December 2020 to January 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in cooperation with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) approved COVID readiness plans of additional designated learning institutions (DLIs). These colleges and universities are now allowed to accept international students from outside Canada. As of now, there are 446 DLIs out of 474 (excluding Quebec) that offer PGWP-eligible programs with approved COVID readiness plans:
•    Alberta – 58 DLI (+7)
•    British Columbia – 141 DLI (+60)
•    Manitoba – 21 DLI (+5)
•    New Brunswick – 17 DLI (+2)
•    Newfoundland and Labrador – 4 DLI (+1)
•    Nova Scotia – 25 DLI (+1)
•    Ontario – 163 DLI (+107)
•    Prince Edward Island - 5 DLI
•    Saskatchewan - 11 DLI (+2)
•    Yukon - 1 DLI
Almost all Canadian educational institutions can admit international students to pursue their education.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19, #DLI, #PGWP

At least fifteen Hong Kong protesters have successfully obtained asylum in Canada 

As the situation in Hong Kong continues to deteriorate, the Canadian government has sped up the process of approving refugee claims from Hong Kongers. So far, at least fifteen people have been approved. In addition, if the situation becomes critical, Canada is also prepared to evacuate overseas citizens from Hong Kong. About fifteen Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters have already submitted refugee claims to Canada. The New Hong Kong Cultural Club has been actively helping these refugee claimants. Hong Shu, one of the people in charge at the Club, said that so far, fourteen people have successfully obtained asylum, and another person, with the assistance of another group, also got asylum. Hong expects more applications to be approved in the foreseeable future. At first, it was hard to help these people, because immigration officials and immigration judges didn't really understand the situation in Hong Kong, but after the national security legislation took effect in July last year, officials recognized the seriousness of the situation, so they expedited the processing, and it's expected that 6-7 applicants will soon be able to obtain asylum.

#Hong_Kong, #IRCC, #refugees, #asylum_seekers, 

Ontario invited 338 NOIs in the Skilled Trades Stream

On January 13, 2021, Ontario held the first draw in the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP) this year. OINP invited 338 candidates in the Skilled Trades Stream within t. All invitees have their profiles created in the Express Entry system between January 13, 2020 and January 13, 2021. The CRS score range of the invited candidates was 456-467. All invited candidates now have 45 days to apply for the nomination of Ontario. Should their application be successful, they will receive additional 600 points in the Express Entry. In 2020, OINP issued 1,464 NOIs in the Skilled Trades Stream.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Skilled_trades, #PNP, #ITA, #Ontario_Express_Entry

British Columbia invited 80 candidates in the first 2021 Tech Pilot draw

On January 12, 2021, the province of British Columbia invited 80 candidates in the first invitation round in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) Tech Pilot. The government distributed invitations to apply for the nomination of BC in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All invited candidates scored 80 points or higher in the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). In 2020, BC invited 2,168 Tech Pilot candidates. The province already invited 248 candidates under all streams of the BCPNP in 2021.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP, #SIRS

OINP invited 146 candidates in the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream 

On January 13, 2021, the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP) held the first invitation round in the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream (FSSW). In this draw, Ontario invited 146 candidates. The Express Entry score range of invited candidates who received the Notification of Interest from the OINP in this intake was between 434 and 460 points. The Express Entry profiles of those candidates were created between January 13, 2020 and January 13, 2021. FSSW candidates must submit the full application to the OINP within 45 days from the date of the invitation. Successful applicants will get 600 CRS points to their Express Entry profiles. Last year, Ontario invited 902 candidates under the FSSW.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Francophones, #FSSW, #ITA, #PNP, #Ontario_Express_Entry

Canada is the main immigrant destination country for Chinese people

Mainland China became the world's third-largest source country of immigrants. The top three immigration destination countries for mainland Chinese immigrants in 2019 are the U.S., Japan and Canada. According to Statistics Canada, the number of Chinese immigrants in Canada is close to 2 million. Although this figure is a slightly larger city population in China, for Canada, which has a total population of only 38 million, it already accounts for more than 5% of the country.

#China, #Chinese, #immigration_levels

Thunder Bay revealed the quotas for some NOCs in the RNIP

On January 12, 2021, the Ontario city of Thunder Bay revealed the number of prospective immigrants working in certain occupations the city intends to invite in the framework of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). For instance, Thunder Bay plans to issue 15 community recommendations to Cooks (NOC 6322), 10 recommendations to Chefs (NOC 6321), 5 recommendations to Cleaners (NOCs 6731, 6732, and 673), and 10 recommendations to Labourers (NOCs 7611 and 7612). In addition, 30 recommendations will be distributed among “Any Sector” occupations. Last year, Thunder Bay issued 69 community recommendations.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

The Canada-US border closure will continue until February 21

On January 12, 2021, the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau announced the extension of the border closure between the United States and Canada for another month. Therefore, COVOD-19 travel restrictions for non-essential travels between the two countries will last until at least February 21, 2021. Trudeau emphasized that this "important decision" was taken to keep citizens on both sides of the border safe. The border between the two neighbours remains closed since March 2020. Since Canada aligned the international travel restrictions with the US land border travel restrictions, we can expect the announcement of the extension of the international travel restrictions for another month in the next few days.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Quebec maintains a very high immigrant retention level

According to the Quebec Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI) Nadine Girault, more than 90% of the immigrants who settled in Quebec since 2011 were still in the province in December 2020. Such high numbers are evidence that Quebec offers its newcomers the opportunity to develop and participate fully in collective life. The population with immigrant status in Quebec stood at 37,340 people, or 7.2% of the population, according to 2016 census data.

#Quebec, #MIFI, #immigrant_retention

Manitoba to reorganize the provincial immigration ministry

On January 5, 2021, the government of Manitoba announced some changes to the structure of the provincial government. The field of immigration will now be overseen by the Department for Advanced Education, Skills, and Immigration. The main goal of the new ministry is to "ensure greater linkages and alignment between the offerings of Manitoba’s advanced education institutions and the skills needed to equip the labour force of the future". Among the other functions, the department will concentrate on offering new job opportunities for new immigrants in the province. It will also manage the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) in order to attract and welcome more newcomers to the province.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #PNP
 

Canada sent all invitation to Parents and Grandparents sponsors

On January 11, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the department has completed sending invitations to apply for Parents and Grandparents sponsorship in the 2020 intake. IRCC allocated a quota of 10,000 applications for 2020. All successful sponsorship lottery winners have 60 days to submit the full application. In certain cases, and based on reasonable grounds, IRCC may grant a 90-day extension for those who cannot obtain all required documents due to COVID-19. IRCC emphasized that those who did not get the invitation may try to submit an interest to sponsor form when the 2021 program intake opens. The government promised to accept 30,000 applications in 2021.

#IRCC, #Family_immigration, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP, #Parental_sponsorship #Parents_and_Grandparents_sponsorship

Newfoundland and Labrador to invest $700,000 in Economic Immigration

On January 11, 2021, the Minister of Immigration, Skills and Labour of Newfoundland and Labrador Gerry Byrne announced plans of the provincial government to invest in the development of economic immigration. For instance, Newfoundland and Labrador is going to invest over $600,000 in the creation of the Economic Immigration Ideas Lab, which will be located at the Newfoundland and Labrador Workforce Innovation Centre. The new institution will gather representatives of the government and private sectors, as well as the wider public to develop new approaches aimed at increase of immigration to the province. Additional funding of $100,000 from the provincial authorities will allow the opening of a certified CELPIP testing site at the Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus. Those initiatives go in line with the goal to reach 2,500 new permanent residents annually by 2022.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #immigration_levels, #CELPIP, #PNP

Manitoba release the year-end MPNP nominations statistics

 
On January 11, 2021, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) released the final 2020 nominations issuance statistics. In December 2020, the province nominated 304 skilled workers, 3 entrepreneurs, and approved 2 business concepts. In total, MPNP nominated 5,656 foreign nationals, including 5,637 skilled workers and 19 business-candidates. In December Manitoba refused 12 profiles of skilled workers and 1 profile of a business candidate (400 and 8 in the whole year, respectively). In the last month of the year, MPNP invited 607 skilled workers (5,105 since Jan 2020), approved 4 business concepts (102 since Jan 2020) and sent LAAs to 2 business candidates (52 since Jan 2020). MPNP received a total of 4,361 applications from skilled workers and 44 applications from business candidates in 2020. As for Express Entry candidates, in December, Manitoba nominated 43 Express Entry candidates. In total, Manitoba issued 605 nominations for Express Entry candidates in 2020 out of 875 spots allocated by IRCC. The MPNP quota for 2021 will be announced in the following months.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, #business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates

Newfoundland and Labrador has updated the guides for its two business streams

On January 11, 2021, the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced that on January 6, the province updated the guides for the International Entrepreneur and the International Graduate Entrepreneur streams of the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP). Both streams allow foreign nationals who operate a business in the province to apply for a permanent residence in Canada.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #entrepreneurs, #graduate_entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #PNP

IRCC invited 4,750 candidates in the Express Entry draw #172

On January 8, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published the results of the Express Entry draw from January 7. In draw #172, IRCC issued Invitations to Apply (ITA) to 4,750 candidates under the Canadian Experience Class. The cut-off score in this round was 461 points. The tie-breaking rule for this round was September 12, 2020 at 20:46:32 UTC. In ten CEC-specific rounds in 2020, IRCC invited 34,215 candidates. In 2021, Canada already issued 5,000 invitations to apply in the Express Entry. Should IRCC continue the practice of program-specific draws, we can expect a further drop of CRS required to get an ITA.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #CEC

IRCC updated the Express Entry completeness check instruction

On January 8, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated program delivery instruction for the Express Entry completeness check. The new instruction now clearly states that applicants have 90 days to submit their full application from the moment of acceptance of the invitation to apply. Earlier, IRCC has changed this period to 60 days but amid COVID-19, Ottawa grants more time to submit all the documents. IRCC clarified that it starts counting the six-month processing standard from the moment the application has been submitted. Additionally, IRCC updated the wording for the instruction on the acceptable translation of supporting documents.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #program_delivery, #COVID_19

International students with expired PGWP can apply for an Open Work Permit

On January 8, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced temporary police enabling international students whose Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) has been expired or is going to expire, to apply for an open work permit for a duration of 18 months. This policy is aimed at helping those international students who invested time in the study in Canada but were not able to secure enough Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence in Canada amid the pandemic. To be eligible for the new policy, candidates must reside in Canada, possess a legal status in Canada or apply for status restoration, have PGWP that expired on or after January 30, 2020, or a PGWP that expires in 4 months or less from the date they apply. IRCC will open the applications from January 27 to July 27, 2021.

#International_students, #PGWP, #international_graduates, #OWP, #work_permits, #IRCC, #Canadian_experience

OINP introduced changes to the internal review process

On January 7, 2021, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced changes introduced to the internal review of the applications in all streams of the OINP. Applicants, whose nomination application has been refused have the right to request an internal review. In order to request a review, applicants must fill the Notice of Request for Internal Review form, identify the error made by the OINP officers and send the request to the OINP at internalreview-revisioninterne@ontario.ca. Applicants are not allowed to include any new information unless the new information was not reasonably available at the time of the initial application.

#OINP, #Ontario, #PNP, #internal_review

Saskatchewan issued 385 ITAs in the first 2021 SINP draw

On January 7, 2021, Saskatchewan held the first draw in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) in 2021. SINP issued invitations to apply (ITA) for the provincial nomination to 385 candidates. In the Express Entry category, Saskatchewan issued 148 ITAs. Another 237 invitations have been sent to the Occupations In-Demand category candidates. The lowest score in both categories did not change from the last draw in 2020 - 71 points. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this draw, the Saskatchewan government invited candidates in 79 different NOCs. Last year, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 8,395 candidates.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand, #PNP

All air-travellers older than 5 years now must show negative COVID-19 tests 

On January 7, 2021, the new Pre-departure COVID-19 testing policy has come to effect. In response to the continuous spread of the new strains of the COVID-19, the Federal government introduced a new instruction requiring all air travellers who are older than five years to demonstrate a negative COVID-19 test result before boarding the flight to Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recalled that the 14-day mandatory quarantine still remains in place. All travel exemptions are also proceeded as usual.

#travel_restrictions, #IRCC, #COVID_19, #IRCC

Will Ontario reopen the provincial immigration ministry?

When Doug Ford took office in 2018, one of his reforms to the cabinet was the elimination of the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI). The ministry has been responsible for the provincial immigration policy and in particular for managing the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Since then, the Ford government shared the functions of the MCI between multiple bodies, with OINP transferred to the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development. Unfortunately, since 2018, OINP experienced so many critical problems that the Official Opposition of Ontario called for re-establishing of the MCI and return of the OINP to its responsibility, especially during the COVID-19 recovery period and implementation of the new immigration targets of the Federal Government. The province that accepts the most immigrants must handle the immigration tasks more efficiently.

#Ontario, #OINP, #MCI, #immigration_policy

International students graduating from Canadian institutions are in demand in China  

 

China has always been among the top three major sources of international students in Canada. According to a survey conducted by the market research agency Ipsos on Chinese students during the pandemic, Canadian Chinese students have the highest satisfaction and the best salaries. Satisfaction with Canadian universities is somewhat unexpected. According to data, 97% of international student respondents were satisfied with their overall study abroad experience, with doctoral and post-doctoral degree satisfaction being the highest, and master’s degree satisfaction being the lowest. Nearly 60% of Canadian international students are satisfied or very satisfied with their jobs after graduation and returning to China, while the UK, a popular study abroad country, has the lowest employment and salary scores. According to Statistics Canada, the average tuition fee for international students at the graduate level can be as low as $138,000.

#international_students, #China, #study_in_Canada
 

IRCC invited 250 provincial nominees in the first 2021 Express Entry draw

On January 6, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the first Express Entry invitation round in 2021. In draw #171, the Immigration Department issued Invitations to Apply (ITA) to 250 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program. The cut-off score in this round was 813 points. The last PNP-specific draw occurred on August 19, 2020 and the lowest score was 771. Since September 2, IRCC returned to all-program draws. The tie-breaking rule for this round was November 2, 2020 at 11:11:52 UTC. As of January 4, 2021, there are 146,495 profiles registered in the pool, 992 profiles less compared to the previous update. Last year, Canada invited 107,350 candidates to apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #PNP

Canada Border Services Agency to modify fees for deportees

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) voiced plans to significantly increase the fees for deportees. At the moment CBSA charges foreign nationals that are being removed to the USA or French territory of St. Pierre and Miquelon only $750 and $1,500 for those removed to all other countries. The new fees will depend on the condition of the removal procedure. CBSA will consider whether an escort is required and whether deportees pay for the airfare. Foreign nationals removed without an escort will have to pay $3,250, and foreign nationals who were removed under escort will pay $10,900. An additional $1,300 is the cost of detention before removal. New fees will come into effect in the 2021-2022 fiscal year. It is worth emphasizing that these costs can be recovered by CBSA or IRCC only if a deportee will apply for authorization to return to Canada.

#CBSA, #IRCC, #removal_order, #deportation, #detention, #inadmissibility

Canada to end a temporary travel ban from Great Britain

The Federal government announced that effective January 7, 2021, it will end the ban for flights coming to Canada from the United Kingdom. According to Marc Garneau, the Minister of Transport, Ottawa removes this measure due to the new protocol that requires showing the negative COVID-19 test results prior to boarding flights to Canada. Negative tests will help to prevent the spread of the new UK strain of coronavirus, thus no need for extra restrictions towards the UK is required.

#travel_restrictions, #IRCC, #COVID_19, #UK, #United_Kingdom
 

IRCC finally held the 2020 Parents and Grandparents Program lottery

On January 5, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that it has finally held the 2020 Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) lottery. Beginning today, IRCC started to send invitations to apply (ITA) to the registered candidates. IRCC will keep sending invitations for the next few days. Prospective sponsors could register from October 13 to November 3, 2020. Despite the approximately 100,000 Canadian citizens and permanent residents wishing to sponsor their parents, only about 10,000 will be allowed to do so this year. Once candidates get the ITA, they will have 60 days to submit the full package of documents. Due to COVID-19, IRCC may allow a 90-day extension for certain candidates. Sponsors will have to submit their financial information for 2018, 2019, and 2020. The income requirements for 2020 have been reduced to the minimum necessary income only. Those who will not get their 2020 Notice of Assessment from CRA, will be allowed to submit at a later time.

#IRCC, #Family_immigration, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP, #Parental_sponsorship #Parents_and_Grandparents_sponsorship

British Columbia invited 168 candidates in the new draw

On January 5, 2021, British Columbia held the first draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) in 2021. In this draw, the government invited 168 persons to apply for a nomination of British Columbia. The lowest scores in this round did not change compared to December 23, 2020 draw:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 95
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 95
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 77
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 99
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 99
British Columbia keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In 2020, BC issued 9,528 invitations in the BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

IRCC released a new update for COPR and PRV holders

On January 5, 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) posted a new update for the holders of expired Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and permanent resident visa (PRV). IRCC requested those approved immigrants no longer contact the Immigration Department via the webform or email. IRCC will initiate contact with these candidates once they are approved to come to Canada. Due to international travel restrictions and flight cancellations, many immigrants were unable to enter Canada before their authorization expired. Such a situation sparks heavy criticism from the public, as IRCC is not allowing legit immigrants to complete their immigration.

#PR, #IRCC, #Covid_19, #travel_restrictions, #COPR, #PRV

The requirement for negative COVID-19 test results before coming to Canada begins on January 7

Following the previous announcements, on January 5, 2021, the Government of Canada officially stated that beginning January 7, all travellers to Canada above five years old, are obligated to provide negative COVID-19 test results before coming to Canada by air. Test results must be submitted within 72 hours prior to the flight to Canada. This requirement will supplement the 14-day self-isolation requirement. The penalty for violating the Quarantine Act can result in $750,000 in fines and/or six months in prison.

#Transport_Canada, #CBSA, #IRCC, #Health_Canada, #Covid_19, #travel_restrictions

Nova Scotia has officially closed Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry

On January 4, 2021, the government of Nova Scotia has officially stopped accepting applications in the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). This stream had two substreams: Category A and Category B. Foreign nationals with active Express Entry profile could apply for a nomination of the province. The last invitation round in the Category B occurred on April 28, 2018. Since then, the stream did not reopen. As for Category A, according to the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration, the Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities stream better performs its tasks to fulfil the provincial immigration needs. As of now, Nova Scotia has eight different streams in NSNP.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #PNP, #Labour_Market_Priorities, #Express_Entry
 

Saskatchewan released new SINP processing times

On January 4, 2021, Saskatchewan has updated the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) processing times. The new numbers are based on average processing times from October 1 to December 31, 2020. In the International Skilled Worker category, the processing time in the Employment Offer stream is 3 weeks, in the Occupation In-Demand – 27 weeks, and in the Express Entry stream – 32 weeks. In the Saskatchewan Experience category, the processing time in the Existing Work Permit Stream, the International Students Stream, and Truck Drivers stream is 2 weeks. As for the Hospitality Workers stream, the processing time is 5 weeks. There was not enough data to calculate processing time for the Health Professionals stream in this period. In the Entrepreneur and Farm category, the processing time for the Entrepreneurs Nominations is 14 weeks. There was not enough data to estimate processing times for Farmers Stream. The Job Approval Process, the authorization for an employer to hire a foreign worker through the SINP, takes 8 weeks. The processing times show the average time for processing of 80% of all applications.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #processing_times, #Saskatchewan_Experience, #Skilled_Worker, #Entrepreneurs, #Farmers

Ottawa to support Open Door Society in training newcomers to find employment in Canada

The Open Door Society, an organization that provides assistance to refugees and new immigrants, received funding from the federal government's Youth Employment and Skills Strategy to conduct a 14-week employment training program for new immigrants to help them find employment in a new country. The training program will provide participants with eight-week employment preparation training in among other things letter-writing, interview skills and workplace culture. After the first eight weeks, participants will have a six-week on-the-job internship to acquire Canadian work experience. Willow Lorga of the Open Door Society said that for young refugees or immigrants, six weeks of work experience is very helpful in their future endeavour to find employment in Canada.

#newcomers, #adaptation, #employment

Thunder Bay has opened the first intake round in the RNIP

On January 4, 2021, Thunder Bay has opened the first intake round in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot. This round will continue until January 8, 4:30 PM EST. At the moment, registration for those with job offers in priority occupations is open for all candidates. Registration for foreigners with job offers in any occupation (all NOCs are eligible) is open only to candidates who reside in Thunder Bay for at least 2 years; are authorized to work in Canada; and are employed with the eligible employer. At the same time, registration for job offers requiring the use of French (all NOCs are eligible) is also open for all candidates. Thunder Bay plans to hold 12 intakes in 2021. In 2020, Thunder Bay issued 69 community recommendations.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Newfoundland and Labrador has launched the Expression of Interest system for the Priority Skills Stream

On January 2, 2021, the Department of Immigration, Skills and Labour has finally launched the Expression of Interest (EOI) system for the Priority Skills Stream of the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP). This stream accepts applications of two types of candidates: in-demand Academic candidates and in-demand Work candidates. Academic candidates must graduate from the MA or Ph.D. programs in Technology, Health Care, Aquaculture, and Agriculture at Memorial University in the last three years. Work candidates must possess at least one year of work experience in a relevant occupation in the last ten years.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #PNP, #Priority_Skills

Canada has extended the status restoration policy

On December 31, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended the temporary policy adopted on July 14, 2020, which allows foreign nationals whose temporary resident status has expired more than 90 ago to apply for status restoration. The initial deadline for the status restoration application was December 31, 2020. Now, IRCC allows anyone who maintained a valid status on or after January 30, 2020, but now has an expired status, to apply for restoration until August 31, 2021. This policy should help foreign workers, students and visitors who lost their status due to COVID-19 to stay in Canada legally.

#TRV, #status_restoration, #visa_to_Canada, #study_permit, #work_permit, #international_students, #foreign_workers, #temprrary_residents, #IRCC

Forecast: The border between Canada and the United States will not open until spring

According to the group of American and Canadian experts from the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, the US-Canada border will not open until spring 2021. They will present a detailed set of recommendations on how to properly reopen the border in March. The Institute will consider all the proposals and hold a couple of meetings to discuss all aspects of the reopening. According to the group, President-elect Joe Biden can speed up the opening of the border through good relations with his Canadian counterpart, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

What provinces benefited the most from Express Entry in 2020?

The main beneficiary of Express Entry in 2020 was Ontario. In the first ten months of 2020, this province accepted 34,405 (60%) of all immigrants through the Express Entry. British Columbia welcomed every second immigrant – 11,595 individuals (20.2%). Alberta admitted 6,200 newcomers (10.8%). The only territory that did not get any Express Entry immigrants is Nunavut.
•    Alberta - 6,200 (10.8%)
•    British Columbia - 11,595 (20.2%)
•    Manitoba - 1,325 (2.3%)
•    New Brunswick - 715 (1.2%)
•    Newfoundland and Labrador - 145 (0.3%)
•    Northwest Territories - 30 (0.1%)
•    Nova Scotia - 1,390 (2.4%)
•    Ontario - 34,405 (60.0%)
•    Prince Edward Island - 415 (0.7%)
•    Saskatchewan - 1,115 (1.9%)
•    Yukon - 30 (0.1%)
Canada welcomed 57,365 foreign nationals who immigrated to Canada via Express Entry between January 1 and October 30, 2020.

Manitoba invited 188 candidates in the MPNP draw #105

On December 30, 2020, Manitoba held the last draw in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) in 2020. In round #105, the province issued 157 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 461 points, 86 points higher than in draw #104. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 13 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO category was 718 points, 12 points more than in the previous draw. In addition, Manitoba invited 18 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba issued 188 LAAs and 13 of them were issued to the Express Entry candidates. MPNP issued LAAs to 5,105 candidates in 26 draws in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

BCPNP invited 58 high-tech specialists in the Tech Pilot

On December 29, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new draw for candidates in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In this round, the government invited 58 high-tech specialists to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All candidates scored 80 points or higher. In total, British Columbia invited 2,168 Tech Pilot candidates this year. In 2020, BC issued 9,528 invitations in the BCPNP. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Passengers arriving in Canada will require COVID-19 test results

Passengers arriving in Canada are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result before travelling, the Canadian government said in a press conference on 30 December. Passengers must undergo a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within 72 hours before the flight, and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominique LeBlanc told this requirement to be implemented quickly. A specific date is yet to be confirmed. At the same time, the new requirement does not replace the mandatory 14-day self-isolation. According to the Public Safety Minister Bill Blair, it is going to be an extra layer of COVID-19 measures. This is an extra layer," said Bill Blair, head of the Washington bureau of The Christian Science Monitor.

#CBSA, #IRCC, #Health_Canada, #Covid_19, #travel_restrictions

Quebec is investigating ten DLIs

On December 30, 2020, the Quebec Immigration Department (MIFI) announced the suspension of applications for Quebec Acceptance Certificates (CAQ) for individuals who study at ten Designated Learning Institutions (DLI):
•    M College of Canada;
•    Matrix College of Management, Technology and Healthcare;
•    Canada College inc.;
•    Herzing College (Institute);
•    CDE College;
•    Montréal College of Information Technology;
•    Institut supérieur d’informatique (ISI);
•    Universel College – Gatineau Campus;
•    Collège CDI;
•    Montréal Campus of Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles.
The reason for such a tough measure is the questionable status of the integrity of the recruitment process in those ten DLIs. MIFI temporarily suspended applications that did not receive the final decision. The department will not accept new applications from students from those institutions until the investigation is over. This suspension will remain in force until March 31, 2021.

#Quebec, #CAQ, #DLI, #immigration_fraud, #MIFI, #Study_in_Canada

British will need an LMIA to work in Canada until the Canada-UK TCA is ratified

On December 29, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published an update regarding the temporary processing of work permits instructions for citizens of the United Kingdom. Earlier, British nationals were subjects to the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and were exempt from obtaining LMIA. Following Brexit, Canada and the United Kingdom has signed the Canada-UK Trade Continuity Agreement (Canada-UK TCA) which will exempt British nationals from LMIA requirement once the agreement is ratified by the Parliament. Beginning January 1, 2021, citizens of the UK will have to get LMIA to apply for a work permit. Applications received on and before December 31, 2020, will be processed under the CETA or apply for a work permit under other exemption codes.

#Canada_UK_TCA, #CETA, #LMIA, #IRCC, #work_in_Canada, #work_permit

IRCC published new instructions about IEC-recognized organizations

On December 29, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the program delivery instructions related to recognized organizations for foreign youth under the framework of the International Experience Canada (IEC). The GO International Work & Travel Providers are no longer offering work and travel services for Youth from Brazil and Ecuador. In addition, IRCC clarified that recognized organizations applicants from Youth Mobility Agreement (YMA) countries are processed under the same service standards as regular YMA applicants not using the services of a recognized organization.

#Youth_Mobility_Agreement, #IEC, #International_Experience_Canada

Nova Scotia released its 2020 immigration statistics

On December 29, 2020, Nova Scotia published its 2020 immigration statistics. In 2020, Nova Scotia approved 3,517 applications, 225 applications more than it was allocated by the federal government. 1,617 cases were processed in the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIPP) and 1,900 under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). Most applications were for immigrants working in health care and transportation. The province expects the arrival of those newcomers in the next few years once their cases are approved by IRCC. From January 1 to October 31, Nova Scotia admitted 3,010 permanent residents, 1,430 under the NSNP and 635 in the AIPP. 1,018 international graduates settled in Nova Scotia this year. In 2020, Nova Scotia approved 624 applications of continuing care assistants and 555 nurses this year. In the Labour Market Priorities Stream, NSNP invited 356 francophones, 316 registered nurses. The population of the province has reached 979,115 as of October 1, 2020.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #AIPP, #PNP, #PR, #immigration_levels, #nurses, #international_graduates, #francophones

Newfoundland and Labrador posted a reminder on the launch of the Priority Skills Stream

On December 29, 2020, the Department of Immigration, Skills and Labour posted a reminder about the launch of the Priority Skills Stream of the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP). The Priority Skills Stream will open for applicants on January 2, 2021. Candidates wishing to apply for a nomination of the province will have to create a profile in the NLPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) system. The Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism of Newfoundland and Labrador reported hundreds of inquiries related to the Priority Skills Stream from around the world.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #PNP, #Priority_Skills

Canada admitted 57,365 immigrants through the Express Entry

According to the new figures by IRCC, from January to October 2020, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) finalized the processing of 57,365 permanent resident applications through the Express Entry. 22,875 immigrants (39.9%) were processed through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW); 21,440 applicants were granted PR status under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC); 12,490 cases were processed through the Express Entry-aligned streams of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and 560 newcomers immigrated through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST). Most of these cases were submitted to IRCC before the introduction of travel restrictions due to COVID-19. Therefore, these numbers don’t reflect the practice IRCC adopted from March to August, when most of the invitees qualified either under the CEC or PNP. The next year's data may show the increase of PR admissions under these two programs.

#Express_Entry, #PR, #FSW, #FST, #PNP, #CEC, #skilled_workers, #skilled_trades, #Canadian_experience, #PR_admission
 

ESDC updated the processing time for LMIA applications

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has updated the processing times for the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications under various streams. Based on statistics from different processing centres, the current average LMIA processing times are:
•    Global Talent Stream - 12 business days
•    Agricultural stream - 13 business days
•    Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program - 9 business days
•    Permanent residence stream - 22 business days
•    In-home caregivers - 14 business days
•    High-wage stream - 35 business days
•    Low-wage stream - 41 business days
#ESDC, #Service_Canada, #LMIA #TFWP, #Work_permit, #agricultural_workers, #caregivers

International Education counsellors are waiting for next year's enrollment

Although students' plans to study abroad this year dropped due to the Covid-19 outbreak, education experts are looking forward to welcoming students next year. Despite the spread of Covid-19, the application process for the 2021 academic year at foreign universities has already started. Tens of thousands of international students choose countries such as Canada, the UK, and Australia. In Canada, the intakes for May and September have started. Many educational institutions in Canada have developed quarantine programs for students in accordance with security measures by Health Canada. The number of admissions is relatively low but is expected to increase in the coming months.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #study_permits, #Covid_19
 

Many immigrants with expired authorization are unable to enter Canada during the pandemic

Due to international travel restrictions and flight cancellations, many immigrants were unable to enter Canada before their authorization expired. Yet asking the immigration department to reissue the authorization is a difficult thing to do. Federal Conservatives and the NDP have called on the Liberal government to recognize the urgency of the issue as new immigrants are unable to enter the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. They called on the Liberal government to take effective measures to resolve the issue immediately. In 2020, 158,600 immigrants reached Canada as permanent residents, as compared to more than 341,000 in 2019. IRCC is accepting and processing applications for permanent residency from within and outside the country. Unfortunately, many people whose Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) expired, have to get their COPR approved again by contacting the embassy.

#PR, #IRCC, #Covid_19, #travel_restrictions, #COPR

Nova Scotia and New Brunswick updated the lists of Designated Employers in the AIPP

Nova Scotia has updated the list of provincial employers designated to participate in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). In November 2020, Nova Scotia added 23 new employers. Since the last update, the total number of its designated employers reached is 1,354 companies. As for New Brunswick, the province designated nine new employers in November and removed five. As of today, there are 839 New Brunswick employers who can hire foreign workers in the framework of the AIPP. In total, there are 2,806 employers in all four Atlantic provinces who can hire foreign workers in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_Canada, #Designated_employers, #Nova_Scotia, #New_Brunswick

The number of study permits for Pakistani students has increased

Following media reports about purported mass refusals for Pakistani students wishing to get a Canadian study permit, the High Commissioner of Pakistan intervened with the Canadian government. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Pakistan is the third-largest beneficiary of study permits in South Asia. According to the data by IRCC, after Pakistan was included in the Student Direct Stream (SDS), the percentage of study permits issued to Pakistani students increased from 33% to 46% in 2019. Pakistan's High Commissioner to Canada, Raza Bashir Tarar, stressed that more and more Pakistani students will seize opportunities in Canada. He also emphasized the need to meet the conditions to avoid the possibility of refusal.

#SDS, #IRCC, #Study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #Pakistan

Canada has about 100,000 illegal immigrants

As of December 2020, Canada has about 100,000 illegal immigrants. This is just a fraction compared to the 11 million undocumented immigrants in the US. Before President Trump started deporting undocumented immigrants, the number was 13 million. Canada did not agree with the expectation of the US administration on deporting/closing doors for refugees, especially from Islamic countries. With Trump's deportation of undocumented immigrants, the headache began for Canada as many of those ordered to leave the US began entering Canada. This trend will continue in 2021 under the Biden administration. 49% of Canadians say that attention should be paid to undocumented immigrants entering from the US. Most of the undocumented immigrants entering Canada come from the US.

#illegal_immigrants, #USA

British Columbia invited 230 candidates in the new draw

On December 22, 2020, British Columbia held a new draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). In this draw, the government invited 230 persons to apply for a nomination of British Columbia. The lowest scores in this round increased by two points for the Express Entry British Columbia candidates:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 95
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 95
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 77
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 99 (+2 points)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 99 (+2 points)
British Columbia keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). As of today, British Columbia invited 9,470 candidates under all streams of BCPNP in 2020.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Thunder Bay completed the first-year intake in the RNIP

On December 22, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, published the results of the first year of the three-year-long Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). Since the last update on December 10, Thunder Bay issued additional community recommendations to 4 candidates in the NOC 0 level, 1 candidate in the NOC A skills level, 5 candidates in the NOC B skills level, and 2 candidates in the NOC C skills level. In total, in the first year of the pilot which started in November 2019, the city recommended 69 candidates:
•    NOC 0 – 4 persons
•    NOC A – 5 persons
•    NOC B – 42 persons
•    NOC C – 16 persons
•    NOC D – 2 persons
Allocations for the second year of the RNIP are not determined yet.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Quebec invited 233 persons in the fourth round of Arrima in 2020

On December 22, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) published the results of the fourth invitation round in Quebec’s online system Arrima conducted in 2020. On December 16, 2020, MIFI invited 233 candidates to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program. Candidates invited in this round either had a validated offer of employment in the province or specific foreigners mentioned in Section 26 of the Quebec Immigration Regulation such as diplomats, the staff of the intergovernmental organizations, consular officers, and diplomats. In total, Quebec invited 628 persons through the Arrima in 2020. Since the first draw in the system in July 2019, the government of Quebec invited 2,690 foreign nationals in 13 Arrima draws to apply for immigration to Quebec.

#MIFI, #Quebec, #Arrima, #QSW
 

Alberta issued all nomination in the AINP

On December 21, 2020, the website of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) released the final nomination statistics of the year. Since December 8, Alberta issued the last 12 nominations, reaching the reduced threshold of 4,000 nomination certificates. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney decided to limit the number of nominations from the initial 6,250 to only 4,000 in response to high unemployment in Alberta which resulted from the COVID-19. At the same time, AINP will keep assessing applications and will renew nominations issuance in January 2021. Currently, AINP received 2,350 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream and 15 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR

Manitoba to conduct a local recruitment campaign

On December 21, 2020, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program Employer Services (MES) in cooperation with Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW) announced the local recruitment campaign. This campaign is set to help employers in the Winnipeg area to fill the shortages of job positions with local candidates. Employers who wish to participate in recruiting temporary residents who possess valid work permits can get more details at edwtalentmission.com or contact MES or EDW.

#MPNP, #Manitoba, #work_permits, #work_in_Canada

Newfoundland and Labrador issued a call for proposals to enhance settlement and integration services

On December 21, 2020, the Minister of Immigration, Skills and Labour of Newfoundland and Labrador Gerry Byrne issued a call for proposals to facilitate settlement and integration services to newcomers in the province. The government will prioritize proposals related to community attachment, support for international graduates, international recruitment, and immigration pathway navigation. The deadline for proposal submissions is February 5, 2021. Newfoundland and Labrador also reaffirmed its commitment to reach the annual threshold of 2,500 immigrants by 2022 despite the negative impact of the COVID-19.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, immigrants, #international_graduates, #immigration_levels

Canada had the smallest population growth in the third quarter this year since 1946

A recent report issued by Statistics Canada shows that in the third quarter of this year, Canada's population growth increased by 2,767, the least growth since 1946. The main reason for the near-zero growth in population was the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted the Canadian government to impose travel restrictions on international travellers. Consequently, the "travel restrictions" created obstacles for new immigrants to come to land in Canada.

#demography, #population_growth, #COVID_19, #immigration_levels

Prince Edward Island invited 174 skilled workers and 21 entrepreneurs

On December 18, 2020, Prince Edward Island released the results of the December 17 draw in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP). In this invitation round, the provincial government issued 195 invitations to apply for a provincial nomination. PEI invited 174 skilled workers in the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 21 candidates in the Business Work Permit Entrepreneurs stream. The lowest score for business-candidates was 85 points, seven points fewer than in November 17 draw. In 2020, Prince Edward Island invited 1,955 candidates including 213 entrepreneurs.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers, #Entrepreneurs

Manitoba held the MPNP draw #104

On December 17, 2020, Manitoba held a new invitation round in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In round #104, Manitoba issued 329 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 375 points, 151 points fewer compared to draw #103. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 50 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO category was 706 points, 63 points more than in the previous round. MPNP also invited 40 candidates in the International Education Category. This was the largest invitation round in the MPNP in 2020: in total, Manitoba issued 419 LAAs and 37 of them were issued to the Express Entry candidates. MPNP issued LAAs to 4,917 candidates in 25 draws in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

Prince Edward Island published the schedule for invitations rounds in 2021

On December 18, 2020, the Office of Immigration of Prince Edward Island has published a schedule for invitation rounds via the Expression of Interest system for individuals to apply for the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEIPNP). The invitations rounds are scheduled for the following dates:
•    January 21, 2021
•    February 18, 2021
•    March 18, 2021
•    April 15, 2021
•    May 20, 2021
•    June 17, 2021
•    July 15, 2021
•    August 19, 2021
•    September 16, 2021
•    October 21, 2021
•    November 18, 2021
•    December 16, 2021
The Office of Immigration reserves the right to modify the schedule based on program requirements.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers, #Entrepreneurs

Ontario invited 19 candidates in the Entrepreneur Stream

 

On December 17, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) posted the results of the last draw in the Entrepreneur Stream in 2020. This was the sixth draw for business immigration to Ontario this year. In this draw, Ontario sent invitations to apply to 19 entrepreneurs. The lowest score in this round was 140 points, two points less compared to the October 26 draw. In this draw, Ontario considered Expressions of Interest received by the OINP between November 22, 2019, and December 10, 2020. In total, OINP invited 131 businessmen to apply for the Ontario nomination in 2020 which is only half compared to 2019, when Ontario invited 257 entrepreneurs.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #PNP

Saskatchewan invited 576 candidates in the new draw

On December 17, 2020, the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) conducted a new draw. Saskatchewan issued 190 invitations to apply (ITAs) in the Express Entry category and 386 invitations to candidates in the Occupations In-Demand category. The lowest score in both categories was 71 points, three points fewer compared to December 1 draw. In this round, SINP invited candidates in 89 different NOCs. SINP invited 576 candidates to apply for a nomination of Saskatchewan in this draw. In total, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 8,395 candidates in the SINP in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand, #PNP

Ontario used all spots in the OINP for 2020

On December 17, 2020, the Ontario government announced it reached its PNP allocation for 2020. In total, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has invited 16,976 candidates in 29 invitation rounds. Among them, 6,716 received invitations under the Human Capital Priorities Stream (including 4,385 in the Tech Draws), 902 under the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream, 1,464 under the Skilled Trades Stream, 131 under the Entrepreneur Stream. In addition, 1215 candidates registered in the Master Graduates Stream, and 6,548 under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Workers and International Students streams. Unfortunately, OINP did not release the numbers of applications in the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream and Ph.D. Graduates Stream. In total, Ontario issued 8,050 nominations across all streams, including 400 additional nominations received in the reallocation from the Federal government and 50 nominations under the federal NOC C initiative. OINP will continue assessing applications and issuing nominations under the 2021 nomination allocation.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP, #FSSW, #HCP, #Tech_draw, #skilled_trades, #international_students, #skilled_workers, #entrepreneurs, #master_graduates, #phd_graduates, #employer_job_offer, #in_demand_skills

International students regarding applications for post-graduation work permits

On December 17, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) published an update for international students regarding their applications for Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP). Those international students whose study permit and Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) expire on December 31, 2020, and who will graduate, will maintain a legal status enabling them to keep working while their PGWP application is under review. If international students do not yet receive the documents about the completion of their program, they still will be able to keep working if they apply for PGWP to IRCC before December 31, 2020, and enclose the letter of explanation for submitting an incomplete application.

#Quebec, #MIFI, #IRCC, #international_students, #PGWP

 

Nova Scotia invited 36 entrepreneurs in the new NSNP draws

On December 16, 2020, Nova Scotia published the results of the draws in the Entrepreneur and the International Graduate Entrepreneur Streams of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) that occurred on December 9. The province invited 34 entrepreneurs with the lowest score of 122 points, 7 points lower than in the previous draw on February 5, 2020. As for the International Graduate Entrepreneurs, NSNP issued only two invitations to candidates whose score was 42 points, 7 points fewer than in the previous round that was held on September 24, 2020. This year, NSNP invited only 69 business candidates in two entrepreneur streams. Only 8 of them were invited in the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream. Last year, Nova Scotia invited 221 entrepreneurs and three of them in the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream.

#Nova_Scotia, #Entrepreneurs, #NSNP, #International_Graduate_Entrepreneur, #PNP, #business_immigration

IRCC allows stranded temporary workers from Trinidad and Tobago to get an Open Work Permit

On December 16, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a temporary public policy to help workers from Trinidad and Tobago who are stuck in Canada and cannot return home. As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, Trinidad and Tobago had implemented very strict rules prohibiting such temporary workers to fly back. In response to this situation, IRCC allowed stranded agricultural workers to apply for Open Work Permits for the duration of six months. In the meantime, Canada will try to resolve this issue with the government of Trinidad and Tobago. This temporary policy will remain in effect until February 12, 2021.

#Agriculture, #SAWP, #Trinidad_and_Tobago, #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19, #foreign_workers

Canada is one of the only countries in the world to participate in refugee resettlement in 2020 

2020 is one of the worst years for the refugee resettlement of asylum seekers in modern history. According to the UN Refugee Agency's Canadian representative, 168 world countries imposed various border and travel restrictions. As a result, millions of displaced people all over the world stuck in limbo, being not able to return home or get asylum elsewhere. Canada stayed loyal to its obligations to the United Nations and kept accepting refugees amidst COVID-19. In 2020, IRCC had planned to resettle around 30,000 refugees. About 6,000 refugees had arrived in Canada by the end of September and by the end of 2020, IRCC expects this number will reach 7,000.

#refugees, #asylum_seekers, #UN, #IRCC

Ontario invited 668 candidates in the new OINP tech draw

On December 15, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 668 targeted Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to candidates under the Ontario’s Express Entry Human Capital Priorities stream. This is the fifth OINP tech draw in 2020. The OINP tech draws are aimed at candidates in six following technical occupations: NOC 2173 Software engineers and designers, NOC 2174 Computer programmer and interactive media developers, NOC 2147 Computer engineers, NOC 2175 Web designers and developers, NOC 2172 Database analysts and data administrators, and NOC 0213 Computer and information systems managers. The CRS score range of this round was 460-468 points. This year, OINP invited 4,385 foreigners to apply for the provincial nomination in the tech draws. In total, Ontario issued 16,957 NOIs in 2020.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Human_capital, #OINP_tech_draw, #Express_Entry

A new draw was held in the BCPNP Tech Pilot     

On December 15, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new invitation round in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In the new draw, BC issued 92 invitations in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. The lowest score in all categories remained 80 points. In total, British Columbia invited 9,240 candidates to apply for a provincial nomination in 2020, and 2,110 of them have been invited to the Tech Pilot. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Ontario confirmed 1,426 successful registrations in the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream draw

                                    
On December 15, 2020, the government of Ontario finally confirmed the results of the invitation round in the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream that was held on November 26, 2020. Due to some technical issues, the intake was close shortly after the opening. Despite those problems 1,426 applicants successfully registered during the session. In addition, candidates who accessed the OINPs e-Filing portal and reported errors will be able to register for the stream if their inquiry was verified by the OINP. The provincial officials will contact such applicants. Ontario will not reopen the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream in 2020. The next invitation rounds will occur in 2021.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #international_students

Quebec announced the increase in the processing fees

On December 14, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration announced the increase in processing fees in all immigration programs beginning with January 1, 2021. Quebec indexes all fees by 1.26% each year in accordance with the Quebec Financial Administration Act. The new fees for Skilled worker will be $822, and $176 for each accompanying family member. Fees for business candidates will be $1,113 for entrepreneurs and self-employed workers and $15,962 for investors. Foreign workers will have to pay $205 for temporary selection and the international students' fee will be $117.

#Quebec, #MIFI, #PR, #entrepreneurs, #self_employed, #foreign_workers, #international_students, #processing_fees

 

Manitoba nominated 443 candidates in November 2020

On December 14, 2020, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) has posted new data on the nomination issuance statistics. In November 2020, the province nominated 443 skilled workers and approved 5 business concepts. Manitoba also refused 15 profiles of skilled workers and 1 profile of a business candidate. MPNP invited 401 skilled workers, 7 business concepts and sent LAAs to 4 business candidates. MPNP also received 356 applications from skilled workers and 2 applications from business candidates. Currently, the province is assessing 4,695 applications, and the other 6,928 applications are pending assessment. Additionally, in November, Manitoba nominated 35 Express Entry candidates. In total, Manitoba issued 562 nominations for Express Entry candidates. MPNP issued 5,349 nominations out of a total of 5,875 for this year.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, #business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates

IRCC to relax some RNIP requirements

On December 14, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced some changes in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). According to the new eligibility criteria, candidates can demonstrate cumulative work experience of 1,560 hours in the 3 years prior to application submission. Earlier, IRCC required candidates to have continuous work experience of 1 year to be eligible. The new criteria are applied to all current applications as well as to future applications. Such measures also allow candidates who have been temporarily laid off due to pandemics to keep their eligibility for RNIP.

#IRCC, #RNIP, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Good news from World Education Services (WES)

Due to the pandemic of the COVID-19, WES changed some requirements for Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) needed for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). In order to facilitate processing documents, WES now allows applicants to submit only the highest degree credentials. This means that candidates who hold a Ph.D. can skip sending their Masters' degree documents or if the highest degree of the applicant is Master's, there is no need to send a bachelor’s degree for evaluation. This was announced by WES on December 1. The organization emphasized that if applicants send more than one credential, this will result in the delay of ECA preparation.

#WES, #IRCC, #PR_application, #Express_Entry, #ECA, #education_evaluation

There has been a decrease in the number of the marriage of convenience investigations

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said that the number of spousal sponsorship applications it has received has increased by 32% over the last 10 years, but there has been a decrease in the number of marriages of convenience investigations since the probationary period was removed in April 2017. In 2019, IRCC investigated about 200 cases compared to almost 800 in 2017. At the same, the number of cases based on suspicion of marriages of convenience did not change since 2017 with over 1,700 refusals in 2019. This document dated back to February 27, 2020. IRCC stated that the first line of defence for marriage fraud cases are immigration officers. Immigration officers have been professionally trained to evaluate the sponsor and applicants’ relationship and review the evidence provided by the applicant. IRCC also works with CBSA partners to reveal, investigate and handle individuals who violate Canadian immigration laws.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #Family_immigration, #Spousal_sponsorship, #marriage_of_convenience

Italy joined the International Experience Canada program

On December 11, 2020, Italy and Canada announced the signing of the bilateral Youth Mobility Agreement between the two countries. Thus, Italy became the 36th country with which Canada has formal youth mobility arrangements. This agreement allows Canadians and Italians between 18 and 35 years old to get a work permit for one year. Candidates are allowed two participations in the International Experience Canada. Candidates from Italy can apply for IEC work permits in all three streams: Working Holiday, International Co-op, and Young Professionals. Earlier, Italians could only apply for a Working Holiday stream and were eligible for a work permit for a duration of six months.

#IRCC, #IEC, #Italy, #work_permits, #Working_Holiday, #International_coop, #young_professionals, #work_in_Canada

Canada and the USA extended the border closure

Canadian and US officials have agreed to extend the closure of the border between the two countries for non-essential travel for another month. This was announced Friday by Public Safety Minister Bill Blair. Thus, travel restrictions will now be in effect until at least January 21, 2021. The ban was first introduced in March and has been extended every month since then. Both countries are still working to prevent the spread of COVID-19. With this extension, Canada has aligned International travel restrictions with the US land border travel restrictions. This will enable the government to extend both restrictions for the same period of time if required.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Nova Scotia announced changes to the NSNP

On December 11, 2020, the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration announced the changes in the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). The province is going to completely close the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream of the NSNP. Category B of the stream is now closed permanently while Category A will be closed on January 4, 2021. According to NSNP, the Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities stream better performs its tasks and is more efficient to fulfil the provincial immigration needs. Candidates who planned to apply for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry stream are encouraged to check their eligibility for other streams of the NSNP.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #PNP, #Labour_Market_Priorities

Syrian refugees received citizenship on the fifth anniversary of Operation Syrian Refugees 

On December 10, 2020, on the fifth anniversary of the start of accepting Syrian refugees in Canada, a group of former Syrian refugees took part in an online citizenship ceremony. Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino said 29 Syrian refugees are among the more than 43,000 new Canadians who have attended online citizenship ceremonies since April. According to Mendicino, since the vert first flight on December 10, 2015, Canada welcomed about 73,000 Syrian refugees. Many of them have already become Canadian citizens.

#Syria, #refugees, #IRCC, #citizenship, #oath, #Mendicino

Ontario nominated 7,819 foreign nationals in 2020

On December 10, 2020, the government of Ontario released new statistics on the issuance of the provincial nominations in the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Since the previous update on November 12, Ontario issued 605 nominations. Initially, Ontario was allocated a quota of 7,600 candidates this year, which also includes 250 persons under the federal NOC C initiative. Now OINP announced that it has received additional 400 nominations plus an extra 50 nominations under the federal NOC C initiative. This means OINP can nominate 8,050 candidates in 2020 and still can issue 231 nominations.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

Newfoundland and Labrador has updated eligibility requirements in the International Graduate category

On December 10, 2020, the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism of Newfoundland and Labrador has updated eligibility requirements in the International Graduate category of the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP). Effective now, Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) holders may be eligible for the Express Entry Skilled Worker Category if they are accepted into the Federal Express Entry pool. Such candidates must also possess a job seeker validation code to accompany their application.

#IRCC, #PGWP, #Express_Entry, #NLPNP, #PNP

Thunder Bay recommended another four candidates in the RNIP

On December 10, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, posted a new update on the community recommendations issuance in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). The community recommended four candidates: 1 candidate in the NOC A skills level, 1 candidate in the NOC B skills level, and 2 candidates in the NOC C skills level. All recommended candidates can now apply for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). In total, Thunder Bay issued 57 community recommendations and still can issue up to 43 recommendations. Among them, there is a place for 6 NOC A candidates, 3 NOC B candidates, 26 NOC C candidates, and 8 NOC D candidates in 2020.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

New rules for submitting documents to MIFI

On December 9, 2020, Quebec has announced new rules for the submission of applications under the International Student Program (ISP) and the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), effective January 26, 2021 Applications submitted under these programs must be submitted electronically. The use of the paper application is no longer supported. Applications for the International Student Program must be submitted online by submitting an online application for temporary studies. Electronic documents have been available from Spring 2020 on the Arrima platform, but it will enter into force on January 26, 2021. As for the Quebec Experience Program, candidates must submit all supporting documents, including the form, and pay the government fees on Arrima beginning January 26, 2021.

#MIFI, #Quebec, #PEQ, #international_students, #Arrima

Canada invited 102,350 candidates in Express Entry in 2020

On December 9, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new all-programs draw in the Express Entry. In draw #169, IRCC issued 5,000 invitations to apply (ITAs). The cut-off Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in this round did not change and was 469 points. The tie-breaking rule for this round was June 4, 2020 at 22:26:05 UTC. As of December 7, 2020, there are 146,717 profiles in the Express Entry pool of candidates, 2,249 profiles more compared to the previous update. IRCC has set a new Express Entry record inviting 102,350 candidates to apply for permanent residence in Canada within one year. It is also possible that IRCC will hold one more draw before the holidays. 

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP, #PR

BCPNP invited 256 foreigners to apply for a nomination

On December 9, 2020, British Columbia released the results of the December 8 draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). The province invited 256 candidates to apply for a nomination. The lowest scores in this round have increased in all categories:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 95 (+2 points)
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 95 (+1 point)
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 77 (+2 points)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 97 (+5 points)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 97 (+4 points)
BC keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In total, BC issued 9,148 invitations in 2020 under all streams of BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

IRCC announced the date of the new immigration program for refugees working in healthcare during the pandemic

On December 9, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released the starting date of the new immigration program for refugee claimants who work in the national healthcare industry during the pandemic of the COVID-19. The Immigration Department will start accepting applications on December 14, 2020. This temporary program was first announced on August 14, as a gesture to express Canada's gratitude for refugees who took the frontline positions at medical facilities in Canada. IRCC further allowed to include into PR applications spouses and common-law partners of these refugees who are in Canada and entered the country before August 14, 2020. IRCC will accept such PR applications until August 31, 2021.

#PR, #IRCC, #refugees, #healthcare, #COVID_19

Quebec published a draft regulation of the entrepreneur stream

On December 9, 2020, the government of Quebec announced the publication of a draft regulation amending the rules of immigration to Quebec for foreign entrepreneurs. The proposed amendment will change the rules for Stream 2 of the Quebec Entrepreneur Stream for foreign businessmen wishing to establish, acquire and manage companies in Quebec. These changes aim to eliminate the requirement for a start-up deposit and security deposit for applications already received by the Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI). The acceptance of new applications under Quebec Entrepreneur Program Stream 2 has been suspended until November 1, 2021. The public discussions of the new amendment will continue until January 23, 2021.

#MIFI, #Quebec, #business_immigration, #entrepreneurs

Alberta is releasing the last nominations of the year

On December 8, 2020, Alberta has updated statistics of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). Since November 24, Alberta issued only 6 nominations to foreign nationals allowing them to apply for permanent residence under the AINP. As of now, Alberta issued 3,988 nomination certificates and almost reached the self-established threshold of 4,000 nominations. Following the high unemployment rate in the province, Alberta has reduced the number of nominations from the 6,250 nominations. Currently, AINP received 2,175 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream and 15 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR, #IRCC

IRCC issued 211,785 Study Permits in 2020

In the three quarters of the year, Canada issued 211,785 Study Permits for international students. Most new study permit holders study in Ontario – 100,870 permits; British Columbia was the second most popular education destination – 48,985 permits; 33,605 foreign students were allowed to study in Quebec; 10,420 international students started their programs in Alberta; another 6,685 study permit holders came to study in Manitoba; Nova Scotia attracted 4,130 international students; 2,745 had chosen Saskatchewan; New Brunswick admitted 1,775 foreign students; Newfoundland and Labrador got 1,100 students; 950 international students went to Prince Edward Island; Yukon admitted 90 students, and Northwest Territories welcomed 20 new study permit holders. An additional 925 study permit holders did not specify their province of study. Due to the COVIF-19 outbreak and travel restrictions imposed to combat the pandemic, the number of 2020 study permit issuance is much less compared to 402,335 study permits issued in 2019.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #study_permit, #COVID_19

New requirements for BC employers seeking foreign workers starts next week

Starting from December 15, 2020, BC employers who wish to hire foreign workers under the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program will have to obtain the licence from the provincial government in addition to securing positive LMIA from Service Canada. This also includes employers wishing to hire caregivers under the Home Support Worker Pilot or the Home Child Care Provider Pilot. The new regulations in BC are similar to those adopted in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia. The provincial government hopes this step will reduce the level of abuse towards foreign workers. The registration certificates will be valid for three years.

#British_Columbia, #LMIA, #foreign_workers, #TFWP, #caregivers

IRCC updated the instruction on physical presence calculation

On December 8, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated example 2 of the instructions on how to correctly calculate physical presence before becoming a permanent resident of Canada for individuals who received their status on or after October 11, 2017. Permanent residents who obtained the status after October 11, 2017, must accumulate 1095 days of physical presence in Canada to be eligible for citizenship. Applicants who were in Canada as foreign workers or international students before becoming PRs can gain 365 days maximum for every two days as temporary residents with valid status.

#IRCC, #citizenship, #PR, #physical_presence

Service Canada approved 26,891 LMIAs in the third quarter of 2020

The Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has updated the official data on the number of temporary foreign worker (TFW) positions on positive Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in the third quarter of 2020. In the third quarter of the year, Service Canada has significantly increased the number of approved cases – 26,891 LMIAs, 9,731 more compared to the second quarter. Although it is less than 39,901 positive LMIAs issued in the first quarter of 2020, it is 1,047 more compared to the third quarter of 2019. Last year, ESDC issued 129,558 positive LMIA decisions. During the pandemic year, Canada already issued 82,714 LMIAs. This data includes the number of LMIAs issued in support of work permits and counts only the number of LMIAs and not the number of positions under one LMIA application. Additionally, ESDC excludes LMIA in support of PR from this data.

#LMIA, #TFW, #Work_in_Canada, #ESDC, #Service_Canada

More than 16,000 international students signed the petition to ask for an extension of work permits! 

Many international students wish to stay in Canada after they graduate, but they are in trouble during the pandemic. A large number of international students keep their fight for more rights, including extending work permits. Due to the pandemic and economic downturn, students simply cannot find suitable jobs. In addition, the conditions to apply for PR are too strict, so it would be almost impossible for them to stay in Canada. Over 16,000 international students signed the petition to the Canadian Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino, requesting the federal government to extend the validity of the Post Graduate Work Permit. Fortunately, the joint petition finally grabbed the attention of IRCC. According to the student representatives, Mendicino responded positively and said that Canada is formulating a policy that will look into extending the work permit validity. Nevertheless, there is no official information on this issue at the moment.

#PGWP, #international_students, #COVID_19, #international_graduates, #permanent_residency, #PR

Canada plans to invest $87 million in immigration system modernization

The Canadian government is going to spend $72.1 million to upgrade the immigration application processing system. Additionally, Ottawa also intends to invest $15 million in 2021-2022 to modernize the Foreign Credential Recognition Program. This step will improve the process of finding the first work for skilled immigrants with foreign credentials. In the Fall Economic Statement released by the Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland, immigration is named as the cornerstone of the country's post-pandemic recovery. Along with the increase of immigration quotas in the new Immigration Levels Plan, it is clear that the government hopes immigrants are those who can rebuild the national economy. “Immigrants play an important role in driving Canada’s economic growth, contributing to half of the average real GDP growth over 2016-2019,” said Freeland when outlining the investments. “Without immigration, Canada’s population would start to decline in slightly more than a decade and potential growth would slow to about one percent per year,” she said.

#immigration_levels, #newcomers, #foreign_credentials

Manitoba can nominate another 969 candidates in 2020

In 2020, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) was allocated 5,000 base nomination spaces and 875 Express Entry spaces. This means in total, MPNP has room for 5,875 nominations for this year. In the first ten months of the year, Manitoba issued 4,906 nominations. Among them, 16 nominations were issue to business-candidates and 527 to candidates from the Express Entry system. Therefore, Manitoba can still nominate 969 individuals, including up to 348 Express Entry candidates. The MPNP kept operating throughout all the pandemic holding regular invitation rounds every two weeks.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, #business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates

Ontario continues the investigation regarding the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream draw

On December 4, 2020. the government of Ontario announced the province continues the investigation regarding the problems with the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream invitation round in the framework of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The draw was supposed to happen on November 26, 2020. Unfortunately, due to technical reasons, Ontario halted the draw. The officials are currently working on responses to all inquiries received in recent days. The stream remains closed at the moment and it was not published whether OINP reached the intake limit during the opening.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #international_students

International Experience Canada candidates must make a decision.

The International Experience Canada (IEC) 2020 season has closed in November. There are many people that had received invitations and submitted their applications but had not received a decision from Immigration. On November 27, IRCC listed information on how to deal with this situation by either withdrawing your application or continuing with your application. They would like applicants to make a decision within 30 days. Candidates can withdraw their applications and receive a refund. If they want to continue with the application, a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction is valid for one year after its date of issue.

#IRCC, #IEC, #Working_Holiday, #LOI, #work_permits, #Covid_19

Quebec has updated wage guidelines for employers hiring foreign workers

On December 4, 2020, Quebec updated wage guidelines for employers hiring foreign temporary workers for a number of key positions. The new guideline regulates entry, middle and managerial salary ranges for multiple job categories starting December 1. The new guidelines replaced the 2018 edition and include higher salaries for many skilled occupations. For example, the salary of a low-level IT manager rose from $36 to $38 per hour. Healthcare lab technicians' wage rate has increased from $22 to $26 per hour. At the same time, many middle and higher positions remained unchanged in the new guideline.

#Quebec, #CAQ, #MIFI, #PR, #Quebec_selection_certificate, #work_permit, #foreign_workers
 

Newfoundland and Labrador announced positions exempted from labour market testing

On December 3, 2020, the Newfoundland and Labrador Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism released a list of in-demand health occupations for public and private healthcare providers that are exempt from Newfoundland and Labrador's labour market testing processes. This means these occupations do not need the Job Vacancy Assessment or Atlantic Immigration Pilot labour market testing requirements, such as advertising. In total there are 8 healthcare occupations: Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Practice Nurse, Personal Care Attendant, Clinical Psychologist, Medical, Physicist, Radiation Therapist, and Dosimetrist.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #AIPP, #healthcare

New Brunswick announced a recruiting event for Truckers from Ukraine, the Netherlands, and the UK

On December 3, 2020, New Brunswick announced a recruiting event for Truckers from Ukraine, the Netherlands, and the UK. Provincial employers plan to recruit workers for long term employment at this event. The Virtual information session will inform participants about the immigration pathways available in New Brunswick. The event specifically targets NOC 7511 - transport truck drivers who possess relevant work experience within five years. The deadline for registration is January 28, 2021.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session, #Truckers

Speakers urged to include Bangladesh in the Canadian Student Direct Stream

The inclusion by the Government of Canada of Bangladesh in the Student Direct Stream (SDS) will create opportunities for a large number of Bangladeshi students to study in Canada. Speakers expressed this view in an online discussion, organized by the Bengali community. The speakers said that although India and Pakistan were included in the 'Student Direct Stream', a special initiative of the Government of Canada with the opportunity to get a study permit in just 20 working days, Bangladesh did not get a place there. A large number of students from different countries are coming to Canada under this special program, which was launched in 2018. By purchasing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate for only $10,000, one can apply for a visa under this program. Speakers urged that Bangladesh should be included in this Student Direct Stream program.

#Student_Direct_Stream #International_students, #SDS, #Study_in_Canada, #Bangladesh, #Study_Permit

COVID-19 hits temporary foreign workers hard

COVID-19 hit the Canadian labour market hard, especially those who rely on labour-intensive jobs and foreign workers. About 2,000 foreign workers got infected in British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec, and three of them died. One outbreak on a farm occurred mainly in the farmhouse where the workers lived together. Canadian farms have been relying on foreign workers heavily since 1966. Foreign worker rights advocates said the current foreign worker plan should be improved; otherwise, the country's food supply will be in trouble.

#Agriculture, #SAWP, # British_Columbia, #Ontario, #Quebec, #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19

British Columbia invited 68 candidates in the Tech Pilot 

On December 1, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new invitation round in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The province distributed 68 invitations to apply for a nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. The lowest score in all categories did not change and was 80 points. So far, British Columbia invited 2,018 Tech Pilot candidates in 2020, which is about 22,6% of the total 8,892 invitations issued by the province this year. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Pre-Removal Risk Assessment to be conducted online

On December 2, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that in response to the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) hearings can now be delivered remotely through the videoconference technology. Applicants for PRRA along with their councils will now have the opportunity to participate in the hearings using their own devices to connect to MS Teams. The more flexibility in the process organization will reduce the need to visit the council's office and participate in the hearing from the home location of the applicant. IRCC stressed that the remote participation in the PRRA hearings may continue after the COVID-19 pandemic.

#PRRA, #IRCC, #COVID_19

Two streams of Nova Scotia Nominee Program go online

On December 2, 2020, Nova Scotia Nominee Program published an update regarding the online acceptance of applications in the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker and Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry streams. Beginning January 4, 2021, applications in those streams will be accepted online only. A paper application will not be accepted and processed after this date. At the moment, Nova Scotia did not provide any additional information about those streams.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #PNP, #Skilled_Workers, #Nova_Scotia_Experience

Will the Immigrant Investor Program come back in light of COVID-19?

Under the pressure of multiple lobbyists, the Canadian federal government may choose to bring back the Immigrant Investor Program (IIP) to support the economy amid the coronavirus pandemic. The federal government abolished the IIP in 2015 because the program did not provide sufficient economic benefits nor did the participants contribute to the community as expected. As Canada will be running a deficit of over $343 billion, however, it is expected the government may re-implement the IIP to support the economy and jobs and mitigate the damage caused by the pandemic.

#IIS, #investors, #COVID_19, #business_immigration, #IRCC
 

Saskatchewan issued 564 ITAs in the new draw

On December 1, 2020, Saskatchewan held a new draw in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). SINP issued invitations to apply for the provincial nomination to 564 candidates. In the Express Entry category, Saskatchewan released 138 invitations to apply. Another 426 invitations have been sent to the Occupations In-Demand category candidates. The lowest score in both categories was 74 points. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In addition, SINP noted that those who got an ITA have a close family relative in the province or have graduated from a post-secondary institution in Saskatchewan. In this draw, the Saskatchewan government invited candidates in 86 different NOCs. In total, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 7,819 candidates in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand

British Columbia invited 11 entrepreneurs

On December 1, 2020, British Columbia held a new draw for business-candidates in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In the Base Category of the Entrepreneur Stream, BC PNP invited 11 candidates. The lowest score of this round has increased by twelve points and reached 121 points, compared to the October 20 draw. British Columbia invited 154 business-candidates in 2020 including 54 entrepreneurs in the Regional Pilot.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Entrepreneurs, #Business_immigration, #Regional_Pilot, #Rural_immigration, #PNP

Nova Scotia invited candidates with a valid job offer

On December 1, 2020, Nova Scotia held a new invitation round in the Labour Market Priorities Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). In this draw, Nova Scotia issued Letters of Interest to Express Entry candidates who possess a valid job offer from the employer in Nova Scotia. The position of the candidate must be a full-time job for a duration of at least one year from the day candidates will be granted PR. All candidates invited in this round must possess one year of relevant work experience, secondary education credentials, and demonstrate the language skill at a CLB level 5 or higher in English or French in all four bands. The deadline to submit the application for all invited candidates is set on December 31, 2020, before 11:59 PM. In the previous rounds of this stream in 2020, Nova Scotia targeted French-speaking candidates, nurses, motor vehicle body repairers, and automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers, programmers and interactive media developers.

 #Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #job_offer, #PNP

New Brunswick will host a virtual job fair

On December 1, 2020, New Brunswick announced that the provincial government will hold a virtual job fair for skilled trades. The province invites temporary workers, international students, and permit holders who currently reside in Canada to participate in the event. New Brunswick expressed a special interest in Welders and related machine operators (NOC- 7237), Electricians (NOC 7241), Plumbers (NOC 7251), Carpenters (NOC 7271), Bricklayers (NOC 7281), Cooks (NOC 6322), Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers (NOC 7611), Automotive Service Technician (NOC 7321), and Motor Vehicle Body Repairers (NOC 7322). Candidates do not need to meet Canadian licensing requirements to attend the job fair. The deadline for registration is January 28, 2021.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session, #PNP

Young Americans are willing to move to Canada

According to Google search engine’s data, American users’ searches for “how to immigrate to Canada” have increased by at least 700%. Statistics show that the United States was Canada’s fifth-largest immigrant source country in 2019. According to a public poll result in 2018, more than a quarter (26%) of the American participants (especially young people) are willing to live in Canada. Meanwhile, Canada has a lot of lands and a small population. It also has a relatively severe problem of the ageing population. Canada desperately relies on immigrants to supply the labour force, offset the ageing population, and develop its economy. Unlike other countries, Canada did not restrict immigration even during the pandemic, and it actively welcomes immigration. A lot of evidence shows that the development of its immigration policies is a priority of Canada. People should make good use of the 2021-2023 immigration plan and catch this opportunity.

#USA, #immigration_to_Canada

Multiple provinces signed on to the rent assistance program! 

According to Global News and CP24, seven provinces have signed on to a rent assistance program as part of the national housing strategy. As of now, the Liberals announced that they have reached an agreement with four provinces (Ontario, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia) and will provide a Canadian housing subsidy for vulnerable renters such as low-income families, Indigenous people, veterans, and new immigrants. In a statement, Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen said the national housing council will help the government to take a remarkable step forward in housing.

#ESDC, #newcomers, #immigrants

Canada is considered the most popular country in the world for immigration

Canada is the most popular immigration destination in 101 countries around the world, according to a new study by Remitly. A study, titled Where the World Wants to Work: The Most Popular Countries for Importing Abroad, found Canada to be a global priority for immigrants. A study of online money transfer services analyzed Google's global question of “how to move abroad”. According to the study, the number of searches increased by 29% from January to October 2020, and Canada took first place. Canada is considered the safest place in the world as well as a country with low unemployment, lots of immigration opportunities, and friendly people.

#Canada, #immigration, #relocation

International students rights groups keep advocating to make PGWP renewable

Various groups of international student rights advocates keep attracting public attention to the problem of dozens of thousands of international graduates whose Post Graduate Work Permits have expired or about to expire. Those graduates of Canadian post-secondary schools are stuck in limbo as many of them lost their jobs due to the pandemic of COVID-19 before they earned enough work experience to qualify for immigration. Having invested a lot of funds, efforts and time in obtaining a degree or diploma and planning to become permanent residents, now those students face the risk of returning home. According to the terms of Immigration legislation, Post Graduate Work Permits are LMIA-exempt work permits that can be issued only once. It is not possible to renew them. "Migrant Students United" and similar groups demand Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino change the law.

#PGWP, #international_students, #COVID_19, #international_graduates, #permanent_residency, #PR

Travel restrictions extended until January 21, 2021

On November 29, 2020, Public Safety Canada extended all travel restrictions implemented to combat the spread of the COVID-19 until January 21, 2020. Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair and  Minister of Health Patty Hajdu announced that Canada extends the Mandatory Isolation Order and temporary travel restrictions for all foreigners to enter entry into Canada from a country other than the United States until January 21, 2021. This date will Canada to align international travel restrictions with the US travel restrictions. At the moment, travel restrictions for travellers from the USA remain in place until December 21, 2020. Despite those measures prohibiting visitors from entering Canada, some international students with approved study permits as well as foreign workers with approved work permits will be allowed to come to Canada.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #PHAC, #COVID_19, #TRV, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #work_permits #travel_restrictions

Canada renews in-Canada biometrics collection

On November 27, 2020, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the renewal of biometrics collection by Service Canada effective November 30, when the new online appointment system will reopen. Since September, Service Canada has been calling clients to book an appointment. Everyone who was not contacted by Service Canada yet can use the online appointments system to schedule a biometric collection. This also applies to in-Canada PR applicants, who did not provide biometrics within the last 10 years.

#biometrics, #IRCC, #Service_Canada, #PR, #COVID_19

New Brunswick updated the lists of Designated Employers in the AIPP

New Brunswick has updated the list of provincial employers designated to participate in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). In October 2020, New Brunswick added 161 new employers. Since the last update, the total number of its designated employers reached is 835. In total, there are 2,786 employers in all four Atlantic provinces who can hire foreign workers in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_Canada, #Designated_employers, #New_Brunswick

You can confirm your permanent residence via the confirmation portal

As one of the measures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched the Permanent Residence Confirmation Portal. This tool allows confirming your status without in-person interviews. It also allows confirming that a person is in Canada, updating the address, submitting a more recent photo to be used for a PR card, or receiving proof of permanent resident (PR) status. The new portal is user friendly and is optimized both for desktop and mobile devices.

#IRCC, #PR_card, #PR
 

A technical error halted a new draw in the Employer Job Offer: International Student 

On November 26, 2020, the province of Ontario was supposed to hold a new registration round in the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Due to some unspecified technical issues, the intake has been paused. As of today, OINP did not specify when the registration will reopen, as the investigation of the error must be conducted. It is unknown whether there were any successful registrations. Unfortunately, this was not the first case when OINP's draw was disturbed by a technical issue. Next year, the province may introduce a new Expression of Interest system to serve all of the three streams of the Employer Job Offer category.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #Skilled_workers

IRCC finally renews the Citizenship Tests

On November 26, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) finally launched a new platform for online citizenship tests. Since the beginning of the pandemic of the COVID-19, Ottawa postponed all Citizenship Tests. The public demanded the government to renew them for several months. IRCC will now test the new online system for a few months and the first test-takers will be those whose tests were cancelled due to COVID-19. IRCC will email invitations for the test to those on the waiting list. Individuals who prefer in-person tests may wait until they will be resumed.

#Citizenship, #IRCC, #COVID_19

CICC will replace ICCRC in 2021

On November 26, 2020, Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino announced the coming into force of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants Act. The new Act will regulate the transition of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) into the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), a new regulatory body to oversee the work of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC). CICC should implement a mandatory and robust course for those wishing to obtain an immigration consulting license; introduce transparency on fees, and provide a better system for people to make formal complaints against a consultant. Mendicino told the government will develop a new Code of Conduct for the College in order to establish strong ethical and professional standards for all consultants. IRCC anticipates the CICC will become operational in 2021.

#immigration_consultants, #CICC, #ICCRC, #RCIC

Canada has denied entry to 4,400 refugee applicants in the past five years

From 2016 to 2020, the federal government has turned back 4,400 asylum seekers. About half of these foreigners attempted to enter Canada after the election of US President Donald Trump. Canada refused refugee claims at the border to 742 people in 2016, 1,992 persons in 2017, 744 individuals in 2018, and 663 in 2019. As of September 23, Canada denied entry to 259 people at the border with the USA. According to the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA), adopted in 2004, Canada and the United States consider each other to be "safe countries" for asylum seekers and require them to make their claims in the country they arrive in first.

#STCA, #CBSA, #refugees, #asylum_seekers, #USA

Around 1,300 national exemptions to COVID-19 border restrictions given out

According to Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino, Canada approved 1,300 national interest exemptions to foreign nationals, allowing them to enter the country despite the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. The government closed the border on March 18 to stop the spread of pandemics and the majority of foreigners were prohibited from entering Canada. Most of those who received exemptions were essential workers and certain family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This info was made public at a House of Commons immigration committee meeting.

#IRCC, #Mendicino, #travel_restrictions, #TRV, #travel_exemptions, #COVID_19

 

Canada is close to inviting 100,000 candidates in Express Entry

On November 25, 2020, just one week after the previous round, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new draw in Express Entry. In round #168, Canada repeated the invitation of 5,000 candidates in one draw. Inviting such a big number of candidates to apply for PR, inevitably caused the drop of the cut-off Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The lowest score in this round reduced by three points and was 469. The tie-breaking rule for this round was October 15, 2020, at 08:50:10 UTC. As of November 23, 2020, the Express Entry pool of candidates consists of 144,468 profiles, 2,497 profiles fewer compared to the previous update. This means that IRCC invites more candidates than the number of new registrants who join the pool. As result, it will cause a further drop in the score required to get an ITA. In 35 rounds of 2020, IRCC issued 97,350 ITAs.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP, #PR

Ontario reopens the Employer Job Offer: International Student stream for a new round

On November 25, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced the reopening of the Employer Job Offer: International Student stream on Thursday, November 26. The province will accept applications in the stream between 9 AM and 5 PM EST, however, еhe exact time of registration start was not announced. Once the OINP reaches the limit of registration, the system will automatically close the process. Registered candidates will have 14 days to complete and submit the full application. It is the third opening of the stream in 2020. The previous rounds were held on March 3 and August 19. Last year, Ontario nominated 1,347 candidates in the Employer Job Offer: International Student stream.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #Skilled_workers

Vernon, BC updated the wage criteria ranking in the RNIP

Beginning December 1, 2020, the City of Vernon will change the wage criteria and points grid in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). The previous criteria required candidates to have an hourly wage of $25 per hour while those who were working, studying, and/or living for at least the last 6 months in Vernon were exempt from this requirement if they scored 30 points under the Vernon RNIP’s Comprehensive Ranking System and if they earned an hourly wage between $20 to $24.99. The community decided to reduce those wages to $23 and $18 to $22.99 on December 1. In addition, Vernon reviewed the points caps in the Comprehensive Ranking System of the program.

#RNIP, #rural_immigration, #northern_immigration, #Vernon, #British_Columbia

Canada has a backlog of 440,000 immigration applications

IRCC’s latest data showed that the number of approvals for Canadian immigration applications has dropped by about three-quarters in the months since Canada blocked entry and exit to control the pandemic. The data showed that in January, the immigration department had 403,750 cases pending, and by the end of August, the immigration department had 439,526 pending cases. Families are one of the most affected groups because their applications cannot be submitted online. The data shows that from March 15 to the end of August, only 163 family guarantee applications were submitted.

#IRCC, #immigration_levels, #processing_delay, #COVID_19

On November 24, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new draw in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP).

In this draw, the government invited 360 persons in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories to apply for a nomination of British Columbia. The cut-off scores in this round did not change for the third draw in a row:
•    SI - Skilled Worker - 93 points
•    SI - International Graduate - 94 points
•    SI - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled - 75 points
•    EEBC - Skilled Worker - 92 points
•    EEBC - International Graduate - 93 points
British Columbia excluded the following 31 NOCs from participation in BCPNP: (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731). In total, BCPNP invited 8,813 candidates in 2020.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Alberta can still nominate 18 candidates in 2020

On November 24, 2020, the government of Alberta released a new update in the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). Since November 17, Alberta issued 54 more nominations allowing foreign nationals to apply for permanent residence through the AINP. In total, Alberta issued 3,982 nominations for PR out of 4,000 the province planned to issue. To recall, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the high unemployment, Alberta has reduced the number of nominations for 2020 from the initial 6,250 nominations it received from the IRCC. As of today, AINP received 2,000 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment. The province also reviews 20 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR, #IRCC

Following Ottawa, Saskatchewan introduced bonus points for French

On November 24, 2020, the government of Saskatchewan presented changes in the points grid of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). Effective now and following a similar initiative of the federal government in the Express Entry system, SINP will grant additional points for candidates who speak both English and French in the International Skilled Worker: Saskatchewan Express Entry and the International Skilled Worker: Occupations In-Demand categories. Bilingual candidates may get up to additional 10 points. CLB 8 and higher in both languages will result in 30 points in the SINP. The lowest score to be eligible for SINP is 60 points and can now be achieved through language proficiency.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand, #points_grid, #English, #French

Atlantic Immigration Pilot is a story of success

On November 24, 2020, The Honourable Marco Mendicino attended the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council to participate in the discussion on the economic recovery in Atlantic Canada. Mendicino emphasized that the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) is helping local employers to attract top talents required to grow the economies of Maritimes and confirmed the federal government's intention to make the program permanent at the end of 2021. Since the launch of AIPP in March 2017, local employers have made over 7,500 job offers in key sectors of the provincial markets such as manufacturing and health care. As a result, over 6,900 foreign nationals received permanent resident status in the four Atlantic provinces.

#IRCC, #AIPP, #Atlantic_pilot, #PR

IRCC has opened two temporary VACs in the United States

On November 23, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the opening of the two temporary Visa Application Centre (VAC) in the United States. The VACs in Seattle, Washington and San Francisco, California are aimed at offering more opportunities for applicants to provide their biometrics. The work of those VACs will be limited to biometric collection services only. IRCC explained that it opened two more facilities in response to the COVID-19 for a period of one year. Once foreign nationals received their Biometric Instruction Letter, they can book appointments in Seattle or San Francisco as well as at any other location offering such services in the US.

#IRCC, #VAC, #United_States, #USA, #biometrics, #COVID_19

Immigration Department issued a total of almost 5.8 million travel visas in 2019

According to statistics from IRCC, the immigration department issued a total of almost 5.8 million travel visas in 2019 for visitors, foreign workers and international students. More than 404,000 international students and temporary foreign workers were granted Canadian work permits in 2019. More than 402,000 of those were Canadian study permits. Among these temporary residents holding work permits or other visas, 74,600 succeeded in changing their status to a permanent resident of Canada in 2019. A total of more than 341,000 people have successfully become permanent residents, and more than 58% of new immigrants were economic immigrants. At the same time, these new immigrants accounted for more than 80% of Canada's overall population growth. In terms of refugees, Canada has received more refugees than any country in the world, with a total of 30,087 refugees being accepted in 2019. In order to support the popularity of French outside Quebec, the number of French-speaking immigrants outside of Quebec increased to 8,500 in 2019.

#international_students, #foreign_workers, #visitors, #refugees, #work_permits, #study_permits, #temporary_residence, #permanent_residence

Prince Edward Island to suspend participation in the Atlantic Bubble for two weeks

On November 23, 2020, the province of Prince Edward Island announced the decision to suspend its participation in the Atlantic Bubble for two weeks in response to the second wave of the COVID-19. The Atlantic Bubble is an interprovincial travel policy adopted in four Atlantic provinces to ease the travel of the residents of Maritimes. This means the limitation of travel to essential travels only and reintroduction of the previous public health measures. All foreign nationals coming to PEI will also have to maintain 14 days of self-isolation.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #Prince_Edward_Island, #New_Brunswick, #Nova_Scotia, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Ethnic communities urge IRCC to introduce similar opportunities as offered to Hong Kong

Following the introduction of the wide opportunities for residents of Hong Kong to obtain permanent or temporary residence in Canada amidst the pandemic, activists from other ethnic communities urge the government to develop similar immigration pathways for citizens of Latin American countries who are also in dangerous situations. For instance, around four million Venezuelans are displaced throughout South and Central America, and they should be given the opportunity to be brought in by the Canadian government or private sponsors.  Latino communities call to follow the example of the Chinese community to lobby and pressure the government to create these programs and alleviate the suffering of people.

#IRCC, #permanent_residence, #temporary_residence, #Latin_America, #Venezuelans

Prince Edward Island invited 254 candidates 

On November 19, 2020, Prince Edward Island conducted a new round of invitations in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP). In this round, PEI PNP invited 221 skilled workers via the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 33 candidates in the Entrepreneurs Stream to apply for a provincial nomination. The lowest score for the business-candidates was 92 points, five points fewer compared to the previous round. In total, PEI invited 254 candidates, and since the beginning of the year, the province issued 1,733 invitations. 217 of them were sent to the Entrepreneurs Stream candidates

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers, #Entrepreneurs, #PNP

Quebec private schools recruit a high volume of Indian students

According to a report by the French department of the CBC, nearly 12,000 Indian students came to Quebec to study in 2019, an increase of 500% over two years, and more than the number of French and Chinese students accepted in the same year in the province. Despite the impact of the pandemic this year, more than 6,000 Indian students received Canadian study permits in the first half of the year. It was estimated that tuition fees for these institutions are about $25,000. Such degrees usually only have one or two years of courses. However, some Indian students do not attend classes at all after they arrive in Canada and choose to work instead. It was discovered that some schools chose to turn a blind eye to this situation. This phenomenon has attracted the attention of the federal government and the Quebec government. The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) has launched an investigation as well. After these private schools admit foreign students, they must help their students obtain the "Certificate of Acceptance" from the Quebec immigration department and apply for a study permit from the IRCC. Last year, the IRCC rejected half of the applications from Indian students.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #Quebec, #international_students, #study_permits

Half of the permanent residents admitted between 2005 and 2015 became Canadian citizens

According to the Evaluation of the Citizenship Program report by the Research and Evaluation Branch of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), between 2005 and 2015, Canada admitted 2,826,300 permanent residents. Around 50% of them have successfully passed through the naturalization process, i.e. obtained Canadian citizenship by December 31, 2018. In addition, another 7% had applied for citizenship but have not received it by the end of 2018. To become citizens, permanent residents must pass the citizenship test and meet other eligibility criteria. Citizenship allows new Canadians to vote and hold public office.

#citizenship, #IRCC, #PR
 

Manitoba invited 196 candidates in the MPNP draw #103

On November 19, 2020, Manitoba conducted a new round of invitations in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In draw #103, Manitoba issued 144 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 526 points, 65 points higher compared to the previous round. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued only 22 invitations. The lowest score in the SWO category was 769, 61 points more than in draw #102. Additionally, MPNP invited 30 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba issued 196 LAAs in this round and 40 of them were issued directly to the Express Entry profiles of candidates. In total, Manitoba distributed 4,498 LAAs in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

Saskatchewan conducted a new draw in the SINP

On November 19, 2020, Saskatchewan conducted a new draw in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The province issued invitations to apply for the provincial nomination to 551 candidates. In the Express Entry category, SINP issued 214 invitations to apply. The lowest score in this category was 78 points, ten points higher than on November 3. In this round, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 56 different NOCs. In the Occupations In-Demand category, Saskatchewan invited 337 candidates. The lowest score was 80 points, twelve points more compared to the previous draw. Saskatchewan invited Occupations In-Demand candidates in 75 different NOCs. In total, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 7,255 candidates in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand

In October 2020 Manitoba issued 355 nominations 

On November 19, 2020, Manitoba updated the nomination statistics in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In October 2020, MPNP nominated 355 Skilled Workers and approved 3 business concepts. The province also refused 11 profiles of Skilled Workers and 2 business candidates. MPNP invited 397 Skilled Workers, 7 business concepts and sent LAAs to 2 Business Investors. MPNP also received 407 applications from Skilled Workers and 2 applications from business candidates. Currently, Manitoba is assessing 4,425 applications, and the other 6,870 applications are pending assessment. Additionally, in October, Manitoba nominated 37 Express Entry candidates. Since January, MPNP nominated 527 Express Entry candidates.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, #business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates

IRCC gathered all special measures to support Hong Kong residents to come to Canada on one page

On November 19, 2020, IRCC consolidated the description of all temporary special measures related to processing various applications of the Hong Kong residents on one page. In response to a Hong Kong national security law, which affected many individuals, Canada implemented special procedures for the administration of temporary and permanent residence measures for Hong Kong youth as well as measures to support family reunification for those who meet the eligibility criteria.

#Hong_Kong, #IRCC, #PR, #open_work_permit, #refugees, #asylum_seekers, #international_students, #IEC

Canada set a new record inviting 5,000 candidates in one Express Entry draw

On November 18, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the largest draw in the history of Express Entry. In round #167, Canada invited 5,000 candidates to apply for permanent residence. The cut-off Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in this round dropped by 6 points and reached 472. The tie-breaking rule for this round was October 27, 2020, at 06:18:11 UTC. As of November 16, 2020, there are 146,965 profiles in the Express Entry pool of candidates, 1,505 profiles fewer compared to the previous update. At the moment, there are about 5,000 candidates in the pool whose score is above 470 points. As result, we expect the drop of points required for getting the ITA in the next few rounds. In total, Canada invited 92,350 candidates in 34 rounds in 2020.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP, #PR

Newfoundland and Labrador announced a new immigration path

On November 18, 2020, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced the new stream to be included in the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP). The Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador will serve to attract highly skilled and educated immigrants who possess work experience in technological occupations. The Priority Skills stream will be launched on January 2, 2021. The new pathway will target candidates in priority sectors such as information and communications technology, ocean technology, health care, agriculture and aquaculture. For instance, Priority Skills will be available to Master and Ph.D. graduates of Memorial University who completed their studies in the past three years, individuals with one year of work experience in a high-demand occupation, as well as certain candidates who submitted their expression of interest under the NLPNP.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #PNP, #Priority_Skills

The border with the United States will not reopen in 2020

The border closure with the United States to be extended until at least December 21, 2020. Given the upcoming winter holidays, we can expect the border will not reopen in 2020. The official information about these travel restrictions is expected in the coming days. The US-Canada border has been closed since March 19 in response to the outbreak of the COVID-19. The pandemic situation in both countries remains critical so we can expect the continuation of the travel restrictions during the winter.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Canada admitted only 143,465 new permanent residents in 2020

Canada’s new permanent resident intake is getting back on track despite the coronavirus pandemic. New Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) data show Canada welcomed 15,025 new immigrants in September 2020. This is low compared with the 35,000 immigrants Canada welcomed in September 2019 but increased from 11,330 immigrants in August 2020. So far, Canada admitted only
143,465 new permanent residents in 2020 - slightly above 42% of the panned number of 341,000 announced at the beginning of the year.

#PR_admission, #immigration_levels, #PR, #IRCC

British Columbia invited 1950 candidates in the Tech Pilot in 2020On November 17, 2020,

British Columbia conducted a new invitation round in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The province distributed 76 invitations to apply for a nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. The lowest score in all categories did not change and was 80 points. So far, British Columbia invited 1,950 Tech Pilot candidates in 2020, which is about 23% of the total 8,453 invitations issued by the province this year. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Alberta issued 91 nominations in the AINP

On November 17, 2020, Alberta released a new Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) update. Since the last update on October 27, Alberta nominated another 91 foreign nationals to apply for permanent residence through the AINP. This year, Alberta issued 3,928 nominations for PR in Canada and almost reached the self-established limit of 4,000 nominations. Initially, AINP was provided with a quota of 6,250 nominations from the IRCC but due to COVID-19, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney decided to limit the number due to high unemployment in Alberta. As of November 12, AINP received 1,910 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment. In addition, there are 25 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR, #IRCC

Canada added several more post-secondary DLIs with COVID readiness plans

On November 17, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released an updated list of designated learning institutions (DLIs) with approved COVID readiness plans which can accept international students from outside Canada. As of now, there are 261 DLIs out of 474 (excluding Quebec) that offer PGWP-eligible programs with approved COVID readiness plans:
•    Alberta – 51 DLI (+3)
•    British Columbia – 81 DLI (+18)
•    Manitoba – 16 DLI
•    New Brunswick – 15 DLI
•    Newfoundland and Labrador – 3 DLI
•    Nova Scotia – 24 DLI (+1)
•    Ontario – 56 DLI (+29)
•    Prince Edward Island - 5 DLI
•    Saskatchewan - 9 DLI
•    Yukon - 1 DLI
We can expect that all educational institutions will soon be ready to admit international students and all students will be allowed to come to Canada to pursue their education.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19, #DLI, #PGWP

WES released an updated survey about the impact of COVID-19 on the plans to immigrate to Canada

The new survey by the World Education Service (WES) revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic has little impact on the interest of foreign nationals to immigrate to Canada. The survey showed that 48% of prospective immigrants did not change their plans to immigrate to Canada. This is a 2% increase compared to 46% in August and a 10% increase compared to 38% in April. Only 6% of respondents stated they were less interested in coming to Canada now. Only 12% of survey participants indicated the intention to postpone their application for PR and another 12% expressed plans of immigrating to a different country.

#IRCC, #immigration_levels, #WES, #COVID_19

 

Ontario closed the 2020 intake for the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream

On November 16, 2020, the website of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) officially announced the closure of the intake for the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream in 2020. According to the government of Ontario, the province has reached the registration intake limit for this year. This stream allows foreign workers who possess a job offer in certain in-demand occupations to apply for a nomination of Ontario. The eligible occupations for this stream are in such fields as agriculture, construction, trucking or personal support work, etc. In total there are 23 NOCs approved for In-Demand Skills Stream. In 2019, OINP issued nominations to 19 candidates in this stream. Next year, Ontario may process this stream through the new EOI system.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #occupations_in_demand

New Brunswick has updated the Guide to the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream

On November 16, 2019, the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) has updated its official guide to the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream. The new guide includes some minor updates regarding the eligibility criteria and application processing and distinguishes the requirements for candidates working for a New Brunswick employer and candidates enrolled in a New Brunswick post-secondary institution. In addition, NBPNP will occasionally invite candidates directly from the Express Entry pool in response to the changes in the New Brunswick labour market needs.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #skilled_workers, #PNP, #Express_Entry

Prince Edward Island will increase the minimum wage

On November 10, 2019, the Prince Edward Island government reminded about the increase of the minimum wage by 15 cents to $13.00 per hour that will be in effect on April 1, 2021. The current minimum wage in the province is $12.85 per hour. The official statement of the provincial government noted that the minimum wage rate is indexed to the province's consumer price index, rounded to the nearest five cents. The Employment Standards Board reviews minimum wage annually and provides their recommendation to the Government after the review is complete. The Atlantic provinces harmonize the date of effect of any minimum wage rate increase to April 1.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEI, #minimum_wages

Tourism as a source of work for youth and immigrants

 
One of the industries most affected by the coronavirus is tourism, due to the closure of borders, travel restrictions, and hygiene and infection control measures, which plunged activity to historic lows. Although it is too soon to determine the future of the tourism industry once the current emergency situation is over, Statistics Canada published a report on the role this sector played in the country's economic and job activity before the pandemic. The tourism industry emerged as one of the most committed to making Canada's much-touted diversity a reality. Tourism jobs held by immigrants represented 27.6% of all existing jobs in the sector in 2019. British Columbia with 35% and Alberta with 34.3% are the provinces with the greatest participation of immigrants in tourism jobs. On the other hand, Newfoundland and Labrador with 8.4% and Nunavut with 7.2% had the lowest participation of foreign workers in this sector.

#tourism, #COVID_19, #immigrants, #British_Columbia, #Alberta

IRCC will introduce biometric fee exemptions changes to the GCMS

On November 13, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the upcoming changes for the Global Case Management System (GCMS) related to the system’s ability to accept partial biometric enrolment. This functionality is not available for Biometric Collection System. IRCC has also updated the Biometric exemptions page and included a table outlining the new biometric cost recovery codes.

#IRCC, #biometrics, #GCMS

Canada made clarifications on the temporary status restoration policy

On November 13, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new clarification of the temporary policy for status restorations for temporary residents whose status has expired and they are stuck in Canada due to COVID-19 travel restriction on international travels. IRCC allows status restoration until December 31, 2020, only to those foreigners, who had valid temporary resident status on January 30, 2020, and whose status expired after that date. Those who arrived in Canada after January 30, 2020, are not eligible for this temporary policy procedure.

#IRCC, #TRV, #work_permits, #study_permits, #visitor_visas, #international_students, #foreign_workers, #COVID_19

Immigration Department expanded measures for paper-based PNP applications

On November 13, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expanded the temporary measures for paper-based Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications for business, entrepreneur, and self-employed provincial streams. Provincial and territorial authorities may request IRCC to put paper-based PNP application to be placed on hold in the cases when applicants have experienced a job loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This policy is implemented for a period from September 17, 2020, to November 17, 2020. The processing of such applications may be put on hold until March 17, 2021, until the province confirms the resumption of the nomination support.

#IRCC, #PR, #PNP, #Job_offer, #COVID_19, #business_immigration, #entrepreneurs, #self_employed

PEI to introduce changes to PEI Express Entry stream

On January 1, 2021, Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) will implement several changes for program eligibility in the PEI Express Entry stream for international graduates. The holders of the Post Graduate Work Permit who graduated from the Designated Learning Institution outside the province will be allowed to apply for the nomination of the Prince Edward Island if they gain nine months of work experience with the PEI employer. In addition, such candidates must have their PGWP valid for at least four months prior to the expiry of the permit before the submission of the profile to the PEI Expression of Interest.
 
#PEI, #EOI, #PEIPNP, #PGWP, #international_graduates, #international_students, #Prince_Edward_Island

Quebec introduced the Arrima-related employer portal 

On November 5, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) introduced the employer portal - a new tool for Quebec employers that will help them to find proper candidates among foreign nationals wishing to immigrate to Quebec. The portal allows employers to select candidates in the Arrima selection system and will advise them on the appropriate immigration program. Employers will first need to register in the system in order to review candidates. Quebec intends to admit up to 47,500 newcomers in 2021.

#Quebec, #Arrima, #CAQ, #MIFI, #PR, #Quebec_selection_certificate

 

OINP invited 443 candidates in the Human Capital Priorities Stream

On November 12, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) conducted a new round of invitations in Ontario’s Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream. In this draw, OINP issued 443 targeted Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to candidates who possess one year or more of foreign work experience in one of the in-demand occupations. The CRS Express Entry score range of those candidates was 469-477 points. All invited candidates work in one of the nine following occupations:
•    NOC 0111 – Financial managers
•    NOC 0124 – Advertising, marketing and public relations managers
•    NOC 0601 – Corporate sales managers
•    NOC 1111 – Financial auditors and accountants        
•    NOC 1114 – Other financial officers         
•    NOC 1122 – Professional occupations in business management consulting        
•    NOC 3012 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 
•    NOC 3124 – Allied primary health practitioners
•    NOC 3132 – Dietitians and nutritionists
In total, Ontario invited 14,863 candidates in the OINP in 2020. Among them, 6,048 have been invited under the Human Capital Priorities Stream.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Human_capital, #Occupations_in_demand

Canada to provide new immigration pathways for Hongkongers

On November 12, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced a new immigration initiative that allows students and youth from Hong Kong to get an open work permit if they have completed post-secondary studies in Canada in the last 5 years. In addition, Hongkongers will benefit from a new pathway to permanent residency. The new pathway will be available next year and will have simplified language and education requirements provided candidates will have 1 year of work experience in Canada. IRCC also temporarily waived processing fees for Hong Kong residents in Canada. There are an estimated 300,000 Canadians living in Hong Kong, which is one of the largest Canadian communities abroad.

#Hong_Kong, #IRCC, #PR, #open_work_permit, #OWP

Ontario has almost reached the nomination intake in 2020

On November 12, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) posted new statistics on the issuance of the nomination certificates. Since the last update on October 8, 2020, the provincial government nominated 1,034 foreign nationals in the OINP in 2020. Ontario was granted a quota of 7,600 candidates this year, which also includes 250 persons under the federal NOC C initiative. Up to date, Ontario nominated 7,214 candidates in all streams of the OINP. Last year, OINP nominated 7,350 candidates and 44 NOC C candidates. Currently, Ontario runs 9 streams in the OINP and 6 of them accept applications.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

Residents of Hong Kong are now eligible for PRRA

On November 12, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new policy regarding the eligibility of the residents of Hong Kong to apply for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA). If they received a final negative decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), the Federal Court, or IRCC from November 13, 2019, to November 12, 2020, they may apply for PRRA. The political situation in Hong Kong has worsened and the life of some individuals may be at risk if they return home. Therefore, IRCC removed a requirement to wait at least 12 months prior to the PRRA application. All decisions will still be made on a case basis.

#refugees, #asylum_seekers, #Hong_Kong, #IRCC, #PRRA, #IRB

The tribunal is extending the deadline for the Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States

The Federal Court of Appeal upheld a motion by the federal government to temporarily suspend a lower court ruling that would have overturned the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) between Canada and the United States in late January. In July, the Federal Court ruled that the Canada-US deal was unconstitutional as the administration of US President Donald Trump routinely arrested asylum seekers in poor condition. The federal government has argued that without the bilateral pact, Canada would face an influx of asylum seekers.

#STCA, #refugees, #USA

 

Protest for the resumption of citizenship tests held in Toronto

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, citizenship tests and many interviews have been stopped. A protest was held at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto demanding the resumption of citizenship tests and progress on citizenship applications. When citizenship tests were cancelled, everything was shutting down, and that was normal. However, over the months, applicants wanted just one update on what is happening. People are incurring real losses from being in "mental limbo." People sometimes think, "It's just a passport," a convenience, but that is not true. Many people cannot get jobs that require higher security clearance without citizenship, and some people cannot travel. There are 85,000 people waiting for citizenship, according to IRCC data.

#Citizenship, #COVID_19, #IRCC

CBSA empties immigration detention centre to prevent COVID-19

The CBSA confirmed that the detention centres for refugees and foreign workers without legal status have been emptied, allowing those who were detained to live in another place. This is not only to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 in detention centres but also to experiment with the reform of the immigration and refugee detention system. The detention centres mainly detain refugee applicants without identification documents, foreign workers whose work visas have expired, and illegal immigrants waiting to be deported. Between April 2019 and March 2020, 8,825 people, including 138 minors, were detained by the CBSA, of which about 2,000 were detained in provincial prisons. However, as of early November, the number of people held by the CBSA at the Laval detention centre in Quebec has dropped from 109 to 12, as have the numbers in other centres in Toronto and Surrey. In 85 percent of cases, people are detained because officials fear they won't show up for their immigration proceedings.

#CBSA, #regugees, #detention, #Laval, #COVID_19

The decline in immigration is a blow to the Canadian economy

The decline in immigration is a blow to the Canadian economy, which relies heavily on foreigners to fuel growth and labour demand, especially in large cities. Canada welcomed only 128,430 immigrants in the eight months of 2020, about half the number in the same period in 2019. As things stand, Canada will have around 150,000 permanent residents this year, which is below its target of 341,000. New immigrants could not come, which had a direct impact on the entire population of Canada. Canada's total population grew only 0.1% in the three months through June, the second-lowest record of quarterly increase since 1946.

#immigration_levels, #newcomers, #PR

India is Canada's largest source of human capital

Indian immigrants made up a quarter of all newcomers to Canada in 2019, setting a new record. India was by far the largest country of origin for permanent residents having 85,593 approved applicants in 2019, which is more than the four following countries combined. The figures were emphasized in the 2020 Annual Report on Immigration when presented to Parliament. India has been the largest country of origin since 2017 when it overtook China in the PRs, but the numbers have risen in recent years, with an increase of over 20% between 2018 and 2019. The main reason for India's leadership in immigration to Canada is its human capital. Many Indians are educated, and their level of English is often higher comparing to other nations.

#PR, #India, #IRCC

British Columbia invited 358 candidates in the new draw

On November 10, 2020, British Columbia held a new draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). In this draw, the government invited 358 persons to apply for a nomination of British Columbia. The lowest scores in this round did not change compared to the October 27 draw:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 93
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 94
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 75
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 92
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 93
British Columbia keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in BCPNP: (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In 2020, the province invited 7,943 candidates under all streams of BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

The number of post-secondary DLIs with COVID readiness plans have increased

Since October 21, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Health Canada and provincial authorities approved additional COVID readiness plans of the designated learning institutions (DLIs) and allowed them to accept international students who aren’t currently in Canada. As of November 10, 2020, there are 210 DLI with approved COVID readiness plans:
•    Alberta - 48 DLI (+9)
•    British Columbia - 63 DLI (+24)
•    Manitoba - 16 DLI (+6)
•    New Brunswick - 15 DLI (+2)
•    Newfoundland and Labrador - 3 DLI
•    Nova Scotia 23 DLI (+23)
•    Ontario - 27 DLI (+13)
•    Prince Edward Island - 5 DLI
•    Saskatchewan - 9 DLI (+2)
•    Yukon - 1 DLI
The educational institutions hope the situation with international students will gradually improve in the coming months and all students will be allowed to return to their studies.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19, #DLI

Canada released a new update for relatives of PS752 flight victims

On November 10, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published new instructions regarding the fee exemptions related to Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752. In order to help foreign national family members of victims of the plane crash who are stuck in Canada because of the travel restrictions, IRCC allows eligible individuals to extend or restore their status at no cost. This applies to temporary residents whose status has expired or will expire before January 16, 2021, and who are members of the family of a victim of the PS752 flight.

#TRV, #status_extention, #status_resoration, #IRCC, #PS752

Canada to extend the validity of the LOI for IEC participants

On November 9, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that participants of the International Experience Canada program whose letter of introduction for a work permit is about to expire and who are unable to travel to Canada may be permitted to extend it for up to twelve months if they meet the eligibility requirements. Each decision on extensions will be made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the immigration officer. IRCC also provided specific instructions on possible extensions for participants from visa-required countries.

#IRCC, #IEC, #Working_Holiday, #LOI, #work_permits, #Covid_19

Thunder Bay released new RNIP recommendations

On November 9, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, released a new update on the issuance of community recommendations in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). The city issued 10 more recommendations: 1 for the approved candidate in the NOC A skills level, 6 for candidates in the NOC B, and 3 for candidates in the NOC C. All candidates who got a recommendation can apply for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). So far, Thunder Bay issued 53 community recommendations and still can issue up to 47 recommendations. Among them, there is a place for 7 NOC A candidates, 4 NOC B candidates, 28 NOC C candidates, and 8 NOC D candidates in 2020.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Impact of Biden's coming to power on Immigration to Canada

 
An analysis by The Canadian Press of the effects on Canada of Joe Biden's coming to power points out that his electoral victory will have a wide-ranging impact on Canada in the field of immigration. Donald Trump made extensive revisions to US immigration policy, which has increased the number of asylum-seekers illegally crossing the Canada-US border into Canada through the loopholes in the Canada-US Safe Third Country Agreement. Canada has always hoped to renegotiate the agreement. The analysis says now Canada believes that Biden could be a more willing partner in negotiating the agreement. Furthermore, Trump's immigration policy has made it more difficult for people from certain countries to enter the US, leading to a sharp rise in the number of foreign nationals immigrating to Canada. However, Biden may reverse this situation to avoid the outflow of talent from the US.

#USA, #immigration_policy, #Biden

British Columbia introduces mandatory registration for hiring foreign workers

Employers in British Columbia who wish to hire foreign workers may soon be required to register with the provincial government in addition to obtaining an LMIA from the federal government. According to the Western Labour Agriculture Initiative, beginning December 15, 2020, the registration will become mandatory. Employers will be able to register online. This policy follows the mandatory requirement for recruiters to be licensed in BC. The new policy applies to employers hiring foreign workers in the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), Seasonal Agriculture Worker Program (SAWP), Home Child Care Provider or Home Support Worker pilots, and all other LMIA-required programs. The registration certificates will be valid for three years.

#British_Columbia, #LMIA, #foreign_workers, #agroculture_workers, #seasonal_workers, #TFWP, #SAWP, #caregivers

Claresholm received 11,000 profiles of prospective candidates

The demand for immigration to the town of Claresholm in Alberta significantly exceeds the supply. The Claresholm Economic Development Committee (CEDC), the municipal body responsible for the management of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) in Claresholm, reported about receiving over 11,000 profiles of foreign national wishing to immigrate to Claresholm. The registration was opened on February 14, 2020. Earlier, the authorities of Claresholm announced they will recommend only twenty profiles in 2020 despite the quota of up to 100 candidates annually. Nevertheless, next year CEDC may re-evaluate the quota and increase the number of community recommendations.

#RNIP, #Claresholm, #Alberta, #community_recommendation, #PR #rural_immigration

Quotas are filled for Home Child Care Provider Pilot

On November 3, Immigration Canada announced that it will stop accepting applications for the new Home Child Care Provider Pilot. Up to now, the number of applications for the pilot has exceeded 2,750, reaching the annual application limit. New applications will reopen on January 1, 2021. Applications that were not accepted will get a refund for the fees. As for the Home Support Worker Pilot, there is still space available for candidates to apply. The Canadian Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot is a five-year pilot project launched by the Canadian government on February 23, 2019. Compared to the previous caretaker immigration program, this new pilot program has simpler requirements and more advantages.

#Caregivers, #IRCC, #PR

Canada announced the closure of International Experience Canada in 2020

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially announced that the 2020 season for the International Experience Canada (IEC) will be closed on Thursday, November 12, 2020. The popular program that allows hundreds of thousands of young foreigners to come to Canada and get a work permit, this year experienced a heavy impact of the COVID-19. In March 2020, IRCC postponed invitation rounds for all streams and participating countries. Only 40241 candidates in the IEC received Invitations to Apply for a work permit in 2020. After the season closure, IRCC will remove all profiles in the system. Candidates wishing to get a work permit in the IEC will have to create a new profile once the 2021 season will be opened. 

#IRCC, #IEC, #work_permits, #Working_Holiday, #ITA, #Covid_19

Canada issued 4500 ITAs in the Express Entry

On November 5, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new all-programs draw in the Express Entry. In draw #166, IRCC issued 4,500 invitations to apply (ITAs). The cut-off Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in this round increased by 7 points and reached 478. The tie-breaking rule for this round was October 26, 2020 at 22:44:19 UTC. As of November 4, 2020, there are 148,470 profiles in the Express Entry pool of candidates, 4,132 profiles more compared to the previous update. IRCC had delayed the new draw for eight days as Immigration Department was implementing updates related to new points allocation for French-speaking and bilingual candidates. At the moment, there are about 7,000 candidates in the pool whose score is above 470 points. This inevitably means the expected drop of points required for getting the ITA in the next few rounds. In total, Canada invited 87,350 candidates in 33 invitation rounds in 2020.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP, #PR

Ontario has completed the intake in the Regional Immigration Pilot for 2020

On November 5, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program announced that it has met the intake limit for the Regional Immigration Pilot for 2020. Candidates can continue submitting forms; however, they will be placed on the waitlist. Candidates who will not be invited will get a chance for the Regional Immigration Pilot in 2021. The pilot will continue next year. The intake of the applications was opened on July 9. OINP has allocated 150 spots for the program and it was split between three participating communities of Chatham-Kent, Cornwall, and Quinte West/Belleville.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Regional_pilot, #OINPRIP

Manitoba conducted MPNP draw #102

On November 5, 2020, Manitoba conducted a new draw in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In round #102, MPNP issued 166 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The minimum score to get the LAA in this category was 461 points, 86 points more compared to draw #101. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 16 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO category was 708 points, 63 points fewer than in the previous round. Manitoba also invited 23 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba issued LAAs to 205 candidates this round, including 7 Express Entry candidates. MPNP has invited 4,097 candidates in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

IRCC released new instructions for the Parents and Grandparents program

On November 5, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released new instructions for officers who are managing the process in the Parents and Grandparents Program. IRCC will issue more invitations to apply than the annual cap since not all invited will submit the full application. A maximum of 10,000 sponsorship applications will be accepted. Sponsors will have 60 days once they receive an invitation to apply letter to submit their sponsorship application and permanent residence application package. Applications will be processed based on the first-in, first-out principle.

#IRCC, #Family_immigration, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP, #Parental_sponsorship #Parents_and_Grandparents_sponsorship

OINP issued 210 NOIs in the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

On November 4, 2020, the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP) held the fourth invitation round in the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream (FSSW) of the OINP Human Capital Category. In this draw, Ontario invited 210 candidates. The Express Entry score range of invited candidates who received the Notification of Interest from the OINP was between 453 and 470 points. The Express Entry profiles of those candidates were created between November 4, 2019, and November 4, 2020. Last year, Ontario invited 549 candidates in the FSSW and 401 were granted a nomination of the province. In 2020, OINP already invited 902 FSSW candidates.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Francophones, #FSSW, #ITA, #PNP

New Brunswick again updated the Skilled Worker Stream Guide

On November 4, 2020, the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) released an updated official guide to the Skilled Worker Stream. The new guide includes some minor updates. In general, the guide repeats the same specific eligibility requirements for Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 7511) as the previous version of the guide.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #skilled_workers, #PNP, #Truckers

Ontario invited 516 skilled trades candidates

On November 4, 2020, Ontario invited 516 candidates in the Skilled Trades Stream of the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP). All invitees have their profiles created in the Express Entry system between November 4, 2019, and November 4, 2020. The CRS score range of the invited candidates was 436-470. This was the third draw in the OINP Skilled Trades Stream in 2020. Last year, OINP issued 1,399 NOIs in the Skilled Trades Stream and 639 candidates in the stream were nominated to apply for permanent residence. This year Ontario invited 14,420 candidates in the OINP and 1,464 of them in the Skilled Trades Stream.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Skilled_trades, #PNP, #ITA

Canada must attract more skilled immigrants

According to a recent report by the Business Council of Canada entitled “Powering a Strong Recovery: An Economic Growth Plan for Canada”, the government must double down its efforts on attracting more skilled workers to overcome the impact of an ageing population and boost the national post-COVID recovery plan of the economy. The key priorities for the country after the pandemic must be attracting and retaining international students. This cohort of young foreigners represents a huge opportunity for our nation. Moreover, the report states such graduates with a Canadian education are the ideal immigrants for Canada. In addition, many newcomers bring their entrepreneurial spirit and establish new businesses, which in turn create new jobs and pay taxes.

#COVID_19, #economy, #newcomers, #international_students, #foreign_workers, #skilled_immigrants

Saskatchewan invited 534 candidates in the new draw

On November 3, the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) conducted a new draw. SINP issued 272 invitations to apply (ITAs) in the Express Entry category. Saskatchewan issued invitations to candidates in 46 different NOCs in this category. In the Occupations In-Demand category, Saskatchewan invited 262 candidates in 55 different NOCs. The lowest score in both categories was 68 points, two points less than in the previous Saskatchewan Express Entry draw and ten points less than in the Occupations In-Demand category. In total, Saskatchewan invited 534 candidates to apply for a nomination. In 2020, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 6,704 candidates in the SINP.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand

BCPNP invited 76 high-tech specialists in the Tech Pilot

On November 3, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new draw for candidates in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In this round, the province invited 76 high-tech specialists to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All candidates scored 80 points or higher. In total, British Columbia invited 1,874 Tech Pilot candidates this year. In 2020, BC issued 8,019 invitations in the BCPNP. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

New Brunswick to hold the online information session for nurses
On November 3, 2020, New Brunswick announced that the provincial immigration authorities will hold virtual immigration information sessions for Nurses in East Asia in December. The province plans a series of webinars to provide prospective nursing professionals with information about New Brunswick economic immigration programs and the career paths. New Brunswick also encourages attendants to create Express Entry profiles before registering for the session. All candidates interested to participate are invited to register and submit the details of their professional education and experience in nursing and healthcare.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session, #nurses

Canada requires mandatory requirements for travellers to Canada

 
On November 2, 2020, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) announced the requirement to use the mobile application ArriveCAN to comply with travel instructions caused by COVID-19. The app has been introduced in April 2020 to help travellers to Canada. Starting November 21, 2020, air travellers will have to submit the travel and contact information, quarantine plan, and COVID-19 symptom self-assessment through ArriveCAN prior to boarding to Canada. CBSA officers may ask to show ArriveCAN receipt upon entry to the country. Failure to submit the information may result in $1,000 fines.

#PHAC, #Health_Canada, #COVID_19, #ArriveCAN

Travel restrictions remain in force until November 30

On October 30, 2020, the Federal government extended the policy of travel restrictions to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 until November 30, 2020. At the moment, most foreign nationals cannot travel to Canada. Nevertheless, Canada keeps allowing the entrance of several categories of exempt travellers such as family members of Canadians and permanent residents, international students, whose educational institutions have a COVID readiness plan and some foreign workers, authorized to work, and immigrants who received approval to make a landing in Canada. Visitors and tourists are not allowed to come to Canada. Travel restrictions were introduced on March 18 and since then, Canada extends them every month. The border with the United States will also remain closed until at least November 21.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #COVID_19, #TRV, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #work_permits #travel_restrictions

Canada announced the National Francophone Immigration Week 2020

On November 2, 2020, Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, issued a statement regarding French-speaking immigrants. Mendicino emphasized the role of immigrants in general and francophones in particular in fueling Canada’s economy and enrich Canadian society. National Francophone Immigration Week helps to recognize the contribution of French-speaking newcomers and present the support available for them in Canada. Canada plans to reach 4.4% of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec by 2023. To achieve this target, Mendicino introduced the bonus points for Francophones and bilingual candidates in Express Entry.

#IRCC, #Francophones, #French, #Express_Entry, #CRS

IRCC clarified the exemptions for family members of people under the Indian Act

On November 2, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released an update to the program delivery instructions related to the COVID-19 travel restrictions. IRCC clarified the exemptions for family members of people registered under the Indian Act and included them to the list of immediate and extended family members, allowed to travel to Canada. Earlier, the instructions mentioned Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents only. These updates are now aligned with the amended Orders in Council that came into force on November 1, 2020.

#travel_restrictions, #IRCC, #COVID_19, #travel_exemptions

IRCC to conduct an online survey of newcomers 

On November 2, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the online survey of newcomers about their resettlement, settlement and integration experiences. The immigration department collects data to improve settlement and resettlement services to better meet the needs of newcomers. Participation in the survey will be voluntary and confidential. The link for the survey will be sent beginning November 12, 2020, to immigrants who received permanent residence in the years 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019. The survey will be available in English, French, Chinese, Arabic, Spanish, Amharic and Farsi.

#IRCC, #newcomers, #resettlement, #settlement, #integration

Canada wants to accept 401,000 new immigrants in 2021

On October 30, 2020, the government of Canada released the 2021-2023 Immigration Levels Plan. Next year, Canada plans to admit 401,000 immigrants, another 411,000 in 2022 and 421,000 in 2023. In its history, Canada has invited more than 400,000 people in 1913 alone. That year 401,000 immigrated to Canada. About 60% of newcomers in 2021 are planned to be invited to economic programs, through the Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program. This year, Canada planned to invite 341,000 immigrants, but due to border closures and the pandemic, that goal will most likely not be reached. Through immigration, Canada is trying to improve the economic situation in a country that has been hit hard by the pandemic. The second major problem is the ageing population. Almost 18% of the population is over 65 and this figure is growing. The birth rate is only 1.47% per woman. Increasing immigration is the response Canada gives to the COVID-19.

#immigration_policy, #immigration_levels, #labour_shortage, #ageing_population, #demography, #IRCC

IRCC updated instructions for dual intent of the spouses

On October 30, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new update of the Dual Intent program delivery instructions for spouses and partners who have an overseas application for permanent residence as a sponsored spouse or partner in progress. Dual Intent is a legal term in Canadian immigration law, allowing for nationals to seek temporary and permanent residence at the same time. The update clarifies what factors the immigration officers must consider when assessing the dual intent of the sponsored spouses, such as time planned to spend in Canada on TRV, means of support, ties to the homeland, the purpose of the visit, plans of the couple if the sponsorship is refused, etc.

#IRCC, #spousal_sponsorship, #family_immigration, #PR, #dual_intent, #TRV

Saskatchewan updated application processing times in the SINP 

On October 30, 2020, Saskatchewan has updated the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) processing times. The new data is based on average times from July 1 to September 30, 2020. In the International Skilled Worker category, the processing time in the Employment Offer stream is 3 weeks, and 35 weeks for both the Occupation In-Demand and the Express Entry streams. In the Saskatchewan Experience category, the processing time in the Existing Work Permit Stream and the International Students Stream is 2 weeks; in the Health Professionals Stream, it is 4 weeks. As for the Hospitality Workers stream, the processing time is 2 weeks, and the Truck Drivers are processed in only 1 week. In the Entrepreneur and Farm category, the processing time for the Entrepreneurs Nominations is 17 weeks. There was not enough data to estimate processing times for Farmers Stream. The Job Approval Process, the authorization for an employer to hire a foreign worker through the SINP, takes 8 weeks. The processing times show the average time for 80% of applications to be processed

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #processing_times

Foreign nannies ill-treated 

Multiple immigrant and nanny groups, including the Caregivers Action Centre and the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, conducted a study about foreign nannies in Canada. The study interviewed 200 foreign nannies in Canada and found out that in the past six months, their unpaid salary amounted to approximately $6,550 per person. In addition to increasing financial pressure, more than one-third of respondents said that their employers prohibited them from going out for fear of contracting coronavirus, which intensified their feelings of isolation and anxiety. Diana Da Silva, a spokesperson for these immigrant and nanny concern groups, said that at present, Canada has approximately 25,000 foreign nannies. Silva called on the federal government to immediately provide foreign nannies with Canadian permanent residence status to enable them to protect themselves amid the pandemic and also to have the opportunity to reunite with their family members.

#nannies, #caregivers, #COVID_19

Impacts of the pandemic on the trucking industry

The trucking industry in the GTA faces a lot of challenges because of the COVID pandemic. The number of open positions has reduced while competition for them has increased. As a result, many new licensees with no experience cannot find a job. A lot of truck driving schools have also been affected and some are closed because of the pandemic. Driving tests were also cancelled for a while, but they have started again. In the classes that are on, students have to sit far apart. Classes that used to be for 12 students are now for six students and they cost twice as much. Many students want to join the trucking industry but there is no room for new ones. Nevertheless, many provincial programs keep targeting Truck Drivers. Immigration pathways for truckers exist in several PNPs as well as Truck Drivers are included in the in-demand occupation lists including Ontario.

#trucking_industry, #Ontario, #GTA, #truck_drivers

US election results may impact Canada’s newcomer composition

The result of the presidential election may not lead to a significant increase in the immigration of Americans to Canada, but it may affect the Canadian immigrant population structure, including refugees. The Star newspaper quoted a survey conducted by polling firm Legard and the Association for Canadian Studies, showing that after the number of new immigrants has fallen for several months due to the pandemic, people are hesitant about accepting more immigrants again. 52% of respondents said that they hope that in the next 12 months, the number of immigrants can be kept at a low level. US President Donald Trump tightened immigration policies after he took office in 2017, and Canada used this opportunity to attract more people by sending out welcoming signals.

#USA, #immigration_levels, #immigration_policy

Parents and Grandparents program concludes in a week

Since the opening of the parent and grandparent immigration program (PGP) in 2011, it has attracted tens of thousands of Canadians to apply each year. Affected by the COVID-19 pandemic this year, the program has been postponed since the beginning of the year and did not reopen until October 13. This year PGP adopted a lottery method, where the IRCC will randomly select the sponsors in the applicant pool and invite them to submit formal applications online. The selected applicants need to submit their applications within 60 days. The quota for this year's intake is limited to 10,000 applications. Nevertheless, those unlucky may have better chances next year, when the government promises to accept 30,000 applications.

#IRCC, #Family_immigration, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP, #Parental_sponsorship #Parents_and_Grandparents_sponsorship

Quebec's Immigration Plan for 2021 was presented to the public

Quebec wants to welcome 44,500 to 47,500 new immigrants in 2021. These numbers are slightly higher than the 2020 target of 44,500 immigrants. It is expected that in 2021 the majority of newcomers - 62% - will come as part of economic immigration programs. It is worth emphasizing that Quebec only controls the number of refugees and economic immigrants - skilled workers and business immigrants - who wish to relocate to the French-speaking province. The number of Family Class immigrants is under federal jurisdiction. Immigration targets of Quebec for 2021 are:
•    Skilled workers: from 19,400 to 22,400
•    Business immigrants: from 1500 to 2300
•    Other economic immigrants: 400 to 600
•    Refugees: 4400 to 4700
•    Other immigrants: 800 to 1200
#Quebec, #MIFI, #PR, #refugees, #entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #skilled_workers, #Arrima

International Experience Canada season 2020 is about to officially end

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has ruined the intake of candidates for the International Experience Canada (IEC) season 2020. Opened in early January, since March 13, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) postponed all invitation rounds for all countries and in all three streams. On October 30, International Experience Canada will officially end in 2020. At the moment, IRCC did not announce any instructions for IEC in 2021. In total, Canada invited only 40241 candidates across all pools and streams in 2020.

#IRCC, #IEC, #work_permits, #Working_Holiday, #ITA, #Covid_19

Quebec announced three new pilot programs and caps in several programs

On October 28, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) released a draft regulation about the establishment of three immigration pilot programs and four ministerial orders regarding the intake of immigration applications for the following twelve months. The new orders take effect on November 1, 2020. Three new pilots will be:
•    the pilot program for orderlies
•    the pilot program for workers in the artificial intelligence (AI), information technologies (IT) and visual effects sectors
•    the pilot program for workers in food processing (FP)
As for the existing programs, Quebec will accept 50 applications for the Self-Employed Program, 25 applications in the Entrepreneur Program, and 750 applications in the Quebec Refugee Sponsorship Applications.

#Quebec, #MIFI, #PR, #refugees, #entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #self_employed

Small cities are more suitable for newcomers

Newcomers to Canada usually choose to settle in big cities such as Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. But a survey conducted by the University of Guelph in Canada showed that small cities may be a better choice for immigrants and refugees who are new to Canada. Rana Telfah, a doctoral student at the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph, said in an interview that she visited more than 40 immigrant families who settled outside the large cities in Ontario, and found that new immigrants and refugees are getting more “kindness and generosity” in small cities. In addition, many new immigrants decide to move to smaller cities because the cost of living in big cities is too high. A professor from the University of Guelph said the way new immigrants are sponsored will also affect their settlement in Canada. In addition, the population of many small and medium-sized cities in Canada has declined, making locals happy to see the arrival of immigrants.

#newcomers, #immigrant_accomodation

Thousands of would-be Canadian permanent residents stranded abroad 

According to IRCC, 2,700 foreign nationals with expired Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and Permanent Resident Visas (PRVs) are stuck in limbo. When immigration candidates get a COPR and PRV, it means they have completed almost every step of the Canadian immigration process. All they have to do is land in Canada and apply for their permanent residence card. But they cannot board a plane now due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions. “IRCC is working on solutions to bring these future permanent residents to Canada,” said the Department. As of October 19, IRCC has responded to 2,700 principal applicants who filled out a webform. Of these, 120 have received their authorization letters.

#IRCC, #PR, #COPR, #PRV, #landing
 

IRCC introduced additional points for French in the Express Entry

On October 27, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced changes to Express Entry's Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS) system. Effective immediately, candidates who have a CLB 7 level in French will get 25 points, up from 15 points before. In the case candidates scored CLB 7 in French and CLB 5 or higher in English, they will be awarded 50 points, an increase of 20 points. This means the importance of being bilingual has significantly improved for prospective immigrants to Canada. The Federal government adopted this policy in the course of implementation of the national commitment to reach a target of 4.4% Francophone immigrants outside Quebec by 2023. In the last 17 years, Canada admitted over 60,000 French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec. Last year, 8,465 Francophones were granted permanent residence outside Quebec.

#Francophones, #French, #Express_Entry, #CRS

Alberta government limiting temporary foreign worker applications

Alberta imposes temporary restrictions on foreign workers to save jobs for the province's residents. Minister of Labour and Immigration Jason Copping said Monday that the provincial conservative government is imposing restrictions on foreign workers. As a part of the new policy, Alberta cancelled more than 800 LMIA applications. These changes should free up about 1,350 jobs. The Minister of Labor believes there are a large number of Alberta residents who are willing to take these jobs. The changes will not affect those already in Alberta as well as foreign workers in the agricultural, medical and technological areas. It is not yet known which occupation will become inaccessible to foreigners, there is information that the list will consist of 475 NOCs.

#Alberta, #LMIA, #foreign_workers, #work_in_Canada

BCPNP sent ITAs to 354 candidates

On October 27, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new draw the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). In this round, the province invited 354 candidates in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories to apply for a nomination of British Columbia. There were no changes in the lowest scores in this round compared to the October 13 draw:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 93
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 94
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 75
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 92
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 93
British Columbia excluded the following 31 NOCs from participation in this draw (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In 2020, the province invited 7,943 candidates under all streams of BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Saskatchewan held two SINP draws in October

Saskatchewan government did not post results of the invitation rounds in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) from September 29, 2020, to October 26, 2020, to comply with the local laws prohibiting changes on the government website in the month prior to the provincial election. On October 27, the province finally published the results of two invitation rounds conducted in October in which SINP invited 1,073 aspirants to apply for a nomination. On October 7, SINP issued 455 ITAs in the Express Entry category. The lowers score was 70 points, 12 points less compared to September 24. In this draw, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 67 different NOCs. On October 21, 2020, SINP issued 278 invitations to apply in the Occupations In-Demand category. The lowest score was 78 points, four points fewer compared to the September 24 draw. In this round, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 67 different NOCs. In the Express Entry category, SINP issued 340 invitations, and the lowest score was 69 points. In this invitation round, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 54 different NOCs. In total, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 6,170 candidates in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand

Alberta nominated another 69 candidates in the AINP

On October 27, 2020, Alberta published a new Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) statistics update. Since the last update on October 14, Alberta nominated another 48 individuals to apply for permanent residence. In 2020, Alberta already nominated 3,837 candidates aspiring the permanent residence in Canada and almost reached the cap of 4,000 nominations. To recall, Alberta received a quota of 6,250 nominations from the Federal government but due to COVID-19, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney decided to reduce this number in response to high unemployment in the province. As of today, AINP received 1,775 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment. In addition, there are 50 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR, #IRCC

OINP issued ITAs to another 21 Entrepreneurs

On October 26, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) held a new invitation round in the Entrepreneur Stream of the OINP. This was the fifth draw for business immigration to Ontario in 2020. In this round, the provincial authorities invited 21 business-candidates to apply for a provincial nomination. The lowest score for getting ITA in this round was 142 points, two points fewer compared to the August 27 draw. In this draw, Ontario considered Expressions of Interest received by the OINP between November 22, 2019, and October 16, 2020. In total, Ontario invited 112 Entrepreneurs to apply for the provincial nomination in the OINP in 2020.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #PNP

Alberta starts two programs for business-immigrants

On October 26, 2020, the Government of Alberta has officially announced the new streams to immigrate to Alberta under the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). Both programs will target foreign entrepreneurs in order to create new high-wage positions for residents of Albertans and help diversify the provincial economy. Beginning October 26, 2020, Alberta will accept Expressions of Interest in the International Graduate Entrepreneur Immigration Stream (IGEIS). This stream allows recent international graduates from the provincial universities and colleges who have launched a business or a start-up to get a nomination of Alberta. In January 2021, AINP will also start the Foreign Graduate Start-Up Visa Stream. This program will target talented international graduates from top United States universities and colleges to launch businesses in Alberta. The details on this stream will be available at a later date.

#AINP, #Alberta, #business_immigration, #PNP, #Entrepreneurs, #International_graduates, #IGEIS

Refugees may not apply for AINP or NLPNP

On October 26, 2020, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador published an update regarding the eligibility of refugee claimants to apply for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) and Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP). The government clarified that possession of a study permit or work permit in the case of a refugee claimant does not mean possession of temporary residence status. Therefore, it makes in-Canada refugee claimants ineligible for AIPP and NLPNP. Refugee claimants whose claims have been approved can apply for Permanent Residence as protected persons.

#refugees, #asylum_claim, #AIPP, #NLPNP, #Newfoundland_and_Labrador

Moose Jaw RNIP website is online

On October 26, 2020, Moose Jaw, SK launched its website about the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). The Moose Jaw website is the last community website in the framework of RNIP. The RNIP in Moose Jaw allows a pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers willing to settle in this Saskatchewan community. The main goal of the program is to fill the labour shortage in the local market. Moose Jaw will begin selecting candidates in late 2020, once the pool of jobs and approved employers is over. In December 2020 or January 2021, the community will start accepting applications and issuing community recommendations. The main requirement as in all other RNIP streams is a genuine full-time job offer from an approved employer. The full details to be expected soon.

#RNIP, #Moose_Jaw, #Saskatchewan, #rural_immigration
 

Canada welcomed 255 self-employed immigrants in 2020

The pandemic of COVID-19 reduces the number of immigrants coming to Canada. At the same time, Canada kept supporting all programs and pathways of obtaining a permanent residence in the country. One such program is the Self-Employed Persons Program (SEPP) which allows talented foreign artists and athletes to permanently settle in Canada. SEPP accepts applications for immigration through two pathways - for world-class level sportsmen and self-employed persons whose main work is such cultural activities as music, art, writing, etc. The main criteria in the SEPP are to have two years of self-employed work experience at a required level and to be able to be self-employed in Canada. The processing time for SEPP is now 23 months. In 2020, Canada already welcomes 255 self-employed artists and sportsmen. Most self-employed immigrants settled in just two provinces – 110 in British Columbia and 105 in Ontario.

#business_immigration, #self_employed, #SEPP

Immigration to B.C. fell 111% in the first half of the year

Figures show that with the continued impact of the pandemic, net immigration to B.C. has become negative. Immigration to B.C. in the first half of this year plummeted by 111% compared to the first half of last year. This adds to concerns in the local rental housing sector. According to BC statistics in the second quarter, immigrants to Canada experienced negative growth of 3,553, compared with a net increase of 19,600 immigrants in the same period last year. In the first quarter of 2020, B.C. had a net immigration increase of 6,024 newcomers, down 50% from the first quarter of 2019, as COVID-19 travel restrictions kicked in.

#immigration_levels, #British_Columbia, #Vancouver, #COVID_19

North Bay to begin accepting applications in the RNIP

The city of North Bay, ON, recently announced the launch of the application system where candidates will be able to submit an Expression of Interest to immigrate to North Bay in the framework of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program (RNIP). North Bay is one of the four Ontario communities approved for RNIP along with other ten communities across Canada. The population of North Bay is 51,553 people and it is located three hours north of Toronto. The North Bay RNIP immigration system will be a points-based system providing points for a number of criteria; however, the main requirement will be a job offer from an employer in North Bay. The city will be allowed to recommend a maximum of 100 candidates annually in the RNIP. The invitation rounds will occur on a monthly basis.

#RNIP, #North_Bay, #Ontartio, #rural_immigration

Alberta to reduce self-isolation to 2 days with the new testing

The Alberta government announced the new pilot COVID-19 testing system that will allow getting results in 48 hours. According to Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, this may shorten the period of self-isolation from 14 days to 2 days only if the test result is negative. The new health protocols will allow test takers to leave their self-isolation if they remain within Alberta during the first 14 days of their visit to Canada. In addition, they will have to undergo a second COVID test on day 6 or 7 after their entry to Canada. If the new protocol introduction will be successful, it may be expanded on the other provinces as well.

#Alberta, #COVID_19
 

Canada may change the text of the Oath of Citizenship

On October 22, 2020, the Oath of Citizenship bill introduced in the Parliament of Canada. The Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino issued a statement saying that the reason to amend the Citizenship Act and the text of the Oath is to emphasize the level of commitment to the rights of Indigenous Peoples and to seek reconciliation with the first nations of Canada. The amended Oath will have the following words: “I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, Her Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada, including the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and fulfill my duties as a Canadian citizen.”

#IRCC, #Citizenship, #oath

Manitoba invited 206 individuals in the MPNP draw #101

On October 22, 2020, the province of Manitoba held a new draw in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In round #101, MPNP issued 161 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 375 points, 153 points fewer compared to draw #100. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 15 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO category was 771 points, 160 points more than in the previous round. MPNP also invited 30 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba invited 206 candidates in this round, including 22 Express Entry candidates. In 2020, Manitoba issued LAAs to 4,097 candidates.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

Nova Scotia invited programmers and interactive media developers

On October 22, 2020, Nova Scotia held a new invitation round in the Labour Market Priorities Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). In this round, Nova Scotia issued Letters of Interest to Express Entry candidates whose primary occupation is programmers and interactive media developers (NOC 2174). All candidates invited in this round must possess letters of reference from employers to prove three or more years of experience in the last five years and demonstrate the language skill at a CLB level 7 or higher in English in all four bands. All candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree or three-year program at a university, college, trade or technical school, or other educational institution. The deadline to submit the application for all invited candidates is set on November 21, 2020, before 11:59 PM. In the previous rounds of this stream in 2020, Nova Scotia targeted French-speaking candidates, nurses, motor vehicle body repairers, and automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #programmes, #interactive_media_developers

The new Canadian immigration plan to be announced soon

The shape of Canadian immigration for years to come will be announced soon with a new mandate letter written by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino. This letter will set Canada’s new immigration priorities and it should be released by the end of the month. Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan 2021-2023 will outline Canada’s new permanent residence targets over the next three years. In Canada, the prime minister outlines the responsibilities that they would like their respective cabinet members to pursue while the ruling party manages the government. In this case, Trudeau’s mandate letter to Minister Mendicino will guide Mendicino’s efforts to lead the operations of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

#IRCC, #immigration_levels, #immigration_policy
 

Canada announced DLI with COVID readiness plans

On October 21, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in cooperation with Health Canada and provincial authorities released a list of designated learning institutions (DLIs) with approved COVID readiness plans that can accept international students who aren’t currently in Canada. Those students must possess a study permit or a letter of introduction about the approved study permit and travel to Canada for a non-discretionary. Students who enter Canada will pass the required health checks and must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival in Canada. There are 131 DLI with approved COVID readiness plans:
•    Alberta - 39 DLI
•    British Columbia - 39 DLI
•    Manitoba - 10 DLI
•    New Brunswick - 13 DLI
•    Newfoundland and Labrador - 3 DLI
•    Ontario - 14 DLI
•    Prince Edward Island - 5 DLI
•    Saskatchewan - 7 DLI
•    Yukon - 1 DLI
In addition, all post-secondary DLIs in Quebec are approved to open to international students.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19, #DLI

The OINP accepted 1,250 registrations in the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream

On October 21, 2020, the government of Ontario held a registration session for candidates in the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream (EJO FW) of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The registration was closed in about two hours after the system has reached its intake limit. The program accepted 1,250 registrations in this round. In 2019, Ontario nominated 1,195 foreigners through the EJO FW. This year, Ontario invited over 3,500 candidates to apply for a nomination of Ontario in the EJO FW. In total, OINP issued invitations to 13,673 candidates under all streams of the OINP in 2020.

#OINP, #Ontario, #Employer_Job_Offer, #foreign_workers

IRCC announced changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program

On October 21, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), released new instructions for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). IRCC has extended the temporary measures for PGWPP to April 30, 2021, allowing students studying online outside of Canada will keep their eligibility for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) if they complete 50% of their program in Canada. As for short term studies, students who started their 8-12 months programs in 2020, are exempt from this requirement and can count all the time of remote studies outside Canada until April 30, 2021, towards the PGWP eligibility. The time after this date will be deducted from the length of the PGWP.

#PGWP, #international_students, #international_graduates, #work_in_Canada

Quebec launched a call for proposals for the Community Support Program

As part of the new Community Support Program (PAC) announced on October 20, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) issued a call for proposals to regional county municipalities (MRCs) and local municipalities. Communities are encouraged to submit projects that may increase their ability to attract newcomers as well as ethnocultural minorities by offering them settlement and integration services in communities. The goal of the program is to create more welcoming and inclusive communities across Quebec. MRCs and local municipalities can submit their proposals until November 17, 2020.

#Quebec, #MIFI, #newcomer_integration

Yukon will prepare a new ten-years immigration plan

On October 20, 2020, Yukon announced the public engagement on the future of immigration in Yukon. Residents of the territory are encouraged to submit their ideas regarding the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) in order to develop a new immigration plan. The previous plan was in effect from 2010 to 2019. Yukon intends to modernize its immigration strategy to meet the needs of the local economy. At the moment Yukon manages the Yukon Nominee Program and the Yukon Business Nominee Program. Earlier this year the government also launched the Yukon community immigration pilot program, which allows foreign workers to live and work in Canada without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). In 2019, Yukon admitted 400 new permanent residents. This year, 135 foreign nationals permanently settled in Yukon.

#Yukon, #YNP, #YCP, #PNP

British Columbia issued 80 ITAs in the Tech Pilot

On October 20, 2020, British Columbia held a new round of invitations in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In this draw, BC invited 80 individuals to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. The lowest score was of this round was 80 points. In 2020, British Columbia invited 1,798 candidates in the Tech Pilot. In total, BC issued 7,589 invitations in the BCPNP. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Ontario to reopen the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream today!

On October 20, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced that the next day the program will reopen the intake of registrations in the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream (EJO FW). OINP has also notified it is expecting a high volume of users trying to register, thus technical issues may occur. The OINP will close the registration once the intake limit is met. Also, the OINP requests the most recent version of the Employer Form. It must be completed on or after October 21, 2020. Candidates who successfully registered in the system will have 14 days to complete and submit the full application. The reopening is expected during the Ontario business hours. This may be the last reopening of the EJO FW this year.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #Skilled_workers

BCPNP invited 20 entrepreneurs

On October 20, 2020, British Columbia held new draws to business-candidates in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In the Base Category of the Entrepreneur Stream, BC PNP invited 15 candidates with the lowest score of 122 points, four points fewer than in the September 1 draw. In the Entrepreneur Regional Pilot, the province invited 5 candidates with the lowest score of 109 points, nineteen points less than in the previous draw. British Columbia invited 143 business-candidates in 2020 and 54 of them were invited in the Regional Pilot.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Entrepreneurs, #Business_immigration, #Regional_Pilot, #Rural_immigration, #PNP

IRCC introduced minor updates to the issuance of spousal work permits

On October 20, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published a program delivery update within the International Mobility Program. IRCC updated the instructions for spouses or common-law partners of foreign skilled workers and their eligibility to open work permits. Specific changes are related to the issuance of open work permits for spouses of the provincial nominee candidates regardless of the NOC level of the primary applicant and regulations related to part-time work for the principal foreign worker. The update also includes some minor changes throughout the other instructions to provide further clarity.

#foreign_workers, #open_work_permit, #spousal_work_permit, #IRCC, #work_in_Canada, #IMP

Prince Edward Island invited 184 skilled workers and 27 entrepreneurs

On October 19, 2020, Prince Edward Island released the results of the October 15 draw in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP). In this invitation round, the provincial government issued 211 invitations to apply for a provincial nomination. PEI invited 184 skilled workers in the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 27 candidates in the Business Work Permit Entrepreneurs stream. The lowest score for business-candidates was 97 points, five points fewer than in September 17 draw. It seems the PEI PNP has returned to a normal schedule of one all-streams monthly draws. In 2020, Prince Edward Island invited 1,479 candidates including 159 entrepreneurs. In the last twelve months, PEI PNP invited 1,621 skilled workers and 184 business candidates to apply for the PEI nomination.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers, #Entrepreneurs

Canada extended the border closure with the United States until November 21

On October 19, 2020, Canada extended the border closure with the United States until November 21, 2020. It is the seventh extension of travel restrictions through the land border. This was announced by the Minister of Public Safety of Canada Bill Blair on Twitter. Later today, it was also confirmed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on his Twitter. The US-Canada border remains closed since March 19, following the emergency measures of the government to stop the spread of the COVID-19. The pandemic situation in the US remains critical and the closure of the border may continue until the situation improves or after the end of phase three of vaccines tests.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Canadian government adhering to the 1.05 million immigrant goal

According to Bloomberg, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau insisted on achieving the goal of attracting 1.05 million new immigrants within three years. However, the Minister of Immigration Canada Marco Mendicino believes that it is difficult to accomplish this goal. In any case, the immigration goals that are not completed in 2020 will be transferred to 2021 and 2022. It is expected that the number of new immigrants to Canada next year will not only create a historical record but may also be an explosive historical record. According to public data, before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in Canada in March 2020, Canada’s original immigration goals were to accept 341,000 newcomers in 2020, 351,000 in 2021, and 361,000 in 2022. The pandemic directly caused the number of new immigrants admitted to being seriously lower than expected. From January to August 2020, only 128,000 new immigrants landed in Canada. According to this ratio, the number of new immigrants landing in 2020 may not reach 200,000. This means that 850,000 or more new immigrants must be introduced in 2021 and 2022 to reach this goal. Bloomberg said that if the Canadian government wants to achieve Trudeau's goals, it must lower immigration thresholds and relax immigration conditions but Mendicino does not think this is a viable plan. Bloomberg's internal sources said that Mendicino's and Trudeau’s opinions are currently divided.

#Trudeau, #Mendicino, #immigration_levels, #immigration_policy

Newest QS survey showed that 60% of international students have returned to their schools

The authoritative international education organization QS recently launched a survey on the attitudes and choices of international students during the pandemic. QS has conducted a survey of international students enrolled in 86 countries and prospective students from 153 countries to understand the situation and trends of studying abroad during the pandemic. From the acquired data, it is clear that most students who were studying abroad plan to return to school before January next year, which shows that international students are still optimistic about their study abroad plans. 41% of respondents hope they can study in Canada. When asked about the anti-pandemic results of the following major countries studying abroad, Canada received more positive reviews than the United Kingdom and the United States. 73% of respondents believe that Canada has done a good job in preventing and controlling the pandemic, and 12% believe that Canada is not doing well enough.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19
 

Canada welcomed over 200 Start-Up immigrants in 2020

According to data by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Canada admitted 200 permanent residents through the Start-Up Visa in 2020. In 2019, this number was twice bigger for the same period. In total, last year 515 start-uppers immigrated to Canada. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic reduced the volume of start-up immigration. Almost half of new start-up candidates settled in Ontario. British Columbia attracted 65 start-uppers while Alberta welcomed another 15. The rest of the start-up entrepreneurs launched their ventures in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Manitoba.

#business_immigration, #Start_up_visa, #SUV, #entrepreneurs

IRCC updated instructions regarding Visitor Record and Supervisa

On October 16, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has removed instructions specific to super visa holders from the Visitor Record program delivery instructions. CBSA and IRCC officers will now be referred to the Supervisa instructions for the processing of and length of stay for super visa holders. The visitor record is required for foreign nationals to maintain legal status in Canada. It usually includes an extension or restoration of the status for 6 months, but this may vary from case to case.

#TRV, #visitor_record, #visitor_visa, #supervisa, #IRCC

IRCC updated information about the application fees for Beirut victims

On October 16, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provided clarifications regarding the fees for the clients affected by the Beirut incident. The new instructions now differentiate cases when the application fees are not collected and when the government provides a refund. The instructions cover the temporary measures adopted by Canada to help the victims of explosions in Beirut, Lebanon, on August 4, 2020. The instruction will remain in effect until January 31, 2021.

#IRCC, #Lebanon, #applications_fees

COVID-19: Minister Hajdu on Windsor-Essex migrant worker crisis

Since March, Windsor-Essex's agriculture sector was uniquely impacted by the pandemic, with a majority of the region's cases arising in migrant farmworkers. Though cases remain relatively low and stable nearly seven months since COVID-19 first began, the issues the disease emphasized in the agri-farm sector have received significant attention from municipal, provincial and federal politicians. Federal Health Minister Patty Hajdu responded to questions about what the Windsor-Essex migrant worker crisis looked like from her perspective. She said that the Windsor-Essex outbreak was a really tough one and the loss of life is tragic. Canada relies on foreign agriculture workers and the government is doing everything possible to help those workers and their employers.

#Agriculture, #SAWP, #Ontario, #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19

Ontario invited 772 candidates in the OINP Tech Draw 

On October 15, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) sent 772 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to candidates under the Ontario’s Express Entry Human Capital Priorities stream. This is the sixth OINP tech draw since the launch of this initiative. OINP tech draws is aimed at candidates in six following technical occupations: NOC 2173 Software engineers and designers, NOC 2174 Computer programmer and interactive media developers, NOC 2147 Computer engineers, NOC 2175 Web designers and developers, NOC 2172 Database analysts and data administrators, and NOC 0213 Computer and information systems managers. The CRS score range of this draw was 462-470. In 2020, Ontario issued 3,717 NOIs to apply for the provincial nomination in the tech draws. In total, Ontario invited 12,423 candidates under all streams of the OINP in 2020.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Human_capital, #OINP_tech_draw, #Express_Entry

Canada’s immigration policy is among the best among the OECD members

The 2019 Immigration Outcomes report conducted by IRCC showed the success of Canada’s immigration policy in many aspects. Among the member states of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Canada received the largest number of skilled working immigrants each year. Canada has the most well-designed and experienced skilled immigration system, which is widely regarded as a benchmark by OECD member states. In terms of effective integration, newcomers’ unemployment rate is similar to that of native-born Canadians. The report also mentioned that the formulation of Canada’s immigration policies is based on scientific analysis of various data systems. Canadian immigration may recover from the COVID-19 among the first in the world.

#IRCC, #newcomer_intergation, #skilled_workers

The positive effects of immigration on business productivity

According to a new study released by Statistics Canada entitled "Immigration and Firm Productivity: Evidence from the Canadian Employer-Employee Dynamics Database," an increase in the share of immigrant workers in a firm is associated with an increase in labour productivity at the firm level in Canada. The effects of immigrants on business productivity varied considerably across immigrant characteristics and industry sectors. The effect was stronger among low-skilled or less educated immigrants compared to high-skilled or university-educated workers. These differences were more pronounced in technology-intensive and knowledge-based industries. The relatively small effect of high-skilled or university-educated immigrants on productivity is consistent with previous empirical research in Canada, which found that recent immigrants with a university degree earned similar wages to those with a university degree. Canadian-born workers with only a high school diploma, and that more than half of recent immigrants with a university education in STEM fields were not working in STEM occupations and tended to work in low-skilled jobs.

#immigration_policy, #Statistics_Canada, #STEM

Each refugee claim cost taxpayers about $13,000 to $20,000

According to a report from Lexbase, in 2018, Canadian taxpayers paid about $13,000 to $20,000 to process each refugee claim in Canada. The federal expenditure is $12,670, while the total expenses paid by the provinces to applicants amounted to $7,260. This includes $3,500 as social welfare, $1,842 for education, and $1,920 for legal aid. This information was obtained through IRCC and the Immigration Department confirmed the number is probably outdated as they are still trying to figure out a better formula to come up with a more accurate number. At the same time, according to Statistics Canada, illegal entry from the US to Canada dropped by 90% in July 2020 compared to last year.

#Refugees, #USA, #illegal_migrants, #asylu_claims

IRCC repeated the largest Express Entry draw

On October 14, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) repeated the largest all-programs draw in the Express Entry for the second time. In round #165, Canada invited 4,500 applicants to apply for permanent residence. The previous largest draw occurred on February 19, 2020, before the pandemic hit the immigration system. The lowest CRS score in round #165 did not change and was 471 points. The tie-breaking rule for this round was September 1, 2020 at 12:11:23 UTC. As of October 12, 2020, there are 144,338 profiles submitted to Express Entry, an increase of 464 profiles compared to the last update. IRCC will definitely beat a record of invitations in the Express Entry in 2020. In total, Canada invited 82,850 candidates in 32 invitation rounds this year.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP, #PR

British Columbia invited 417 candidates in the new draw

On October 13, 2020, British Columbia held a new draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). In this draw, the government invited 417 persons to apply for a nomination of British Columbia. The lowest scores in this round dropped by one point for the Express Entry British Columbia candidates:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 93
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 94
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 75
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 92 (-1 point)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 93 (-1 point)
British Columbia keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). As of today, British Columbia invited 7,489 candidates under all streams of BCPNP in 2020.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Alberta nominated another 48 candidates in the AINP

On October 14, 2020, Alberta released a new update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) statistics. Since the last update on October 1, Alberta nominated another 48 individuals to apply for permanent residence. In total, Alberta nominated 3,768 foreign nationals in 2020. This means, AINP still can nominate 232 candidates to reach its goal of 4,000 nominations. As of now, the province received 1,700 applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream that are waiting for the eligibility assessment. Those applications were submitted before April 22, 2020. In addition, there are 92 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR, #IRCC

In September, Manitoba nominated 459 candidates in the MPNP

On October 14, 2020, Manitoba released new statistics on the issuance of the provincial nominations in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In September, the province nominated 456 Skilled Workers, 3 business candidates, and approved 3 business concepts. It refused 29 applications of Skilled Workers. MPNP also invited 401 Skilled Workers, 4 business candidates and 5 business concepts. In total, MPNP received 3,241 applications from Skilled Workers and 33 business applications in 2020. In addition, Manitoba nominated 35 Express Entry candidates in September. In total, MPNP nominated 4,551 foreign nationals this year, including 455 Express Entry candidates.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, #business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates

Most international students will come to Canada for September 2021 session

International students are waiting to come to Canada to attend their study programs. Nearly 90% of colleges have announced that the January session will be online. Canada does not have a high number of students starting in the May session. Therefore, it is expected that most students will come to Canada to attend the September 2021 session in person. However, students can take online classes, while staying in their home countries. Currently, the student visa success rate has gone up. However, students have a concern as they are paying high fees and still taking online classes.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #Covid_19

Canada welcomed 128,400 immigrants in 2020 

Canada welcomed 11,315 new immigrants in August this year, and 13,645 in July. The number of new immigrants welcomed in August this year was significantly less than the 31,600 immigrants it welcomed in the same period last year. Prior to the pandemic, the federal government was targeting the arrival of 341,000 new immigrants in 2020. Between January and August of 2020, Canada welcomed 128,400 immigrants. Based on current trends, it appears Canada’s permanent resident intake will fall short of 200,000 immigrants this year for the first time since 1999.

#PR_admission, #IRCC, #PR

Canadian universities face up to $3.4 billion in losses due to COVID-19

According to new research by Statistics Canada, Canadian universities could be facing losses ranging between $377 million and $3.4 billion. The impact of the COVID-19 on Canadian universities was assessed by examining five possible scenarios. The two determining factors affecting the outcome were changes in international and domestic student enrolment. The losses primarily come from a decrease in the numbers of international student tuitions, which accounts for 40% of all tuition fees at Canadian universities and generated $4 million in 2017-2018. The study also highlighted the growing reliance on tuition over the past decade. Reliance on tuition has grown substantially due to foreign students,” who pay substantially higher tuition than domestic students and account for an increasing share of post-secondary students in Canada,” the report says.

#Statistics_Canada, #international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #Covid_19

How can a child born outside of Canada get citizenship? 

According to IRCC, no matter where the child was born, Canadian parents can automatically pass on citizenship to their children. Traditionally, if one of the parents is Canadian when the child is born, the child can enjoy the perks as a Canadian. The same applies to a child of a Canadian who was born outside of Canada. In order for the child to be recognized for citizenship, the parents must help them apply for a certificate of citizenship. According to IRCC, the cost of applying for a Canadian citizenship certificate is about $75 and it takes about 5 months to process. The Immigration Department will accept the birth record and documents confirming the Canadian parents’ names.

#Citizenship, #IRCC

Ontario nominated 6,180 prospective immigrants in 2020

On October 8, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced new figures about the issuance of the nomination certificates. Since the last update on September 17, 2020, Ontario nominated another 625 foreign nationals under all streams of OINP. The quota of OINP for this year is 7,600 nominations, including 250 under the federal NOC C initiative. As of today, Ontario nominated 6,180 prospective immigrants in the OINP. In 2019, OINP nominated 7,350 candidates and 44 NOC C candidates. At the moment, Ontario has 9 streams and 6 of them accept applications.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

Manitoba held the MPNP draw #100

On October 8, 2020, Manitoba held a new invitation round in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In round #100, Manitoba issued 152 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 528 points, 64 points higher compared to draw #99. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 14 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO category was 611 points, 236 points less than in the previous round. MPNP also invited 25 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba issued 191 LAAs in this draw and 20 of them were issued to the Express Entry candidates. Manitoba sent LAAs to 3,891 candidates in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

IRCC has updated instructions for uniting with family members

On October 7, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released clarified instructions for uniting with family members during travel restrictions related to the COVID-19 outbreak. The government now posted exemptions specific instructions for immediate family members of the Canadian citizens or permanent residents and temporary residents. IRCC also provided step-by-step instructions on how to request written authorization to travel to Canada and health requirements for travellers to Canada.

#IRCC, #travel_restriction, #travel_exemptions, #COVID_19

ESDC issued 17,160 positive LMIAs in the second quarter of 2020

According to the official data by the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), the number of temporary foreign worker (TFW) positions on positive Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in the second quarter of 2020 was 17,160. This figure is much lower than 39,901 positive LMIAs issued by ESDC in the first quarter of 2020. In 2019, Canada issued 129,558 positive LMIAs. In the first half of 2020, ESDC already issued 56,941 LMIAs. This statistic does not include the number of LMIAs issued in support of PR and there can be several positions under one LMIA application.

#LMIA, #TFW, #Work_in_Canada, #ESDC

Newfoundland and Labrador highlights progress on increasing immigration

On October 7, 2020, the Minister of Immigration, Skills and Labour of Newfoundland and Labrador, Gerry Byrne published a Ministerial Statement on immigration to the province. The province launched the Immigration Action Plan in 2017 in which it declared a target of attracting 1,700 immigrants annually by 2022. This goal was reached in 2019 when Newfoundland and Labrador admitted 1,850 new permanent residents. Based on the positive dynamics, the Minister announced a new goal of 2,500 immigrants annually by 2022. Minister Byrne also emphasized that despite the COVOD-19-related problems, the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism continues to process applications from employers hiring newcomers.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #PNP

IRCC will fund service delivery improvements projects

On October 7, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the establishment of the expression of interest process for service delivery improvements (SDI). The new initiative will start on October 15, 2020. The main goal of the government is to identify innovative approaches that will help the integration of newcomers. IRCC is going to allocate $30 million in SDI funding in the first year in the broader efforts of the COVID-19 recovery. IRCC will accept letters of interest from October 15, 2020, to November 24, 2020. Projects approved for funding will be announced in mid-2021.

#IRCC, #newcomers, #resetlement, #immigrant_integration

25,580 immigrants received PR via the Provincial Nominee Program in 2020

As of July 31, 2020, 25,580 immigrants received Canadian permanent residence via the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in 2020. Surprisingly, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) was not the most popular PNP so far. Ontario is only third, after the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) and the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). However, the final numbers of the year may be different. In the first seven months of the year, the number of PR admissions in the PNPs was the following:
•    Newfoundland and Labrador - 265
•    Prince Edward Island - 650
•    Nova Scotia - 1,125
•    New Brunswick - 950
•    Ontario - 4,220
•    Manitoba - 3,600
•    Saskatchewan - 3,780
•    Alberta - 5,060
•    British Columbia - 5,825
•    Yukon - 75
•    Northwest Territories - 30
#PR, #PNP, #NLPNP, #PEIPNP, #NBPNP, #OINP, #MPNP, #SINP, #AINP, #BCPNP, #YNP, #NTNP

New program to protect farm workers from COVID-19

The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau announced that some Canadian farmers can now apply for emergency funding to protect their workers, including seasonal foreign workers, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new initiative will subsidize expenses for personal protective equipment and will cover extra costs related to the COVID-19 outbreaks. The Federals promised to cover 50% of the farmers' costs and 60% if the farmers are women or youth. The participation in the program is available for farmers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The government allocated $35 million for the program and will provide payments retroactively.

#Agriculture, #SAWP, #Saskatchewan, #Alberta, #Northwest_Territories, #New_Brunswick, #Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19

BCPNP invited 72 high-tech specialists in the Tech Pilot

On October 6, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new draw for candidates in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). In this round, the government invited 72 high-tech specialists to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All candidates scored 80 points or higher. In total, British Columbia invited 1,718 Tech Pilot candidates this year. In 2020, BC issued 7,072 invitations in the BCPNP. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Two first successful cases in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

According to CBC, with reference to the Sault Ste. Marie's economic development team, two individuals in the community received permanent residence in Canada through the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). A woman from India and a man from Ghana successfully passed the whole route of RNIP. They both graduated from Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology and have been working as nurses in long term care homes. This program is intended to close gaps in the labour market in rural and remote areas and Sault Ste. Marie, ON is one of the eleven communities across the country selected to participate in the pilot. According to the community, they received over 20,000 inquiries about the program since the launch of the RNIP in 2019.

#Sault_Ste_Marie, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Canada granted PR to 1,165 immigrants in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot

In 2020, Canada already welcomed 1,165 immigrants through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). New Brunswick is the most attractive destination for immigrants in the AIPP. The province welcomed 505 new permanent residents (43.3%). Nova Scotia remains the second most popular in the Maritimes with 460 immigrants (39.5%). Newfoundland and Labrador became a home for 115 AIPP newcomers (9.9%). Finally, Prince Edward Island accepted 85 immigrants in the pilot (7.3%). The quota of the Atlantic province for this year is 5,000 immigrants, but due to COVID-19, the numbers have dropped significantly. The Atlantic Pilot attracted 6800 immigrants since the launch of the program in 2017.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_pilot, #New_Brunswick, #Nova_Scotia, #Prince_Edward_Island, #Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #PR_admission

What are the trends of parental sponsorship?

With the news about the reopening of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), many Canadians ran to check new requirements in order to be one of the 10,000 successful applications. Immigration Canada already stated that for next year the government wants to triple the number. Such a big increase may be explained by the data on PR admissions for parents and grandparents. As of now, IRCC approved only 6,170 applications in 2020. This is a little more than a quarter of 22,010 approvals in 2019. Since Liberals took the office, IRCC has been approving more parental sponsorship cases, but the pandemic hit PGP applicants the most. 30,000 spots in 2021 will have to compensate those who were not processed this year and those who were not successful to register in the system last year.
•    2015 - 15490
•    2016 - 17040
•    2017 - 20495
•    2018 - 18025
•    2019 - 22010
•    2020 - 6170 (Jan to Jun)
#Family_immigration, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP, #Parental_sponsorship #Parents_and_Grandparents_sponsorship, #IRCC

10,000 parents to be sponsored in 2020. Parents and Grandparents Program reopening announced

On October 5, 2020, the Federal Immigration Department (IRCC) finally announced the reopening of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). This year, Canadians will be allocated only 10,000 spots, while for the next year, Canada plans to allow 30,000 applications. The major change in the program is a return to the random lottery system among all interested to sponsor their parents or grandparents. This signalizes about the failure of the first-come, first-served approach introduced in 2019. On the other hand, IRCC eases the financial requirement for sponsors and reducing the income requirement to the minimum necessary income, instead of the minimum necessary income plus 30%. All candidates will have a window from October 13, 2020, to November 3, 2020, to submit an Interest to Sponsor (IOS). Once the registration is over, IRCC will randomly select candidates and distribute invitations to apply to potential sponsors. Once invited, sponsors will have sixty days to submit a complete application with all supporting documentation.

#Family_immigration, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP, #Parental_sponsorship #Parents_and_Grandparents_sponsorship, #IRCC
 

Canada introduced instruction for processing applications of the LGBT candidates

On October 5, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced the program instructions for applicants with a diverse sexual orientation or gender identity or expression (SOGIE). The new instructions are provided to ensure SOGIE applicants are processed without discrimination and receive the needed support throughout their processing and after arrival in Canada. Officers are instructed to conduct country-specific research on SOGIE discriminations in the home country of applicants as well as to handle interviews with extra sensitivity.

#SOGIE, #LGBT, #Refugees, #Asylum_seekers, #IRCC

DLIs to reopen to international students

Starting October 20, designated learning institutions (DLI) with a COVID-19 readiness plan approved by their province or territory will be able to reopen to international students who are currently outside Canada. A new list of DLIs with approved COVID-19 readiness plans will be available on or before this date. However, IRCC did not reveal how many schools have readiness plans approved. This has caused many international students to feel uneasy. The new regulation can likely cause a number of students to lose their eligibility to enter the country if their schools did not submit a readiness plan to the province or receive approval.

#International_students, #DLI, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19

16,000 non-Canadian entered Canada in one week

Despite the widespread belief that Canada's border is closed, there are many exceptions that allow foreign workers, Canadian citizens and permanent residents and their families, international students and others to enter the country. More than 49,000 travellers arrived in Canada by air during the week of September 21-27, including more than 16,000 non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents, according to the Canadian Border Service Agency. Everyone who enters the country must be quarantined for 14 days. However, not all travellers abide by this rule, as evidenced by the news of various violations of the Quarantine Act. Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety of Canada, said 2% to 3% of infections are related to international travel.

#travel_restriction, #travel_exemptions, #COVID_19, #CBSA
 

Canada to allow some additional categories of foreign nationals to travel to Canada

On October 2, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new update regarding travel restrictions and exemptions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The government will allow some extended family members of Canadians (including permanent residents) to come to Canada. These relatives are spouses, dependent children, adult children, siblings, and grandparents. Some foreign nationals can also come to Canada on the ground of a compassionate reason in specific circumstances such as a funeral, illness, or death. In addition, on October 20, IRCC will allow international students, whose college or university has a COVID 19 readiness plan in place to travel to Canada. All personal self-isolation measures to all travellers also remain in place. On October 8, IRCC will release more details on how to obtain a written travelling authorization.

#IRCC, #COVID_19, #visit_to_Canada, #travel_restrictions, #international_students

IRCC extended regulations on the processing of TRVs and eTAs.

On October 1, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada received updated Ministerial Instructions (MIs) for temporary residence applications. Minister Marco Mendicino has extended the temporary regulations on processing temporary resident visa applications and electronic travel authorizations until January 31, 2021. In addition, new MIs now include new exemptions on the requirement to submit a temporary residence application electronically. IRCC will continue to take priority for those eligible to travel under current travel restrictions. This includes both new applications and applications under review. All regular eligibility requirements for the TRV application must also be met.

#TRV, #eTA, #IRCC, #COVID_19

IRCC will send initial work and study permits by mail to those who are in Canada 

On October 1, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the new instructions for foreign nationals in Canada who received a Letter of Introduction on their applications for study and work permits outside of Canada. Due to COVID-19 measures, flag polling remains prohibited, so IRCC will issue work and study permits on request of the foreign national done online. IRCC clarified the four-step guidance on how to make a request with the specific wording of such requests. These measures also have an effect on foreign youth who have a Port of Entry Letter in the Internationals Experience Canada program. In this way, they can finally activate their work permits.

#IRCC, #COVID_19, #work_permit, #study_permit, #IEC
 

Alberta introduced major changes to the AINP

On October 1, 2020, the government of Alberta introduced major changes to the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP). Beginning today, AINP will use a new online portal that will serve all economic streams (the Alberta Opportunity Stream and the Alberta Express Entry Stream) except Self-Employed Farmer Stream. Express Entry candidates will require to be authorized by the AINP to enter the system. AINP also notes that the system will provide an initial eligibility assessment upon registration. Alberta also introduced the application fee of $500 to the AINP. However, candidates in all streams who submitted their applications before October 1, 2020, are exempt from paying the fees. Requests for services, reconsideration, nomination extensions and nominee requests for Letters of Support, are now subject to a $100 service fee. All application updates will now be submitted by email.

#Alberta, #AINP, #EOI, #PNP, #Nomination_certificate, #PR
 

Quebec invited 365 persons in the third round of Arrima in 2020

On October 1, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation et Intégration (MIFI), published the results of the third invitation round in the Quebec’s online system Arrima conducted in 2020. On September 24, 2020, MIFI invited 365 candidates to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program. All invited candidates in this round had a validated offer of employment in the province. In 2020, Quebec invited 395 candidates. In total, since the launch of Arrima in 2019, the government of Quebec invited 2,092 persons.

#MIFI, #Quebec, #Arrima, #QSW

Alberta issued 3,720 provincial nominations in the AINP in 2020

On October 1, 2020, Alberta released a new major update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) statistics. In 2020, the Federal government has allocated 6,250 nominations to Alberta. Nevertheless, earlier this year Premier Jason Kenney announced Alberta’s Economic Recovery Plan. According to the plan, AINP will nominate only 4,000 candidates this year and as of now, Alberta nominated 3,720 foreign nationals. At the moment the province received 1,525 Alberta Opportunity Stream applications waiting for the eligibility assessment, submitted before April 22, 2020. Additionally, there are 125 Expressions of Interest (EOI) in the Alberta Express Entry Stream. Alberta has almost reached its target for the year, having only 280 spots available for nominations.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR, #IRCC

CAPIC to oppose the Owner/Operator LMIA changes proposed by ESDC

The Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) released a public overview of the proposed amendments to the Owner/Operator Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) pathway. CAPIC urges the government to cancel the proposed amendments stating, "the changes, if implemented, will dismantle the Owner/Operator LMIA program." The major problem with the suggested changes is the removal of the advertisement exemption for business owners as it may nullify the attractiveness of the pathway for entrepreneurs. The fair hiring will also be impossible as business owners will have to compete with other candidates for the position, they want to hold themselves. In response to the proposal, CAPIC offered several suggestions on how to improve the integrity of the program.

#business_immigration, #LMIA, #NOC_00, #owner_operator, #entrepreneurs, #ESDC

New Brunswick announced new recruitment events

On October 1, 2020, New Brunswick informed announced two new recruitment events within the framework of the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP). In October, the province will host a virtual job fair in Mexico aimed at the following four NOCs:
•    NOC 9461 - Machine Operator
•    NOC 9461 - Process Operator
•    NOC 9462 - Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers
•    NOC 9617 - Factory Labourer
New Brunswick also updated the list of NOCs for the New Brunswick National Immigration Fair planned for Fall 2020. This event is aimed at attracting international students and foreign workers from across Canada to find a job in the province in the following NOCs: 
•    NOC 0211 - Director of Engineering
•    NOC 2253 - Drafting technologists and technicians
•    NOC 3233 - License Practical Nurse
•    NOC 4412 - Personal Support Worker
•    NOC 6332 - Baker
•    NOC 6552 - Customer and Information Services Representative
•    NOC 6732 - Specialized Cleaner
•    NOC 7271 - Carpenters
•    NOC 7321 - General Mechanic
•    NOC 7445 - Net Cleaning Technician
•    NOC 7452 - Material Handlers
•    NOC 7511 - Truck Driver
•    NOC 8441 - Maintenance Vessel Deckhand
•    NOC 8613 - Aquaculture Site Worker
•    NOC 9227 - Shop Foreman
•    NOC 9461 - Donut Operator
•    NOC 9461 - Machine Operator
•    NOC 9461 - Process Operator
•    NOC 9462 - Industrial Butcher
•    NOC 9463 - Fish Plant Processing Worker
•    NOC 9531 - Boat assemblers and inspectors
•    NOC 9533 - Wood Assembly Worker
•    NOC 9617 - Factory Labourer
•    NOC 9617 - Food Processing Labourer
•    NOC 9618 - Labourers in fish and seafood processing
#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session

1,215 applicants registered in the OINP’s Masters Graduate Stream 

On September 29, 2020, Ontario opened registration of the applications to the Masters Graduate Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Shortly after the opening, the province reached the 1,215-target number of registrations and closed the intake. Those who successfully registered for the Masters Graduate Stream have received a confirmation number from the OINP e-Filing Portal. This stream remained closed since April 2019. Last year, Ontario invited 1000 candidates in this stream and 805 of them were nominated by the OINP. The government also announced that OINP may reopen some of the streams that are not aligned with Express Entry should the province determine it is required to meet the labour market needs across Ontario. Nevertheless, this might be the last Masters Graduate Stream invitation round before the introduction of the new Expression of Interest (EOI) system that will serve the Employer Job Offer Category (Foreign Worker; International Student, and In-Demand Skills streams); Masters Graduate Category; and Ph.D. Graduate Category of the OINP.  

#Ontario, #OINP, #International_students, #Masters_graduates, #Employer_Job_Offer, #PhD_graduates

British Columbia conducted the largest draw in 2020

On September 29, 2020, British Columbia conducted the largest draw in 2020 in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). BC invited 450 candidates to apply for a nomination of the province. The previous biggest draw held on August 7. The lowest scores in this round dropped in four out of five categories:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 93 (-1 point)
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 94 (-1 point)
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 75
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 93 (-1 point)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 94 (-4 points)
BC again excluded the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In 2020, British Columbia invited 7,000 individuals under all streams of BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Canada ranked the most accepting country in the world for migrants! 

Gallup is an analysis and consulting company headquartered in Washington, well known for conducting public opinion surveys around the world. As early as 2017, Gallup released a version of the new immigrant acceptance index survey. At that time, Canada ranked fourth with a score of 8.14 out of 9. However, in Gallup's latest second edition of the Migrant Acceptance Index, Canada was declared the most receptive country to immigrants in the world with a score of 8.46. Canadians perceive immigrants living in Canada (94%) and settling in their neighbourhoods (95%) as good things, while 91% expressed a positive reaction towards marriages with immigrants. Canadians between the ages of 30 and 44 are most accepting of new immigrants, followed by those aged between 45 and 54. Canadians between the ages of 15 and 29 are the least accepting of new immigrants, but Gallup believes this could be due to them being younger.

#Canada, #newcomers, #immigration_perception

Canada approved 56,000 study permits in the first stage

Canadian immigration minister Marco Mendicino said during a recent webinar on September 22, 2020, 56,000 people have received their first-stage approvals for study permits. The federal government is working to ensure each designated learning institution (DLI) has met the public health requirements of the province and territory in which they are located. Mendicino said international students enrich our culture and communities and contribute $22 billion to Canada's economy.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #Covid_19

Canada extended travel restrictions until October 31

Unfortunately for many immigrants, foreign workers and international students, on September 28, 2020, the Federal government extended the Minimizing the Risk of Exposure to COVID-19 in Canada Order (Prohibition of Entry into Canada from any Country Other than the United States) until October 31, 2020. Canada introduced travel restrictions on March 18. Since then, the government keeps extending the border closure on monthly basis. The land border closure with the United States was also extended until October 21. Earlier, the Prime-Minister Justin Trudeau declared the second wave of the COVID-19 in Canada. Therefore, until the improvement of the pandemic conditions, the travel restrictions will be enforced. All exemptions to those restrictions, regarding essential workers and family members of Canadians, remain in place.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #COVID_19, #TRV, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #travel_restrictions

Nova Scotia invited 5 graduate entrepreneurs

On September 28, 2020, Nova Scotia published an update about the results of the new draw in the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). On September 24, 2020, Nova Scotia invited 5 candidates with the lowest score of 49 points, 18 points less than on February 2 draw. In 2020, Nova Scotia has already invited 6 candidates in the International Graduate Entrepreneurs in two draws. Last year, the province invited only 3 candidates in this stream.
#Nova_Scotia, #Entrepreneurs, #NSNP, #International_Graduate_Entrepreneur, #business_immigration

Work permits for film and television industry workers

On September 28, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released an update regarding the instructions for work permits issuance for workers in the film and television industry entering Canada from outside the United States, or visa-required foreign workers entering from the United States. IRCC offers priority processing for such workers. The department encouraged officers to prioritize these applications for eligible applicants within the 14-day priority service standard that has been established.

#IRCC, #work_permits, #work_in_Canada, #TRV

IRCC updated program delivery for employer compliance inspections

On September 28, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provided an update regarding the employer compliance inspections regulation during the COVID-19 under the International Mobility Program (IMP). According to the update, officers are instructed to use Canada Post’s epost Connect service. This method of communication will be used by the Case Management Branch to exchange documents with employers during compliance inspections.

#IRCC, #work_permits, #work_in_Canada, #Employer_compliance, #IMP

 

Manitoba nominated 1,089 candidates in July and August

Manitoba keeps updating bi-monthly new statistics on the issuance of the provincial nominations in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). On September 25, 2020, the Manitoba published new MPNP figures. In July, the province nominated 590 Skilled Workers and approved 5 business concepts. It refused 15 applications of Skilled Workers and 2 business applications. It also invited 498 Skilled Workers, 5 business candidates and approved 8 business concepts. In August, Manitoba nominated 496 Skilled Workers, 3 business candidates, and approved 3 business concepts. MPNP refused 2 applications of Skilled Workers. It also invited 466 Skilled Workers, 4 business candidates, and approved 10 business concepts. In total, MPNP received 2,828 applications from Skilled Workers and 27 business applications in 2020. In addition, Manitoba nominated 45 Express Entry candidates in July, and 24 in August. In total, MPNP nominated 4,092 foreign nationals this year, including 455 Express Entry candidates.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, #business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates

Thunder Bay recommended eight more candidates in the RNIP

On September 25, 2020, the City of Thunder Bay, ON, held a new round of recommendations in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). In this draw, the city issued 8 community recommendations. Thunder Bay approved applications of 1 candidate in the NOC A skills level, 6 candidates in the NOC B, and 1 candidate in the NOC C. Those candidates can submit permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). After approval in-principle of their PR applications, applicants can apply for an employer-specific work permit. Thunder Bay can still recommend 8 NOC A candidates, 10 NOC B candidates, 31 NOC C candidates, and 8 NOC D candidates in 2020. In total, the community issued recommendations to 42 candidates and can recommend 58 more.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

New Brunswick updated the eligibility criteria for Truck Drivers

Following the update of the Skilled Worker stream of the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), on September 25, 2020, the province announced further details, related to Truck Drivers (NOC 7511). Beginning October 1, 2020, candidates wishing to apply for a nomination must get a provincial Class 1 driver's license, demonstrate a total of at least 24 months of work experience as Truck Drivers in the last five years, and have 9 months of continuous full-time work under NOC 7511 in New Brunswick, on an LMIA-supported or Postgraduate Work Permit, and with one local employer. The document also outlines the criteria for employers to be eligible to support workers for a nomination. Candidates invited before October 1 will be evaluated against the old criteria. The EOI submitted before September 28, will also be evaluated under the old terms.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #skilled_workers, #PNP, #Truckers

ESDC announced changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program.

On September 26, lots of Canadian employers received an email from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) regarding the forthcoming changes in the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). The government will return to a 6-month Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) validity period for new LMIA applications for all employers, however, those received up to September 30 will be granted a 9-month validity period. Unfortunately, the LMIA submissions by email will be disabled for fee-paying streams. ESDC admitted that LMIA Online was somewhat criticized. Nevertheless, Service Canada encourages employers to keep using LMIA Online.

#ESDC, #Service_Canada, #LMIA, #TFWP

Canada to facilitate the processing of the spousal sponsorship cases

On September 24, 2020, the Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino announced that his department will take steps to facilitate the processing of spousal sponsorship applications. According to Mendicino, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has increased the number of officers assessing the spousal sponsorship cases by 66% to eliminate the backlogs and speed up the processing times. The IRCC officials are going to digitize paper applications to enable the staff to work remotely. The immigration department also plans to use online interviews if required complying with the COVID-19 limitations. The goal of the government is to finalize about 6,000 such cases from October to December 2020 to reach the number of 49,000 decisions this year.

Saskatchewan issued 535 ITAs in the SINP

On September 24, 2020, Saskatchewan held a new round of invitations in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). In the Express Entry category, SINP invited 278 candidates. In the Occupations In-Demand category, Saskatchewan issued 257 invitations to apply. The lowest score in both categories significantly increased - 82 points, higher than in the previous draw. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this draw, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 81 different NOCs. In total, SINP invited 5,097 candidates to apply for a nomination of Saskatchewan in 2020. In addition, the provincial government announced that the results of the invitation rounds from September 29, 2020, to October 26, 2020, will not be posted in time, as according to the local laws, in the month prior to the provincial election that will be held on October 26, no new information can be posted on the official website of the government.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Occupations_in_demand, #PNP

Manitoba issued Letters of Advice to Apply to 189 candidates in the MPNP

On September 24, 2020, Manitoba conducted the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) draw #99. In this draw, the province issued 160 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score required to get an LAA was 464 points, eleven points more than in the previous round. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative, Manitoba issued only 4 invitations. The lowest score in the SWO category was 847, twenty-three points higher than on September 10 draw. Finally, MPNP invited 25 candidates in the International Education Category. In draw #99, Manitoba issued 189 LAAs and 18 of them were sent to the Express Entry candidates. In 2020, Manitoba invited 3,700 candidates to apply for the nomination of Manitoba.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

Nova Scotia invited motor vehicle body repairers and mechanics in the NSNP

On September 24, 2020, Nova Scotia conducted a new invitation round in the Labour Market Priorities Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). In this draw, Nova Scotia issued Letters of Interest to Express Entry candidates whose primary occupation is motor vehicle body repairers (NOC 7322) or automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers (NOC 7321). All invited candidates must have letters of reference from employers to prove two or more years of experience in the last five years and demonstrate the language skill at a CLB level 5 or higher in English in all four bands. All invitees must also prove a relevant education or training in their field. The deadline to submit the application for all invited candidates is set on October 24, 2020, before 11:59 PM. In the previous draws in this stream in 2020, Nova Scotia targeted French-speaking candidates and nurses.

#Nova_Scotia, #NSNP, #automotive_mechanics, #automotive_technician, #automotive_repairer

 

Sudbury issued 12 invitation in the round of RNIP

On September 22, 2020, the City of Greater Sudbury conducted the fifth round of invitations in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). In this round, Sudbury invited 12 candidates and the lowest score to receive the invitation was 235 points, 10 points higher than in the August 26 draw. Sudbury also announced all applications considered in this draw were submitted before September 2, 2020. All invited candidates can now apply for a community recommendation. In total, the community invited 42 candidates since the start of the RNIP in Sudbury.

#Sudbury, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

IRCC updated refugees' resettlement program delivery instructions

On September 23, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published new program delivery instructions regarding refugees' resettlement. The new update clarifies which resettlement cases may be considered for travel to Canada during the COVID-19 travel restrictions, instructions on travel documents issuance for exempt individuals, and arrangements made for refugees to be resettled in Canada. IRCC also clarified the steps required before the travel to Canada and steps upon arriving at the port of entry.

#IRCC, #immigration_policy, #refugees, #resettlement

No need to pay the biometric fee if you are exempt under the new policy

Following the announcement of the new temporary policy, exempting permanent residence applicants who provided their biometrics to IRCC in the last ten years, on September 23, 2020, the government released further details. For instance, permanent residence applicants do not need to pay the biometric fee of $85 even though the system may ask them to do so. Moreover, those who provided their payment and are exempt from this requirement will soon get a refund from the IRCC. The department also clarified, there is no need to apply for a refund as the payment will be returned automatically.

#IRCC, #biometrics, #PR

Will Canada open its doors for immigration?

It appears that Canada will not open its doors for immigration until early 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected Canada's immigration levels in the past months. Some exemptions have been made for permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced, close family members of Canadian citizens and/or Canadian permanent residents, and international students with a valid study permit. Refugees and visitors to Canada are some of the categories that are not able to enter Canada. Prior to November 1, the minister of immigration Marco Mendicino must release a new 2021-2023 Immigration Levels Plan, and the experts expect to see the details about how the IRCC is planning to overcome the shortage of immigration.

#IRCC, #immigration_levels, #immigration_policy, #COVID_19

IRCC eases biometric requirements for some permanent residence applicants

On September 22, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released good news for thousands of permanent residence applicants. The new IRCC policy allows applicants for permanent residence who submitted their biometrics to IRCC in the last ten years, to be exempt from submitting new biometrics. This policy applies both to in-Canada and overseas applicants, as well as to new and pending applications. The exemption may help the government to shorten the backlog of PR applications, especially from foreign workers and international students who provided their biometrics earlier but were unable to submit the new one after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

#IRCC, #biometrics, #PR, #foreign_workers, #international_students

British Columbia sent invitations to 74 Tech Pilot candidates

On September 22, 2020, British Columbia invited 74 candidates in a new draw of the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The province issued invitations to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All invited candidates got a score of 80 points or higher. As of today, British Columbia sent invitations to 1,646 Tech Pilot candidates in 2020. This is almost 25.1% of the total 6,550 foreign nationals invited by the BCPNP this year. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program may be reformed

The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP) won't reopen until April 1, 2021. According to the investigative analysis of some investment companies and lawyers, the Quebec immigration department (MIFI) is currently working on this matter. MIFI plans to spend a few months to evaluate this program as a whole, and then reopen the program after April 1, 2021. The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program has always been very popular among Chinese applicants. Even though the threshold of this program has increased over time, it has quite favourable eligibility requirements. To be eligible to apply for PR through the QIIP, investors must have a net worth $2 million, to invest $1.2 million in the venture in Quebec. In 2019, Canada granted PR to 3,210 investors via the QIIP. This year, 630 foreign investors became permanent residents of Canada.

#Quebec, #QIIP, #investors, #business_immigration

Lesser-known ways to sponsor family members

One of the types of family sponsorship available for Canadian citizens and permanent residents is the “Lonely Canadian Program”. Under this program, it is possible to sponsor an adult son or daughter, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, niece or nephew to immigrate to Canada. In order to sponsor such a relative, the sponsor must show that he/she does not have a spouse, common-law partner, child, parent or grandparent who is either a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, or who is a foreigner that can be sponsored. In 2019, Canada granted PR to 490 extended family members. This year, IRCC approved PR applications of 110 such relatives.

#IRCC, #family_sponsorship, #family_immigration

Prince Edward Island issued 345 invitations in the PEI PNP

On September 21, 2020, Prince Edward Island announced the results of the invitation rounds in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) which was held on September 17. In this draw, PEI PNP issued a record-high 345 invitations to apply for a provincial nomination. The province invited 313 via the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 32 candidates in the Business Work Permit Entrepreneurs stream. The lowest score for business-candidates was 102 points, ten points fewer than in Aug 20 draw. In total, Prince Edward Island invited 1,268 candidates in 2020 including 132 entrepreneurs. In the last twelve months, PEI PNP issued 1,752 invitations, and 10% of them were issued to business candidates.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers, #Entrepreneurs

New Brunswick updated the Skilled Worker Stream Guide

On September 21, 2020, the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) has updated the official guide to the Skilled Worker Stream. The new guide includes some updates regarding the eligibility criteria and application processing. The updated guide also emphasizes the specific eligibility requirements for Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 7511) related to ties with the province, work experience, and job offer. The province included a special appendix on the issue to the guide.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #skilled_workers, #PNP, #Truckers

International students more likely to graduate from a master’s degree program

 
International students graduated earlier and were more likely to complete their master’s program than their Canadian counterparts. Almost two-thirds of international master’s degree students who began their program in 2013 (65%) had graduated within two years, compared with 58% of Canadian students. International students’ earlier and higher graduation rates may be the result of various factors, such as educational qualifications or qualifying programs started or completed outside Canada before attending a Canadian university, according to Statistics Canada. International graduates who completed a master's degree may receive extra 30 points in Express Entry!

#International_students, #syudy_in_Canada, #masters_degree

100,000 immigrants less in Canada this year due to the pandemic 

RBC has published a report that says out of the 341,000 immigrants Canada expected to receive this year, 100,000 less will arrive. This is obviously expected because Canada has had a total closure for five months, whereby only temporary workers arriving to do an essential job are being processed while other applications are frozen. However, for 2021 the government could increase the number of immigrants or divide the increase over two or three years and thus complete the quota that had been assigned. Immigration processes for family members were frozen but these are resuming, and many new immigrants will arrive in Canada when the border reopens. According to the RBC report, the economic impact of reduced immigration to Canada would mean that industries wouldn't be able to hire the workers they need to reactive their companies.

#IRCC, #RBC, #immigration_levels, #work_permits, #study_permits, #TRV

Visas issued to international students fall 22 percent this year

While restrictions on international travel have resulted in fewer international students arriving in Canada this year, the number of study permits issued to international students also fell 22.3 percent in the second quarter. There are indications that admissions for the fall semester are also likely to be much lower this year. Colleges and universities are likely to face a loss of billions of dollars this year because of lower admissions. This sharp fall in the number of international students arriving in Canada is considered bad for the Canadian labour market. The consequences may be a potential labour shortage for some employers, who engage students in the near-term for work placements and internships, and then a longer-term dip in new graduates joining the labour force.

#International_stusents, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada

Immigration and Refugee Board begins in-person hearings

 
After more than five months of being closed due to COVID-19, in-person hearings will again resume at the Immigration and Refugee Board. It's important to know that there is a process that must be followed to avoid infection. Everyone must wear masks and there will be protective plastic shields for each person. In order to speed up the process, the Board is asking refugee claimants to voluntarily do their hearing virtually. Another measure being implemented is that cases from refugee-producing countries where there are a lot of problems are being accepted without a hearing, simply by reviewing their documentation which corroborates that the person would be in danger if sent back to their country of origin. Many cases from the Middle East and Venezuela are being processed this way, based on documents and without a hearing. It's unknown whether the Immigration and Refugee Board will have to close down in-person hearings again due to the second wave of COVID-19. This would complicate things, but it looks like virtual hearings are here to stay even if in-person hearings get cancelled again.

#Refugees, #IRCC, #IRB, #COVID_19

Surrey organization launches a campaign in support of foreign students, workers and refugees

The Hope Welfare Society in Surrey launched a campaign in support of work permit holders, international students and refugees. The society is calling on the government to grant permanent resident status to refugees and temporary visa holders. They say that the government announced it would provide PR options for frontline workers who provided services during the pandemic. The government must consider other temporary resident visa holders including international students and refugees to treat them the same way. Canadians urged community members to send emails to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino to make them aware of this request.

#international_students, #foreign_workers, #refugees

Canadian immigration numbers dropped by 60% in July

In July 2020, Canada accepted a total of 13,645 new immigrants, a decline of 60.29% compared to July 2019, the largest year-on-year decline this year. Since 2020, Canada has accepted 38.25% fewer new immigrants comparing to the same period in 2019. Immigration Canada stated that the main reason for the decrease in the number of new immigrants was due to the inadequate processing capacity of Immigration Canada due to the pandemic. The approval time for all immigration applications has been extended. The current situation has not fundamentally improved. According to data from IRCC, the number of new immigrants dropped by 63.18%, with only 5,780 successfully landed in Ontario in July 2020. Ontario still has the highest number of new immigrants in Canada.

#PR_admission, #IRCC, #PR

Paper-based PNP applications with a job offer can be put on hold

On September 17, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) posted an update regarding the processing of the paper-based permanent residence applications in the job offer streams of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Responding to the heavy impact of the COVID-19, IRCC allows provincial and territorial governments to request the applications to be put on hold in the cases of job loss as a result of the pandemic. These temporary measures will take place from September 17, 2020, to November 17, 2020. The introduction of this policy may help foreign workers to find new employment.

#IRCC, #PR, #PNP, #Job_offer, #COVID_19

IRCC resumes some in-person services in a limited mode

On September 17, 2020, the Immigration Department (IRCC) announced the gradual resumption of some in-person services. Beginning September 21, several services will be again available to the public: Citizenship knowledge re-testing and citizenship hearings will be available at Vancouver Expo. The appointments to be scheduled by email. PR-related services such as PR card pick-ups or interviews to determine the client’s status will be available in the IRCC's offices in Etobicoke and Montreal. IRCC will contact clients to appoint the meeting. IRCC offices in Calgary, Edmonton, Hamilton, and Niagara Falls will provide limited services for asylum seekers. In addition, Service Canada will contact permanent residence applicants via the phone to schedule a biometrics submission in the coming months.

#IRCC, #PR, #Citizenship, #Asylum, #Service_Canada, #biometrics

Ontario issued 741 nominations to foreign nationals in the OINP

On September 17, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) posted new statistics on the issuance of the nomination certificates. Since the last update on August 13, 2020, the provincial government nominated 741 foreign nationals in the OINP in 2020. Ontario can nominate 7,600 candidates this year, including 250 individuals under the federal NOC C initiative. Up to date, Ontario nominated 5,555 candidates in all streams of the OINP. Last year, OINP nominated 7,350 candidates and 44 NOC C candidates.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

COVID-19 pandemic is preventing newcomers from becoming Canadian citizens

 
The Canadian government's immigration department suspended the citizenship test after the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread this spring. Many immigrants waiting to complete the citizenship test are worried that the backlog will delay their dream to become Canadian citizens. Before COVID-19, the process for new immigrants who met the conditions to apply for Canadian citizenship generally took one year. But now, due to the pandemic, Canadian immigrants waiting to enter do not know when they will be able to complete the process. IRCC is considering safe ways to facilitate the citizenship test during the pandemic but did not provide a timeline for the reopening of the citizenship test. The Canadian citizenship test consists of two parts: a written test and an oral test. Although IRCC allows the use of virtual online methods to hold the citizenship oath ceremonies, the use of an online test to replace the on-site test faces issues of safety and reliability.

#Citizenship, #IRCC, #COVID_19

IRCC invited 4,200 candidates in the Express Entry draw #163
On September 16, 2020,

 Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new all-programs draw in the Express Entry. In round #163, the government again issued 4,200 Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence to candidates in the Federal Skilled Workers programs, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class and Express Entry aligned provincial programs. The cut-off score in this round was 472 points, three points lower than in draw #162. The tie-breaking rule for this round was March 09, 2020 at 13:03:40 UTC. As of September 14, 2020, there are 144,018 profiles registered in the system, 1,826 more compared to the previous update. This is the first significant increase in the number of registered candidates since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Canada issued 74,150 ITAs in 30 rounds of Express Entry.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP, #PR

BCPNP invited 407 foreigners to apply for a nomination

On September 16, 2020, British Columbia released the results of the September 15 draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). The province invited 409 candidates to apply for a nomination. The lowest scores in this round somewhat dropped for International Graduate candidates in SI and EEBC streams, as well as for Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Workers:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 94
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 95 (-3 points)
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 75 (-1 point)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 94
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 98 (-3 points)
As was announced earlier, BC keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In total, BC issued 6,476 invitations in 2020 under all streams of BCPNP.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Alberta updated the AINP inventory

On September 16, 2020, Alberta released a new update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) inventory. As of September 15, the province received 1,450 applications that are waiting for the eligibility assessment under the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS). All applications were received before April 22, 2020. In the pool of the Alberta Express Entry Stream, currently, there are 150 Expressions of Interest. AINP invited 1,933 Express Entry candidates in this stream to apply for a provincial nomination. However, since June 17, there were no new invitation rounds.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR

IRCC updated the page about non-priority temporary resident visa (TRV) applications

On September 16, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the page about non-priority temporary resident visa (TRV) applications. The new instructions clarify temporary regulations regarding travel itinerary changes and transit while en route to Canada. Beginning July 1, IRCC resumed the processing of the TRV applications. Nevertheless, only online TRV applications are being processed with a few exceptions. IRCC also notified it prioritizes the applications of those who are exempt from travel restrictions.

#TRV, #IRCC, #visitor_visas, #COVID_19, #travel_restrictions

Saskatchewan invited 621 candidates in the SINP

On September 15, 2020, Saskatchewan held a new round of invitations in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). In the Express Entry category, SINP issued 455 invitations to apply. In the Occupations In-Demand category, Saskatchewan invited 166 candidates. The lowest score in both categories was 68 points, similar to the previous round. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this draw, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 3 following NOCs: 2173 Software engineers and designers, 2174 Computer programmers and interactive media developers, and 2175 Web designers and developers. Additionally, SINP noted that candidates who scored 68 points in this round had connections to Saskatchewan or had 10 years of work experience and a language level of CLB 8 or higher. In total, Saskatchewan invited 4,562 candidates to apply for a provincial nomination in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Occupations_in_demand, #PNP

Thunder Bay held a new invitation round

On September 15, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, conducted a new invitation round in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and issued community recommendations to three applicants. The community approved applications of 1 candidate in the NOC B skills level, 1 candidate in the NOC C, and 1 candidate in the NOC D. Those candidates now can apply for permanent residence in Canada to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). After approval in-principle of their PR applications, they can also apply for a work permit. Thunder Bay can still recommend 9 NOC A candidates, 16 NOC B candidates, 32 NOC C candidates, and 8 NOC D candidates. In total, the community issued recommendations to 35 candidates and still has 65 spots available.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

The border with the United States to remain closed for one more month

According to a report by CBC, the governments of the United States and Canada will keep the border closed to non-essential travels for one more months. The travel restrictions will be extended until at least October 21, 2020. With the cold months ahead, chances for an increase of infected are very likely, therefore the border closure may last even longer. At the same time, Ottawa has not yet officially announced the extension of restrictive measures. The official notice may be released by the end of the week.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Alberta is the most ideal Canadian province in helping refugees resettle in Canada

During his provincial election campaign in 2019, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney promised that his government would strive to attract immigrants to reside in rural areas of the province. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada conducted an internal assessment of each province's settlement environment for new immigrants. Based on the assessment, IRCC believes that Alberta is the most ideal Canadian province in receiving Government-Assisted Refugees (GARs) because the number of GARs resettled in Alberta is higher than the national average of all Canadian provinces. Furthermore, the median employment income of GARs in Alberta is the highest in all Canadian provinces.

#refugees, #Alberta, #GAR, #IRCC

Canada may gradually resume biometrics submissions from within Canada

According to the automated message on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) phone lines, and several unofficial reports from the interested public, Service Canada started to contact foreign nationals who currently reside in Canada and applied for permanent residence in Canada in order to schedule personal appointments to submit the biometrics. Canada cancelled all biometrics appointments in March 2020. Starting July 15, IRCC exempt in-Canada applicants for a work and study permit, work and study permit extensions, temporary resident visas, temporary resident visas extensions and restorations from submitting biometrics until further notice. At the same, the biometrics requirement for PR applicants was not cancelled. Instead, IRCC automatically extends the deadlines to submit biometrics for In-Canada candidates.

#biometrics, #IRCC, #Service_Canada, #PR

Registration to New Brunswick online recruitment events has been closed

On September 14, 2020, New Brunswick informed that the registration to two sessions of the “Living and Working in New Brunswick” for Skilled Workers planning to immigrate to Canada planned on September 29 and October 1 has been closed. These sessions targeted residents of Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile. At the same time, New Brunswick announced a new event entitled National "Virtual" Immigration Fair in New Brunswick to be held in Fall 2020. This event is aimed at attracting international students and foreign workers from across Canada to find a job in the province in the following NOCs:
•    NOC 0211 - Director of Engineering
•    NOC 2253 - Drafting technologists and technicians
•    NOC 3233 - License Practical Nurse
•    NOC 4412 - Personal Support Worker
•    NOC 6332 - Baker
•    NOC 6552 - Customer and Information Services Representative
•    NOC 7271 - Carpenters
•    NOC 7321 - General Mechanic
•    NOC 7445 - Net Cleaning Technician
•    NOC 7452 - Material Handlers
•    NOC 7511 - Truck Driver
•    NOC 8441 - Maintenance Vessel Deckhand
•    NOC 8613 - Aquaculture Site Worker
•    NOC 9227 - Shop Foreman
•    NOC 9461 - Donut Operator
•    NOC 9461 - Machine Operator
•    NOC 9461 - Process Operator
•    NOC 9462 - Industrial Butcher
•    NOC 9463 - Fish Plant Processing Worker
•    NOC 9531 - Boat assemblers and inspectors
•    NOC 9533 - Wood Assembly Worker
•    NOC 9617 - Factory Labourer
•    NOC 9617 - Food Processing Labourer
#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session

International students call the government to make post-graduate work permits renewable

 
The Migrant Workers Alliance for Change (MWAC) with the support of various international student groups announced about organizing demonstrations in Toronto and Mississauga. The activists are calling the Federal government to make post-graduate work permits (PGWP) renewable so students can complete requirements for permanent residency (PR) in the COVID-19 job market and provide real access to PR by lowering points requirements to become a permanent resident. The current high unemployment caused by the COVID-19 creates a desperate situation for international students who may be unable to meet the requirements for various immigration programs.

#International_students, #Study_in_Canada, #PGWP, #work_permits, #International_graduates, #PR

Most of the refugee claimants arriving in Canada were victims of political and religious persecution

According to some reports in media with the reference to a document dated December 2019 from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that most of the refugees entering Canada in 2019 claimed they were victims of political or religious persecution and most of them entered Canada irregularly. The document shows that the countries from where irregular refugee claimants entered Canada in 2019 included Sudan, Ethiopia, Iran, India and Turkey. The document predicted that in 2020, refugees entering Canada from Bangladesh and Pakistan and the above-mentioned five countries will still be the largest group of refugees who claim to be victims of political persecution. China is one of the countries whose citizens have filed the most refugee claims due to religious persecution. Political persecution is the top reason for irregular migration, while religious persecution is the second top reason for irregular migration to Canada.

#refugees, #asylum_claims, #irregular_migrants, #political_refugees, #religious_refugees

New Brunswick will host several online recruitment events

On September 11, 2020, New Brunswick published the information on three new online events entitled “Living and Working in New Brunswick”. On September 22, the province will host a French only web conference. A representative of the government will answer questions regarding temporary and permanent immigration procedures. On September 29 and October 1, New Brunswick will have two sessions for Skilled Workers planning to immigrate to Canada. The September 29 session will be held in French, while the October 1 – in English. The registration is available only for residents of Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session

Licensed Chinese Canadian immigration consultants lobbied the reform of the OINP

On September 8, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced amendments to the "Ontario Immigration Law", specifically to the Employer Job Offer, Master's, and Ph.D. streams. The program is to adopt a new expression of interest (EOI) system. The All Canada Association of Chinese Immigration Consultants (ACACIC) welcomes and supports this important and wise decision. At the beginning of 2020, ACACIC submitted a joint letter, proposing to abolish the selection of applicants through the method of rushing for spots and have the opportunity to have a face-to-face meeting with the special working group of the Ontario government on February 28. It is believed that this initiative launched by the Ontario Nomination Office can be attributed at least in part to the petition and initiative in February. The services of ACACIC are authorized by the Canadian Immigration Act. The association works with the Canadian government and regulatory agencies to educate and encourage the public to make wise choices when considering immigration issues, hiring consultants, and to stay away from unlicensed immigration advisors.

#Ontario, #OINP, #ACACIC, #immigration_policy

IRCC has updated Work Permit instructions

  
On September 11, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated work permits-related instructions. The government has included guidance on persons determined by Health Canada to be providing an essential service while in Canada and who may be exempt from work permit. IRCC also added instructions temporarily allowing visitors in Canada to apply for an employer-specific work permit. Other minor updates have been added throughout the instructions to provide further clarity.

#IRCC, #work_in_Canada, #work_permits, #foreign_workers, #COVID_19

Canada issued 25,575 work permits for Humanitarian and Compassionate purposes in 2020

 
In six months of 2020, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 25,575 work permits for Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) purposes. These work permits allow several categories of foreign nationals to legally work in Canada. These categories include foreign nationals who have applied for permanent residence on humanitarian and compassionate grounds and whose application has been approved in principle, holders of the Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), and some categories refugees whose claims are being processed and who got permission to work to support themselves by the Immigration and Refugee Board. Last year, Canada issued 63,100 worker permits under H&C.

#TFWP, #IRCC, #work_in_Canada, #work_permits, #foreign_workers, #H&C, #humanitarian_and_compassionate, #TRP

MPNP Draw #98: Manitoba invited 213 candidates

On September 10, 2020, the government Manitoba held the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) draw #98. In this round, Manitoba issued 168 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The score required to get an LAA in this category was 475 points, as in the previous round. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued only 9 invitations. The score required to get an LAA in the SWO category was 824, equal to draw #97. In addition, MPNP invited 35 candidates in the International Education Category. Manitoba issued 211 LAAs in this round and 22 of them were sent to the Express Entry candidates. In total, Manitoba invited 3,511 LAAs in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

Canada's strategy of bringing in international students could be affected by the crisis

The number of incoming international students registered at Canada's postsecondary colleges and universities has experienced a drastic drop. The situation is not only significantly reducing the income of these colleges and universities in the short term, but it will also affect Canada's strategy of bringing in international talent. The hard fact is that international students at the University of Toronto and Dalhousie University in Halifax make up one-fourth of the student population at the two universities. Figures from the federal immigration department show that the department issued 47,970 and 64,785 study permits in the first and second quarters respectively this year. However, in the first and second quarters of 2019, IRCC issued 64,305 and 83,395 study permits. The long-term implications of the COVID-19 crisis yet to be determined.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #study_permit, #IRCC

Immigrants and refugees in Ontario are the most impacted by COVID-19

According to a new report by ICES, a research institute focusing on health issues in Ontario, immigrants and refugees accounted for about 43.5% of COVID-19 cases in the province in the first half of 2020. These groups comprise only a quarter of the total Ontario population. Immigrants and refugees who worked in healthcare, especially women, accounted for a disproportionate number of cases.  In Toronto specifically, 4,027 immigrants and refugees have tested positive for COVID-19 (9.8% of those tested) compared to 3,788 Canadian-born patients (4.9% of those tested). The authors also recommend the creation of mobile testing units that can target at-risk communities.

#COVID-19, #newcomers, #immigrants, #refugees, #healthcare, #Ontario

Canada issued 51,385 work permits in the TFWP in 2020

 
In the first half of 2020, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 51,385 work permits in the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP). All TFWP work permits must be supported by positive or neutral Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Agricultural workers were issued 35,760 work permits. 470 work permits were issued to caregivers. Another 1,005 work permits were granted to live-in caregivers. Finally, 14,140 work permits were given to all other foreign workers with LMIA-based job offers.

#TFWP, #IRCC, #work_in_Canada, #work_permits, #foreign_workers, #LMIA, #caregivers, #live_in_caregivers, #agricultural_workers
 

In 2020, Canada issued 104,485 work permits in the International Mobility Program

The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers without obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Work permits issued under the IMP may be open or closed, depending on the specific program and stream. Such work permits can be issued for individuals who fall into regulations of free trade agreements signed by Canada, several categories of Entrepreneurs or Self-Employed Persons, Exchange Academics, Spouses of skilled workers and international students, intra-company transfers and some other categories. In 2019, Canada issued 306,590 IMP work permits. This year, we can face the effect of COVID-19 that is the main reason for a drastic drop in numbers. In the first half of 2020, IRCC issued work permits to only 104,485 foreign workers under the International Mobility Program

#IMP, #International_Mobility, #Skilled_workers, #work_permits, #work_ in_Canada

Ukraine will not get a visa-free regime with Canada this year

Ukraine may not receive a visa-free regime with Canada this year, according to the statement made by Ukrainian Ambassador to Canada Andriy Shevchenko. "There will be no visa-free regime this year. Anyone who is familiar with how Canada works on this issue understands that it will take years, but probably many years, to solve it, because the country is conservative on this issue. But we are working on it, and it will definitely happen. It will happen in the foreseeable future because both Ukraine and Canada need it," Andriy Shevchenko said. Shevchenko added that it is possible to reach an agreement on youth mobility, which will allow students to come to Canada for the academic year. The Youth Mobility Agreement will provide for simplified work permits under the Working Holiday category of the International Experience Canada (IEC) Program.

#Ukraine, #IEC, #working_holiday, #work_permit, #work_in_Canada #TRV

Richmond Hospital is preparing to 500 possible ‘birth tourists’ a year

According to the latest preliminary data, the number of non-resident foreign births in Richmond Hospital and Vancouver’s St. Paul’s Hospital increased significantly in 2019. Both hospitals will significantly surpass their previous annual reports on non-resident foreigners giving birth. According to available data, most of them are likely to be Chinese nationals involved in organized birth tourism. The epicentre of the birth tourism industry is in Richmond with 502 non-resident births per year, an increase from 458 in 2019 and from 474 in 2018. Those 502 newborns represent 24% of the 2,094 children, the total number of newborns at Richmond General Hospital. This is the highest overall rate and the highest non-resident birth rate in Canadian hospitals. St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver ranks second in the country with 14.1% of all non-resident births - 203 babies were born to foreigners.

#Birth_tourism, #citizenship, #Vancouver, #British_Columbia

Ontario to introduce Expression of Interest system for OINP

On September 8, 2020, the government of Ontario announced the plans to introduce the Expression of Interest system for several streams of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The EOI system will serve the Employer Job Offer Category (Foreign Worker; International Student, and In-Demand Skills streams); Masters Graduate Category; and Ph.D. Graduate Category. All these streams are usually opened for a short time, but all the spots are taken within minutes, causing chaos and criticism towards the OINP. The EOI system may eliminate those problems and help organize the intake process based on the points system and ITA issuance for each stream. These amendments to the Ontario Immigration Act are now posted on Ontario’s Regulatory Registry for public consultation until October 23, 2020. Ontario plans to determine suitable points grid and factors to be considered (education, language, work experience etc.).

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #international_students, #Occupations_in_demand, #skilled_workers, #Masters_graduates, #PhD_graduates

British Columbia invited another 67 Tech Pilot candidates

On September 8, 2020, British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) held a new Tech Pilot draw. In this round, BC issued 72 invitations to apply for the nomination of British Columbia in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All candidates scored 80 points of higher in the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). In 2020, British Columbia invited 1,572 Tech Pilot candidates. In total, BC distributed 6,069 ITAs this year.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Canada's post-secondary institutions can have a loss of several billion dollars

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international students registered at Canada's universities and post-secondary colleges this year has dropped drastically, causing a loss of several billion dollars to these institutions. According to federal figures, foreign students contribute nearly $22 billion a year to Canada's economy. Colleges and Institutes Canada President Denise Amyot said initial estimates show that the above-mentioned situation could cost Canadian universities and colleges a loss of between $1.8 billion and $3.5 billion as of now. The Canadian government recently made some changes, such as allowing international students to take remote classes. Universities said it helps little and urged the federal government to provide funds to help Canadian universities.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19

Many people have misunderstood the “job offer”

Recently, the Canadian government announced a new policy that allows visitors who came to Canada before August 24, 2020, and have a qualifying job offer to apply for a work permit. However, many people have misunderstood the “job offer”. Some visitors think if a Canadian employer has extended a job offer on a simple piece of paper, it will make them qualify to apply for a work permit. They must note that they are required to have an LMIA based job offer, not just a simple job offer. They must also have valid status in Canada as a visitor on August 24, 2020, to apply for a work permit without leaving Canada.

#TRV, #work_permit, #visitor_visa, #work_in_Canada, #LMIA
 

Ontario removed the application guides for OINP

On September 4, 2020, the website of the Ontario government informed that the province has removed the application guides for Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) streams except the Entrepreneur stream. Along with that, OINP has updated all stream webpages as well as the document checklist page. The reason for such a step is to ensure consistency and accuracy of program information in order to avoid misinformation and mistakes caused by outdated information. As of now, Ontario issued 10,436 invitations in the OINP in 2020.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP

Number of newcomers overqualified for their jobs three times more than local Canadians

Statistics Canada conducted a survey on the "over qualification" of newcomers at workplaces. The survey found out that the number of newcomers who are overqualified for the jobs they are hired for is three times more than local Canadians. Statistics Canada pointed out that in the past few decades, the situation has not improved in Canada. The survey found out that newcomers who possess high qualifications in professions such as law, sociology, visual and performing arts, and communications technology are seriously hit by tough accreditation of their foreign credentials in Canada, but newcomers with high credentials in professions such in mathematics, science and computer science, rarely encounter the "over qualification" problem.

#newcomers, #employment, #immigrant_adaptation

Canada updated the instructions on citizenship delivery abroad

On September 2, 2020, Global Affairs Canada (GAC) released new instructions for citizenship delivery abroad. The Citizenship Program Delivery regulates the aspects of providing Canadian citizenship based on Citizenship and Passport Program Guidance (CPPG). The new instructions include the citizenship program directives from the GAC intranet and will now be available on the IRCC intranet. These directives regulate the proof of citizenship, citizenship renunciations, and search of records.

#IRCC, #GAC, #Citizenship

What provinces benefited the most from Express Entry in 2020?

The main beneficiary of Express Entry in 2020 is Ontario. In the first half of 2020, it welcomed almost 60% of all Express Entry immigrants. The only two other provinces which may be regarded as the beneficiaries of Express Entry are British Columbia and Alberta, which attracted 21.6% and 10%, respectively. All other provinces combined accepted less than 9% of Express Entry immigrants. Nunavut is the only Canadian territory with no new Express Entry immigrants.
•    Alberta - 4,490 (10.38%)
•    British Columbia - 9,345 (21.61%)
•    Manitoba - 965 (2.23%)
•    New Brunswick - 440 (1.02%)
•    Newfoundland and Labrador - 115 (0.27%)
•    Northwest Territories - 25 (0.06%)
•    Nova Scotia - 1,020 (2.36%)
•    Ontario - 25,765 (59.59%)
•    Prince Edward Island - 360 (0.83%)
•    Saskatchewan - 700 (1.62%)
•    Yukon - 20 (0.05%)
Canada welcomed 43,240 foreign nationals who immigrated to Canada via Express Entry between January 1 and June 30, 2020.

#Express_Entry, #PR, #PR_admissions

IRCC announced the plan to help Lebanese

On September 3, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published a notice about immigration and consular assistance for people affected by the Beirut tragedy. The government will help Canadians to return to Canada from Lebanon and implement special measures to process visitor visas for immediate family members affected by the Beirut explosion. Lebanese citizens will also be able to stay longer in Canada if they cannot return home because of the explosion. IRCC will waive the application fees for their visa extensions.

#IRCC, #Lebanon, #visitor_visas, #TRV

Canada to announce its Immigration Plan in the fall

In November, Canada is set to announce its new Immigration Plan for future years. The Canadian general public is still optimistic about new immigrants. Foreigners still want to come to Canada; they believe the Canadian economy is not as bad as that in their home countries during the pandemic. Fees for immigrating to Canada are expected to increase due to the worldwide economic depression. In the previous plan released in March, Canada wanted to accept 341,000 new immigrants in 2020. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 outbreak affected immigration levels. In the first half of 2020, the country admitted 103,420 immigrants.

#immigration_levels, #IRCC

43% of Canadians' income goes to taxes

A new study by the Fraser Institute found that the average Canadian family currently spends more money on taxes than on food, housing and clothing combined. Jake Fass, an economist at the Fraser Institute and co-compiler of the 2020 Canadian Consumer Tax Index, believes that "taxes remain the largest single expense item in Canada." In 2019, the average Canadian household earned an income of $91,535. At the same time, it paid $38,963 in taxes, almost 5,000 more compared with $33,178 spent on basic necessities such as housing (including rent and mortgage payments), food and clothing combined. In other words, the average Canadian family spends 42.6% of their income on taxes, compared with 36.2% on basic necessities.

#taxes, #newcomers

Ottawa was criticized for not taking any real measures to help Hong Kong people

Ever since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the suspension of the Canada-Hong Kong extradition agreement and shipment of sensitive military goods to Hong Kong in early July, the Canadian government has not taken any actual measures to help the people of Hong Kong as China continues to suppress Hong Kong democratic protestors. This has raised great concern and discontent at Alliance Canada Hong Kong. Mathieu Genest, the spokesperson for Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino, stated that just as Trudeau said, the Canadian government will continue to support the people of Hong Kong and the many links between Canada and Hong Kong. Genest added that the Canadian government is reviewing other measures such as immigration options for Hong Kong people, the outcome of which will be announced in due course. 

#Hong_Kong, #immigration, #refugees
 

Almost 70,000 invitations to Express Entry

On September 2, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the third all-programs round of invitations in the Express Entry since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. In round #162, Canada issued 4,200 Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence to candidates in the Federal Skilled Workers programs, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class and Express Entry aligned provincial programs. The lowest score in this round was 475 points, one point less compared to the August 5 all-program draw. The tie-breaking rule for this round was August 16, 2020 at 01:22:18 UTC. As of August 31, 2020, there are 142,192 profiles registered in the system, 180 more compared to the previous update. In 2020, Canada distributed 69,950 ITAs in 29 rounds.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #FSW, #FST, #CEC, #PNP

British Columbia issued 428 invitations to BCPNP

On September 1, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new big draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). This time, BCPNP invited 428 candidates to apply for a nomination of the province. The lowest scores in this round dropped by two points for Skilled Worker streams of SI and EEBC:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 94 (-2 points)
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 98
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 76
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 94 (-2 points)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 98
As was announced earlier, BC keeps excluding the following 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In total, BC invited 6,002 candidates in 2020 under all streams.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Alberta considers 1,525 candidates in the AINP

On September 2, 2020, Alberta released a new update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) inventory. As of September 1, the province received 1,300 applications that are waiting for the eligibility assessment under the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS). All applications were received before April 22, 2020. In the pool of the Alberta Express Entry Stream, currently, there are 225 Expressions of Interest. So far, AINP invited 1,933 Express Entry candidates to apply for a provincial nomination in the Alberta Express Entry.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR

British Columbia held a new round of ITAs for entrepreneurs

On September 1, 2020, British Columbia issued a new batch of invitations to business-candidates under the two provincial streams of business immigration. In the Base Category of the Entrepreneur Stream, BC invited 6 candidates with the lowest score of 126 points, one point higher than in the draw of June 2. As for the Entrepreneur Regional Pilot, BC invited under 5 candidates with the lowest score of 128 points, five points more than in the previous round. The province has already invited 123 entrepreneurs in 2020 and approximately 49 of them received invitations in the Regional Pilot.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Entrepreneurs, #Business_immigration, #Regional_Pilot, #Rural_immigration, #PNP

IRCC updated the requirements for translation of supporting documents

On September 2, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new program delivery update regarding the translation of supporting documents for applications. The new instructions apply to online and paper applications submitted through consular missions and visa application centres (VACs) outside Canada. The instructions are applicable to the immigration and citizenship programs.

#IRCC, #procedures, #translations, #citizenship, #PR

Entry permission for Working Holiday applicants extended for a year

As Canada extends travel restrictions on incoming foreign travelers, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement special measures for Working Holiday visa holders under the International Experience Canada. IRCC announced that the Port of Entry Letter (POE) of the Working Holiday applicants who got approved for the program would be valid for one more year at maximum. IRCC earlier extended POE in April and June for 90 days in case the visa holders apply for the extension. The final decision whether to approve it or not will depend on the border officer. The IEC had suffered the most from the COVID-19. The last invitation round occurred on March 13, 2020. Since then, Canada postponed further invitations.

#IEC, #IRCC, #Working_holiday, #COVID_19, #International_Experience_Canada

Express Entry PR admissions in the first half of 2020

According to the recent figures by IRCC, for the first time in the history of Express Entry, the number of permanent residents in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) overcame the number of immigrants in the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW). In the first half of 2020, Canada welcomed 43,240 immigrants through the Express Entry. 41.3% of them or 17,840 were CEC immigrants while 37.1% or 16,030 – FSW immigrants. Another 20.5% or 8,875 newcomers got their PR through the Express Entry-aligned streams of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Finally, 1.1% or 495 immigrants were processed through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST). Having in mind the trends of invitations rounds caused by the COVID-19, we can assume that CEC immigrants will outnumber by far all other programs this year.

#Express_Entry, #PR, #FSW, #FST, #PNP, #CEC, #skilled_workers, #skilled_trades, #Canadian_experience, #PR_admission

International students are concerned about fee increases and future in Canada

The fall term in Canadian colleges and universities will start in a few away. Many international students voice concerns about the influence of the COVID-19 on their tuition. For instance, a group of international students from the University of Toronto established the International Student Advocacy Network (ISAN) to advocate their rights in communication with university officials. ISAN representatives stated the toll COVID-19 is taking on them, as their fees, is disproportionately higher than on domestic students. For instance, Sheridan College reduced tuition fees by 10% for domestic students, but increased fees for international students by 3%. The disproportionally high fees for international students in the long term may damage the attractiveness of study in Canada for foreign students.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #COVID_19

British Columbia will keep excluding 31 NOCs from BCPNP draws

On August 31, 2020, the government of the province announced that it will keep the temporary policy of exclusion of 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws. Beginning March 30, the following 31 NOCs were banned from BCPNP: 0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731. According to the officials, all those NOCs are in tourism, hospitality, retail and personal services occupations, the spheres where BC anticipates higher unemployment caused by the COVID-19. In the long term, BC expects shortages in these professional areas, however, in 2020, it is expected almost a 70% drop in jobs in these sectors. So far, BC invited 5,491 candidates to apply for a nomination in 2020.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP, #immigration_policy

Why do Canadian farms need thousands of temporary foreign workers?

Farms across Canada recruit a large number of temporary workers from foreign countries every year. Year after year, these foreign workers fly from Latin America and the Caribbean at the beginning of spring and return home after the autumn harvest. There is no doubt that Canadian agricultural production is heavily dependent on foreign workers. Their failure to arrive on time due to the pandemic this spring caused trouble for farms and the Canadian food supply. The Canadian government has established foreign labour projects since the 1970s. The COVID-19 outbreak hit many farms in Ontario and Quebec. almost 1,000 temporary farmworkers have been infected, and three have died. The shortage of agricultural workers is more than 50,000. The government is looking for additional ways to help farmers.

#Agriculture, #SAWP, #Ontario, #Quebec #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19

Significant decrease in the number of new immigrants and international students softens the rental prices in Toronto and Vancouver

Royal Bank of Canada senior economist Andrew Agopsowicz stated that due to continued travel control at the Canadian border, concerns about travel-related health, and the downturn in the global economy, the number of new immigrants coming to Canada is expected to drop to approximately 240,000 this year, which will slow housing demand by new immigrants. The number of international students coming to study in Canada in the second quarter of this year fell by 40% compared to the same period last year, which has also significantly affected rental prices in Toronto and Vancouver.

#immigration_levels, #international_students, #Toronto, #Vancouver

Refugee hearing procedures will resume in mid-September

The Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) of Canada will fully resume court hearing procedures for refugee applications starting September 14. According to a report by the Star, after months of consultations, the IRB said on Thursday that it will return to the pre-pandemic model to facilitate refugee application hearings starting September 14. Prior to this, the 1,200 members of the Canadian Bar Association Immigration Law Section had requested that virtual hearings be the default choice for health reasons. As of March 31, this year, the IRB had a backlog of 90,267 refugee applications. The IRB suspended all hearings in March but has gradually resumed hearing procedures since July, initially in Vancouver, and then resumed hearings in other offices across the country in early August. The IRB stated that since August 3, 880 refugee application hearings have been scheduled, 62 of which were conducted through videoconferencing.

#Refugees, #IRCC, #CBSA, #IRB

The border will remain closed until September 30

On August 28, 2020, the government extended travel restrictions to Canada until September 30, 2020. This was announced by Minister of Public Safety Bill Blair on Tweeter. Canada has imposed travel restrictions on March 18. Initially, it was expected that the restrictions would be in effect until June 30, but then, Canada extended them three more times. Border closures and quarantine measures have helped Canada flatten its infection curve, according to government statements. The land border with the United States also remains closed. The opening of the border has been postponed until at least September 21. The decision to extend or remove restrictions will be made in mid-September.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #COVID_19, #TRV, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #travel_restrictions

The Owner/Operator LMIA category may be changed

The Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) plans to change the procedures for the Owner/Operator category of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The major change is that business owners/operators will no longer be exempt from recruitment efforts. This may become a challenging obstacle to obtaining a positive LMIA as business owners/operators will have to win the competition with Canadian candidates. Additionally, business owners/operators will be required to advertise and pay the wage in accordance with the ESDC requirement.

#ESDC, #LMIA, #buisness_immigration, #entrepreneurs, #buisness_owner_operator

In-Canada work permit applications may end the 'flag poling' practice

Since foreign nationals are now allowed to apply for a work permit without having to leave Canada, this also may lead to the end of the practice of 'flag poling'. At least until the end of March 2021. The 'flag poling' is the practice of going to the US for a few hours to get the work permit, study permit, renew the status or validate the permanent residence. It has always created problems for some applicants. CBSA officers have been hesitant to issue permits at the border and it has created administrative difficulties. These measures are taken in the context of the pandemic, but they might become permanent to eliminate 'flag poling' once and for all. Earlier, in November 2019, IRCC prohibited flag poling to obtain a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) for international graduates, requesting them to apply for it online.

#IRCC, #PGWP, #Port_of_entry, #Flag_poling, #Work_permit, #international_graduates, #international_students, #foreign_workers

Non-resident births in Canada on the rise

According to data by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), the non-resident births in Canada are on the rise. The overall increase across Canada is 7%. The highest increase is recorded in British Columbia - 20% more compared to the previous year. In 2019, there were about 4,400 babies born to non-residents in Canada, while in 2015 this number was only 2,889. Most birth tourists gave birth in Ontario - 3,109; BC was second - 868 births, Alberta was third - 225. The other 198 births occurred in the other provinces. Unfortunately, Quebec does not release this information to the public, so it is hard to estimate the level of birth tourism in Quebec.

#Birth_tourism, #citizenship

Ontario invited 21 candidates in the Entrepreneur Stream

On August 27, 2020, the government of Ontario conducted a new invitations round in the Entrepreneur Stream of the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP). In this draw, the provincial government issued 21 Invitations to Apply. This was the fourth round of Ontario’s only business immigration stream in 2020. The lowest score for this round was 144, ten points higher compared to the June 24 draw. In this round, Ontario considered Expressions of Interest received by the OINP between November 22, 2019, and August 21, 2020. In 2020, Ontario invited 91 Entrepreneurs to apply for the nomination of Ontario.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #PNP

Manitoba invited 213 candidates in the MPNP draw #97

On August 27, 2020, Manitoba conducted a new round of invitations in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In draw #97, Manitoba issued 171 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 475 points, 10 fewer compared to the previous round. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued only 8 invitations. The lowest score in the SWO category was 824, 152 points more than in the draw #96. Additionally, MPNP invited 34 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba issued 213 LAAs in this round and 23 of them were issued directly to the Express Entry profiles of candidates. In total, Manitoba distributed 3,299 LAAs in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

What will be the CPC immigration policy if elected?

A newly elected leader of the Conservative Party of Canada Erin O'Toole shared his views on immigration, he plans to implement if elected as a Prime Minister. O'Toole stated his government will return the confidence of Canadians in our immigration system and fix the mismanagement caused by the Liberals. He promised to keep steady levels of immigration, however, noted that it would be more dependable on the situation in the economy. We can also expect more emphasis on skills-based immigration, concentrated on closing gaps and attracting foreign workers with the skills in demand on the labour market. Worth noting that O'Toole declared the plans to delegate more authority to provincial governments in immigration management to be able to address skills shortages and attract immigrants based on those factors. Finally, in regard to COVID-19, O'Toole may temporarily reduce skilled immigration to combat unemployment and if it remains high to shift to Family immigration.

#immigration_policy, #CPC, #Conservatives, #Erin_O'Toole
 

ESDC updated the processing time for LMIA applications

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), the governmental body responsible for the assessment of Labour Market Impact Assessment applications (LMIA) updated the processing times for applications under various streams. Current average LMIA processing times are:
•    Global Talent Stream - 14 business days
•    Agricultural stream - 14 business days
•    Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program - 7 business days
•    Permanent residence stream - 52 business days
•    In-home caregivers - 13 business days
•    High-wage stream - 52 business days
•    Low-wage stream - 50 business days
#ESDC, #LMIA #TFWP, #Work_permit, #Agricultural_workers, #caregivers

OINP held a new round in the Human Capital Priorities Stream

On August 26, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) held a new round of invitations in the Ontario’s Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream. In this draw, OINP distributed 703 targeted Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to candidates who possess one year or more of foreign work experience in one of the in-demand occupations. The score range of those candidates was 466-475 points. All invited candidates work in one of the nine following occupations:
•    NOC 0111 – Financial managers
•    NOC 0124 – Advertising, marketing and public relations managers
•    NOC 0601 – Corporate sales managers
•    NOC 1111 – Financial auditors and accountants        
•    NOC 1114 – Other financial officers         
•    NOC 1122 – Professional occupations in business management consulting        
•    NOC 3012 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 
•    NOC 3124 – Allied primary health practitioners
•    NOC 3132 – Dietitians and nutritionists
In total, Ontario invited 10,415 candidates in the OINP in 2020. Among them, 4,833 have been invited under the Human Capital Priorities Stream.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Human_capital, #Occupations_in_demand

Saskatchewan invited 570 Occupations In-Demand candidates
On August 26, 2020,

 Saskatchewan conducted a new round of invitations in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). In this round, SINP issued invitations to apply (ITA) for the provincial nomination only to candidates in the Occupations In-Demand category. In total, SINP invited 570 candidates. The lowest score dropped by one point compared to the previous draw and was 68 points. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this draw, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 50 different NOCs. Additionally, SINP noted that candidates who scored 68 points in this round had connections to Saskatchewan or had 10 years of work experience and a language level of CLB 8 or higher. In total, Saskatchewan issued 3,941 ITAs in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Occupations_in_demand, #PNP

Sudbury has invited 12 candidates in the RNIP

On August 22, 2020, the City of Greater Sudbury conducted the fourth invitation round in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). In this draw, Sudbury invited 12 candidates and the lowest score to receive the invitation was 225 points, 10 points less than in the May 22 draw. The tie-breaking rule was July 10, 2020. All invited candidates can now submit an application for a community recommendation. In total, Sudbury invited 30 candidates since the launch of the program.

#Sudbury, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

IRCC introduced further temporary measures for PGWP eligibility
 
On August 26, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced three new measures on Post-Graduate Work Permit eligibility for international students. Those foreign students whose programs starts from May to September 2020 with the duration of 8-12 month can complete their study online without losing eligibility for PGWP. Students whose program starts from May to September 2020 and will study remotely by April 30, 2021, and who studied in an eligible program before are allowed to combine the length of their study for PGWP eligibility but not more than 50% of the total studies online. Study permit applications must be submitted before the program start (including programs that begin in Winter 2021 term) to be eligible for those temporary measures.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #PGWP, #work_permit, #stay_after_graduation

IRCC extended Ministerial Instructions for temporary residence processing

On August 26, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published an update that Minister of Immigration has extended the current COVID-19 instructions for TRV applications until September 30, 2020. These ministerial instructions regulate travel restriction measures, non-optional and non-discretionary travels, processing of the temporary resident visas (TRV), electronic travel authorizations (eTA), study permits, work permits, employer compliance inspections procedures, withdrawal of temporary residence applications, policy towards temporary residents who are unable to depart Canada and public policy exempting certain out-of-status foreign nationals from immigration requirements.

#IRCC #study_permits, #work_permits, #visitor_visas, #TRV, #COVID_19

Prince Edward Island invited a record high 321 candidates between July 31 and August 20

On August 25, 2020, Prince Edward Island published the results of the invitation rounds in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) that were held on July 31, August 11, and August 20. On July 31 and August 11, the PEI PNP invited 8 candidates in each round. All 16 candidates have been invited to the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams. On August 20, the provincial government invited a record high 305 candidates, the largest number of candidates in one draw in the program’s history. In this round, the government of the province issued invitations to 277 skilled workers via the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 28 candidates in the Business Work Permit Entrepreneurs stream. The lowest score for business-candidates was 112 points, five points fewer than in July draw. All candidates invited in these three draws have submitted their applications from May to June and they all currently reside in Prince Edward Island. In total, PEI invited 923 candidates in 2020. In the last twelve months, PEI PNP issued 1,529 invitations, and 10% of them were issued to business candidates.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers

BC issued ITAs to 72 Tech Pilot candidates

On August 25, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new draw in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) Tech Pilot. In this round, the government distributed 72 invitations to apply for the nomination of British Columbia in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All candidates at least 80 points in the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). In total, British Columbia invited 5,563 candidates in 2020 and 1,505 of them were invited Tech Pilot candidates.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Nation-wide protests demanding immigration status for temporary foreign workers

The Migrant Rights Network simultaneously held protests in ten cities including Toronto and Vancouver across the country to demand that the federal government take immediate action to expand the scope of immigration to resolve the immigration status of temporary foreign workers who have been stranded in Canada due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Syed Hussan, the organizer of the protests, said that at present, there are 1.6 million temporary foreign workers in Canada who do not have Canadian permanent residency status. These temporary foreign workers, on the one hand, have been making contributions to Canada's development and society, but on the other hand, they have been excluded from Canada's health insurance programs and COVID-19 related emergency response benefits, so they are living in poverty and are facing the risk of being deported.

#foreign_workers, #PR, #COVID_19

Canada may need more immigrants in the post-COVID scenario

Canada's economic growth relies on immigrants. It is difficult for Canadian businesses to survive without immigrants and skilled workers. In post-COVID time, the need for immigrants could be even higher. It is possible that Canada may not achieve its immigration targets as they were planned for 2020. However, in the next two years, those targets will be definitely achieved. Nearly 9 million Canadians are going to retire in the next 8-10 years. Immigrants are required to fill those spaces. Almost 25% of jobs have been created by new immigrants in recent years.

#immigration_levels, #labour_market

Pandemic-related immigration slowdown threatens Canadian economy

A new report by the Royal Bank of Canada Economics shows that the immigration slowdown could threaten the Canadian economy. According to the report, in the best-case scenario, this year Canada will admit only 70% of the target number of 341,000 immigrants. Canada added 34,000 permanent residents in the second quarter of 2020, down 67% from the same period in 2019. In the second quarter of the year, Canada welcomed 34,260 permanent residents, which only one-third of 94,275 immigrants admitted in the second quarter of 2019. The number of work permits was also down around 50% in the quarter. As for the study permits, the decline is even more significant - 10,000 new study permits processed, down from 107,000 in 2019. In general, TRV applications were down 80%.

#IRCC, #RBC, #immigration_levels, #work_permits, #study_permits, #TRV

No need to leave Canada to apply for a work permit

On August 24, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published a news release regarding the new temporary policy for work permit applications. IRCC has temporarily allowed foreign nationals with a valid job offer supported by the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to apply for a work permit without having to leave Canada. This step is aimed to help Canadian employers to recover from the COVID-19 crisis. The policy also applies to eligible applicants who had a valid work permit in the past 12 months to begin working for their new employer before their work permit application has been fully approved.

#IRCC, #work_in_Canada, #work_permit, #LMIA

Ottawa to appeal the decision on the Safe Third Country Agreement

The Federal Government confirmed it is appealing a court ruling that declared the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) unconstitutional. This was said by Public Safety Minister Bill Blair. Under the STCA, which took effect in 2004, Canada and the United States recognize each other as safe places for potential asylum seekers. In turn, STCA allows both governments to turn back refuge claimants who arrive at the border, stating that the asylum claim must be done in the first safe country entered. Regardless of the appeal, the STCA is set to remain in place until mid-January. 

#refugees, #STCA, #CBSA, #USA

The pandemic did not affect the plans to immigrate to Canada

The recent survey by the World Education Service (WES) demonstrates that the COVID-19 pandemic did not change the interest of foreign nationals to immigrate to Canada. The survey showed that 45% of respondents in June 2020 stated their interest in coming to Canada has increased. This is 7% up from April's rate. Almost one-third of respondents or 32% claimed they are considering postponing their application, while 11% are thinking of immigrating to a different country.
 
#IRCC, #immigration_levels, #WES

Ontario Premier is worried about Chinese entrepreneurs in the OINP

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said on August 18 that immigration applicants can submit applications directly to his office. According to the Ontario government, 80% of applications for the entrepreneur category for the provincial nomination program in Canada are from mainland China, and the refusal rate of the entrepreneur category in 2019 was 100%. Seven Chinese applicants in this category are preparing to start businesses in Ontario after obtaining Canadian work permits in 2019. They plan to hire 136 Ontario residents, with a proposed investment amount exceeding $30 million. As a result, no one was nominated by the provincial government. The entrepreneur stream also has the longest approval time in Ontario, which depends on the complexity of the investment project and may take up to several months. Ford criticized the situation and stated that entrepreneurs can submit an application "directly to his office" to improve the statistics." According to the official website of the Canadian Department of Immigration, the Ontario Immigration Nomination Program (OINP) has 7,350 spots this year, plus 250 spots for temporary foreign workers. As of August 13, 4,814 people have been nominated.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Entrepreneurs, #business_immigration, #PNP

IRCC has confirmed the processing of the paper-based PR applications

On August 23, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that the department keeps processing paper-based permanent residence applications to the extent possible on its official Twitter account. IRCC also tweeted that applicants couldn't re-submit a paper-based PR application online. IRCC also stated they are unable to provide accurate processing timelines for various applications. It is worth noting, that many provincial governments postponed the processing of paper-based application as a part of measures to reduce the risks of the COVID-19 infection. At the same time, the federal government will not process paper applications for visitor visas, study and work permits until further notice.

#IRCC, #PR, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #work_permits, #COVID_19

IRCC updated the Entry/Exit instructions

On August 21, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published an updated instruction on the Entry/Exit program. The updated instructions will now focus more on delivery, procedures and policy. The immigration department has added sections that clarify what information is being retained, who can access the information and for what purpose, data protection and privacy aspects, and the disclosure conditions. The travellers' data will be used by IRCC and CBSA for temporary residence, permanent residence, inland refugee claims, and citizenship policy enforcement, as well as related investigations.

#IRCC, #CBSA, #public_safety, #immigration_policy, #entry/exit

Canada issued permanent residence to 2,065 caregivers in 2020

According to official data by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in the first half of 2020, Canada admitted 2,065 caregivers as permanent residents to the country. The number of immigrant caregivers has significantly dropped this year due to the pandemic of the COVID-19. For instance, last year Canada welcomed 9,800 caregivers through, while in 2018, the IRCC granted permanent residence to 17,815 caregivers. Foreign nationals working as caregivers in Canada can obtain a PR status via the Home Support Worker and Home Child Care Provider pilots. Those pilots also allow caregivers to bring their family members to Canada.

#caregivers, #PR, #IRCC

Canada issued 3,300 ITAs in the Express Entry for CEC candidates

On August 20, 2020, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw. In the program-specific draw #161, Canada issued 3,343 Invitations to Apply for permanent residence in Canada in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Program. The lowest score was 454 points, nine points higher than in the previous CEC-specific round. The tie-breaking rule for this round was July 27, 2020 at 17:05:11 UTC. In 2020, Canada issued 65,750 invitations to apply in twenty-eight draws of Express Entry. In the ten CEC-specific rounds, IRCC invited 34,215 candidates this year. The majority of CEC candidates temporarily reside in Canada international graduates and foreign workers.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #CEC

Alberta updated the information on the AINP inventory

On August 20, 2020, Alberta published a new update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) inventory. As of August 18, Alberta received 1,250 applications that are waiting for the eligibility assessment under the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS). All applications were received before April 20, 2020. In the pool of the Alberta Express Entry Stream, currently, there are 250 Expressions of Interest. AINP issued 1,933 invitations to apply for a provincial nomination in the Alberta Express Entry in 2020. In 2020, Alberta already admitted 12,795 immigrants and 4,475 of them were nominated by the AINP. Last year, the province welcomed 43,690 immigrants including 11,235 provincial nominees.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR

Labour rights organization: Federal government should establish independent oversight agency to protect foreign workers

A foreign worker labour rights organization is calling on the federal government to establish an independent agency to protect foreign workers' rights. The independent agency will be responsible to probe complaints, with the guarantee that employees won’t be punished for raising concerns regarding the employment. Temporary foreign workers in Canada have become a high-risk group after the pandemic due to the conditions of the environment they live in. Some of them were forcibly isolated by their employers who limited their mobility, and some were fired because of breaking the rules.

#foreign_workers, #work_in_Canada

The number of Start-Up immigrants to Canada has seriously dropped

According to data by IRCC, the number of immigrants through the Start-Up Visa Program (SUV) has seriously dropped in 2020. For instance, in the first half of the year, Canada admitted only 140 SUV permanent residents. Last year Canada welcomed 515 start-uppers. Such a significant reduction in numbers is caused mainly by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, many business incubators have postponed their programs or switched to online mode. Venture capital funds and angel-investors became more cautious in assessing risks regarding investments. Experts assume that Canada may restore the volume of applications next year, once the economy will recover from the crisis.

#business_immigration, #Start_up_visa, #SUV, #entrepreneurs

 

Canada invited 600 candidates in a new PNP-specific Express Entry draw

On August 19, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 600 Invitations to Apply (ITA) to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in the new PNP-specific draw. In round #160, the lowest score to get an ITA was 771 points, 84 points more compared to the previous PNP-specific draw. The tie-breaking rule for this round was July 24, 2020 at 11:39:23 UTC. As of August 18, 2020, there are 142,012 profiles registered in the Express Entry pool, 149 profiles less compared to the previous update. In twenty-seven Express Entry draws in 2020, IRCC invited 62,450 candidates.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #PNP

Ontario registered 1250 candidates in the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream

On August 19, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) reopened the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream. OINP accepted 1250 registration in this intake. The processing time for International Students now takes 90-120 days. In 2019, OINP nominated 1,347 candidates in the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream. In 2018, Ontario issued 1,254 nominations in this stream. This means that this year we may not see another reopening of this stream.

 #Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #international_students

Immigration applicants may encounter delays

Those looking to immigrate to Canada should be prepared to face extensive delays due to pandemic-related hurdles causing a backlog of applications. The government’s immigration and citizenship website says it is still accepting most permanent resident applications but its ability to "review and process them" is being impacted by COVID-19. While the government says it cannot estimate processing times, it is prioritizing Canadians returning to the country, vulnerable groups, and people who perform or support essential services. A spokesperson for Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino said that while delays are inevitable, the department is working to modernize the system to minimize disruption.

#IRCC, #processing_times, #COVID_19

The birth rate in Canada dropping due to COVID-19, immigration levels might have to be increased

As a side effect of COVID-19, there has been a sharp decline in birth rates in Canada. This was reported in the Science magazine editorial. According to the publication, many couples have postponed or reduced planning for more children due to declining incomes. The immediate effect of this can be forecasted as following. We may face a drop in childcare demand by 2023-2024, then a drop in kindergarten in 2025 and a reduction in teenagers willing to work at summer jobs and part-time positions in the 2030s. This may require immigration levels to be raised further in order to meet Canada's labour force requirements. 

#immigration_levels, #COVID_19, #birth_rate, #demography

British Columbia invited 302 candidates 

On August 18, 2020, the government of British Columbia held a new draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). In this invitation round, BCPNP invited 302 candidates to apply for a provincial nomination. The lowest scores in this draw dropped by one point for Skilled Worker streams of SI and EEBC:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 96 (-1 point)
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 98
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 76
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 96 (-1 point)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 98
British Columbia continues to exclude 31 NOCs from participation in the BCPNP draws (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In total, BC invited 5,491 candidates in 2020 under all streams.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #EEBC, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP

Ontario to reopen the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream

On August 18, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced the reopening of the Employer Job Offer: International Student stream on Wednesday, August 19. Ontario will accept applications in the stream between 9 AM and 5 PM EST, however, it doesn’t announce the exact time. Since it is expecting a high volume of users, the OINP will automatically close the registration once the intake limit is met. Also, the OINP requests the most recent version of the Employer Form. It must be completed on or after August 19, 2020. Registered candidates will have 14 days to complete and submit the full application.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #Skilled_workers

Canada to speed up the processing of immigration applications for victims of the Beirut explosion

Canadian Foreign Minister François-Philippe Champagne recently stated that at the request of the Lebanese immigrant community, the Canadian government will facilitate the immigration of Beirut victims to Canada. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Immigration have established a joint working group for this purpose. Champagne said that the members of the working group include officials from the Department of Immigration and Canadian diplomats from the embassy in Lebanon. Although the current task of the team is only to expedite the immigration applications of victims of the explosion, it does not rule out accepting immigration applications from other Lebanese applicants in the future. In addition, the Canadian government is also considering longer-term assistance plans for Lebanon. Officials are currently discussing with grain exporters in western Canada how to help Lebanon improve food security.
 
#IRCC, #Lebanon, #application_processing

The public calls the government to waive the citizenship fee 

New immigrants are still waiting on the Trudeau government to deliver on its promise to wipe out the fee to become a citizen as soon as possible. The Liberal Party had promised to waive the $630 fee during the fall 2019 election campaign. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) will lose almost $400 million over four years if the fee is eliminated. In the meantime, the backlogs and waiting time for new citizenship ceremonies are growing as the traditional in-person group oath-taking has been cancelled since March as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. IRCC has since moved the citizenship ceremonies online. Some citizenship applicants who have passed their exams and are in line to swear their citizenship oath have been told they can’t take their oath because their criminal record check expired while they were waiting for their turn.

#IRCC, #citizenship, #oath_ceremony, #processing_fees

IRCC may automatize residence period calculation for PR status renewals and citizenship applications

 
Immigration applicants applying for Canadian citizenship and replacement of permanent residency cards may no longer need to fill in the period of residence in Canada. According to the latest update, the Canadian government will now be able to obtain immigration information for all foreigners within five years. This means that when permanent residents apply for citizenship after five years or extend their permanent residency status, they will no longer need to fill out the period of stay in Canada. In 2018, the Canadian government passed Bill C-21 and revised the Customs Act, allowing the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to start collecting entry and exit border information of travellers. CBSA has begun documenting travellers coming into and leaving Canada by ground since June 2019. The same applied to travellers coming and departing from Canada through air travel in June 2020. For the longest time, the CBSA only collected data on travellers entering the country. But now Bill C-21 requires the CBSA to collect information on travellers entering and exiting Canada.

#PR, #citizenship, #residence_obligation, #IRCC, #CBSA

Work Permits under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot to be submitted online

On August 17, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new program delivery update regarding work permits under Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). Effective August 17, IRCC will accept applications for AIPP work permits online. IRCC also clarified that it will accept paper applications until September 1, 2020. The Atlantic Immigration Pilot was launched on March 6, 2017, and will remain in place until December 31, 2021. Last year the Liberal government voiced plans to make the AIPP permanent, however, this was not announced yet. Since the launch of the program, Canada welcomed about 6,695 immigrants through the AIPP.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_pilot, #work_permit, #work_in_Canada

The decline of tourists and international students is devastating businesses 

Many consumers in Ontario noticed that the prices of fruits and vegetables in supermarkets has seriously increased. The main reason for this increase is due to the lack of labourers on the farms in Ontario, making it difficult to harvest crops, which increased the price of fruits and vegetables by about 50%. The pandemic has prevented temporary foreign workers from Mexico to work on Ontario farms this year. Due to a lack of labourers, the crops that should be harvested could not be completed. As a result, some crops were rotten in the ground. The lack of labour force has greatly affected farm operations, increased losses, and led to inflation in prices. At the same time, Ontario had to import fruits and vegetables from Mexico. The prices of produce from Mexico for 2020 are also higher than usual. The operators understand that this is due to a shortage of labour and transportation costs have also increased.

#Agriculture, #SAWP, #Ontario, #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19

Saskatchewan conducted a new draw in the SINP

On August 14, 2020, Saskatchewan conducted a new draw in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The province issued invitations to apply for the provincial nomination to 533 candidates. In the Express Entry category, SINP issued 286 invitations to apply. In the Occupations In-Demand category, Saskatchewan invited 247 candidates. The lowest score in both categories was 69 points, one point fewer compared to the July 29 draw. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this invitation round, Saskatchewan invited candidates in 46 different NOCs. In total, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 3,371 candidates in 2020. In the first half of the year, Saskatchewan admitted 4,290 immigrants, and 3,165 of them through the Provincial Nominee Program.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand

Thunder Bay invited another four candidates 

On August 14, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, held a new round of invitations in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and issued community recommendations to four foreigners. The city approved applications of 3 candidates in the NOC B skills level and 1 candidate in the NOC C skills level. After receiving a community recommendation, candidates can submit an application for permanent residence in Canada to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As of today, the community can still recommend 9 NOC A candidates, 17 NOC B candidates, 33 NOC C candidates, and 9 NOC D candidates. In total, Thunder Bay already recommended 32 candidates and still has 68 spots available for recommendation.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Ottawa introduced a pathway to permanent residency for asylum claimants working in healthcare

On August 14, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that the Federal government has approved an initiative to provide a pathway to permanent residency for asylum claimants who were working in the healthcare sector amidst the pandemic of the COVID-19. IRCC allowed Quebec to select those candidates who wish to reside in the province. This temporary policy is aimed to recognize the special contribution the asylum claimants made to Canadian society. Eligible candidates will also be able to include their family members in their applications. In order to meet the IRCC criteria, applicants must have filed asylum claims before March 13, 2020, posses a work permit and worked in the health-care sector at least 120 hours between March 13 and August 14, 2020. The eligible work experience includes orderlies, nurses, nurses’ aides and patient service associates, assistant orderlies and certain home support workers.

#healthcare, #PR, #IRCC, #refugees, #asylum_claims, #work_in_Canada, #work_permit

Canada and the US extended the border closure until September 21

The government of the USA and Canada decided to extend leave the border closure for another month. This was announced by the Minister of Public Safety of Canada Bill Blair on Tweeter on Friday, August 14, 2020. This means the US-Canada border will be closed for non-essential travellers until September 21, 2020. Both governments applied the travel restrictions in March and then have been extending them every month. As for other international travel restrictions, they will remain in place until at least August 31, 2020. The new update on travel restrictions to Canada is expected in the last week of the month.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

In July, Ontario nominated 882 foreign nationals

On August 13, 2020, the Ontario provincial government released a new update of the number of nominations certificates issued by the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Since the last update on July 9, the OINP issued 882 new certificates of the provincial nomination. In total, Ontario issued 4,814 nominations in 2020. The provincial quota this year is 7,600 nominations. This means, the provincial government still can nominate 2,786 foreign nationals, including 250 nominations under the federal NOC C initiative. So far, Ontario welcomed 48,460 permanent residents in 2020, and 3,670 of them were nominated by the province.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

Manitoba held the MPNP draw #96

On August 13, 2020, Manitoba held a new invitation round in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In round #96, Manitoba issued 197 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 485 points, 10 higher compared to draw #95. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 33 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO category was 672, 92 points less than in the previous round. MPNP also invited 23 candidates in the International Education Category. In total, Manitoba issued 253 LAAs in this draw and 23 of them were issued to the Express Entry candidates. Manitoba sent LAAs to 3,086 candidates in 2020. In total, in the first half of the year, Manitoba admitted 4,485 immigrants and 2,990 of them passed through the MPNP.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

5,816 Americans gave up their citizenship in the first half of 2020

One-third of them went to Canada. Bambridge Accountants New York partner Alistair Bambridge said there has been a huge turnaround during the Coronavirus in terms of U.S. ex-pats renouncing citizenship. The figures had been in steep decline since 2017. According to a survey, nearly one-third of these ex-pats chose Canada as their new beginning. They believe that Canada is more "humane" and more inclusive of ex-pats. Our country admitted 3870 Americans as permanent residents in 2020. Last year, 10,780 citizens of the USA moved to Canada permanently.

#USA, #immigration, #PR

Canada admitted only 180 self-employed immigrants in 2020

The Self-Employed Persons Program (SEPP) is aimed solely at talented foreign artists and athletes. Prior to March 2018, there was also the farm management stream in the Self-Employed Persons Program, but IRCC decided to cancel it. Currently, this immigration stream is a great pathway for world-class level sportsmen and self-employed persons whose main work is such cultural activities as music, art, writing, etc. The processing time for SEPP is now 23 months. As of June 30, 2020, Canada granted PR to 180 self-employed persons. Last year, Canada welcomed 870 immigrants in this program.

#business_immigration, #self_employed, #SEPP
 

Top-10 countries of the total PR admissions in the first half of 2020

IRCC has released new official data on the permanent resident admissions in 2020. In the first half of the year, Canada admitted 103,420 newcomers. A quarter of them originated from India – 26,610 (25.7% of the total). China is the second-largest country of origin of immigrants – 10,150 (9.8%). The third place is taken by the Philippines – 6,930 (6.7%). The other top ten countries of origin are: the USA – 3,870 immigrants (3.7%), Nigeria – 3,350 (3.2%), Pakistan – 3,305 (3.2%), Brazil – 2,255 (2.2%), France – 2,240 (2.2%), Syria – 2,145 (2.1%), and United Kingdom – 2,140 (2.1%).

#PR_admission, #IRCC, #PR

Court supports immigration detention rules

The detention rules for those who cannot be deported immediately from Canada are in line with the Constitution. This was found by the Federal Court of Appeal that rejected an argument that there should be time limits for detention in immigration cases similar to criminal trials, reported by Globe and Mail. The Federal Court of Appeal supported lower court ruling to dismiss the constitutional challenge filed by Alvin Brown, a Jamaican national detained for five years before deportation. Canadian immigration detention regulations have "all of the protections mandated" to ensure extended periods of detention don't contravene the charter, the judge wrote. Detention reviews are "timely and frequent," the onus is on the public safety minister to establish both grounds for detention and that detention is warranted based on case-specific factors, and detention may only be ordered when there are no appropriate alternatives, he wrote.

#public_safety, #detention_review, #deportation

There are almost a quarter-million "Dreamers" in Canada

Although the population of "Dreamers" in Canada is much less compared to the US, we do effectively have youths and children who were brought to Canada by their parents and who have grown up here. It's estimated that in Canada there are around a million people without immigration status and that 25% of them are children or youths who can be given the label of Canadian "Dreamers". The main difference is that in the US the "Dreamers" can study, work, and live in peace since their deportation is suspended, at least for the moment. However, that doesn't happen in Canada. Here, the children of undocumented immigrants don't have any type of benefit in terms of health or authorization to work. The biggest problem for these youths begins when they want to attend post-secondary education. One of the essential problems is that as soon as colleges and universities find out these students don't have status in Canada, they are charging them international tuition fees. Most undocumented students cannot manage to study and pay these exorbitant rates. However, in 2017, York University started a program specifically created for students with precarious immigration status, whereby they can access studies at the university. The University of Toronto is starting a study to see how it can help students without status who want to access post-secondary education at the university.

#Dreamers, #illegal_migrants

Canada welcomed 103,420 newcomers in the first half of 2020

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released the new figures about immigration to Canada. In the first half of the year, the country admitted 103,420 immigrants. According to the 2020-2022 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada was supposed to admit about 170,500 by June 30. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic ruined those plans. Almost 63.7% of all immigrants were admitted through economic immigration programs. Among them, about 21,8% were nominated by the provinces. Business immigrants were less than 1% in 2020. As for the family class, 24% of immigrants were sponsored by their relatives: 17.6% were spouses of Canadians and 5% were parents or grandparents. Finally, 10.8% of the newcomers were refugees and protected persons.
•    Skilled Workers – 42,360 (40.96%)
•    PNP – 22,505 (21.76%)
•    Business - 955 (0.92%)
•    Sponsored spouses – 18,155 (17.55%)
•    Sponsored parents and grandparents - 5310 (5.13%)
•    Sponsored children 1,200 - (1.16%)
•    Refugees and protected persons – 11,170 (10.80%)
•    Total - 103,420
#PR_admissions, #IRCC, #economic_immigrants, #family_sponsorship, #refugees, #business_immigration

Protests held across Canada urging politicians to help with the family reunification process 

On Saturday, August 8, 2020, protesters gathered in cities across Canada called on the government to do more to help reunite families kept apart by slow immigration procedures and COVID-19 pandemic-related travel bans. In Montreal, demonstrators assembled in front of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offices. Other protests were held in Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver, and Edmonton. According to the protestors, over 40,000 letters to the offices of Justin Trudeau and Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino and have been received with no response. The immigration department stated it continues to accept and process sponsorship applications and is looking at ways to help more families.

#IRCC, family_immigration, #spousal_sponsorship, #parents_sponsorship, #PGP

Canadian travel visa processing resumes, is this a sign the travel ban will be lifted?

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada implemented a travel ban in March this year, prohibiting most foreigners from entering the country and suspending various visa processing. Since the IRCC announced the resumption of online visa processing last month, Canada has relaxed restrictions on American students on entry. In addition, immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents were also allowed to enter the country. According to the information released last week, applications for visitor visas to Canada and electronic travel authorizations (eTA) submitted by foreign travellers have been reopened for review. However, due to the backlog of cases during the pandemic, the processing speed has been slower than usual. With the easing of the pandemic, IRCC promised to give priority to study permits to ensure that eligible students are approved as soon as possible.

#IRCC, #COVID_19, #TRV, #visitor_visas, #study_permits, #travel_restrictions

Express Entry Draw #159 – 250 ITAs for the Federal Skilled Trades Candidates

On August 6, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) surprisingly held a new Express Entry invitation round, just one day after the previous draw. In this round, IRCC issued Invitations to Apply (ITA) only for candidates in the Federal Skilled Trades (FST) category. This time Canada invited 250 FST candidates. The precious round in this program happened almost a year ago in October 2019. This was the seventh invitation round aimed only at FST candidates. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score for this round was the highest recorded for Skilled Trades candidates - 415 points. The tie-breaking rule for this round is June 2, 2020 at 09:35:31 UTC. In total, Canada has already invited 61,850 candidates via Express Entry.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #Federal_Skilled_Trades, #FST

BC PNP has increased processing fees

On August 6, 2020, the government of British Columbia announced the increase of the processing fees in the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) for candidates in the Skills Immigration (SI) category. Foreign nationals wishing to apply for the provincial nomination will have to pay $1,150. The fee has increased by $450 from the previous $700. BC has also increased the cost of a request for review from $200 to $500. The officials emphasized that they prefer to cover the operations costs from the candidates rather than from taxpayers, so it is an additional reason for the fees increase. The quota of BC has increased from 3,000 nominations in 2009 to 6,750 in 2019. At the moment, over 9,500 BC PNP nominees are waiting for their PR statuses.

#BCPNP, #British_Columbia, #Skills_Immigration, #PNP, #provincial_nomination

Thunder Bay released new recommendations of the community 

On August 6, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, issued new community recommendations in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). The city approved applications of 6 candidates in the NOC B skills level and one candidate in the NOC D skills level. Those candidates can who have received a community recommendation can now submit an application for Canadian permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Thunder Bay can still recommend 9 NOC A candidates, 20 NOC B candidates, 34 NOC C candidates, and 9 NOC D candidates. In total, the community already recommended 28 candidates since the launch of the program and still has 72 spots available.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

Immigration via the programs for caregivers 

Under the new caregiver program, foreign nationals who have passed grade 12 and completed one year of post-secondary education can be eligible to apply as a caregiver. However, they would be required to have at least 5 bands in IELTS and meet other eligibility criteria. The spouse and children of the applicant can be eligible to get work and study permits respectively. Canadian employers can hire a nanny/caregiver from abroad if they have small children or elderly people or people with special needs. However, they need to meet the income eligibility criteria. Foreign caregivers can apply for permanent residency after working for two years for their employer. In the first five months of 2020, 1,865 foreign nationals were granted PR status in Canada. Last year, their number was about 9,800.

#Caregiver, #IRCC, #work_permit, #PR

 

IRCC held a new all-program Express Entry draw

On August 5, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the second all-programs draw in the Express Entry in the last four months. In round #158, Canada issued 3,900 Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence to candidates in the Federal Skilled Workers programs, Federal Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class and Express Entry aligned provincial programs. The Comprehensive Ranking System cut-off score in this draw was 476 points, two points fewer compared to previous all-program draw. The tie-breaking rule for this round was July 27, 2020 at 01:02:47 UTC. As of August 4, 2020, there are 142,161 profiles registered in the system, only 91 less compared to the previous round. In total, Canada issued 61,600 ITAs in 25 draws in 2020.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA

Canadian universities will not provide discounts on tuition fees for online study

Most Canadian universities already announced they will deliver classes online in the fall semester. Given the continuation of the COVID-19 crisis, education institutions will continue remote learning until the authorities declare it safe to return to campus. Therefore, students at popular universities can expect most of their courses to remain online. Some students will still be able to gather in smaller groups or attend lab sessions. In this case, international students who are already in Canada will attend online classes. So, the student unions are calling for tuition fees to be reduced in the fall because they do not have access to the type of learning and resources they were being charged for. International students at McGill pay anywhere between $18,000 to $48,000 in tuition every year, depending on their program. Unfortunately, McGill principal Suzanne Fortier has cleared the air about this issue, saying that tuition fees will remain the same.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #COVID-19, #distance_learning

The issue of Hong Kong refugees

Whenever there has been political and social unrest in Hong Kong, such as the situations prompted by the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre, the 2019 Hong Kong Extradition Bill, and the 2020 Hong Kong National Security Law, Hong Kong residents have sought ways to immigrate to or seek refuge/political asylum in other countries, especially Canada. Unrest in Hong Kong this year and last year has made "Hong Kong refugees" an issue of public concern in Canada. Canada accepts a large volume of refugees every year. However, the issue of "Hong Kong refugees" is a completely new topic for the Chinese-Canadian community because these "Hong Kong refugees" are very different from the usual Hong Kong immigrants of past years. On July 3, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Ottawa is reviewing more measures to help Hong Kong residents, including immigration policies. Reporters asked Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada whether the department has any plans to provide Hong Kong refugee seekers and immigration applicants with additional assistance. IRCC did not answer the question but confirmed that a total of 46 Hong Kong residents filed asylum claims in Canada.

#refugees, #Hong_Kong, #China

IRCC released new instructions for the Post-Graduate Work Permits

On August 4, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released the new program delivery update for the issuance and eligibility for Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP) to international students. The length of the PGWPs is determined based on the duration of the academic program. IRCC recalled that officers will include regularly scheduled breaks in the time accumulated toward the length of the PGWP. At the same time, If the study was completed faster than the regular duration of the program, the officer may issue PGWP based on the actual length of the study. As for Quebec students, vocational programs, vocational programs with a diploma of vocational studies (DVS) must be at least 900 hours in length to be eligible for PGWP.

#PGWP, #international_students, international_graduates, #work_in_Canada, #IRCC

Canada's language schools struggling for survival amid COVID-19 pandemic 

International students have long been a major financial source for Canada's language schools. However, the current COVID-19 pandemic has put those language schools in difficult financial situations. In order to survive through the pandemic, language schools in Canada proposed to the federal government the Study Safe Corridor program. The program aims to bring in 40,000 students over the next few months from countries including Turkey, Japan, South Korea and Brazil to study English or French in Canada. The program will arrange charter flights provided by Air Canada to bring in these international students who have tested negative for COVID-19 and will be quarantined for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada. Several hotels and insurance companies have agreed to provide the necessary services to the program.

#International_students, #ESL, #FSL, #COVID_19

Hong Kong bank executives are giving up million-dollar annual salaries in order to immigrate to Canada 

Bloomberg News reported that Beijing's implementation of the national security legislation in Hong Kong has set off a new immigration wave, many of them are local bankers with high salaries. They've all stated that they would rather give up everything they have in Hong Kong in order to immigrate to another country, many of them are doing so for the sake of the future of their children. Bloomberg interviewed Ms. Li, a Hong Kong banker. Li said that she will immigrate to Canada in October this year and already purchased a property in Toronto. She gave up her job with an annual salary of one million HKD. She doesn't have a new job in Canada yet, she will have to pay heavy taxes and also endure the winter cold. She admitted that she's worried about job prospects, especially since many companies have put a freeze on hiring amid economic downturn - it's probably the worse time to immigrate. But Li and her husband insisted on immigrating because they're not optimistic about the future of Hong Kong.

#Hong_Kong, #business_immigration

The federal government allocates $59 million to protect foreign workers

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the federal government will allocate $59 million to protect foreign workers working on Canadian farms. He said the funds will enhance the farm’s quarantine work and help improve the overall living conditions of foreign workers. Trudeau said that Ottawa is studying ways to improve the temporary foreign workers' plan, such as mandatory requirements to improve the living conditions of foreign workers. In addition, Trudeau said that Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) program will continue until the end of August, with the purpose of hoping that everyone can overcome the difficulties, and the federal government will also formulate welfare plans for casual workers and contract workers.

#foreign_workers, #work_in_Canada, #seasonal_workers, #agricultural_workers

 

Canada extended travel restrictions until August 31

On July 31, 2020, Canada extended travel restrictions until August 31. Thus, the restrictive measures were extended for one more month. The terms of the new extension were published in a new federal government Order in Council that regulates the entry of foreign nationals into Canada from the US and overseas. The new document also states that all travel ban exceptions remain in effect until further notice. This allows immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, as well as some new immigrants, foreign workers and international students, to be able to come to Canada. Canada imposed travel restrictions on March 18. Initially, the restrictions were in effect until June 30, but then the government extended them until July 31. According to the government, border closures and general quarantines have allowed Canada to flatten the curve, thus the travel restrictions are justified. Recall that the land border with the United States will remain closed until August 21. The decision to extend or remove restrictions will be made in mid-August.

#travel_restrictions, #COVID_19, #IRCC

Nova Scotia updated the lists of Designated Employers

Nova Scotia has updated the list of provincial employers designated to participate in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). During June and July 2020, Nova Scotia added seventeen employers. Since the last update, the total number of its designated employers reached is 1,274. In total, there are 2,584 employers in all four Atlantic provinces who can hire foreign workers in the framework of the Atlantic Pilot.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_Canada, #Designated_employers, #Nova_Scotia

Canada gradually resumes passport services

On July 31, 2020, the federal government announced the gradual resumption of passport services within Canada. During the COVID-19 quarantine, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) paused the issuance of passports which also created backlogs for many Canadians who ordered passports but could not receive it. Beginning July 31, it is again possible to apply for a passport by mail. In the case of the urgent need for passports (travelling in less than 30 days), it is possible to request in-person appointments.

#Citizenship, #passports, #IRCC

Newfoundland and Labrador released a new immigration-related report

On July 30, 2020, Newfoundland and Labrador Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM) released the Report on the Settlement Outcomes Survey. The goal of this document is to present the observations of the government in assessing its immigration policies and especially in understanding the settlement experiences of newcomers to the province. The OIM plans to use the findings to adjust settlement programs in Newfoundland and Labrador. Following ‘The Way Forward’ strategic plan, Newfoundland and Labrador plans to admit 1,700 immigrants annually by 2022 through the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) which has been operated for almost twenty years.

#Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #NLPNP, #PNP

Canada’s municipal nomination program is coming

In view of the successful experience of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on regional pilot projects, immigration departments at all levels will accelerate the promotion of the Municipal Nomination Program (MNP) in the near future. The Canadian Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino said that the MNP project will bring in at least 5,000 new immigrants each year. More specifically, IRCC expects to accept 2,750 applicants each year, and the remaining 2,250 spots will be provided to the applicant's spouse and family members. Since there are only 5,000 spots, this means that the immigration department needs to consider which city to choose to implement the MNP. Considering the number of cities in Canada, this will be a challenging task. Mendicino stated that in the long run, whether the applicant can settle in the area is the core value of the MNP. Some immigration experts also said that the MNP will give priority to candidates with local job opportunities. Even if applicants have not yet obtained a local job opportunity, as long as they show a strong connection to the community, they will have the opportunity to be selected. One of the blueprints for MNP can serve the Morden's Community Driven Immigration Initiative in Manitoba.

#MNP, #IRCC, #immigration_policy, #immigration_pilots, #Morden, #Manitoba
 

Ontario held a new OINP Tech Draw 

On July 29, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) distributed 1,288 targeted Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to candidates under the Ontario’s Express Entry Human Capital Priorities stream. This is the fifth OINP tech draw since the launch of this sub-stream. In those tech draws, OINP invites only candidates in six following technical occupations: NOC 2173 Software engineers and designers, NOC 2174 Computer programmer and interactive media developers, NOC 2147 Computer engineers, NOC 2175 Web designers and developers, NOC 2172 Database analysts and data administrators, and NOC 0213 Computer and information systems managers. The CRS score range of this round was 463-477. This year, OINP invited 2,945 foreigners to apply for the provincial nomination in the tech draws. In total, Ontario issued 7,162 NOIs in 2020.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Human_capital, #OINP_tech_draw, #Express_Entry

Saskatchewan invited 502 candidates in the new invitation round

On July 29, 2020, Saskatchewan held a new draw in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The provinces stated that it will hold invitations round every two months. This time, SINP issued invitations to apply for the provincial nomination to 502 candidates. In the Express Entry category, Saskatchewan issued 254 invitations to apply. Another 248 invitations have been sent to the Occupations In-Demand category candidates. The lowest score in both categories has dropped by 8 points compared to the May 28 draw and reached 78 points. All invited candidates had Educational Credential Assessments. In this draw, the Saskatchewan government invited candidates in 43 different NOCs. In total, Saskatchewan issued ITAs to 2,838 candidates in 2020.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #Express_Entry, #Occupations_in_demand

PR applicants to submit the copies of the language test and educational credentials

On July 29, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the instructions for permanent residence applications for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), the Agri-Food Pilot Program (AFIP), the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program (RNIP) and the Start-Up Visa Program. Applicants will now be allowed to submit copies of their language tests and educational credential assessment (ECA) results. Earlier, the original documents were mandatory.

#ECA, #language_tests, #AIPP, #RNIP, #Start_Up_Visa, #AFIP, #PNP, #PR

Canada again updated instructions for PR applications finalization

On July 29, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new program delivery instruction for permanent residence application finalization from outside Canada. IRCC has clarified the procedural differenced for various applicants. For instance, it has divided all applicants with approved Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and Permanent Resident Visa (PRV) into four groups, depending on if they are travelling from the US or from the other countries, as well as the validity of their CoPR or PRV

#IRCC, #PR, #COPR, #PRV, #landing

British Columbia sent invitations to 34 Tech Pilot candidates

On July 28, 2020, British Columbia invited 34 candidates in a new draw of the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The province issued invitations to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. All invited candidates got a score of 80 points or higher. As of today, British Columbia sent invitations to 1,381 Tech Pilot candidates in 2020. This is almost 29.3% of the total 4,700 foreign nationals invited by the BCPNP this year. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Ministers responsible for immigration met to discuss immigration in Canada amid COVID-19. 

The Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration held a virtual meeting on July 24, in order to discuss the role of immigration amid COVID-19. Canada relies on Immigration since its establishment and the flow of skilled immigrants is vital for Canada’s economic development and recovery after the COVID-19 crisis. The federal, provincial and territorial ministers endorsed the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Strategic Plan for Immigration 2020-2023, which sets out a blueprint for immigration to Canada. For instance, the ministers again emphasized the importance of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIPP), the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) to address targeted regional gaps in the labour force. Worth noting that the Forum also discussed further development of the Municipal Nominee Program (MNP). The provinces agreed to continue collaboration on this program.

#PNP, #RNIP, #AIPP, #MNP, #immigration_policy, #COVID_19

British Columbia invited 12 entrepreneurs in the new draw

On July 28, 2020, British Columbia issued 12 invitations to business-candidates under the two provincial streams of business immigration. In the Base Category of the Entrepreneur Stream, BC invited 7 candidates with the lowest score of 125, four points higher than in the draw of June 2. As for the Entrepreneur Regional Pilot, BC invited 5 candidates with the lowest score of 123 points, five points more than in the previous round. The province has already invited 112 entrepreneurs in 2020 and 44 of them received invitations in the Regional Pilot.

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Entrepreneurs, #Business_immigration, #Regional_Pilot, #Rural_immigration, #PNP

It's time to regularize undocumented workers in Canada

A few years ago, a group of organizations released a study about undocumented people who live in Canada. The study, which was financed by the Labour International Union of North America, LIUNA Local 183, and published in 2005, reached the conclusion that there were between 300,000 and 500,000 undocumented workers in Canada. Today, various sources consider that this number could be well above 1 million people. Over recent years, and particularly during electoral campaigns, one of the things that has been clear is that there will be no amnesty for undocumented workers. The explanation from the government of the day has always been that providing amnesty would cause the very problem they are trying to prevent. However, no organization is asking for a general amnesty, but rather a regularization program based on merit. The governments' position is also contradictory given the need to attract new immigrants to maintain the required level of the Canadian population. It's also absurd to deport undocumented workers since they help keep industries afloat.

#undocumented_workers, #foreign_workers

Effective July 24, the federal government has added international students coming from the USA to the exemption list.

This means that those international students will be able to come to Canada for the fall term and obtain a study permit. Nevertheless, American students will have to demonstrate that their visit to Canada is non-optional and non-discretionary. At the same time, students will have to go the mandatory 14-day quarantine and will be able to begin their studies only after that.

#international_students, #USA, #COVID_19, #study_in_Canada, #study_permits

International Applicants for the National Assessment Collaboration exam urge for the help

International medical students are now scared about flying into Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Assessment Collaboration (NAC) is scheduled for Sep 12-13, 2020. It is a mandatory in-person exam for international medics and it is a requirement for those who plan to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Even though the physical part of the examination to assess clinical skills has been cancelled, candidates must attend in-person to describe verbally what they would do in various clinical situations. More than 900 people have signed a petition asking that the exam be moved to a future date, changed to an online format, or cancelled altogether. There are 10 testing centres in major Canadian cities, including Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary and Winnipeg for NAC tests.

#medics, #immigration_of_medics

Canadian international study visa approvals drop by 40%

On July 23, the latest data from IRCC showed that in the second quarter of 2020, the number of study permits issued by Canada was only 49,595, a year-over-year decrease of 40.54%. Canadian media worried that the declining number of international students will lead to a lower Canadian GDP, reduced employment opportunities and a reduced volume of real estate transactions. IRCC confirmed that the current situation of the sharp decline in the number of study permits will continue at least until the end of the third quarter. If the pandemic cannot be controlled, the status quo will be maintained throughout 2020. Following the sharp drop in the number of new Canadian immigrants by two-thirds, the number of Canadian international students will also see a drop. Among the major immigration countries in the world, Canada is a country where it is easier for international students to become permanent residents after graduation. Therefore, international students who choose to study in Canada have a high probability of becoming Canadian permanent residents.

#international_students, #study_permits, #study_in_Canada, #student_immigration

The number of refugee claims keeps rising

The number of refugee claims submitted in Canada continues to slightly increase despite the travel restrictions caused by the COVID-19. According to the recent data by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there were about 1,500 cases submitted in June compared to about 1,400 filed in the previous month. Since April most refugee claims were filed at marine ports. However, it is reported about asylum claims filed in airports, for the first time since the comprehensive travel restrictions were applied by the government. In addition, the RCMP reported about stopping 32 border violators in June, a slight increase compared to May, when there were 21 such cases. Currently, Canada is turning back those who show up at unmarked border crossings, one of several measures being taken at the border in response to the pandemic.

#refugees, #asylum_claims, #IRCC 

Canadian judge overturned the Safe Third Country Agreement

On July 22, 2020, Judge Ann Marie McDonald said Canada and the United States’ Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) is in violation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and asked the Canadian government to respond within six months. Originally under this agreement, Canada and the United States recognized each other as a safe place for refugees to seek protection. This means that refugees must seek asylum in the first country they arrive in. If refugees try to cross the border into Canada after arriving in the United States, the Canadian government can send these refugees back to the United States. In this regard, Canadian refugee rights activists have been actively opposing this agreement, saying that the United States is not always a safe country for those who are fleeing persecution. The appeal was filed by the Canadian Council of Refugees, Amnesty International, the Canadian Council of Churches and some individual litigants. They believe that the Canadian government’s deportation of unqualified refugees back to the United States puts refugees at risk of detention and eventually being deported back to more dangerous countries.

#STCA, #IRCC, #refugees

Alberta updated the AINP inventory

On July 23, 2020, Alberta published a new update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) inventory. According to data accurate on July 21, the province has 1,150 applications waiting for the eligibility assessment under the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS). Those applications were received before April 16, 2020. Additionally, there are about 300 Expressions of Interest in the Alberta Express Entry pool. So far, Alberta invited 1,933 candidates to apply for a nomination of the province in the Alberta Express Entry in 2020. According to IRCC, in total, 10,605 foreigners immigrated to Alberta this year and 3,435 of them were nominated by the province.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate, #PR

New rules for LMIA in Quebec

On July 24, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) announced the new rules for the processing of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Quebec employers who possess a valid LMIA may request the replacement of a Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) with another TFW, without a need to apply for a new LMIA if the original TFW cannot obtain a Quebec Certificate of Acceptance (CAQ) or a work permit. Quebec employers are also allowed to request the replacement of a TFW if no work permit was issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under this LMIA.

#Quebec, #IRCC, #MIFI, #LMIA, #work_permit, #work_in_Canada

Canada wins, U.S. loses in the global fight for high-tech workers

According to the study by the Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) at Georgetown University, Canada is winning a competition for global tech talent with the United States. The authors discovered that Toronto experienced the biggest growth in technology jobs than any other city in North America over the past five years, including San Francisco, New York and Seattle. Moreover, Vancouver is also in the top five. The tech industry across Canada is booming. Within the last five years, Canada has adopted major immigration reforms to attract talent in AI and other technical fields. The USA always attracted innovative foreign entrepreneurs but at the moment it does not offer an entrepreneur visa while Canada developed several entrepreneur programs at a national and regional level.

#high_tech, #USA, #CSET, #AI, #Entrepreneuers

Express Entry invited to apply for PR 3,343 CEC candidates

On July 23, 2020, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw. This was the ninth Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program-specific draw. In the invitation round #157, Canada issued 3,343 Invitations to Apply for permanent residence in Canada. The lowest score was 445 points, fourteen points higher than in the previous CEC-specific round. The tie-breaking rule for this round was July 12, 2020, at 15:16:55 UTC. In 2020, Canada issued 57,700 invitations to apply in twenty-four draws of Express Entry. In the nine CEC-specific rounds, IRCC invited 30,915 candidates. Most of those candidates temporarily reside in Canada.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #CEC

IRCC slightly updated travel restriction measures processing instructions

On July 23, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), released a new program delivery update for travel restriction measures processing instructions. IRCC has clarified the national interest exemption from the travel restriction measures. For instance, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship or the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness are allowed to exempt foreign nationals from travel restrictions.

#travel_restrictions, #COVID_19, #IRCC

Biometric exemption of temporary residence applicants

On July 23, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published the full updated instructions on biometrics exemption for applicants applying from within Canada. Under the new public policy, effective July 15, 2020, in-Canada applicants for a study permit, study permit extension, work permit, work permit extension, temporary resident visa, visitor status extension, temporary resident status restoration, and temporary resident permit are exempt from submitting biometrics until the further notice. This policy also applies to foreign nationals with pending applications.

#IRCC, #biometrics, #study_permit, #work_permit, #temporary_resident_visa, #TRV, #TRP

OINP accepted 1,300 registrations in the Foreign Worker Stream

On July 23, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) informed the public that the program accepted 1,300 registrations from the candidates in Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream during the session held on July 21. Ontario has now closed the stream and does not accept further registrations. All registered candidates have 14 days to complete and submit the full application and provide all supporting documents, including the up-to-date Employer Form. The estimated processing time for the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream applications is 90-120 days. Once the application is approved, successful nominees will be able to submit an application for permanent residence in Canada to the IRCC.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #provincial_nomination, #IRCC, #PR

IRCC again held a PNP-targeted Express Entry draw

On July 22, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 557 Invitations to Apply (ITA) to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in the new PNP-targeted draw. In round #156, the cut-off score was 687 points, 9 points fewer compared to previous PNP draw. The tie-breaking rule for this round was November 11, 2019, at 08:51:21 UTC. As of July 19, 2020, there are 142,252 profiles registered in the Express Entry pool, 384 profiles less compared to the previous update. After holding the all-programs draw two weeks ago, IRCC returned to the COVID-19 practice of program-specific rounds of invitations. In twenty-three Express Entry draws in 2020, Canada issued 54,357 ITAs.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA, #PNP

 

IRCC updated instructions of finalization of PR applications

On July 22, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new program delivery instruction on for finalization of permanent residence applications from inside and outside Canada. IRCC confirmed it continues the intake of applications. All incomplete applications with missing documents will be retained in the system for 90 days. After 90 days, IRCC will request the missing documents with another 90-days deadline. Applicants with approved Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and Permanent Resident Visa (PRV) must inform the IRCC if they are unable to travel before the expiry date. Expired COPR and PRV may be reopened for review in 90 days. Approved applications can be re-opened in GCMS by cancelling the COPR and PRV and removing the final decision. Once the travel limitations ended, applicants can inform the IRCC and the re-opened application may be re-approved.

#IRCC, #PR, #COPR, #PRV, #landing

Number of newcomers in Vancouver drops by 63%

On July 17, the immigration data released by the Canadian government showed that in May 2020, the number of new immigrants landing in Toronto was 3,630, a decrease of 69% compared to May 2019. On the other hand, in the same period, the number of new immigrants landing in Vancouver was 1,430 and in Montreal was 1,215, a decrease of 63% compared to May 2019. Although the numbers are very horrifying, the IRCC stated that the data for May 2020 was much better than in April. For example, the number of new immigrants landing in Vancouver in April 2020 dropped by 91.1% compared to April 2019. About half of Vancouver’s population was born outside of Canada, and people who do not speak English at home account for about 30% of the total population. Therefore, Vancouver itself is an economy highly dependent on new immigrants to import capital and labour. As of May 2020, Canada welcomed only 84,000 newcomers.

#immigration_levels, #Vancouver, #Toronto, #Montreal, #IRCC

Quebec introduced new selection conditions for PEQ

On July 22, 2020, Quebec introduced new selection conditions for Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). For instance, international students will have to take into consideration the new requirements for work experience in Quebec. Foreign workers will be assessed based on new criteria for occupational categories and work experience. Additionally, the new language requirements for accompanying spouses were also taken into effect. The processing time for PEQ applications has been extended to six months.

#Quebec, #PEQ, #PR

BC invited 62 candidates in the new Tech Pilot draw

On July 21, 2020, British Columbia held a new draw for the Tech Pilot candidates in the framework of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The province issued 62 invitations to apply for the provincial nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. The lowest score in all categories again was 80 points. As of now, British Columbia invited 1,347 Tech Pilot candidates in 2020. In total, BC invited 4,654 foreign nationals in the BCPNP. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

Canada introduced a two-step process for TRP applications

On July 21, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the new program delivery updates for processing applications for the temporary resident permits (TRPs). The new updates are related to victims of trafficking. Effective now, IRCC introduced a two-step decision-making process. The new instructions clarify the aspects of application processing, the issuance of short-term and long-term temporary resident permits (TRPs), the collection of biometrics, and other details.

#TRP, #IRCC, #biometrics

The OINP Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream has been closed within hours

On July 21, 2020, Ontario held a registration session for candidates in the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The registration was closed in less than two hours once the system has reached its intake limit. Many candidates complained online about the problems with the registration. At the moment, OINP has not published the results of this session. In the previous round on March 4, OINP received 1322 registrations in the Employer Job Offer streams, including the Foreign Worker Stream. In 2019, Ontario nominated 1,195 foreigners through this immigration stream.

#OINP, #Ontario, #Employer_Job_Offer, #foreign_workers

People are moving out of the City of Montreal

 
Statistics show that the number of people who moved out of the Montreal metropolitan area in 2018-2019 exceeded the number of newcomers in the area for the first time in more than ten years. But since there were more births than deaths, the population size has increased. The City of Montreal said in a recent report that during this period, the number of people who settled in the area was less than the number of people who moved out of the area by 5,932 people, the highest level in 20 years. The number of international immigrants who settled in the metropolitan area has decreased. Nearly 29,000 immigrants arrived in 2018-2019, 3,600 fewer people than the previous year.

#Montreal, #immigration_levels, #demography, #Quebec

Ontario to reopen the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream

On July 20, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) announced that the next day it will begin accepting applications to the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream. The province also notified it is expecting a high volume of users trying to register, thus technical issues may occur. The OINP will automatically close the registration once the intake limit is met. In addition, the OINP requests the most recent version of the Employer Form. It must be completed on or after July 21, 2020. Registered candidates will have 14 days to complete and submit the full application. Unfortunately, Ontario did not publish the exact time of the registration opening and the intake limit for this round.

#Ontario, #OINP, #PNP, #Employer_Job_Offer, #Skilled_workers

Application processing times in the SINP have been updated

On July 20, 2020, Saskatchewan updated the processing time of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) based on average times from April 1 to June 30, 2020. In the International Skilled Worker category, the processing time in the Employment Offer stream is 5 weeks, in the Occupation In-Demand stream - 31 weeks, and in the Express Entry stream - 28 weeks. In the Saskatchewan Experience category, the processing time in the Existing Work Permit Stream, the International Students stream, and the Health Professionals stream is 4 weeks. As for the Hospitality Workers stream, the processing time is 2 weeks and the Truck Drivers are processed in 5 weeks. In the Entrepreneur and Farm category, the processing time for the Entrepreneurs Nominations is 9 weeks, and 23 weeks for farmers. As for Entrepreneur Applications, there were too few applications processed to calculate the average processing time. The Job Approval Process, the authorization for an employer to hire a foreign worker through the SINP, takes 8 weeks. The processing times show the average time for 80% of applications to be processed.

#Saskatchewan, #SINP, #processing_times

IRCC updated the COVID-19 Study permits regulations 

On July 20, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated the regulations for study permits applications and travel restrictions for international students. For instance, IRCC updated definitions of non-optional and non-discretionary purposes of travel for students. If the student is applying for a study permit extension and his/her passport will expire within the next 6 months, IRCC will request a new passport from the applicant. However, if the extension is required for a duration of fewer than 6 months, it can be processed as normal. The department also explained the regulations on distance learning and study permit issuance, as well as eligibility for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #study_permit, #PGWP, #IRCC

Foreign accredited officials to be exempt from the travel restrictions

On July 20, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new program delivery update regarding incoming accredited officials. Effective immediately, foreign representatives and their accompanying family members destined to Canada to become accredited by Global Affairs Canada (GAC) are now exempt from the travel restrictions. Diplomats and the families must hold a passport that contains a diplomatic acceptance, a consular acceptance or an official acceptance issued by the Chief of Protocol for GAC on behalf of the Government of Canada. These foreign representatives and their accompanying family members are required to apply for and obtain a temporary resident visa (TRV) prior to their arrival in Canada under the current travel restrictions.

#GAC, #IRCC, #travel_restriction
 

Two draws were held in Prince Edward Island in July

On July 17, 2020, Prince Edward Island published the results of the invitations rounds in the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) held in July. On July 10, the province invited 8 candidates working in essential service industries such as Healthcare and Trucking under the Labour Impact Category. On July 16, PEI conducted a regular draw and issued invitations to 158 skilled workers via the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and 29 candidates in the Business Work Permit Entrepreneurs stream to apply for a provincial nomination. The lowest score for entrepreneurs was 117 points, equal to the June’s draw. In this draw, PEI invited only candidates whose profiles were submitted in March and April 2020 from the candidates currently living and working in the province. In total, PEI invited 195 candidates in these draws. Since January, the province issued 610 invitations, while in the last twelve months, PEI PNP invited 1,351 candidates, and 10% of them were in the business category.

#Prince_Edward_Island, #PEIPNP, #Business_immigration, #Skilled_workers

Immigrant professionals are almost invisible in Toronto's job market.

Immigrants between the ages of 35 and 44 in the GTA earn about 25% less than those born in Canada. By the age of 45 to 54, their income is at least 40% lower than that of their Canadian counterparts. Although the unemployment rate among newcomers in the GTA is at an all-time low (before the COVID-19 outbreak), many immigrant professionals cannot run for executive and chief executive positions. The Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council's (TRIEC) report, entitled "Building a Corporate Ladder for All," states that immigrants make up about 50% of the population in GTA. However, among the leading employers in the public, private and non-profit sectors in GTA, only 6% of executives are immigrants. The recently published report analyzed the profiles of 659 executives of 69 GTA companies. The report provides observations on how the situation has progressed to the current level. In a statement, Margaret Eaton, executive director of TRIEC, said, "There is certainly an invisible maximum line drawn here for immigrant professionals. And, unfortunately, we are not making full use of their skills and talents."

#Newcomers, #Toronto, #GTA, #immigrant_adaptation

Immigration is the only way to overcome the low fertility rate

Canada provides the most open immigration policy in the world and it will have to maintain it in order to remain one of the world's largest economies. According to a new study published by The Lancet, the global population will reach 9.73 billion people by 2064, however, by 2100 the low global fertility rate will cause the reduction on the Earth population to 8.7 billion. This means many nations will literally be competing over the human capital and the labour force to ensure economic growth. The study forecasts that by 2078, the Canadian population will reach about 45.2 million, but will decline to 44.1 million by 2100. The research also expects Canada to become a prominent immigration hub over the next 80 years and that immigration would help Canada replacing Russia as the world's 10th largest economy by 2030, remaining there for the rest of the century.

#immigration_levels, #immigration_policy, #global_fertility, #labour_force

Canadian universities consider the use of chartered flights to get students to Canada

Canadian universities scramble to maintain the flow of international students and the revenue they bring by considering a variety of services, from chauffeur service to a quarantined room, catered meals, daily health check, and the possibility of having chartered flights to get students to Canada. As a result of the travel restrictions, quarantine rules and the move to online learning due to the pandemic this year, many international students still haven't decided whether to continue their programs in the fall. Many schools have been speaking to federal and provincial governments about securing additional funding proposing they could share the added costs of quarantine for incoming students.

#international_students, #study_in_Canada

174 candidates got invitations in the MPNP’s draw #94

On July 16, 2020, the government of Manitoba held the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) draw #94. In this round, the province distributed 134 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The minimum score in this category was 430 points, 45 fewer than in the previous draw. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued 11 LAAs. The minimum score in the SWO category was 811, five points less than in round #93. Finally, in the International Education Category, MPNP invited 29 candidates. In total, Manitoba issued 174 invitations in this draw and 18 of them to the candidates from the Express Entry pool. In total, Manitoba issued 2,634 LAAs in the MPNP in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

New Brunswick published the File Processing update

On July 16, 2020, the government of New Brunswick published a document outlining the COVID-19 File Processing update adopted in the province and effective July 7. The province continues processing NBPNP and AIPP applications of international graduates and temporary foreign workers currently residing in New Brunswick. The government will accept and process applications of candidates in healthcare occupations from around the world. As for the truckers, New Brunswick will consider only applications in the AIPP from employers participated in the program in the last 18 months, while the rest applications from truckers to be processed through the NBPNP. Similar requirements are applied to Occupations in Manufacturing. IT candidates will be processed in both AIPP and NBPNP.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #AIPP, #COVID_19

Thousands of passports are finally sent to Canadians

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many citizens who ordered their passports could not receive them. The most frustrating was that neither the Immigration Department nor Service Canada did not provide clear updates until recently. First, the people were told that the passport office was closed, then that Canada Post wasn't delivering passports. Service Canada said Canada Post was partly responsible for the backlog. Service Canada said that it suspended general passport services on March 19 but offered critical passport services for urgent travel. Service appears to have at least partly resumed and, according to a Service Canada spokesperson, 11,000 passports that had accumulated since March 19 were mailed out on July 2.

#Citizenship, #Canadian_passport, #Service_Canada, #IRCC

Immigrants experience improvements in the Canadian labour market

According to a report titled “The Improved Labour Market Performance of New Immigrants to Canada, 2006-2019,” recent immigrants saw significant improvement in labour market outcomes between 2006 and 2019. Economist Kimberly Wong compared the participation rate, employment rate, unemployment rate and hourly wages among immigrants with less than five years in Canada, immigrants in the country between five and ten years, and Canadian-born citizens. Although immigrants had higher participation and employment rates, the wage gap and higher unemployment rates persisted. The report suggests some of the reasons for the general improvement in new immigrants’ performance in the Canadian labour market, such as the greater number of immigrants with university degrees and programs directed to immigrant workers like the Provincial Nominee Program.

#immigrant_adaptation, #newcomers, #employment

New Brunswick announced a new recruitment event in September

On July 15, 2020, New Brunswick announced the Employer Specific - Virtual Recruitment Event in Mexico in the framework of New Brunswick's Provincial Immigration Programs. The event is aimed at three following occupations: NOC 9461 - Machine Operator, NOC 9461 - Process Operator, and NOC 9617 - Factory Labourer. To be eligible, candidates must have relevant work experience in the last five years. The registration for the event is available online.

#New_Brunswick, #NBPNP, #Job_fair, #information_session

Quebec invited 7 persons in the second round of Arrima in 2020

On July 15, 2020, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francisation et Intégration (MIFI), published the results of the second invitation round in the Quebec’s online system Arrima conducted in 2020. On June 18, 2020, MIFI invited 7 candidates to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program. All invited candidates in this round submitted their applications before December 17, 2019, and were staying in Quebec on June 16, 2019, while having a valid study or work permit. In total, since the launch of Arrima, the government of Quebec invited 2,092 persons.

#MIFI, #Quebec, #Arrima, #QSW

More international students would choose Canada over the US

In the last few days, the Trump administration first adopted a controversial law preventing international students from entering the country if their program is online, and then was forced to cancel it. Nevertheless, the signal was clear and more international students are expected to come to Canada instead of the USA. According to IRCC, Canada welcomed 30,785 international students in May, 40% more compared to 27,810 in the same month last year. The number of international students entering Canada has been rising for five years in a row.

Internatonal_students, #USA, #study_in_Canada

Canada and the US plan to extend border closure until August 21

The authorities of the USA and Canada intend to leave the border closed until the end of August. This was reported by Politico, citing representatives from the US administration. The corresponding official announcement will be made before July 21, after which the restrictions will be extended for another 30 days. The travel restrictions were implied in March and then extended in April, May, and June. The current ban expires on July 21. The ban does not apply to the transport of goods and people crossing it in connection with their work. Authorities in most provinces of Canada told the federal government that they did not want to resume minor travels of citizens to the United States.

#USA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Express Entry PR admissions in 2020

According to the official data by IRCC, 31,010 immigrants received permanent residence via Express Entry in from January to May 2020. The highest number of PR admissions in the EE happened in February (9,185 immigrants), while during the COVID-19, their number had fallen to the lowest in April (2,075 immigrants). In May 2020, there were 4,420 PR admissions. 13,840 Express Entry immigrants were processed in the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), 10,995 immigrated via the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), 5,690 got their status in the Express Entry-aligned streams of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and, finally, only 480 under the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST). Last year, 109,595 applications for permanent residence were issued through Express Entry and 53,1% of them in the FSW, 27.6% in the CEC, 18.2% in the PNP, and finally 1.1% in the FST.

#Express_Entry, #PR, #FSW, #FST, #PNP, #CEC, #skilled_workers, #skilled_trades, #Canadian_experience, #PR_admission

 

Canada favoured by international talents

In a recent survey by Blind, a social network for tech professionals, 39% of more than 1,000 workers on H-1B visas in the US said they are willing to come to Canada for job opportunities. Canada has been popular among international talents, not only because of its multiculturalism and tolerance but also because of the efforts made by the federal government in recent years. In addition, tightened immigration policies in the US have made Canada a better option for international talents. However, in order to maintain its competitiveness for international talents, Canada will need to continue to improve the physical and soft environment for the technology industry and to establish and enhance trade and technological partnerships with other countries.

#foreign_workers, #USA, #IT, #work_in_Canada

Deterioration of Canada-China relations leads to a decline in the number of Chinese international students

The economic contributions made by international students to Canada's economy cannot be ignored. A recent Statistics Canada report pointed out that the number of international students studying at Canadian universities has doubled in the past 10 years, reaching nearly 500,000 by 2019, among whom 141,000 came from China. Ontario made up 48% of the population of international students in Canada, according to the report. It is now about two months away from the commencement of the fall semester, but many Canadian universities are still facing many issues regarding the registration of international students, especially that these universities are not certain how many international students will be allowed to enter Canada. As of now, only international students whose study permits were issued before March 18 are allowed to enter Canada, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For many years, China has been the largest source country of international students for Canada, but there is a rumour that the detention of Meng Wanzhou has been deteriorating Canada-China relations, which in turn could reduce the number of Chinese international students coming to study in Canada

#international_students, #study_in_Canada, #China, #Ontario, #COVID_19

Canadian economy adds almost a million jobs in June

According to Statistics Canada, about 953,000 more Canadians had jobs in June. Many employers had been forced to close their businesses as the pandemic began, now finally reopen and the national economy continues to recoup steep losses over previous months. Statistics Canada announced the unemployment rate would have reached 16.3% had it included those who wanted to work but decided not to look for a job. The Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough stated the plan of the federal government is working. Feds are now reshaping programs to motivate fewer workers to stay on the $80-billion CERB program by promoting the $82-billion wage subsidy program for employers.

#Statistics_Canada, #CERB, #unemployment

 

New Brunswick launched pre-travel registration service 

On July 9, 2020, New Brunswick launched the Travel Registration Program website intended for travellers who wish to enter the province. The new online service allows pre-travel registration to speed up the trip. Travellers will be able to verify if they meet the health screening requirements. Every traveller, including domestic and foreign travellers, entering New Brunswick by air, land or sea must register in the system. Those who travel regularly, such as truckers, can apply for a multiple-use registration. This measure complements the previous travel regulations adopted by the province to combat the COVID-19.

#New_Brunswick, #COVID_19, #travel_restrictions

ESDC issued 39,901 positive LMIAs in the first quarter of 2020

According to the official data by the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), the number of temporary foreign worker (TFW) positions on positive Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in the first quarter of 2020 was 39,901. This figure is somewhat lower than 40,929 positive LMIAs issued by ESDC in the fourth quarter of 2019. Last year, Canada issued 129,558 positive LMIAs. At the moment, it is hard to predict the exact impact of the COVID-19 on the LMIA issuance, but the total number might be much lower than expected.

#LMIA, #TFW, #Work_in_Canada, #ESDC

Federal government to change the interpretation of ‘parent’ in passing the citizenship

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have announced a change in the interpretation of the ‘parent’ section under the Citizenship Act. The new definition will allow non-biological parents who are Canadian citizens to pass down citizenship to their foreign-born children in the first generation. This change eases the acquirement of citizenship for babies born from surrogate mothers. Earlier Canadian families who experienced fertility issues, including the LGBT couples had to adopt and sponsor their kids first.

#Citizenship, #IRCC, #children_sponsorship, #surrogate_mothers

International Experience Canada visa holders can have more time

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows a second extension of an additional 90 days for International Experience Canada (IEC) applicants who already received a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction (LOI). If the current Letter of Introduction expires within 30 days, and the applicants are not able to travel to Canada due to travel restrictions caused by COVID-19, they can contact IRCC to apply for a second extension of 90 days.

#IEC, #IRCC, #Working_holiday, #COVID_19, #International_Experience_Canada

In June, Ontario nominated 914 foreign nationals

On July 9, 2020, the government of Ontario released a new update of the number of nominations certificates issued by the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Since the last update on June 4, the OINP issued 914 new nominations. In total, Ontario issued 3,932 certificates of provincial nomination in 2020. The quota of Ontario is 7,600 spots. This means, the provincial government still can issue 3,668 nominations, including 250 nominations under the federal NOC C initiative.

#Ontario, #OINP, #provincial_nomination, #PNP

Quebec once again changes the criteria for PEQ

On July 9, 2020, the government of Quebec published new conditions for the selection of the candidates for Quebec Immigration under the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). Earlier this year, the Ministry of Immigration of the province radically changed the program, which made it very complicated for applicants to meet all the requirements, especially regarding the work experience. Following the heavy criticism, starting July 22 Quebec will slightly ease the eligibility criteria. Applicants under the PEQ stream for workers must obtain two years of work experience in Quebec. Applicants under the PEQ stream for students will now be able to use the internship experience of up to three months to accumulate required 18 months of experience.

#Quebec, #MIFI, #PEQ

Ontario opened the Regional Immigration Pilot 

On July 9, 2020, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program has opened the intake of the applications under the new OINP Regional Immigration Pilot (OINP RIP). This provincial immigration pathway enables local employers from the designated communities to hire foreign workers to cover the labour shortages. Currently, three communities of Chatham-Kent, Cornwall, and Quinte West/Belleville participate in the pilot. The application to the OINP RIP is available by email. So far, Ontario allocated 150 spots for the pilot.

#Ontario, #OINP, #Regional_pilot, #OINPRIP

CBSA did not know whereabouts of most of the deportees

The Auditor-General report reveals CBSA lost track of 34,700 people due to be deported. Auditor-General Karen Hogan criticized the low efficiency of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in enforcing removals of deportees. The report revealed that the CBSA failed to remove the majority of foreigners who were subject to enforceable removal orders to protect the integrity of the immigration system and maintain public safety. The audit also found that many cases of foreign nationals who have criminal records who were issued removal orders have been missing from the CBSA removal inventories.

#CBSA, #removal_orders, #deportation
 

IRCC finally invited FSW candidates in the Express Entry!

On July 4, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) finally held the full Express Entry invitation round. In round #155, Canada issued 3,900 Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence to candidates in all three federal programs and nominees of the Express Entry aligned provincial programs. As predicted, the Comprehensive Ranking System cut-off score in this draw has significantly increased to 478 points, 57 points more than in round #154. The tie-breaking rule for this round was February 11, 2020 at 03:17:13 UTC. As of July 6, 2020, there are 143,268 profiles registered in the pool, 632 more compared to the previous round. The number of candidates in the pool started to grow after three months of reduction. In total, Canada issued ITAs to 53,800 candidates in 22 Express Entry draws in 2020.

#Express_Entry, #IRCC, #ITA

Alberta invited 187 candidates in the AINP

On July 8, 2020, Alberta published an update of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) inventory. As of July 7, the province has 1,175 applications waiting for the eligibility assessment under the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS). In addition, AINP has about 325 Expression of Interest applications in the Alberta Express Entry pool. Applications in the Alberta Opportunity Stream were received before April 7, 2020. The AINP also announced the results of the new Alberta Express Entry Stream draw. On June 17, 2020, the province issued 187 Notifications of Interest (NOI) and the lowest score of the round was 303 points. In total, Alberta already invited 1,933 Express Entry candidates to apply for a nomination in 2020.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #ITA, #Nomination_certificate

Canada needs more healthcare workers and farmworkers

Canada is in urgent need of healthcare workers and farmworkers. The need for healthcare workers has surged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are about 1.6 million healthcare workers in Canada. About 500,000 of these workers are older than 55 years of age. The majority of new immigrants are in the healthcare and pharmaceutical professions. Canadian farms require about 60,000 farmworkers. Most farmworkers come to Canada from Mexico and South America. However, farmworkers also come from the Philippines, Ukraine and Vietnam.

#healthcare, #farmworkers, #foreign_workers, #work_in_Canada

British Columbia issued ITA to 57 candidates in the Tech Pilot

On July 7, 2020, British Columbia conducted a new invitation round in the Tech Pilot of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The province distributed 57 invitations to apply for a nomination in four categories: Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker, Skills Immigration - International Graduate, Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker, and Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate. The lowest score in all categories did not change and was 80 points. So far, British Columbia invited 1,285 Tech Pilot candidates in 2020, which is almost one-third of the total 4,272 invitations issued by the province this year. 

#British_Columbia, #BCPNP, #Tech_Pilot, #PNP

The international students from the US may flee to Canada

On July 6, 2020, the United States government announced new regulations for international students studying online due to COVID-19. Under the new rules, international students may be requested to leave the USA if their program will be taught remotely. The same applies to new foreign students. Such students may be prohibited from entering the country if the courses will be delivered online in the fall term. Immigration experts predict that majority of such students will turn face to Canada, especially given the fact, that Canada allows international students to study for up to 50% of their programs remotely and maintain their eligibility for the Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP).

#international_students, #USA, #Study_in_Canada, #PGWP

15,350 asylum seekers claims were processed in 2020

According to the recent data by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the total number of asylum claimants processed from January 1 to May 31 is 15,350. This number could increase when the current border restrictions are relaxed. The CBSA officials confirmed they turned back 21 individuals who tried to enter the country from the South in May to make a refugee claim. The data from the Immigration and Refugee Board states that from February 2017 and March 2020, about 58,255 irregular migrants crossed the US-Canada border. Only 28,644 cases having been heard so far. Among them, 14,420 cases have been approved, 11,948 have been rejected, and the others were withdrawn or abandoned.

#refugees, #USA, #IRCC, #IRB, #CBSA

BC allows putting applications on hold for up to 24 weeks

On July 7, 2020, the government of British Columbia announced new temporary measures in the BC PNP caused by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to help prospective candidates applying for the provincial nomination, the officials enable the opportunity to put the applications on hold for up to 24 weeks. Nevertheless, the latest date for the hold is August 30, 2020. The main reason for the above updates is to align with changes to the temporary layoff provisions pursuant to the Employment Standards Act. Skilled Immigration Stream candidates may also refer to the Addendum to the BC PNP Skills Immigration and Express Entry BC Program Guide for additional information.

#BCPNP, #BCPNP, #Skills_Immigration, #EEBC, #PNP, #COVID_19
 

Canada released new instructions for electronic applications for temporary residence

On July 6, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a new program delivery update regarding applications for temporary residence. New instructions state that the status extensions such as Temporary Resident Visas, Study Permits, and Work Permits must be submitted online. IRCC has also clarified the exemptions for e-applications. In addition, authorized paid representatives are also required to submit those applications electronically.

#IRCC, #TRV, #study_permits, #work_permits

Thunder Bay held a new round of recommendations in the RNIP

On July 6, 2020, Thunder Bay, ON, issued new community recommendations in the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). The city approved applications of 9 candidates – one candidate in the NOC A skills level, six candidates in the NOC B skills level, and two candidates in the NOC C skills level. Candidates who received a community recommendation can submit their applications for permanent residence in Canada to Immigration Canada (IRCC). Thunder Bay can still recommend 9 NOC A candidates, 26 NOC B candidates, 34 NOC C candidates, and 10 NOC D candidates. In total, the community already recommended 21 candidates since the launch of the program and still has 79 spots available.

#Thunder_Bay, #RNIP, #Ontario, #community_recommendation, #rural_immigration

International travellers keep coming to Canada

According to the recent figures by the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA), international travellers keep coming to Canada in great numbers. In the second half of June, the number of foreigners coming to Canada by air has reached 30,000 weekly, while in April this figure was only 15,000 per week. In total, since May 25, 2020, 135,000 travellers arrived in Canada and 66,000 of them were foreign nationals. As for the land travellers, on average 170,000 people entered Canada every week compared to 115,000 in two previous months. In response to the increased traffic, Health Canada is placing its employees to screen arrivals for not being infected with the COVID-19.

#travel_restrictions, #CBSA, #Health_Canada, #COVID_19

 

Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick updated the lists of Designated Employers

Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick have updated their lists of provincial employers designated to participate in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). On June 23, 2020, Newfoundland and Labrador added one new employer. Since the last update, the total number of its designated employers reached is 306. As for New Brunswick, in June it added 16 new employers and the updated list now includes 697 employers. As of today, there are 2,570 employers in all four Atlantic provinces who can hire foreign workers in the framework of the Atlantic Pilot.

#AIPP, #Atlantic_Canada, #Designated_employers, Newfoundland_and_Labrador, #New_Brunswick

Will Ottawa modify immigration law to help Hong Kongers?

As reported by Globe and Mail, human rights activists and groups are urging the Canadian government to change immigration and refugee rules in order to accommodate a possible exodus of Hong Kongers following the law restrictions imposed by China. A Hong Kong Watch watchdog group called for Canada and the West to provide a safe haven people fleeing from Hong Kong. Separately, Alliance Canada Hong Kong, a Canadian umbrella group for Hong Kong pro-democracy advocates, is asking Ottawa to reduce barriers to Hong Kongers seeking a new life here. One of the requests they made to the government is to ignore any charges or convictions Hong Kongers may get from the Chinese government as a result of the protests.

#Hong_Kong, #immigration, #refugees

 

Can digital work permits help the Canadian economy?

A group of researchers who manage a public discussion on immigration suggested an interesting alternative that can help Canadian employers to recover from the pandemic crisis. Introduction of the security-proof digital work permits, as well as temporary electronic social insurance numbers (SIN) for the foreign workers and new immigrants, can help many industries. Thousands of workers and 'virtual' immigrants cannot begin their work prior to obtaining a SIN. Such digital work permits can be issued for a period of 90 days with an option to extend it until the worker or newcomer can enter Canada. Such a revolutionary reform can be favoured by many industries struggling with the impacts of the COVID-19.

#work_permits, #work_in_Canada, #COVID_19, #SIN
 

The mandatory self-isolation measures for those who enter Canada have been extended

On June 30, 2020, the Federal government has extended the mandatory 14 days self-isolation requirement and quarantine for all travellers entering the country by land, sea or air until August 31, 2020. This complex of measures has been introduced in Match with the implementation of the Emergency Order to combat the spread of the COVID-19. Canada also clarifies the regulation for wearing the face mask in public and maintain physical distancing. To recall, the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) has the right to refuse entry to Canada to those who have no isolation plan.

#Health_Canada, #CBSA, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Ontario has added 13 NOCs to Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream

On July 2, 2020, the government of Ontario has announced that the Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) will reopen on July 6, 2020. The officials have added the following 13 NOCs to the stream:
•    9411 – Machine operators, mineral and metal processing
•    9416 – Metalworking and forging machine operators
•    9417 – Machining tool operators
•    9418 – Other metal products machine operators
•    9421 – Chemical plant machine operators
•    9422 – Plastics processing machine operators
•    9437 – Woodworking machine operators
•    9446 – Industrial sewing machine operators
•    9461 – Process control and machine operators, food, beverage and associated products processing
•    9523 – Electronics assemblers, fabricators, inspectors and testers
•    9526 – Mechanical assemblers and inspectors
•    9536 – Industrial painters, coaters and metal finishing process operators
•    9537 – Other products assemblers, finishers and inspectors
In addition, OINP has removed the settlement funds requirement for the applicants of the streams. Ontario also accumulated all employers’ requirements in one online guide.

#OINP, #Ontario, #Employer_Job_Offer, #PNP, #provincial_nomination

Manitoba held the MPNP draw #93

On July 2, 2020, Manitoba conducted a new draw in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In round #93, the province issued 101 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA) in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. The lowest score in this category was 475 points. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, Manitoba issued only 6 LAAs. The lowest score in the SWO stream was 816. Finally, in the International Education Category, MPNP invited 18 candidates in. In total, Manitoba issued 125 invitations in this draw, including 10 invitations to the candidates from the Express Entry pool. In total, Manitoba issued 2,460 LAAs in the MPNP in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #International_students, #PNP, #SWO, #SWM

CUSMA has officially replaced NAFTA

On July 1, 2020, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has been superseded by the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Following that, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have updated the instructions of the new agreement. The regulations for the free entry of citizens of the three countries remain almost unchanged from the original NAFTA agreement. This means the business people can continue to enter, live and work in Canada under the same rules.

#CUSMA, #NAFTA

Manitoba nominated 1,192 foreign nationals in May and June

On July 2, 2020, the government of Manitoba published new statistics on the issuance of the provincial nominations in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). In May, the provincial government nominated 616 Skilled Workers, 4 business candidates, and approved 5 business concepts. It refused 60 applications of Skilled Workers and 1 business application. It also invited 222 Skilled Workers, 5 business candidates and approved 4 business concepts. In June, Manitoba nominated 572 Skilled Workers and approved 2 business concepts. MPNP refused 22 applications. It also invited 305 Skilled Workers and 3 business candidates. In total, MPNP received 2,137 applications from Skilled Workers and 21 business applications in the first half of 2020. In addition, Manitoba nominated 55 and 56 candidates from the Express Entry pool in May and June, respectively. In total, MPNP nominated 386 Express Entry candidates in 2020.

#Manitoba, #MPNP, #Skilled_workers, Business_immigration, #PNP, #nomination_certificates
 

Canada resumes processing of the visitor visas and eTAs

On June 30, 2020, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that it finally resumes processing the applications for visitor visas and electronic travel authorizations beginning July 1. At the same time, travel restrictions implemented to combat the spread of the COVID-19 remain in place. Immigration Canada will also continue processing online applications for work and study permits as well as applications for permanent residence. All paper applications will not be processed until the end of the pandemic.

#IRCC, #visitor_visa, #TRV, #eTA, #COVID_19, #PR, #study_permits, #work_permits

The borders will remain closed until July 31

On June 29, 2020, the Government of Canada published a new Order in Council that regulates the entry of foreign nationals to Canada from abroad. The new document extends the travel ban until July 31, 2020. The Order also specifies that all travel ban exemptions remain in place until further notice. This allows immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents as well as some new immigrants, foreign workers, and international students to able to come to Canada if meeting the exemptions.

#IRCC, #travel_restrictions, #COVID_19

Alberta to reduce the quota of the AINP

On June 30, 2020, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announced some important things in his public speech. Kenney said the province remains in crisis since 2015 and is experiencing high unemployment due to the COVID-19. The government is implementing measures to improve the situation. Alberta is going to ask the Federal government to expand the list of LMIA-prohibited NOCs for employers in Alberta which will make it impossible to get a positive LMIA for certain occupations in the province. In addition, Kenney wants to reduce the provincial quota for the AINP from 6,000 to 4,000 in 2020. So far, there was no reaction from IRCC on those issues.

#Alberta, #AINP, #PNP, #immigration_levels

 

British Columbia invited 314 candidates in the new draw

On June 30, 2020, British Columbia invited 314 candidates in the new draw in the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). The lowest scores in four categories have reduced:
•    Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker 98 (-2 points)
•    Skills Immigration - International Graduate 100
•    Skills Immigration - Entry Level and Semi-Skilled 79 (-1 point)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - Skilled Worker 98 (-2 points)
•    Express Entry British Columbia - International Graduate 100 (-3 points)
The province again excluded 31 NOCs from participation in the draw (0621, 0631, 0632, 0651, 3236, 6211, 6311, 6313, 6321, 6322, 6341, 6421, 6511, 6512, 6513, 6521, 6522, 6523, 6524, 6525, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6562, 6564, 6611, 6621, 6711, 6721, 6722, and 6731.). In total, British Columbia invited 4,215 foreigners to apply for the provincial nomination in the first half of 2020.

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