Immigration Archives - Page 2 of 7 - Ese Umoh Immigration

January 23, 2025

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

Dear future neighbour,

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

Key Updates:

Eligibility Criteria:

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

•A TEER 0 occupation.

•A TEER 1 occupation.

•Specific TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations listed below.

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

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

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

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

NOC Group 32 – Technical Occupations in Health

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

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

NOC Group 72 – Technical Trades and Transportation Officers and Controllers

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

NOC Group 33 – Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services

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

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

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

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

Athletes – NOC 53200
Coaches – NOC 53201

NOC Group 73 – General Trades

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

NOC Group 82: Supervisory Roles in Natural Resources

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

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

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

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

January 20, 2025

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

By EUIC Admin 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.

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.

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.

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.

January 16, 2025

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

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

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

Key Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

January 15, 2025

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

By EUIC Admin News, Temporary Visa

Dear future neighbour,

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

Eligibility Criteria:

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

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

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

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

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

Steps to Follow:

1.Apply for a New Work Permit:

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

2.Request Interim Work Authorization:

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

•Use the IRCC web form to submit your request.

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.Await Authorization:

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

Important Considerations:

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

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

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

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

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

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

January 14, 2025

Alberta Issues 588 Invitations in December 23, 2024 Draw

By EUIC Admin 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

Manitoba PNP Issues 197 Invitations in First Draw of 2025

By EUIC Admin 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.

January 8, 2025

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

By EUIC Admin Express Entry, News

Dear future neighbour,

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

Background

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

Expected Occupations and NOC Codes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Implications for Prospective Immigrants

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

Conclusion

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

December 18, 2024

Canada Announces Key Immigration Changes

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

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

1. Elimination of Flagpoling

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

2. Tightened Control Over Immigration Documents

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

3. Combating LMIA Fraud and Improving Express Entry Integrity

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

Conclusion

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

December 17, 2024

Unlocking New Opportunities: Canada’s Rural Community Immigration Class

By EUIC Admin News

Dear future neighbour,

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

Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC)

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

November 21, 2024

Canada invites 3,574 for PR in 3 New Express Entry Draws

By EUIC Admin Express Entry

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.

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Tag Archives: Immigration

Dear future neighbour,

Key Updates:

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

NOC Group 22 – Technical Occupations Related to Natural and Applied Sciences

NOC Group 32 – Technical Occupations in Health

NOC Group 42 – Front-Line Public Protection Services and Paraprofessional Occupations in Legal, Social, Community, Education Services

NOC Group 72 – Technical Trades and Transportation Officers and Controllers

NOC Group 33 – Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services

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

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

NOC Group 73 – General Trades

NOC Group 82: Supervisory Roles in Natural Resources

NOC Group 83 – Occupations in Natural Resources and Related Production

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Objectives of the REDI Pilot

Employer Job Offer Streams

Employer job offer: International Student Stream

Employer job offer: In-Demand Skills Stream

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Key Announcements

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Eligibility Criteria:

Steps to Follow:

Important Considerations:

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Key Highlights of the Draw

2024 Alberta Nomination Highlights

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Background

Expected Occupations and NOC Codes

Implications for Prospective Immigrants

Conclusion

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1. Elimination of Flagpoling

2. Tightened Control Over Immigration Documents

3. Combating LMIA Fraud and Improving Express Entry Integrity

Conclusion

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Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC)

Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC)

Dear future neighbour,

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

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

Canada’s Immigration Strategy