News Archives - Ese Umoh Immigration – Canada Immigration Consultant

January 23, 2025

Canada Introduces Study Permit Cap for 2025: What International Students Need to Know

Dear future neighbour,

In January 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new measure to manage the growing number of international students entering the country. The government announced a cap on study permit applications for the year, setting the limit at 505,162 applications.

This cap will remain in effect from January 22 to December 31, 2025, as part of broader efforts to address challenges associated with temporary residency in Canada.

Details of the Study Permit Cap

•Application Limit:

The IRCC will process up to 505,162 study permit applications in 2025. Once the limit is reached, any additional applications will be returned unprocessed, with application fees refunded. It is important to note that the cap only applies to the number of applications accepted for processing, not the number of study permits ultimately approved.

•Exemptions:

Certain groups are exempt from the cap, including:

•Applicants renewing their study permits for the same Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and level of study.

•Exchange students.

•Individuals with scholarships administered by Global Affairs Canada.

Reasons for the Cap

The introduction of the study permit cap is part of Canada’s strategy to address the rising number of temporary residents, including international students and foreign workers. This move builds on previous policy adjustments, including stricter work permit eligibility criteria and efforts to limit study permits, announced in September 2024.

The goal of these measures is to reduce the proportion of temporary residents from 6.8% of the population in April 2024 to 5% within the next three years. These changes aim to address pressing issues such as housing affordability and the rising cost of living, which have been linked to the rapid growth of temporary residents in the country.

Concerns and Criticism

While the cap seeks to manage population growth and alleviate societal pressures, critics argue that these measures do not address the root causes of challenges facing temporary residents, such as inadequate housing and worker rights. Some have called for more permanent and equitable solutions to ensure that Canada remains an attractive and inclusive destination for skilled migrants and international students.

Impact on Prospective Students

Prospective international students planning to study in Canada this year should take the cap into account when preparing their applications. It is advisable to apply early and ensure all requirements are met to avoid delays. Additionally, students should familiarize themselves with the eligibility criteria and exemptions outlined by IRCC to determine whether they may be affected by the cap.

Next Steps

Canada’s study permit cap for 2025 reflects the government’s efforts to balance the benefits of international students with the need to address challenges posed by the growing population of temporary residents. For students aspiring to study in Canada, understanding these changes and preparing accordingly will be essential to navigating the evolving immigration landscape.

Do you desire to study in Canada? Do you need help with your study permit application, work permit application, express entry or provincial nomination profile? Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com to get started today.

January 23, 2025

Canada Updates TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations Eligible for Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) in 2025

By EUIC Admin News, vacancies

Dear future neighbour,

On January 22, 2025, the Canadian government released an updated list of TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations eligible for the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). This policy change, effective January 21, 2025, aims to refine the eligibility criteria for spouses of foreign workers in Canada.

Key Updates:

Eligibility Criteria:

•Spouses of foreign workers can apply for a SOWP if the principal applicant is employed in:

•A TEER 0 occupation.

•A TEER 1 occupation.

•Specific TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations listed below.

•The foreign worker’s permit must have at least 16 months validity remaining at the time of the SOWP application.

Full list of Eligible TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations for SOWPs

See below list of eligible TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations:

Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors: NOC Code 22313
Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics: NOC Code 22312
Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment): NOC Code 22311
Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22310
Construction estimators: NOC Code 22303
Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22302
Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22301
Civil engineering technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22300
Construction inspectors: NOC Code 22233
Occupational health and safety specialists: NOC Code 22232
Engineering inspectors and regulatory officers: NOC Code 22231
Non-destructive testers and inspectors: NOC Code 22230
Information systems testing technicians: NOC Code 22222
User support technicians: NOC Code 22221
Computer network and web technicians: NOC Code 22220
Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology: NOC Code 22214
Land survey technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22213
Drafting technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22212
Industrial designers: NOC Code 22211
Architectural technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22210
Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists: NOC Code 22114
Conservation and fishery officers: NOC Code 22113
Forestry technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22112
Agricultural and fish products inspectors: NOC Code 22111
Biological technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22110
Geological and mineral technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22101
Chemical technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22100

NOC Group 32 – Technical Occupations in Health

Opticians: NOC Code 32100
Licensed practical nurses: NOC Code 32101
Paramedical occupations: NOC Code 32102
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists: NOC Code 32103
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians: NOC Code 32104
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment: NOC Code 32109
Denturists: NOC Code 32110
Dental hygienists and dental therapists: NOC Code 32111
Dental technologists and technicians: NOC Code 32112
Medical laboratory technologists: NOC Code 32120
Medical radiation technologists: NOC Code 32121
Medical sonographers: NOC Code 32122
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists: NOC Code 32123
Pharmacy technicians: NOC Code 32124
Other medical technologists and technicians: NOC Code 32129
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists: NOC Code 32200
Massage therapists: NOC Code 32201
Other practitioners of natural healing: NOC Code 32209

Specialized members of the Canadian Armed Forces: NOC Code 42102
Early childhood educators and assistants: NOC Code 42202

NOC Group 72 – Technical Trades and Transportation Officers and Controllers

Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations: NOC Code 72010
Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations: NOC Code 72011
Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades: NOC Code 72012
Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades: NOC Code 72013
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers: NOC Code 72014
Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades: NOC Code 72020
Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews: NOC Code 72021
Supervisors, printing and related occupations: NOC Code 72022
Supervisors, railway transport operations: NOC Code 72023
Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators: NOC Code 72024
Supervisors, mail and message distribution occupations: NOC Code 72025
Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors: NOC Code 72100
Tool and die makers: NOC Code 72101
Sheet metal workers: NOC Code 72102
Boilermakers: NOC Code 72103
Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters: NOC Code 72104
Ironworkers: NOC Code 72105
Welders and related machine operators: NOC Code 72106
Electricians (except industrial and power system): NOC Code 72200
Industrial electricians: NOC Code 72201
Power system electricians: NOC Code 72202

NOC Group 33 – Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services

Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants – NOC 33100
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations – NOC 33101
Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates – NOC 33102
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants – NOC 33103
Other assisting occupations in support of health services – NOC 33109

NOC Group 43 – Assisting Occupations in Education and Legal, Public Protection

Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants – NOC 43100
Operations Members of the Canadian Armed Forces – NOC 43204

NOC Group 53 – Occupations in Art, Culture, and Sport

Athletes – NOC 53200
Coaches – NOC 53201

NOC Group 73 – General Trades

Concrete finishers – NOC 73100
Tilesetters – NOC 73101
Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers, and lathers – NOC 73102
Roofers and shinglers – NOC 73110
Glaziers – NOC 73111
Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) – NOC 73112
Floor covering installers – NOC 73113
Residential and commercial installers and servicers – NOC 73200
General building maintenance workers and building superintendents – NOC 73201
Pest controllers and fumigators – NOC 73202
Other repairers and servicers – NOC 73209
Transport truck drivers – NOC 73300
Bus drivers, subway operators, and other transit operators – NOC 73301
Railway and yard locomotive engineers – NOC 73310
Railway conductors and brakemen/women – NOC 73311
Heavy equipment operators – NOC 73400
Printing press operators – NOC 73401
Drillers and blasters – surface mining, quarrying, and construction – NOC 73402

NOC Group 82: Supervisory Roles in Natural Resources

Supervisors, logging and forestry – NOC 82010
Supervisors, mining and quarrying – NOC 82020
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services – NOC 82021
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors – NOC 82030
Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and horticulture services – NOC 82031

Underground production and development miners – NOC 83100
Oil and gas well drillers, servicers, testers, and related workers – NOC 83101
Logging machinery operators – NOC 83110
Fishing masters and officers – NOC 83120
Fishermen/women – NOC 83121

Spouses of foreign workers can now access greater opportunities to integrate into Canadian society and support their families, making Canada an even more attractive destination for skilled professionals worldwide.

Do you require assistance with your work permit application, immigration process, admission, express entry or provincial nomination profile. Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

January 22, 2025

By admin-ese News, Provincial nomination, vacancies

Dear future neighbour,

Alberta is hiring!

The province is seeking passionate and experienced internationally educated nurses with a nursing bachelor’s degree for current and future nursing positions across the province.

To apply you will need to have all the information related to your nursing work experience, education, and clinical certifications ready. Please note that all submitted information will need to be verified via your documentation.

The direct link to Alberta’s International Nurse Recruitment Initiative is here

As an Internationally educated nurse, the National Nursing Assessment Service is the starting point if you are interested in being licensed or registered in Canada. You can learn about this process by watching their pre-recorded 1-hour webinar to understand the credentialling process, as well as their new expedited service which provides a fast, simple and safe way to review your credentials.

You will find the direct link to the pre-recorded webinar here

Interested in nursing in British columbia? This link might help

If you are interested in New Brunswick, this link might help as well

Interested in Saskatchewan, click here

Interested in Nova Scotia, click here

Interested in Manitoba, click here

I hope this helps.

Need help applying for a stduy permit, visitor visa, provincial nomination, spousal sponsorship or permanent residence in Canada? Send an email to info@eseumohimmigration.com and lets get you started.

January 16, 2025

Canada Boosts Border Security: Marc Miller Unveils New Measures Against Immigration Fraud

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

On January 15, 2025, Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, alongside Minister of Public Safety, David McGuinty, held a significant press conference in Ottawa to announce new measures aimed at enhancing border security and improving the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. This event highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to addressing issues related to immigration fraud and illegal border crossings.

Key Announcements

1. Strengthening Border Security Measures
Minister Miller outlined several initiatives designed to bolster Canada’s border security. A notable focus was placed on tightening regulations surrounding visitor visas and asylum claims. The government has implemented heightened scrutiny on visitor visa applications, which has reportedly led to an 89% reduction in illegal crossings into the United States from Canada since June 2024. This initiative aims to deter non-genuine visitors and streamline the immigration process for legitimate applicants.

2. New Penalties for Fraudulent Immigration Consultants
In a bid to combat abuse within Canada’s asylum system, the government announced stricter penalties for fraudulent immigration consultants. Under new regulations, these consultants could face fines up to $1.5 million for facilitating abuse of the asylum process. Additionally, there will be a public “naming and shaming” campaign to expose unethical actors in the immigration sector.

3. Enhanced Information Sharing with the U.S.
Miller also discussed the extension of information-sharing agreements with the United States. This initiative is expected to improve border security by allowing both countries to share critical data regarding permanent residents and enhance their ability to make informed migration decisions.

4. Investments in Surveillance Technology
The government is investing $1.3 billion to enhance border security operations, which includes deploying 60 new drones along the Canada-U.S. border and implementing additional surveillance technologies such as mobile x-ray units and handheld chemical analyzers. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to disrupt illegal cross-border activities and improve real-time monitoring of the border.

5. Future Reforms in Immigration Programs
While addressing questions about potential reforms to Canada’s international student program, Miller indicated that while no major changes are currently planned, he remains open to adjustments based on ongoing evaluations of existing policies. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust system that ensures integrity and trust among Canadians.

Conclusion

The press conference underscored the Canadian government’s proactive stance on immigration and border security as it continues to navigate complex challenges related to fraud and illegal crossings. By implementing stricter regulations, enhancing surveillance capabilities, and fostering international cooperation with the U.S., Canada aims to ensure a secure and efficient immigration system that prioritizes safety while maintaining its commitment to humanitarian values.

These announcements reflect an ongoing effort by Canadian authorities to adapt and respond effectively to evolving immigration dynamics while safeguarding national interests.

January 15, 2025

How Workers in Canada Can Change Employers on Closed Work Permits: January 2025 Update

By EUIC Admin News, Temporary Visa

Dear future neighbour,

Foreign workers in Canada holding employer-specific, or “closed,” work permits are authorized to work solely for the employer listed on their permit. However, if you wish to change employers, a structured process allows you to commence new employment while awaiting approval of a new work permit.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible to change employers under this process, you must:

•Be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status, which includes maintained status.

•Have held a valid work permit or been authorized to work without a permit at the time of submitting a new employer-specific work permit application.

•Have submitted an application for a new employer-specific work permit, with the decision still pending.

•Intend to work for the new employer specified in your job offer.

Steps to Follow:

1.Apply for a New Work Permit:

•Submit an application for a new employer-specific work permit, ensuring all required documentation is included.

2.Request Interim Work Authorization:

•After applying, request authorization to begin working for your new employer while your application is processed.

•Use the IRCC web form to submit your request.

•In the “Your enquiry” section, include the following template, filling in the necessary details:

Priority Code PPCHANGEWORK2020: I am requesting consideration under the temporary public policy to exempt foreign nationals in Canada from certain requirements when changing employment during the coronavirus pandemic, and request that the applicable exemptions be granted until the decision is made on my work permit application or it is withdrawn.

I attest that I hold/held a work permit valid until [DATE] for employer [name] / in occupation [job title] and I have received new job offer for [new employer name] / [new occupation job title].

I have submitted my application for a work permit online or I submitted my application on paper and the postal/courier tracking number is [number].

I intend to work for the [new employer name] / [new occupation job title] specified in the aforementioned work permit application.

•Ensure the code “PPCHANGEWORK2020” is included to prioritize your request.

3.Await Authorization:

•IRCC will review your request and, if approved, provide interim authorization to commence employment with your new employer while your work permit application is processed.

Important Considerations:

•This process is facilitated by a temporary public policy introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to expedite employment transitions for foreign workers.

•Ensure your current work permit remains valid during the application process to maintain legal status in Canada.

•Open work permit holders can change employers at any time without needing to follow this process.

By adhering to these steps, foreign workers on closed work permits can legally transition to new employment opportunities in Canada while awaiting the issuance of a new work permit.

The policy allowing workers on closed work permits to change employers while awaiting a new work permit decision is still in effect as of January 14, 2025. This temporary public policy, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, remains active but, like all temporary policies, it can be revoked or modified at any time without prior notice.

Workers and employers should stay informed by frequently checking updates to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

January 15, 2025

IRCC Updates Family Open Work Permit Rules: Key Changes for January 2025

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

On January 14, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced forthcoming changes to the eligibility criteria for family Open Work Permits (OWPs), set to take effect on January 21, 2025.

Key Changes Effective January 21, 2025:

•Spouses of International Students:

•Eligible Programs: Only spouses of international students enrolled in specific programs will qualify for OWPs.

•Master’s Degree Programs: The program must be at least 16 months in duration.

•Doctoral Programs: All doctoral programs are eligible.

•Professional Degree Programs: Select professional degree programs remain eligible.

•Spouses of Foreign Workers:

•Eligible Occupations: Spouses of foreign workers employed in certain occupations will be eligible for OWPs.

•TEER 0 and 1 Occupations: All occupations in these categories are eligible.

•Select TEER 2 and 3 Occupations: Occupations in sectors experiencing labor shortages or aligned with government priorities, such as natural and applied sciences, construction, healthcare, natural resources, education, sports, and military sectors, are eligible. A comprehensive list of eligible occupations will be published by IRCC on January 21, 2025.

•Validity of Foreign Worker’s Permit: The principal foreign worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit at the time their spouse applies for an OWP.

•Dependent Children: Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer be eligible for family OWPs under the new regulations.

See below TEER categories and examples of jobs

TEER	Occupation types	Examples
TEER 0	Management occupations	Advertising, marketing and public relations managers Financial managers
TEER 1	Occupations that usually require a university degree	Financial advisors Software engineers
TEER 2	Occupations that usually require a college diploma apprenticeship training of 2 or more years, or supervisory occupations	Computer network and web technicians Medical laboratory technologists
TEER 3	Occupations that usually require a college diploma apprenticeship training of less than 2 years, or more than 6 months of on-the-job training	Bakers Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
TEER 4	Occupations that usually require a high school diploma, or several weeks of on-the-job training	Home child care providers Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers
TEER 5	Occupations that usually need short-term work demonstration and no formal education	Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers Delivery service drivers and door-to-door distributors

Implications:

These changes aim to better align Canada’s temporary resident programs with current economic priorities and labor market needs. By refining eligibility criteria, the government seeks to manage the influx of temporary residents and address societal concerns such as housing affordability and cost of living.

Next Steps:

Individuals planning to apply for family OWPs should review the updated eligibility criteria and ensure their applications comply with the new requirements effective January 21, 2025.

Do you require assistance with your immigration process, admission, express entry or provincial nomination profile. Are you overwhelmed with the process and need to speak to a professional immigration consultant? Schedule a consultation session or send an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

January 10, 2025

Canada’s Strong Position in the Henley Passport Index 2025: A Look at Global Mobility and Travel Privileges

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

The Henley Passport Index 2025 has just been released, offering the latest global rankings of the world’s most powerful passports. The index evaluates passport strength based on how many destinations holders can access visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. The 2025 update provides insight into shifting global mobility trends, with Canada remaining a significant player in the global passport rankings.

In the latest rankings, Canada holds the 7th spot globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to an impressive 188 countries. This ranking places Canada two positions ahead of the United States, which is now ranked 9th.

See Below Full List of Visa-Free Countries for Canadians

Albania
American Samoa (eTA)
Andorra
Angola
Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Aruba
Australia (eTA)
Austria
Bahamas
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Bermuda
Bolivia
Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
British Virgin Islands
Brunei
Bulgaria
Cayman Islands
Chile
Colombia
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Croatia
Curacao
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
Estonia
eSwatini
Falkland Islands
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
France
French Guiana
French Polynesia
French West Indies
Gabon
Georgia
Germany
Gibraltar
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guam
Guatemala
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Hong Kong (SAR China)
Hungary
Iceland
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Kazakhstan
Kenya (eTA)
Kiribati
Kosovo
Kyrgyzstan
Latvia
Lesotho
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macao (SAR China)
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Malta
Mauritius
Mayotte
Mexico
Micronesia
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Montserrat
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Netherlands
New Caledonia
New Zealand (eTA)
Nicaragua
North Macedonia
Northern Mariana Islands
Norway
Oman
Pakistan (eTA)
Palestinian Territory
Panama
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Reunion
Romania
Rwanda
San Marino
Sao Tome and Principe
Senegal
Serbia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka (eTA)
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Lucia
St. Maarten
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Suriname
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
Tajikistan
Thailand
The Gambia
Trinidad and Tobago
Tunisia
Türkiye
Turks and Caicos Islands
Ukraine
United Kingdom (eTA)
United States
Uruguay
US Virgin Islands
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City
Zambia

Visa-On-Arrival Countries:

Holders of a Canadian passport can receive a visa on arrival in various countries, including:

Armenia
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cape Verde Islands
Comoro Islands
Djibouti
Ethiopia
Guinea-Bissau
Indonesia
Jordan
Kuwait
Laos
Lebanon
Maldives
Marshall Islands
Mauritania
Myanmar
Nepal
Palau Islands
Paraguay
Qatar
Samoa
Saudi Arabia
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Solomon Islands
Somalia
St. Helena
Tanzania
Timor-Leste
Togo
Tonga
Tuvalu
United Arab Emirates
Zimbabwe

E-Visa Required Countries:

Certain countries require Canadians to obtain an e-visa before traveling, including:

Azerbaijan
Benin
Cameroon
Egypt
Guinea
India
Papua New Guinea
Uganda
Vietnam

Full List of Visa-Requiring Countries For Canadian passport holders

Afghanistan
Algeria
Bhutan
Brazil
Central African Republic
Chad
China
Congo (Dem. Rep.)
Congo (Rep.)
Cote d’Ivoire
Cuba
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Ghana
Iran
Liberia
Libya
Mali
Nauru
Niger
Nigeria
Niue
North Korea
Russian Federation
South Sudan
Sudan
Syria
Turkmenistan
Venezuela
Yemen

Canada’s Future in Global Mobility

Canada’s passport remains one of the most valuable globally, and its consistent ranking among the top 10 countries highlights its continuing influence. The country’s strong international relations, trade agreements, and its position within organizations like the Commonwealth and the United Nations contribute significantly to the ease of travel for Canadian citizens.

In the coming years, Canada’s passport may see small fluctuations in its global ranking, especially as other countries continue to negotiate for greater access to international destinations. However, its reputation for travel freedom and the opportunities it offers its citizens is unlikely to diminish.

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

January 8, 2025

Canada Expands Express Entry with New Education-Focused Occupations for 2025

By EUIC Admin Express Entry, News

Dear future neighbour,

In 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is set to introduce a new category within the Express Entry system, focusing on the education sector. This initiative aims to address labor shortages in education by facilitating the immigration of qualified professionals.

Background

In 2024, IRCC conducted public consultations to establish this new category and reviewed existing ones. The consultations indicated a need to include education-related occupations in the Express Entry draws. Subsequently, in September 2024, IRCC announced changes affecting international students’ eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs), emphasizing fields of study linked to long-term labor market needs. By December 2024, programs related to early childhood education and developmental service workers were added to the list of PGWP-eligible programs, signaling the forthcoming inclusion of education occupations in Express Entry.

Expected Occupations and NOC Codes

The anticipated list of occupations under the new education category includes:

1.Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers (NOC 41221): Educators teaching basic subjects or specialized programs in public and private schools.

2.Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220): Professionals instructing academic, technical, or vocational subjects at the secondary level.

3.Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202): Specialists planning and implementing programs for children up to 12 years old, employed in childcare centers and similar facilities.

4.Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100): Individuals supporting students and assisting educators with instructional and non-instructional tasks.

5.Educational Counsellors (NOC 41320): Advisors guiding students on educational and career planning, typically employed by educational institutions.

6.Instructors of Persons with Disabilities (NOC 42203): Professionals aiding individuals with disabilities in developing essential skills, working in specialized education institutes and rehabilitation centers.

These occupations were identified based on their alignment with PGWP-eligible programs and the need to address labor shortages in Canada’s education sector.

Implications for Prospective Immigrants

The introduction of the education category in Express Entry presents new opportunities for professionals in these fields to immigrate to Canada. Candidates with experience in the specified occupations are encouraged to enter the Express Entry pool promptly, as early entry may provide advantages due to the tie-breaking rule favoring earlier profiles.

Conclusion

IRCC’s addition of an education-focused category to the Express Entry system reflects Canada’s commitment to addressing labor shortages in critical sectors. By targeting specific occupations within education, Canada aims to attract skilled professionals essential for the country’s social and economic development.

December 18, 2024

Canada Announces Key Immigration Changes

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, introduced three significant changes to Canada’s immigration system. These changes are designed to strengthen the integrity of the immigration process and improve its efficiency. The new measures focus on eliminating flagpoling, tightening control over immigration documents, and combating fraud in the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, along with improving the integrity of the Express Entry system. Here’s a breakdown of the key announcements:

1. Elimination of Flagpoling

Flagpoling, a practice where individuals leave Canada to briefly cross the border and return to complete immigration procedures (like applying for a work permit or permanent residency), will no longer be allowed. This process was often used to avoid waiting for approval within the country, but it had potential for abuse and loopholes. The government’s move to eliminate flagpoling aims to prevent misuse and create a more secure and predictable immigration process. It also ensures that applicants follow the proper channels, reducing the possibility of fraud or manipulation.

2. Tightened Control Over Immigration Documents

The Canadian government is placing increased emphasis on the integrity of immigration documents. This means that there will be stricter regulations surrounding the issuance of immigration-related documents to prevent fraud. The goal is to make sure that these documents—such as work permits, study permits, and permanent resident cards—are not forged or used fraudulently. By improving document control, the government seeks to ensure the system remains fair and transparent, ultimately protecting both applicants and Canada’s immigration system from exploitation.

3. Combating LMIA Fraud and Improving Express Entry Integrity

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a key requirement for employers wishing to hire foreign workers in Canada. However, some dishonest employers may exploit the system, using fraudulent LMIAs to bypass regulations and hire workers under false pretenses. The new measures aim to combat this fraud, ensuring that only employers who genuinely need foreign workers can use the LMIA system. Additionally, the government is introducing stricter rules to maintain the integrity of the Express Entry system. Express Entry is the main pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada, and the changes will ensure that only qualified individuals are selected, reducing the chances of fraud and ensuring that skilled labor needs are met.

Conclusion

The new immigration changes announced by Marc Miller on December 17, 2024, are part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to maintain a fair, transparent, and secure immigration system. By eliminating flagpoling, tightening control over immigration documents, and addressing fraud within the LMIA and Express Entry systems, the government is working to protect the integrity of its immigration policies. These changes not only aim to prevent misuse but also ensure that Canada remains a welcoming and fair destination for those seeking to immigrate.

December 17, 2024

Unlocking New Opportunities: Canada’s Rural Community Immigration Class

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

On December 14, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the eligibility criteria for two new permanent residency pathways aimed at addressing labor shortages and fostering community development in Canada. These pathways are the Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC) and the Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC). This article provides a comprehensive overview of the eligibility requirements for both classes.

Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC)

The RCIC is designed for foreign nationals who can economically establish themselves in designated rural communities outside of Quebec. The eligibility criteria include:

General Requirements
– Residency Intent: Applicants must intend to reside in a rural community in a province or territory other than Quebec.
– Temporary Resident Status: If applying from within Canada, applicants must maintain valid temporary resident status throughout the application process.

Work Experience
– Minimum Duration: Applicants must have at least one year (1,560 hours) of continuous full-time work experience or equivalent part-time experience within the past three years.
– Occupational Alignment: Work experience must correspond with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) for the applicant’s occupation.

Language Proficiency
– Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English or French through an approved language test, with results less than two years old at the time of application. The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels required vary depending on the NOC category.

Educational Credentials
– Applicants must possess either a Canadian secondary or post-secondary educational credential or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign credentials that confirm equivalency to Canadian standards.

Certificate of Recommendation
– A valid Certificate of Recommendation from a designated community’s Economic Development Organization is required. This certificate confirms a job offer and community connection and remains valid for six months post-issuance.

Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC)

The FCIC aims to increase the number of French-speaking immigrants settling in Francophone communities outside Quebec. The eligibility criteria include:

Employment Requirements
– Applicants must secure a job offer from a designated employer for non-seasonal, full-time work located within the designated community.
– At least 75% of the work must be performed within that community.

Work Experience
– The required work experience varies by TEER category as follows:
– TEER 0: Experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
– TEER 1: Experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
– TEER 2: Experience in TEER 1, 2, or 3.
– TEER 3: Experience in TEER 2, 3, or 4.
– TEER 4: Experience in TEER 2, 3, or 4.
– TEER 5: Experience in the same NOC unit group.

Language Proficiency
– Similar to RCIC, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in French through an approved language test.

Conclusion

The introduction of the RCIC and FCIC marks a significant step in Canada’s immigration strategy aimed at supporting rural and Francophone communities. By establishing these targeted pathways, Canada seeks to not only fill labor shortages but also enhance cultural diversity and promote regional economic development. These initiatives reflect Canada’s ongoing commitment to inclusive immigration policies that benefit both newcomers and local communities.

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Category Archives: News

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Implications:

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Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC)

Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC)