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February 3, 2025
February 3, 2025

Prince Edward Island Conducts First PNP Draw of 2025

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

Prince Edward Island (PEI) kicked off the year with its first Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on January 24, 2025. In this draw, 22 candidates were invited under the Labour Impact and Express Entry categories, marking another step in the province’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled talent to boost its workforce.

The PEI PNP serves as a key immigration pathway for skilled workers, international graduates, and individuals with job offers in the province. The program helps address labor shortages and strengthen PEI’s economy by bringing in individuals who have the skills and experience needed in key sectors.

See below details of latest PEI PNP Draw

Date of draw Draw category Number of Invitations issued Minimum score of lowest-ranked candidate invited
24-01-2025 Labour Impact/Express Entry 22 N/A

Understanding the Labour Impact Category

One of the key streams under PEI’s PNP is the Labour Impact Category, which is designed for individuals with the necessary skills and work experience to support the province’s economic growth. This category consists of three streams:

1. Skilled Worker Stream

This stream targets professionals with post-secondary education and skilled work experience. To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be between 21 and 59 years old.
  • Have a permanent, full-time job offer in PEI under a National Occupational Classification (NOC) 0, A, or B role.
  • Possess at least a two-year post-secondary diploma or degree.
  • Have at least two years of work experience within the past five years.
  • Demonstrate language proficiency through an accepted test or employer confirmation.
  • Show financial stability and a strong intention to settle in PEI.

2. Critical Worker Stream

This stream is designed for individuals already working in PEI in semi-skilled or unskilled occupations (NOC C or D). Eligibility requirements include:

  • Being between 21 and 59 years old.
  • Having a full-time, long-term job offer in a qualifying occupation.
  • Having worked at least six months with the PEI employer.
  • Holding a valid work permit.
  • Possessing a high school diploma and at least two years of relevant experience.
  • Meeting language proficiency standards (CLB 4 or equivalent test score).

3. International Graduate Stream

This stream is ideal for recent graduates from recognized PEI post-secondary institutions who have secured a job in their field. To qualify, candidates must:

  • Have a full-time job offer in their field at NOC 0, A, or B levels.
  • Have completed a two-year diploma or degree from a PEI institution within the past two years.
  • Be between 21 and 55 years old.
  • Hold a valid post-graduate work permit.
  • Show language proficiency and a strong intention to settle in PEI.

With a structured schedule, the PEI Office of Immigration has announced 11 draws planned for 2025, ensuring transparency and predictability for applicants. The upcoming draws are scheduled for:

  • February 20, 2025
  • March 20, 2025
  • April 17, 2025
  • May 15, 2025
  • June 19, 2025
  • July 17, 2025
  • August 21, 2025
  • September 18, 2025
  • October 16, 2025
  • November 20, 2025
  • December 18, 2025

Next Steps for Applicants

For candidates interested in immigrating to PEI, it is crucial to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) as soon as the eligibility criteria is met. EOIs remain valid for six months, and candidates are ranked based on factors such as education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability.

With a clear schedule and structured selection process, PEI continues to be an attractive destination for immigrants looking to build a future in Canada. If you are considering applying, ensure your profile is up to date and be ready for upcoming draws!

Do you 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 31, 2025
January 31, 2025

Canada Unveils New Permanent Residency Pathways to Support Rural and Francophone Communities

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On January 30, 2025, Canada unveiled two new permanent residency pathways aimed at bolstering rural communities: the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP). These initiatives are designed to address labor shortages and promote economic growth in smaller and Francophone minority communities across the country.

According to the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Honorable Gudie Hutchings,

When our rural and remote communities succeed, Canada succeeds—it’s as simple as that. Through the Rural Community Immigration Pilot and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot, your federal government is helping to fill jobs and drive growth in our magical, small communities, making life better for everyone who lives there.

Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)

The Rural Community Immigration Pilot seeks to provide rural communities with the tools to attract and retain skilled foreign workers. This community-driven approach allows local businesses to fill critical labor gaps by offering pathways to permanent residency for newcomers committed to living and working in these areas.

See below list of 14 participating communities in the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP):

  • Pictou County, NS
  • North Bay, ON
  • Sudbury, ON
  • Timmins, ON
  • Sault Ste. Marie, ON
  • Thunder Bay, ON
  • Steinbach, MB
  • Altona/Rhineland, MB
  • Brandon, MB
  • Moose Jaw, SK
  • Claresholm, AB
  • West Kootenay, BC
  • North Okanagan Shuswap, BC
  • Peace Liard, BC

To be eligible for the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP), Candidates must:

•Secure a valid job offer from an approved employer in the designated community.

•Have a minimum of one year (1,560 hours) of relevant work experience within the past three years.

What qualifies as relevant work experience?

Your experience must:

•Align with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) level of your job offer.

•Include the key tasks outlined in your specific NOC description.

•Cover the majority of the essential duties associated with your occupation.

Work experience requirements based on TEER level of job offer:

•TEER 0 or 1: Work experience must be from TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

•TEER 2: Work experience must come from TEER 1, 2, 3, or 4.

•TEER 3 or 4: Work experience should be in TEER 2, 3, or 4.

•TEER 5: Work experience must match the exact five-digit NOC code of the job offer.

Special Considerations for Healthcare Workers

If your work experience falls under NOC 31301 (Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses – TEER 1), you may receive a job offer in one of the following roles:

•NOC 33102 (TEER 3): Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates.

•NOC 44101 (TEER 4): Home support workers, caregivers, and related occupations.

Work Experience Exemption for International Graduates

You do not need to meet the work experience requirement if you are an international student who graduated from a public post-secondary institution in the designated community and meet the following conditions:

•For a diploma, certificate, or undergraduate program:

•Completed an eligible two-year (or longer) program.

•Studied full-time throughout the entire duration.

•Earned the credential no more than 18 months before applying for permanent residency.

•Lived in the community for at least 16 out of the last 24 months while studying.

•For a master’s degree or higher:

•Completed the degree in two years or less.

•Studied full-time for the entire program.

•Obtained the degree no more than 18 months before applying for permanent residency.

•Resided in the community for the duration of the studies.

This exemption does not apply if:

•More than half of the coursework focused on English or French language learning.

•Over 50% of the program was completed through distance learning.

•You received a scholarship or fellowship requiring you to return to your home country upon completion.

Minimum Language Requirements

The required Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score varies depending on the NOC TEER category of the job offer:

•TEER 0 or 1: CLB 6

•TEER 2 or 3: CLB 5

•TEER 4 or 5: CLB 4

Educational Requirements

You must have either:

•A Canadian secondary school (high school) diploma or post-secondary credential from a recognized institution.

•A foreign educational credential accompanied by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an approved organization, which must:

•Be issued within the last five years at the time of application.

•Confirm that your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma or a recognized post-secondary credential.

– Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support both your own transition and your family’s settlement into the community, as outlined below:

Number of family members Funds you need (in Canadian dollars)
1 $7,963
2 $9,692
3 $12,069
4 $15,056
5 $17,145
6 $19,015
7 $20,884
If more than 7 people, for each additional family member, add $1,869

The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)

The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot is tailored to increase the number of French-speaking immigrants settling in Francophone minority communities outside of Quebec. By focusing on the economic development and demographic revitalization of these communities, the pilot aims to strengthen Canada’s linguistic diversity and support the vitality of Francophone cultures nationwide.

See below list of 6 participating communities in the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP):

  • Acadian Peninsula, NB
  • Sudbury, ON
  • Timmins, ON
  • Superior East Region, ON
  • St. Pierre Jolys, MB
  • Kelowna, BC

According to Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Honourable Marc Miller:

Rural and Francophone communities are vital to Canada’s growth and cultural diversity, and we value the unique contributions that newcomers make in these places. By welcoming skilled immigrants to these areas, we are addressing labour shortages and economic needs while promoting the benefits of living in a smaller town or city. Our commitment to supporting these regions reflects our belief that each one matters. That is why we will make the RNIP a permanent program, and why we are introducing these two new pilots. We’ll continue to work closely with these communities as we work to connect businesses with the skilled workers they need to thrive.

Rural regions and Francophone communities outside Quebec have always been at the core of Canada’s cultural and economic vitality. Yet, they often face challenges like population decline and labor shortages, with most immigrants choosing larger cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. With 8,580 individuals gaining permanent residency through the RNIP by the end of 2024, the RCIP and FCIP initiatives bring new hope, supporting the growth and cultural diversity of these communities while promoting more balanced development across Canada.

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 29, 2025
January 29, 2025

Ontario Updates Express Entry Human Capital Priorities and French-Speaking Skilled Worker Streams for Self-Employed Physicians

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry, News

Dear future neighbour,

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has introduced amendments to its Human Capital Priorities (HCP) and French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW) streams, allowing self-employed physicians to use their work experience to meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

These changes align with recent federal policy updates, making it easier for self-employed physicians to qualify for permanent residency in Canada.

Eligibility for Self-Employed Physicians

Under the new amendments, applicants can count periods of self-employment towards the work experience requirement if their experience falls under one of the following National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes:

•NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine

•NOC 31101 – Specialists in surgery

•NOC 31102 – General practitioners and family physicians

This change is particularly significant as self-employed work experience was traditionally not considered under the Express Entry system. Now, eligible physicians can benefit from these adjustments when applying to Ontario’s Express Entry streams.

Choosing a Federal Program for Assessment

Applicants to the HCP and FSSW streams must choose one of two federal programs to be assessed against:

1.Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

2.Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The key change applies to applicants selecting the Canadian Experience Class (CEC): they can now use self-employment experience to meet the required work experience criteria if their occupation falls under one of the designated NOC codes listed above.

Restrictions on Other NOC Codes

These amendments do not apply to applicants with self-employment experience in occupations outside NOC 31100, NOC 31101, and NOC 31102. Other professions must continue to meet standard employment requirements under the existing OINP and federal Express Entry criteria.

Alignment with Federal Policy

These changes reflect recent federal updates that recognize the challenges self-employed physicians face when applying for permanent residency. In April 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a policy allowing self-employed physicians in publicly funded healthcare systems to count their experience towards Express Entry eligibility.

By implementing these amendments, Ontario aims to attract and retain more physicians, addressing labor shortages in the healthcare system while ensuring a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for qualified medical professionals.

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 29, 2025
January 29, 2025

Ontario Updates Immigration Pathway for Self-Employed Physicians

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

Ontario has introduced changes to the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), allowing self-employed physicians to qualify without a traditional job offer.

Previously, applicants to this stream needed a job offer from an Ontario employer, which disqualified many physicians working as independent contractors and billing through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, recognizing the province’s ongoing need for healthcare professionals, Ontario has updated its immigration rules to accommodate these professionals.

New Eligibility Criteria for Physicians

As of January 27, 2025, self-employed physicians can now apply under this stream without a job offer if they meet the following requirements:

•They must be registered and in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under one of these certificate categories:

•Independent practice

•Academic practice

•Postgraduate education (which permits patient care)

•They must be eligible to receive payment for publicly funded health services under the Health Insurance Act, 1990.

This change applies specifically to physicians classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes 31100, 31101, and 31102.

Alternative Pathways for Physicians

For physicians who do not qualify under this updated stream, other immigration options remain available:

•OINP Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream – Physicians can enter the federal Express Entry pool and wait for a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario.

•Federal Express Entry & Public Policy for Physicians – A federal public policy introduced on April 25, 2023, helps self-employed physicians obtain permanent residence. This policy allows physicians working under publicly funded payment models to meet federal economic immigration criteria.

What This Means for Ontario’s Healthcare Sector

Ontario’s decision to expand the eligibility criteria for self-employed physicians acknowledges the urgent demand for healthcare professionals. By easing immigration barriers, the province aims to retain and attract more doctors to support its growing population.

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 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 14, 2025
January 14, 2025

Alberta Issues 588 Invitations in December 23, 2024 Draw

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

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

Key Highlights of the Draw

•Number of Invitations: 588

•Minimum EOI Score Required: 55

Eligibility Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

2024 Alberta Nomination Highlights

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

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

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

January 8, 2025
January 8, 2025

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

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry, Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

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

Key Details of the Draw:

•Number of ITAs Issued: 471

•Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 793

•Tie-breaking Rule: November 25, 2024

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

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Overview:

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

CRS Score Distribution as of January 7, 2025:

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

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

Implications for Future Applicants:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion:

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

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