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January 20, 2025
January 20, 2025

Ontario Launches REDI Pilot: A New Pathway to Permanent Residence for Skilled Immigrants

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has launched the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program, which runs from January 2, 2025, to December 31, 2025. This initiative aims to attract up to 800 skilled immigrants to four rural and northern regions in Ontario:

  • Lanark,
  • Leeds and Grenville
  • Sarnia-Lambton
  • Thunder Bay

Below is a detailed overview of the program, including its objectives, application process, eligibility criteria, and a comparison of the job offer streams involved.

Objectives of the REDI Pilot

The REDI pilot is designed to address labor shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. By attracting skilled workers to these regions, the program aims to enhance local economic growth and ensure that communities can effectively meet their workforce needs.

Application Process

Candidates must follow these steps to apply for the REDI pilot:

1. Expression of Interest (EOI): Register an EOI with OINP.
2. Job Offer: Obtain a full-time job offer from an employer in one of the participating regions.
3. Nomination: Receive a provincial nomination from OINP to apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the REDI pilot program, applicants must meet specific requirements based on one of the OINP’s Employer Job Offer streams. Below are the eligibility criteria for each stream:

Employer Job Offer Streams

Stream Job offer requirements Candidate requirements
Employer job offer: Foreign Worker Stream – Full-time and permanent.

– A TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.

– Pays a wage equal to or greater than the median wage for the occupation in Ontario.

– Based in Ontario.

– Position critical for employer’s business.

 – Minimum work experience.

 Key Points
– Candidates must intend to reside in Ontario.
– They must be licensed or authorized to practice their occupation if it is regulated.

Employer job offer: International Student Stream

Stream Job offer requirements Candidate requirements
Employer job offer: International Student Stream – Full-time and permanent.

– In a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.

– Pays equal to or more than the low wage level for the occupation.

– Based in Ontario.

– Position critical for employer’s business.

 – College or university education.

– Apply for nomination within two years of completing the qualifying education credentials.

To qualify for the education requirements under the Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream, candidates need to have completed a program from an eligible Canadian institution in Ontario within the two years before applying. The acceptable education levels include:

– An undergraduate degree or diploma that is at least two years long if studied full-time.
– A graduate degree or diploma that is at least one year long if studied full-time.
– A college graduate certificate that is at least one year long if studied full-time.
– A university graduate certificate that is at least one year long if studied full-time.

To find out the low wage level for a job offer, candidates should visit Canada’s Job Bank. On the site, they can enter the NOC code, job title, and location to check the low wage level for their occupation.

If a candidate is already employed in the position, the wage offered must be equal to or higher than what the employer currently pays for that role, in addition to meeting the low wage level.

Employer job offer: In-Demand Skills Stream

Stream Job offer requirements Candidate requirements
Employer job offer: In-Demand Skills – Full-time and permanent.

– For an eligible occupation.

– Based in Ontario.

– Pays as much or more than the median wage for the occupation in Ontario.

– Position is critical to employer’s business.

 – Nine months’ work experience.

– High school diploma.

– Language proficiency of CLB 4 or higher.

Conclusion

The REDI pilot program represents a significant advancement in Ontario’s immigration strategy by focusing on regional economic development through targeted immigration. It provides a streamlined pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency while addressing local labor shortages. Aspiring applicants are encouraged to explore this opportunity and participate in information sessions hosted by OINP to understand how they can benefit from this new initiative.

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 16, 2025
January 16, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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.

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 15, 2025
January 15, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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.

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 15, 2025
January 15, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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 14, 2025
January 14, 2025

Alberta Issues 588 Invitations in December 23, 2024 Draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On December 23, 2024, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) held a draw under the Alberta Opportunity Stream, inviting 588 candidates to apply for provincial nomination.

Key Highlights of the Draw

•Number of Invitations: 588

•Minimum EOI Score Required: 55

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify under the Alberta Opportunity Stream, candidates needed to meet the following criteria:

•Work Permit: A valid work permit, excluding Post-Graduation Work Permits, valid through at least the end of 2025.

•Education: Completion of high school equivalent to Canadian standards.

•Language Skills: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 4 in English or French.

•Work Experience: At least 12 months of work experience in Alberta.

•Job Offer: A full-time job offer from an Alberta employer in an eligible occupation (this excludes occupations in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) category ‘1 – Business, finance, and administration occupations’ and category ‘6 – Sales and service occupations.’ ).

2024 Alberta Nomination Highlights

This draw marked the final AAIP selection for 2024. Over the year, Alberta issued a total of 9,943 nominations, exceeding its original allocation of 9,750 through federal approvals for additional nominations.

The Alberta Opportunity Stream continues to play an essential role in supporting the province’s economy by attracting skilled workers to fill labor shortages and contribute to local communities.

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 14, 2025
January 14, 2025

Manitoba PNP Issues 197 Invitations in First Draw of 2025

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 9, 2025, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) conducted its first Expression of Interest (EOI) draw of the year, issuing a total of 197 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to candidates across two streams. 

Skilled Worker in Manitoba Stream

In this category, 145 candidates were invited, with the lowest-ranked candidate having a ranking score of 838. Eligibility for this draw required that the candidate or their spouse had completed post-secondary education in Manitoba. 

Skilled Worker Overseas Stream

This draw focused on a region-specific selection for the Winkler area, inviting 52 candidates. The lowest-ranked candidate in this group had a score of 615. 

Of the 197 LAAs issued, 52 were granted to candidates who declared a valid Express Entry profile number and job seeker validation code. 

Candidates who received an LAA have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residency to the MPNP. Failure to apply within this timeframe will result in the expiration of the LAA. 

This draw reflects Manitoba’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled workers and addressing regional labor needs, particularly in areas like Winkler. The MPNP continues to play a vital role in supporting the province’s economic growth by selecting candidates who can contribute to Manitoba’s labor market and communities.

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 10, 2025
January 10, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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

  1. Albania
  2. American Samoa (eTA)
  3. Andorra
  4. Angola
  5. Anguilla
  6. Antigua and Barbuda
  7. Argentina
  8. Aruba
  9. Australia (eTA)
  10. Austria
  11. Bahamas
  12. Barbados
  13. Belarus
  14. Belgium
  15. Belize
  16. Bermuda
  17. Bolivia
  18. Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba
  19. Bosnia and Herzegovina
  20. Botswana
  21. British Virgin Islands
  22. Brunei
  23. Bulgaria
  24. Cayman Islands
  25. Chile
  26. Colombia
  27. Cook Islands
  28. Costa Rica
  29. Croatia
  30. Curacao
  31. Cyprus
  32. Czechia
  33. Denmark
  34. Dominica
  35. Dominican Republic
  36. Ecuador
  37. El Salvador
  38. Estonia
  39. eSwatini
  40. Falkland Islands
  41. Faroe Islands
  42. Fiji
  43. Finland
  44. France
  45. French Guiana
  46. French Polynesia
  47. French West Indies
  48. Gabon
  49. Georgia
  50. Germany
  51. Gibraltar
  52. Greece
  53. Greenland
  54. Grenada
  55. Guam
  56. Guatemala
  57. Guyana
  58. Haiti
  59. Honduras
  60. Hong Kong (SAR China)
  61. Hungary
  62. Iceland
  63. Iraq
  64. Ireland
  65. Israel
  66. Italy
  67. Jamaica
  68. Japan
  69. Kazakhstan
  70. Kenya (eTA)
  71. Kiribati
  72. Kosovo
  73. Kyrgyzstan
  74. Latvia
  75. Lesotho
  76. Liechtenstein
  77. Lithuania
  78. Luxembourg
  79. Macao (SAR China)
  80. Madagascar
  81. Malawi
  82. Malaysia
  83. Malta
  84. Mauritius
  85. Mayotte
  86. Mexico
  87. Micronesia
  88. Moldova
  89. Monaco
  90. Mongolia
  91. Montenegro
  92. Montserrat
  93. Morocco
  94. Mozambique
  95. Namibia
  96. Netherlands
  97. New Caledonia
  98. New Zealand (eTA)
  99. Nicaragua
  100. North Macedonia
  101. Northern Mariana Islands
  102. Norway
  103. Oman
  104. Pakistan (eTA)
  105. Palestinian Territory
  106. Panama
  107. Peru
  108. Philippines
  109. Poland
  110. Portugal
  111. Puerto Rico
  112. Reunion
  113. Romania
  114. Rwanda
  115. San Marino
  116. Sao Tome and Principe
  117. Senegal
  118. Serbia
  119. Singapore
  120. Slovakia
  121. Slovenia
  122. South Africa
  123. South Korea
  124. Spain
  125. Sri Lanka (eTA)
  126. St. Kitts and Nevis
  127. St. Lucia
  128. St. Maarten
  129. St. Vincent and the Grenadines
  130. Suriname
  131. Sweden
  132. Switzerland
  133. Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
  134. Tajikistan
  135. Thailand
  136. The Gambia
  137. Trinidad and Tobago
  138. Tunisia
  139. Türkiye
  140. Turks and Caicos Islands
  141. Ukraine
  142. United Kingdom (eTA)
  143. United States
  144. Uruguay
  145. US Virgin Islands
  146. Uzbekistan
  147. Vanuatu
  148. Vatican City
  149. Zambia

Visa-On-Arrival Countries:

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

  1. Armenia
  2. Bahrain
  3. Bangladesh
  4. Burkina Faso
  5. Burundi
  6. Cambodia
  7. Cape Verde Islands
  8. Comoro Islands
  9. Djibouti
  10. Ethiopia
  11. Guinea-Bissau
  12. Indonesia
  13. Jordan
  14. Kuwait
  15. Laos
  16. Lebanon
  17. Maldives
  18. Marshall Islands
  19. Mauritania
  20. Myanmar
  21. Nepal
  22. Palau Islands
  23. Paraguay
  24. Qatar
  25. Samoa
  26. Saudi Arabia
  27. Seychelles
  28. Sierra Leone
  29. Solomon Islands
  30. Somalia
  31. St. Helena
  32. Tanzania
  33. Timor-Leste
  34. Togo
  35. Tonga
  36. Tuvalu
  37. United Arab Emirates
  38. Zimbabwe

E-Visa Required Countries:

Certain countries require Canadians to obtain an e-visa before traveling, including:
  1. Azerbaijan
  2. Benin
  3. Cameroon
  4. Egypt
  5. Guinea
  6. India
  7. Papua New Guinea
  8. Uganda
  9. 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 9, 2025
January 9, 2025

Canada’s First CEC Express Entry Draw of 2025: 1,350 PR Invitations Issued

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

In a significant move to strengthen Canada’s labor force and immigration system, the country conducted its first Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Express Entry draw of 2025 on January 8, inviting 1,350 candidates to apply for permanent residency (PR).

A Positive Start to 2025

The first CEC draw of 2025 marks a promising start to Canada’s immigration year, with 1,350 candidates receiving Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. These invitations were sent to applicants who met the eligibility requirements for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a category within the Express Entry system tailored for individuals who already have work experience in Canada.

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was set at 542 points. This score reflects a combination of factors such as age, education, work experience, and proficiency in English or French.

See below details of the First CEC Express Entry Draw of 2025

  • Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Number of invitations issued: 1,350
  • Rank required to be invited to apply: 1,350 or above
  • Date and time of round: January 8, 2025
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 542
  • Tie-breaking rule: December 7, 2024

Canadian Experience Class: A Key Immigration Pathway

The Canadian Experience Class is one of the three main programs managed under the Express Entry system, alongside the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. The CEC is designed for individuals who have already worked in Canada for a certain period, often in skilled positions. To be eligible for this program, candidates must have at least 12 months of full-time, skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years, as well as meet other requirements such as language proficiency.

CEC applicants often have an advantage when applying for permanent residency due to their familiarity with Canadian culture, workplaces, and systems. This makes them well-positioned to integrate into the country’s labor market and contribute to Canada’s economy.

2025 Immigration Plan

The January 8 CEC draw comes as part of Canada’s broader immigration objectives, set in its 2025 Immigration Levels Plan. With a goal of welcoming over 465,000 new permanent residents in 2025, the country is looking to fill critical labor gaps, especially in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and skilled trades.

The Canadian government has emphasized its commitment to attracting skilled workers through programs like the Express Entry system, which offers a streamlined pathway for high-demand candidates. By targeting workers with Canadian experience, the country is building on its existing pool of talent to support national economic development.

CRS Score Trends in 2025

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 171
501-600 23,240
451-500 65,699
491-500 12,811
481-490 12,492
471-480 14,965
461-470 13,034
451-460 12,397
401-450 60,704
441-450 11,938
431-440 13,030
421-430 11,901
411-420 12,224
401-410 11,611
351-400 50,607
301-350 21,788
0-300 5,554
Total 227,763

The CRS score cut-off of 542 points for this CEC-specific draw represents a moderate level compared to previous years, signaling that Canada remains focused on inviting individuals with solid work experience and language skills. Historically, CRS scores have fluctuated based on the number of invitations issued and the specific program draws. However, many experts suggest that these scores are likely to remain relatively high as Canada continues to prioritize skilled workers in a competitive global job market.

Candidates with higher CRS scores have always had a better chance of receiving an ITA, though there are still opportunities for those with lower scores, especially if they have strong provincial nominations or Canadian job offers, which can significantly boost their score.

Looking Ahead

Canada is expected to continue conducting regular Express Entry draws throughout 2025, with further invitations expected for both CEC and other immigration streams. The 2025 immigration plan is part of a larger effort to enhance Canada’s global competitiveness and ensure sustainable economic growth.

Candidates who received ITAs in this latest CEC draw now have 60 days to submit their complete application for permanent residency. Those who did not receive an invitation are encouraged to stay updated on future draws and consider improving their CRS score through measures such as gaining more work experience, improving language proficiency, or securing a job offer from a Canadian employer.

Conclusion

Canada’s first CEC Express Entry draw of 2025 signals the country’s ongoing commitment to welcoming skilled workers with Canadian experience. With 1,350 invitations issued and a CRS score of 542, this draw offers an exciting opportunity for those already contributing to the Canadian workforce. As the year progresses, candidates should continue to monitor developments and plan accordingly for upcoming draws. The country’s dynamic immigration policies promise to create new avenues for skilled professionals and contribute to Canada’s long-term prosperity.

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
January 8, 2025

Canada Kicks Off 2025 with First Express Entry Draw Inviting 471 Candidates

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 7, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its first Express Entry draw of the year, issuing 471 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.  This draw was exclusively for candidates with provincial nominations under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Key Details of the Draw:

•Number of ITAs Issued: 471

•Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 793

•Tie-breaking Rule: November 25, 2024

The elevated CRS cutoff reflects the additional 600 points awarded to candidates with a provincial nomination, indicating that without the nomination, the base CRS score would have been 193.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Overview:

The PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet specific local labor market needs. A provincial nomination significantly enhances a candidate’s Express Entry profile by adding 600 CRS points, effectively guaranteeing an ITA in subsequent draws.

CRS Score Distribution as of January 7, 2025:

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 633
501-600 23,021
451-500 65,492
491-500 12,799
481-490 12,431
471-480 14,917
461-470 12,973
451-460 12,372
401-450 60,416
441-450 11,878
431-440 12,975
421-430 11,839
411-420 12,152
401-410 11,572
351-400 50,452
301-350 21,746
0-300 5,545
Total 227,305

This distribution underscores the competitive nature of the Express Entry system, with a substantial number of candidates in higher CRS brackets.

Implications for Future Applicants:

Given the competitive landscape, candidates are encouraged to enhance their CRS scores through various means:

•Language Proficiency: Improving scores in recognized language tests can boost CRS points.

•Educational Credentials: Pursuing higher education or obtaining Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) for existing qualifications can add points.

•Work Experience: Gaining additional skilled work experience, particularly in Canada, can enhance a profile.

•Provincial Nomination: Securing a nomination through a PNP stream aligned with one’s skills and experience can add 600 CRS points.

•Job Offer: Obtaining a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can contribute additional points.

•Spousal Factors: Including a spouse’s language skills, education, and work experience can also increase the overall CRS score.

Conclusion:

The first Express Entry draw of 2025 highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to leveraging the Provincial Nominee Program to address specific regional labor market needs. Prospective immigrants should remain proactive in enhancing their profiles to improve their chances in future draws.

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
January 8, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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.

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
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