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Tag Archives: Immigration

November 21, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

This week, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted three Express Entry draws, resulting in the issuance of 3,574 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. On November 20, the IRCC held its first draw for healthcare occupations since July, where 3,000 ITAs were awarded to candidates with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 463 or higher.

Earlier, on November 19, the IRCC distributed 400 ITAs to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), requiring a minimum CRS score of 547. This marked an increase of eight points compared to the previous CEC draw held on October 22.

Furthermore, on November 18, the IRCC invited 733 candidates who met the criteria across all Express Entry categories and held a provincial nomination, with a CRS score of at least 812. This series of draws highlights the ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers to Canada.

See below details of this week’s Express Entry draw:

Specifics November 20 November 19 November 18
Category Targeted for 35 healthcare occupations Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Provincial Nominee Program
Invitations 3,000 400 174
CRS Cutoff 463 539 816
Tie-breaking rule October 21, 2024 July 08, 2024 August 28, 2024

See below CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as at November 18

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 100
501-600 16,495
451-500 64,596
491-500 12,208
481-490 12,318
471-480 15,238
461-470 13,141
451-460 11,691
401-450 57,062
441-450 11,045
431-440 12,196
421-430 11,113
411-420 11,463
401-410 11,245
351-400 51,434
301-350 22,865
0-300 5,615
Total 218,167

Canada’s Immigration Strategy

The Immigration Levels Plan 2025–2027 signals a shift toward prioritizing applicants already residing in Canada. With a stronger “in-Canada focus,” this approach seeks to streamline procedures and laws for temporary residents aiming to become permanent residents. It aligns with broader immigration goals, such as addressing ongoing labour shortages, spurring economic growth, and promoting smoother integration into Canadian society.

This strategy is set to increase support for programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry, benefiting international students, temporary foreign workers, and other temporary residents. With Canadian education or work experience as a key qualification, these applicants are well-positioned to quickly integrate into the workforce, supporting industries like healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and construction.

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

 

November 14, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

The most recent BC PNP draw, held on November 13, over 24 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) were issued across both general and targeted rounds.

In the general draw, 10 invitations were given to candidates in the Skilled Worker and International Graduate categories, including their Express Entry versions.

Compared to the previous BC PNP general draw, the cutoff score rose by 9 points.

See below details of the latest BC PNP Draw

Date Draw type Stream Minimum
Score
Number of invitations
November 13, 2024 General Skilled Worker 143 10
Skilled Worker – EEBC option 143
International Graduate 143
International Graduate – EEBC option 143
Entry Level & Semi-Skilled 121
Childcare: Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option) 102 5
Targeting 25 Construction occupations 105 4
Targeting 39 Healthcare occupations 113 5
Veterinary care 80 <5

See below list of BC PNP 25 targeted Construction Occupations

  1. 22114 Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists
  2. 72102 Sheet metal workers
  3. 72103 Boilermakers
  4. 72104 Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters
  5. 72105 Ironworkers
  6. 72106 Welders and related machine operators
  7. 72200 Electricians (except industrial and power system)
  8. 72201 Industrial electricians
  9. 72300 Plumbers
  10. 72301 Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
  11. 72302 Gas fitters
  12. 72310 Carpenters
  13. 72311 Cabinetmakers
  14. 72320 Bricklayers
  15. 72400 Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
  16. 72401 Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
  17. 72402 Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
  18. 72500 Crane operators
  19. 73100 Concrete finishers
  20. 73101 Tilesetters
  21. 73102 Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers
  22. 73110 Roofers and shinglers
  23. 73111 Glaziers
  24. 73112 Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
  25. 73113 Floor covering installers

See below the 39 targeted Healthcare Occupations

  • 30010 Managers in health care
  • 31100 Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
  • 31101 Specialists in surgery
  • 31102 General practitioners and family physicians
  • 31110 Dentists
  • 31112 Audiologists and speech-language pathologists
  • 31120 Pharmacists
  • 31121 Dietitians and nutritionists
  • 31200 Psychologists
  • 31201 Chiropractors
  • 31202 Physiotherapists
  • 31203 Occupational therapists
  • 31204 Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
  • 31209 Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating
  • 31300 Nursing coordinators and supervisors
  • 31301 Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • 31302 Nurse practitioners
  • 31303 Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals
  • 32101 Licensed practical nurses
  • 32102 Paramedical occupations
  • 32103 Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists
  • 32109 Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • 32110 Denturists
  • 32111 Dental hygienists and dental therapists
  • 32112 Dental technologists and technicians
  • 32120 Medical laboratory technologists
  • 32121 Medical radiation technologists
  • 32122 Medical sonographers
  • 32123 Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists
  • 32124 Pharmacy technicians
  • 32129 Other medical technologists and technicians
  • 32200 Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists
  • 33100 Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
  • 33101 Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations
  • 33102 Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
  • 33103 Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
  • 41300 Social workers
  • 41301 Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies
  • 42201 Social and community service workers

The BC PNP processing timeframe for post-nomination requests and skills immigration remain 3 months respectively. Processing only commences after BC PNP receives completed application.

Congratulations to everyone that received an invitation!

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 post receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com
November 14, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held the first Express Entry draw of November for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), offering 400 invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada.

The CRS cutoff score went up by 8 points compared to the last CEC draw on October 22.

See below details of the Express Entry draw this week:

Specifics November 13 November 12
Category Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Provincial Nominee Program
Invitations 400 733
CRS Cutoff 547 812
Tie-breaking rule April 10, 2024 March 02, 2024

See below CRS Score Distribution In The Pool as at November 12

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 120
501-600 16,625
451-500 64,425
491-500 12,290
481-490 12,382
471-480 15,160
461-470 13,062
451-460 11,531
401-450 56,597
441-450 10,978
431-440 12,107
421-430 10,996
411-420 11,359
401-410 11,157
351-400 51,355
301-350 22,788
0-300 5,590
Total 217,500
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 post receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

November 13, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

In the first Express Entry Draw of November, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sent out 733 invitations for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR). This draw targeted candidates across all Express Entry categories with provincial nominations and CRS scores of 812 or more.

See below Express Entry draw details of November 12:

  • Program: Provincial Nominee Program
  • Number of invitations issued: 733
  • Rank required to be invited to apply: 733 or above
  • Date of round: November 12, 2024
  • CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 812
  • Tie-breaking rule: March 02, 2024

See below CRS Score Distribution In The Pool as at November 11

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 810
501-600 16,245
451-500 64,079
491-500 12,239
481-490 12,309
471-480 15,075
461-470 12,974
451-460 11,482
401-450 56,206
441-450 10,870
431-440 12,049
421-430 10,907
411-420 11,317
401-410 11,063
351-400 51,137
301-350 22,710
0-300 5,548
Total 216,735

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 post receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

November 11, 2024
November 11, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

On November 8, 2024, the Government of Canada announced that it is ending the Student Direct Stream (SDS), a program created to speed up the visa application process for international students from certain countries. Launched in 2018, the SDS was designed to help students from countries like China, India, and the Philippines get their study permits more quickly and easily.

To meet the high demand from Nigerian students, Canada created the Nigeria Student Express (NSE) program, offering a faster way for Nigerian applicants to get study permits. Since its launch, the NSE has helped many Nigerian students pursue education in Canada. However, as of November 8, 2024, new Nigerian applicants must now apply through the regular study permit process, like students from other countries.

The decision to close the program has worried many international students who depend on its fast processing for studying in Canada. The government says the closure is part of a larger effort to improve Canada’s immigration system and better manage resources amid changing global conditions.

The SDS will no longer be available to new applicants starting in November 2024, but the government is offering other ways to apply for study permits. While the exact reasons for the closure aren’t clear, it’s believed that higher application numbers, the need for better processing, and changes in immigration priorities played a role.

This change is a major shift in Canada’s student immigration policy. International students who were eligible for SDS will now have to use the regular study permit process, which could take longer. However, the Canadian government says it’s working on other ways to support international students, like improving processing times and increasing funding for schools.

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 post receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com
October 4, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

If you’re curious about this, here’s the essential clarification: while you can list multiple work experiences on your profile, you must select one primary NOC to claim your experience. This primary NOC should represent your relevant work history from the last three years for the Canadian Experience Class or from the last ten years for the Federal Skilled Worker Program. It’s crucial to remember that provinces focus on your primary work experience when reviewing your Express Entry profile, not the additional roles you’ve included. Choose your primary NOC carefully, as it will be the foundation of your immigration application.

What is an NOC?

NOC stands for National Occupational Classification, it is a standardized system used in Canada to categorize and describe occupations. It assigns a unique code to each job, reflecting its duties and responsibilities. The NOC is essential for immigration processes, job searches, and labor market analysis, helping to ensure that individuals and employers understand the requirements and classifications of various occupations.

Important Takeaways to Remember:

1. Select Your Primary NOC: Choose one primary NOC that accurately reflects your relevant work experience from the last 3 to 10 years.

2. Provincial Focus: When reviewing your Express Entry profile, provinces will concentrate on your primary NOC.

3. Multiple Experiences: While you can list various work experiences, only one NOC can be designated as primary.

4. Experience Requirements: For occupation-specific draws, ensure you have at least 6 months of relevant experience in your claimed primary NOC, obtained within the last 3 years.

5. Flexibility in Experience: Your primary NOC doesn’t have to be your most recent job, but it must align with the requirements of the immigration class you’re applying for (e.g., within the last 3 years for the Canadian Experience Class).

Hope this helps! If you’re eligible but haven’t set up your Express Entry profile yet, it’s time to get started—don’t wait!

Need help creating an express entry profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply or even just reviewing an application you prepared yourself? Send us an email on info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

September 18, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

In the recent BC PNP draw held on September 17, approximately 163 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) were issued across both general and targeted rounds.

Among these, 65 invitations were distributed in a general draw specifically for the skilled worker and international graduate streams, along with their Express Entry equivalents. Additionally, invitations were also extended for entry-level and semi-skilled streams.

See below details of latest BC PNP draw:

Date Draw type Stream Minimum
Score
Number of invitations
September 17, 2024 General Skilled Worker 128 65
Skilled Worker – EEBC option 128
International Graduate 128
International Graduate – EEBC option 128
Entry Level & Semi-Skilled 110
Childcare: Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) Skilled Worker, International Graduate
(includes EEBC option)
83 43
Targeting 25 Construction occupations 89 29
Targeting 39 Healthcare occupations 99 26

The BC PNP processing timeframe for post-nomination requests and skills immigration remain 3 months respectively. Processing only commences after BC PNP receives completed application.

Congratulations to everyone that received an invitation!

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

September 12, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

Quebec’s latest Arrima draw, held on September 5, 2024, invited 1,417 candidates to apply for permanent residency. These invitations were issued through the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP), which focuses on bringing skilled individuals to the province.

The Arrima system is Quebec’s immigration platform, designed to simplify the selection process for qualified workers. This recent draw is part of the province’s ongoing efforts to address labor market demands by attracting skilled professionals for permanent residency.

The draw considered Arrima profiles valid as of September 3, 2024, with a minimum oral French proficiency of level 7 and a score of at least 575 points. Invitations also went to those with level 7 or higher French and a job offer outside the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal.

See below all Quebec Arrima draws of 2024

Date Number of Invitations Cut-off score Notes
September 5, 2024 1,417 575 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
August 29, 2024 1,550 584 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
August 8, 2024 1,415 574 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
August 1, 2024 1,490 580 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
July 25, 2024 1,560 579 Targeted draw for 27 occupations
June 27, 2024 1,528 581 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
June 20, 2024 1,470 585 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
June 6, 2024 1,281 587 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
May 30, 2024 1,441 591 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
May 23, 2024 1,350 593 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
April 25, 2024 1,415 598 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
April 11, 2024 1,036 536 and 606 Two targeted draws for 47 occupations
March 21, 2024 1,357 596 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
March 7, 2024 1,136 603 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
February 22, 2024 1,007 608 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
February 8, 2024 1,034 613 General draw with level 7 oral French proficiency
January 24, 2024 1,007 615 Targeted draw for 28 occupations for individuals with level 7 in oral French proficiency
Total 12,064

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 post receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

September 9, 2024

Dear future neighbour,

On September 5, 2024, Ontario’s Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) held a draw under the French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream, inviting 86 candidates to apply for provincial nomination.

The draw targeted applicants in the pool between September 5, 2023 and September 5, 2024 with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores between 290 and 393.

Eligible candidates had work experience in occupations under the Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.

This stream, aimed at strengthening Ontario’s francophone communities, provides a valuable pathway to permanent residency, especially for French-speaking individuals with lower CRS scores.

To qualify for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Language Proficiency: They must demonstrate a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7 in French and at least CLB 6 in English.

2. Express Entry Profile: Candidates must have an active profile in the federal Express Entry system under either the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class.

3. Education: A Canadian bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent from a foreign institution, is required.

4. Work Experience: They must have at least one year of continuous, full-time paid work experience (or equivalent part-time experience) in a skilled occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.

5. Intent to Reside in Ontario: Candidates must show an intention to live and work in Ontario.

6. Sufficient Funds: They must demonstrate sufficient settlement funds to support themselves and their family.

These requirements help ensure that selected candidates can integrate into Ontario’s labor market and contribute to the province’s economy.

See below summary of OINP Express Entry draws in 2024

By September 2024, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has extended a total of 19,019 invitations through its various Express Entry streams.

OINP Express Entry Streams Invitations CRS score range
Human Capital Priorities stream 10,038 352-480
Skilled Trades Stream 7,699 350-469
French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream 1,282 290-469

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 post 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

 

August 30, 2024

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently announced a significant update to its work permit extension policy for candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The new policy, effective in 2024, is designed to streamline the process and provide greater stability for skilled workers navigating the pathway to permanent residency in Canada. Here’s a detailed look at the changes and what they mean for current and prospective applicants.

Key Changes in the Policy

1. Extended Work Permit Duration:
With the new policy, PNP candidates who have a nomination and are working in Canada can now extend their work permits for up to three years. Before, these permits were usually shorter and needed frequent renewals. This change offers more stability, so candidates can focus on their careers and settling in Canada without worrying about their permit expiring soon.

2. Simplified Application Process:
The IRCC has made it easier to extend work permits. Applicants can now use a simpler online system that cuts down on paperwork and speeds up processing. The new system is user-friendly and provides clear instructions to help candidates through the process.

3. Changes to Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the extended work permit, candidates need to meet certain requirements, like keeping their PNP nomination status and following the rules of their original work permit. The IRCC has also made things easier by removing some of the paperwork that was previously required, such as certain proof of employment letters.

4. Impact on Permanent Residency Applications:
For those PNP candidates who are in the process of applying for permanent residency, the extended work permit provides additional time to meet residency requirements and gather necessary documentation. This change aligns with the Canadian government’s broader goal of facilitating smoother transitions from temporary to permanent residency.

Benefits of the New Policy

Increased Stability: The extended work permit duration offers PNP candidates increased job security and stability, reducing the need for frequent permit renewals and minimizing disruptions to their professional and personal lives.

Improved Career Prospects: With a longer work permit, candidates can better plan their career trajectories and take on longer-term projects, contributing more effectively to their employers and the Canadian economy.

Enhanced Settlement Opportunities: The extended permit duration provides more time for PNP candidates to settle into their communities, integrate into Canadian society, and build a life in Canada.

Easier Compliance: The streamlined application process reduces administrative burdens and simplifies the extension process, making it easier for candidates to maintain their legal status and employment authorization.

What PNP Candidates Should Do Next

For those currently residing in Canada as PNP candidates or intending to seek permanent residency, it’s crucial to stay informed about the recent policy updates. Keeping up-to-date with these changes will help ensure that your application process proceeds smoothly.

Regularly visiting the IRCC’s official website is recommended, as it will provide the most current information and any adjustments to the process. Staying proactive by checking for updates will help you avoid any delays in your application and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.

Moreover, consulting with an immigration lawyer or professional can be highly beneficial. These experts can provide personalized advice on how the new policies may affect your unique circumstances and guide you through the complexities of the transition to permanent residency.

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a study visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application post 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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