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January 27, 2025
January 27, 2025

Canada’s New Caregiver Program Set to Launch on March 31, 2025

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News

Dear future neighbour,

Canada’s New Caregiver Program designed to address the increasing demand for caregivers in the country named the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots, is set to open on March 31, 2025.

This new Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots will replace the now-terminated Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot, which stopped accepting applications on June 17, 2024.

Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements which includes:

– a valid job offer from a Canadian employer or a Canadian family

– language proficiency in English or French

– a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 4 which is the lowest level of English equivalent to 4 bands in writing and speaking with 4.5 in listening and 3.5 in reading for IELTS.

– at least one year of post-secondary education equivalent to Canadian standards.

New Canada Caregiver Programs: Streamlined Pathways and Improved Features

The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots have been redesigned with several improvements to make the immigration process smoother and more accessible for caregivers. These updates aim to address previous challenges while offering more opportunities for skilled workers in the caregiving sector.

Key Highlights of the New Pilots:

Simplified Pathway to Permanent Residency:

The updated programs offer a straightforward process for caregivers to obtain permanent residency, reducing unnecessary obstacles and ensuring a quicker transition for those looking to settle in Canada.

Permanent Residency Upon Arrival:

Caregivers will now be granted permanent resident status immediately upon arrival in Canada, removing delays and uncertainties that were common under earlier pilots. This change provides caregivers with greater security and stability.

Increased Employment Flexibility:

Participants will have the option to work for employers offering temporary or part-time care services, catering to individuals who are semi-independent or recovering from illness or injury. This flexibility ensures that caregivers have a broader range of employment opportunities to choose from.

These enhancements reflect Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting caregivers while addressing labor shortages and fostering economic growth.

Furthermore, candidates who are already in Canada and have caregiving work experience may qualify for permanent residency more quickly, provided they meet the required hours of work experience.

Previous Caregiver Programs

As the new caregiver pilots get ready to launch, it’s important to recognize the programs that laid the foundation for these developments:

1.Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot: These programs closed to new applications on June 17, 2024.

2.Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP): This program stopped accepting applications in 2014.

3.Caring for Children Program: This program concluded on June 18, 2019.

4.Caring for People with High Medical Needs Program: This program also ended on June 18, 2019.

5.Interim Pathway for Caregivers: A temporary pathway that closed on October 8, 2019.

These previous programs were instrumental in shaping the current landscape for caregiver immigration in Canada.

The launching of this caregiver program highlights Canada’s commitment to addressing critical labor shortages in caregiving roles, particularly as the country’s population continues to age. By offering a clear pathway to permanent residency, the programs aim to attract skilled caregivers who can contribute to the well-being of Canadian families and communities.

Do you require assistance with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit or work permit application? 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 27, 2025
January 27, 2025

Manitoba PNP Issues 128 Invitations Through Skilled Worker Overseas Stream

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 23, 2025, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) conducted a draw targeting candidates under its Skilled Worker Overseas Stream. This draw was part of the province’s Strategic Recruitment Initiative, which aims to address labor shortages and attract talent to meet its economic needs.

See below details of MPNP Draw of January 23

  • Number of Letters of Advice to Apply issued: 128
  • Ranking score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 609

Of the 128 Letters of Advice to Apply issued in this draw, 22 were issued to candidates who declared a valid Express Entry profile number and job seeker validation code.

The Strategic Recruitment Initiative under the MPNP demonstrates Manitoba’s commitment to attracting qualified workers who align with the province’s economic priorities. By targeting individuals with strong credentials and a connection to Manitoba’s labor market, the program ensures a steady influx of talent to support its industries and communities.

Do you require assistance with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit or work permit application? 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 27, 2025
January 27, 2025

Ontario PNP Issues Targeted Invitations Under EMPP

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 15, 2025, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued four targeted invitations to apply under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream.

See below details of OINP draw of January 15

  • Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream – 4
  • Employer Job Offer: International Student stream – 0
  • Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream – 0
  • Masters Graduate stream – 0
  • PhD Graduate stream – 0
  • Entrepreneur stream – 0

Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream

Date issued Number of invitations issued Date profiles created Score range Notes
January 15, 2025 4 January 15 2024 –
January 15, 2025		 N/A Targeted draw for Economic Mobility Pathways Project candidates

These invitations were specifically directed at candidates who may qualify for the federal Economic Mobility Pathways Project (EMPP).

The EMPP is a federal initiative designed to facilitate the immigration process for skilled refugees by connecting them with economic immigration pathways. By participating in this project, Ontario aims to support skilled refugees in obtaining permanent residency and contributing to the province’s labor market.

The Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream under the OINP allows foreign workers with a valid job offer in Ontario to apply for a provincial nomination, which can significantly enhance their chances of obtaining Canadian permanent residency. The targeted invitations issued on January 15, 2025, reflect Ontario’s commitment to supporting skilled refugees through the EMPP.

Do you require assistance with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit or work permit application? 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 24, 2025
January 24, 2025

Canada invites 4,000 Candidates in New CEC Express Entry Draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a targeted Express Entry draw for candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). In this draw, IRCC invited 4,000 candidates to apply for permanent residency. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score was 527. Candidates who received an invitation can now submit their applications for permanent residence within the 60-day deadline.

See below details of the latest Express Entry Draw:

  • Program: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • Number of Invitations Issued: 4,000
  • Rank Required to Be Invited: 4,000 or above
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 527
  • Date and Time of Round: January 23, 2025
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: July 23, 2024

The Canadian Experience Class is a popular pathway for international workers and graduates in Canada to transition to permanent residency. It targets candidates who have gained skilled work experience within Canada and possess a strong understanding of Canadian society and the labor market.

See below CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as of January 23, 2025

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 200
501-600 24,001
451-500 67,548
491-500 13,126
481-490 12,866
471-480 15,392
461-470 13,483
451-460 12,681
401-450 62,426
441-450 12,256
431-440 13,389
421-430 12,205
411-420 12,667
401-410 11,909
351-400 51,213
301-350 21,903
0-300 5,633
Total 232,924

This draw comes as part of Canada’s broader immigration goals, which include welcoming 500,000 new permanent residents by 2025, with a significant focus on economic immigration.

See below comparison to earlier CEC Draws

Number Date Program Invitations Issued CRS Cutoff
332 January 8, 2025 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
326 November 19 Canadian Experience Class 400 539
323 November 13 Canadian Experience Class 400 547
320 October 22 Canadian Experience Class 400 539
317 October 9 Canadian Experience Class 500 539
315 September 19 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 509
312 August 27 Canadian Experience Class 3,300 507
309 August 14 Canadian Experience Class 3,200 509

For candidates aspiring to secure an invitation under future draws, maintaining a competitive CRS score remains crucial. Additional points can be gained through language proficiency, Canadian education, and provincial nominations.

Do you need help with your express entry or provincial nomination profile, study permit application, work permit application,? 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
January 23, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News, Study Visa

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
January 23, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories 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:

  1. Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors: NOC Code 22313
  2. Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics: NOC Code 22312
  3. Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment): NOC Code 22311
  4. Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22310
  5. Construction estimators: NOC Code 22303
  6. Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22302
  7. Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22301
  8. Civil engineering technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22300
  9. Construction inspectors: NOC Code 22233
  10. Occupational health and safety specialists: NOC Code 22232
  11. Engineering inspectors and regulatory officers: NOC Code 22231
  12. Non-destructive testers and inspectors: NOC Code 22230
  13. Information systems testing technicians: NOC Code 22222
  14. User support technicians: NOC Code 22221
  15. Computer network and web technicians: NOC Code 22220
  16. Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology: NOC Code 22214
  17. Land survey technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22213
  18. Drafting technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22212
  19. Industrial designers: NOC Code 22211
  20. Architectural technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22210
  21. Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists: NOC Code 22114
  22. Conservation and fishery officers: NOC Code 22113
  23. Forestry technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22112
  24. Agricultural and fish products inspectors: NOC Code 22111
  25. Biological technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22110
  26. Geological and mineral technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22101
  27. Chemical technologists and technicians: NOC Code 22100

NOC Group 32 – Technical Occupations in Health

  1. Opticians: NOC Code 32100
  2. Licensed practical nurses: NOC Code 32101
  3. Paramedical occupations: NOC Code 32102
  4. Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists: NOC Code 32103
  5. Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians: NOC Code 32104
  6. Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment: NOC Code 32109
  7. Denturists: NOC Code 32110
  8. Dental hygienists and dental therapists: NOC Code 32111
  9. Dental technologists and technicians: NOC Code 32112
  10. Medical laboratory technologists: NOC Code 32120
  11. Medical radiation technologists: NOC Code 32121
  12. Medical sonographers: NOC Code 32122
  13. Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists: NOC Code 32123
  14. Pharmacy technicians: NOC Code 32124
  15. Other medical technologists and technicians: NOC Code 32129
  16. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists: NOC Code 32200
  17. Massage therapists: NOC Code 32201
  18. Other practitioners of natural healing: NOC Code 32209
  1. Specialized members of the Canadian Armed Forces: NOC Code 42102
  2. Early childhood educators and assistants: NOC Code 42202

NOC Group 72 – Technical Trades and Transportation Officers and Controllers

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

NOC Group 33 – Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services

  1. Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants – NOC 33100
  2. Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations – NOC 33101
  3. Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates – NOC 33102
  4. Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants – NOC 33103
  5. Other assisting occupations in support of health services – NOC 33109
  1. Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants – NOC 43100
  2. Operations Members of the Canadian Armed Forces – NOC 43204

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

  1. Athletes – NOC 53200
  2. Coaches – NOC 53201

NOC Group 73 – General Trades

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

NOC Group 82: Supervisory Roles in Natural Resources

  1. Supervisors, logging and forestry – NOC 82010
  2. Supervisors, mining and quarrying – NOC 82020
  3. Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services – NOC 82021
  4. Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors – NOC 82030
  5. Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance, and horticulture services – NOC 82031
  1. Underground production and development miners – NOC 83100
  2. Oil and gas well drillers, servicers, testers, and related workers – NOC 83101
  3. Logging machinery operators – NOC 83110
  4. Fishing masters and officers – NOC 83120
  5. 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 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

 

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