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Category Archives: Immigration

AIRCS   →  Immigration
March 12, 2024
March 12, 2024

IRCC invites 975 Express Entry candidates in first transport occupation draw of 2024

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued invitations to candidates in the second  Express Entry draw this week.

The department issued 975  invitations to apply (ITAs) in a category-based draw for transport occupations.

Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 430.

Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

IRCC also issued ITAs on March 12. It was a general draw inviting 2,850 candidates. A general draw considers candidates from all three Express Entry managed programs and uses the CRS as the main eligibility criteria.  

Candidates required a minimum CRS of 525, a decrease of nine CRS points from the previous general draw on February 28 and the lowest minimum CRS for a general draw so far this year.  

There were six draws throughout February inviting 16,110 candidates. The month opened and closed with category-based selection draws for individuals with strong French language proficiency. The first was on February 1 and invited 7,000 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 365. The other took place on February 29 and invited 2,500 candidates with a minimum score of 336, the lowest CRS score in any draw so far this year.

The remaining four draws saw two additional category-based draws. One took place on February 14 and invited 3,500 candidates in healthcare occupations with a minimum CRS of 422. The other was on February 16 and invited 150 candidates in agriculture and agri-food occupations. They required a minimum score of 437.

Finally, IRCC held two general Express Entry draws in February. On February 13, the department invited 1,490 candidates with a minimum score of 535 and 1,470 candidates on February 28. These candidates had a minimum CRS score of 534.

Date

Draw Type

Number of ITAs

Minimum CRS

March 13

Transport occupations

975

430

March 12

General

2,850

525

February 29

French language proficiency

2,500

336

February 28

General

1,470

534

February 16

Agriculture and agri-food occupations

150

437

February 14

Healthcare occupations

3,500

422

February 13

General

1,490

535

February 1

French language proficiency

7,000

365

January 31

General

730

541

January 23

General

1,040

543

January 10

General

1,510

546

What is category-based selection?

Unlike a general draw, in which candidates are considered from all Express Entry managed programs based solely on their CRS score, category-based selection draws target Express Entry candidates who have specific in-demand attributes.

This type of draw was introduced in May 2023 to help with labour shortages within critical sectors of Canada’s workforce. There are six categories through which eligible Express Entry candidates may receive an ITA:

  • Healthcare occupations
  • Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
  • Trades occupations, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
  • Transport occupations
  • Agriculture and agri-food occupations
  • Strong French proficiency

These draws may act as an advantage for candidates who are already in the Express Entry application pool. So far this year, the average CRS score in category-based draws has been lower than it is for general draws.

For example, of the four category-based selection draws, the highest minimum CRS score was 437, and the lowest was 336.

In contrast, no general draw so far in 2024 has had a minimum CRS lower than 534.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an application management system for three of Canada’s most prominent economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Candidates who self-evaluate that they are eligible for one of these programs can then upload a profile to the IRCC website and receive their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The CRS assigns scores for human capital attributes such as work experience, education, occupation, language ability and age.

Candidates in the Express Entry application pool are ranked against each other according to CRS scores. Those with the highest scores are the most likely to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent resident status.

Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to submit their final application to IRCC.

March 9, 2024
March 9, 2024

Three provinces issue provincial nominations this week

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

This week three provinces—British Columbia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan—issued invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residence (PR) under their respective immigration streams.

Candidates were invited under a combination of demographic and labour market streams, with differing criteria for each. In addition, different Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) utilise varying scoring systems, which result in great variance between cut-off scores for candidates from different provinces.

PNP Results March 2nd – March 8th

Ontario

On March 7th the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 2,104 invitations to healthcare professionals under the Human Capital Priorities stream. Candidates needed a CRS score between 352 and 421 to be invited.

To be invited, candidates needed professional experience under any of the following healthcare professions.

The Human Capital Priorities stream is an Express Entry aligned (or enhanced PNP) stream meaning that candidates within the Express Entry pool may be invited through this pathway. To be eligible candidates must have:

  • a valid Express Entry profile;
  • at least one year of full-time work experience;
  • a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degree; and
  • Language proficiency of at least Canadian Language Benchmark(CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) level 7 (for English or French respectively).
British Columbia (B.C.)

On March 5th B.C. held both targeted and general draws under the BCPNP, resulting in at least 156 total ITAs.

The province held general draws under five of its different streams, resulting in 54 ITAs. Candidates in the Skilled Worker, Skilled Worker-Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option, International Graduate, and International Graduate EEBC option needed a minimum score of 126 to receive invitations. Meanwhile candidates under the Entry Level and Semi-Skilled stream needed a score of 99.

The province also held targeted draws under the Skilled Worker International Graduate (includes EEBC option) stream. These draws targeted candidates with experience in professions that are in-demand within B.C.’s labour market. These were:

  • Childcare—inviting 32 candidates with a minimum score of 70;
  • Construction—inviting 30 candidates with a minimum score of 80;
  • Healthcare—inviting 39 candidates with a minimum score of 70; and
  • Veterinary care—inviting less than 5 candidates with a minimum score of 70.

 

Saskatchewan

On March 7th the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) held draws under two of its streams. This was the first SINP draw in more than two months, since December 27th, 2023.

Under the Occupations In-Demand stream, 14 candidates with professional experience in targeted occupations, and a minimum score of 89, were invited.

Under the Express Entry stream, 21 candidates with a minimum score of 89 were invited.

Both streams required candidates to have an education credential assessment (ECA) or be educated in Canada. Under both, candidates needed professional experience in the following professions (given as National Occupation Codes (NOC)).

February 27, 2024
February 27, 2024

Can I travel outside Canada after submitting my citizenship application? 

Author By Admin Categories Canada Life

All Canadian permanent residents (PRs) may leave the country, and return, after mailing their citizenship application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

However, IRCC clarifies that there are certain steps PRs must take to ensure they remain eligible for citizenship while outside Canada.

Specifically, to ensure that they remain eligible for Canadian citizenship, IRCC indicates that PRs must:.

Be a Canadian PR at the time they apply for citizenship

Only Canadian PRs can apply for citizenship. In other words, temporary residents of Canada, including foreign workers and international students, are not eligible to become Canadian citizens.

Continue to meet the residency requirement to maintain PR status

As part of being a Canadian PR, foreign nationals must reside in Canada for a minimum of 730 days over the past five years to maintain their status.

This is what IRCC refers to as the residency requirement for Canadian PRs. Note that the 730 days needed to meet this requirement do not need to be continuous and some time spent outside of Canada may count towards this total.

Maintain PR status until they take the Oath of Citizenship

Further to the residency requirement described above, to remain eligible for Canadian citizenship, Canadian PRs must “not lose PR status before [taking] the Oath of Citizenship.”

Click here to learn about your obligations as a Canadian permanent resident, including additional information about what PRs can and cannot do while residing in Canada.

Travel outside of Canada with their PR card for simple re-entry

Travelling outside of Canada with your PR card will make it much easier to re-enter the country. This is because IRCC requires that Canadian PRs have a valid PR card when returning to Canada by plane, train, bus or boat.

Therefore, Canada’s immigration department advises all PRs to renew their card before leaving Canada if they know it will expire during their travels.

IRCC notes that PR cards can only be renewed in Canada and that the department will not “send PR cards to non-Canadian addresses [or] allow third parties to retrieve them” for an applicant.

Travellers without a valid PR card must apply for and obtain a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to re-enter Canada. Unlike PR cards, IRCC only allows PRTDs to be applied for from outside of Canada.

IRCC also indicates that Canadian PRs who attempt to return without either of these documents may be denied entry onto their flight, train, bus or boat travelling to Canada.

Important notes from IRCC regarding the citizenship process for Canadian PRs

IRCC notes that there are certain things Canadian PRs should keep in mind about how the department handles communication with applicants and organizing appointments/events.

For instance, IRCC notes that they “usually only [mail] letters, notices and other documents to addresses in Canada.”

IRCC may also email Canadian immigration applicants. The department emphasizes that recipients of any IRCC “letters or emails [must reply to these communications] within a specified amount of time.”

Failure to do so without providing “an acceptable reason for not being able to keep your appointment [with us] or providing requested information” may result in IRCC deciding to “stop processing [an individual’s] application.”

IRCC also notes that immigration applicants must attend their appointments and events – including their citizenship test, ceremony, interview or hearing – at IRCC offices across Canada.

Applicants who are unable to attend such appointments or events are required to “either email or write to the local office that sent [them] the event notice” and IRCC indicates that applicants can contact the immigration department using this online web form.

Canada Immigration
February 24, 2024
February 24, 2024

Canada opens new PR pathway for families impacted by the conflict in Sudan

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

Today Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new immigration pathway for families impacted by the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

The department confirmed that starting February 27th, 2024, it would accept up to 3,250 applications from single applicants or families. This is a new family sponsorship pathway that will grant successful applicants permanent residence (PR). IRCC has confirmed it will waive the right of permanent residence fee and provide free settlement services to individuals who successfully receive PR through this pathway.

Who can apply under this new pathway?

To be eligible for this pathway applicants must:

  1. Have been living in Sudan on April 15th, 2023;
  2. Not have another country to return to other than Sudan or Canada;
  3. Be the child (of any age), grandchild, sibling, parent or grandparent of an eligible anchor*
  4. Provide a statutory declaration from their anchor stating that:
  5. They plan to support you and any family members accompanying you for one year; and
  6. They have not and will not accept any money from you or your family members.
  7. Plan to live in a province or territory other than Quebec; and
  8. Not be admissible for reasons other than financial ones.
  9. In addition to the above criteria, individuals may apply if:
  10. Their spouse or common-law partner is missing, presumed dead, deceased, or can’t leave Sudan;
  11. Their spouse or common-law partner is the child (of any age), grandchild, sibling, parent or grandparent of an eligible anchor willing to support you; and
  12. They meet all other eligibility criteria.

*An anchor is an extended family member who agrees to support you and/or your family during the first year in Canada. They will provide financial assistance, and help you get your basic needs, including housing, food, clothing and other necessities.

Who can be an anchor?

An anchor must:

  1. Be 18 years or older;
  2. Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
  3. Live in Canada (but not in the province of Quebec);
  4. Prove they have enough income/funds to meet the financial requirement.
  5. An anchor cannot be:
  6. In the process or applying to renounce their Canadian citizenship or PR status;
  7. In jail or prison;
  8. Subject to a removal order in Canada;
  9. In default of making a payment on an immigration loan, performance bond or any other amount they are legally bound to pay to the Government of Canada (including deferring payments);
  10. In default of a sponsorship undertaking, support payments or repaying any debt owed to the Government of Canada;
  11. Bankrupt;
  12. Receiving social assistance for any reason other than a disability; and/or
  13. Convicted of a criminal offence listed in the public policy.
How can eligible people apply for this pathway?

Individuals must apply through the PR portal. All necessary documents and forms must be submitted here, including necessary declarations and forms from the anchor.

If an application is found incomplete, it will be returned. In these cases, applicants will have the option to re-apply if the pathway is still open. More information on how to apply can be found here.

Sudanese in Canada

According to data from Census 2021, 17,485 people in Canada claimed Sudan as their country of ethnic or cultural origin. 4,690 of these individuals are recent immigrants to Canada who report Sudan as their country of birth.

February 24, 2024
February 24, 2024

Who received ITAs in the recent general Express Entry draw?

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

Last week, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,490 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in an all-program/general Express Entry draw.

This draw, which took place on February 13, issued ITAs to eligible candidates from all three Express Entry-managed programs* who had a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 535.

Express Entry is the application management system used by Canada’s federal government to manage immigration applications for three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

While IRCC issued over 1,400 ITAs in its latest general draw, the variance in the cut-off CRS score used for each draw means that many candidates who did not receive an ITA from this draw are left wondering what would have made their profiles strong enough to receive an ITA from IRCC.

Get a Free Express Entry Assessment

Using fictional examples, the following will illustrate how candidates with different Express Entry profiles would have made themselves eligible to receive an ITA during IRCC’s draw on February 13, 2024.

 

Eligibility for general Express Entry draws

Before assessing the hypothetical Express Entry profiles below, it is worth noting that all Express Entry candidates must self-verify their eligibility for any of the three programs managed under Express Entry.

These dedicated webpages can help you understand more about the eligibility requirements for each Express Entry-managed program:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Only after verifying their eligibility for one of these programs will candidates be able to create an Express Entry profile and potentially receive an ITA for PR in Canada.

Example profiles of successful ITA recipients

The following showcases Express Entry profiles for three fictional FSWP candidates to illustrate profiles that would have been strong enough to receive an ITA during IRCC’s latest all-program draw.

Elena from Poland

This is what Elena’s Express Entry profile looked like when she entered the candidate pool at 28 years old.

  • Age:28
  • Highest Level of Completed Education:Post-secondary credential of three or more years
  • 2nd Post-Secondary Credential:Yes
  • Study in Canada:No
  • English Proficiency:Eight for all abilities
  • French Proficiency:Four for all abilities
  • Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Outside Canada within the last 10 years:Two years
  • Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Inside Canada within the last 10 years:One year
  • Years Worked In Canada During the Last Three Years:One to Three years
  • Marriage/Common-Law Partnership:No
  • Sibling in Canada (Citizen or Permanent Resident, living in Canada, 18+ years old):Yes
  • Trades Certificate of Qualification:No
  • Provincial Nomination:No
  • Skilled Job Offer from Canadian Employer:Yes
  • Job Offer for Senior Managerial Position:Yes
  • Full-Time Job Offer for Minimum One Year:Yes
  • Job Offer Supported by Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):Yes

Result: With this profile, Elena’s CRS score was 661. Therefore, Elena’s Express Entry profile was strong enough to earn her an ITA in IRCC’s most recent all-program/general draw.

Joel from the United States of America

Joel entered the Express Entry candidate pool with this profile:

  • Age:32
  • Highest Level of Completed Education:Secondary School credential
  • 2nd Post-Secondary Credential:No
  • Study in Canada:No
  • English Proficiency:10 for all abilities
  • French Proficiency:Less than three for all abilities
  • Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Outside Canada within the last 10 years:Six or more years
  • Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Inside Canada within the last 10 years:None
  • Marriage/Common-Law Partnership:Yes
  • Spouse’s Highest Level of Completed Education:Post-secondary credential of three or more years
  • Spouse’s Study in Canada:No
  • Spouse’s Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Inside Canada within the last 10 years:None
  • Spouse’s English Proficiency:10 for all abilities
  • Spouse’s French Proficiency:Less than three for all abilities
  • Sibling in Canada (Citizen or Permanent Resident, living in Canada, 18+ years old):No
  • “Close Family Member” in Canada (Citizen or Permanent Resident, living in Canada, 18+ years old):No
  • Trades Certificate of Qualification:No
  • Provincial Nomination:Yes
  • Skilled Job Offer from Canadian Employer:No

Result: This profile helped Joel earn an ITA from IRCC on February 13 with a CRS score of 919.

Nadine from South Africa

Nadine entered the Express Entry candidate pool when she was 24 years old. The rest of her profile looked like this:

  • Age:24
  • Highest Level of Completed Education:Post-secondary credential of three or more years
  • 2nd Post-Secondary Credential:No
  • Study in Canada:No
  • English Proficiency:10 for all abilities
  • French Proficiency:Seven for all abilities
  • Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Outside Canada within the last 10 years:Two years
  • Full-Time Skilled Work Experience Inside Canada within the last 10 years:None
  • Marriage/Common-Law Partnership:No
  • Sibling in Canada (Citizen or Permanent Resident, living in Canada, 18+ years old): Yes
  • Trades Certificate of Qualification:No
  • Provincial Nomination:No
  • Skilled Job Offer from Canadian Employer:Yes
  • Job Offer for Senior Managerial Position:No
  • Full-Time Job Offer for Minimum One Year:Yes
  • Job Offer Supported by LMIA:Yes

Result: With the above profile, Nadine earned a CRS score of 543 and was issued an ITA from IRCC during their latest all-program draw.

 

February 20, 2024
February 20, 2024

British Columbia, Alberta and PEI issue provincial nominations this week Provinces

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

British Columbia, Alberta and Prince Edward Island issued invitations to apply (ITAs) for candidates in several in-demand occupations, through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) and the Alberta PNP—formally the Alberta Advantage Immigrant Program (AAIP) are two of the biggest PNPs in Canada. These programs offer immigration streams for experienced entrepreneurs, workers with in-demand skills, international graduates and other newcomers based both in and out of their provinces.

Provincial immigration results February 10th—16th

Note: Provinces and territories implement different scoring systems for their PNPs independent of each other. This results in different scoring grades and criteria, which should not be compared.

1.British Columbia:

This week the BCPNP issued invitations through its Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option)) stream. This stream targets international students who have in-demand skills for British Columbia’s labour market.

The province issued at least 200 ITAs for skilled workers and international graduates across five different in-demand employment sectors. These were:

  1. Childcare—requiring a minimum score of 60 to be invited;
  2. Construction—requiring a minimum score of 75 to be invited;
  3. Healthcare—requiring a minimum score of 60;
  4. Tech—requiring a minimum score of 108; and
  5. Veterinary care—requiring a minimum score of 60.

A full list of in-demand professions in British Columbia can be found here.

2.Alberta:

On February 6th Alberta issued 44 Notifications of Interest—the equivalent of ITAs under the AAIP—to candidates with professional healthcare experience, through the “Dedicated Healthcare Pathway with Alberta job offer”.

To be invited, candidates had to have healthcare experience within the province and received a job offer from an employer in Alberta. The minimum cut-off score to receive an ITA was 302.

3.Prince Edward Island:

PEI issued 121 Expressions of Interest to candidates Labour and Express Entry candidates in the PEI PNP.

Candidates were considered if they were s working for a PEI Employer and had a minimum EOI score of 65. Over the past 12 months, the province has invited 2,307 candidates with 2,253 Expressions of Interest going to Labour and Express Entry candidates and 54 going to Business Work Permit Entrepreneur.

How can I increase my chances at receiving an invitation under a PNP?

While many PNPs have reserved pathways for those who have some connection to the province (i.e.: having graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), received a job offer letter, or having personal family ties to someone, in the province or territory of that PNP)—all PNPs have streams for in-demand professions that meet their location’s labour market needs.

Thus, newcomers looking to immigrate to Canada may find some specific benefit to tailoring their professional experience to a province or territory that requires it. In fact, this is a key reason for the existence of PNPs across Canada. Provinces even post in-demand professions to attract newcomers who can fill these crucial labour gaps.

By 2025, PNPs will overtake Express Entry as Canada’s main pathway to welcome new immigrants, signalling their continued importance to the country’s overall economic strategy.

February 19, 2024
February 19, 2024

Helpful Advice for Landing Your First Job in Canada

Author By Admin Categories Canada Life, Immigration

Are you a newcomer to Canada keen to begin a new career in this welcoming and exciting country?

Now is the time to start your job search with confidence. With helpful guidance and a positive approach, you can make the journey to employment more productive and boost your chances of success. Simply follow these helpful tips to kickstart your job search.

1. Build a Resume for the Canadian Job Market

Landing a job in Canada begins with tailoring your resume to fit a Canadian style resume. Ensure to highlight your relevant skills, education, and work experience for each job application in a way that is customized for the exact role. Be sure to include your achievements and qualifications that are aligned with the job description. It’s a good idea to learn about job seeker best practices and Canadian employer expectations. This will improve your chances of securing interviews and landing the job.

2. Get Networking

Making connections in Canada is a powerful way for job seekers to get ahead. Engage with seasoned professionals in your field through online and in-person events and industry associations. Remember: someone in these networks may have a lead on a fantastic job or might connect you with the right person who can propel your career forward. Networking not only keeps you informed about the latest industry trends, but also allows you to learn valuable insights from experienced Canadian professionals working in the field today. It’s a great way to inspire and jumpstart your own professional journey.

3. Tap into Employment Services, Job Sites, and Job Fairs

Discover the many resources available for job seekers in Canada like you. Consider registering for one of the free employment services provided by the Government of Canada. These services help you connect with employers and provide a wide list of job opportunities across the country. Leveraging popular job sites are also helpful, as employers actively look for candidates there. Make it a priority, as well, to attend some job fairs, whether virtual or in person in your area; these career events are a good way to directly connect with employers and learn about job openings. By using these services, fairs, and online platforms, you can significantly expand your reach and increase your chances of finding suitable employment fast.

4. Assess Your Credentials

As a newcomer to Canada, you may need to verify your qualifications to secure a job. Ensure your professional credentials are recognized in Canada by checking with organizations like the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC). This step is useful for a smooth transition into the Canadian workforce.

5. Elevate Your Resume: Certification and Volunteer Experience

You can also boost your job search by acquiring a Canadian certification in your chosen field. It’s a great idea to enroll in courses or programs aligned with the Canadian job market to expand and validate your skills, knowledge, and experience to potential employers. This will show potential employers your dedication to continuous learning and can significantly improve your employability.

Another great way to gain Canadian work experience and grow your network is through volunteering. Many organizations appreciate the skills and dedication newcomers bring as volunteers. Doing volunteer work not only highlights your abilities and enhances your skillset, but also demonstrates your commitment to making a positive impact in your community. Participating in relevant volunteer opportunities can provide valuable experience and even secure references to enhance your resume.

6. Seek out the Right Mentor

Additionally, you can accelerate your job search in Canada by finding the right mentor, one with industry experience who is eager to guide and support you in your professional journey. A good mentor can offer you valuable insights, career advice, and assistance in navigating the Canadian job market. In sharing their experiences and perspectives, they can help you set realistic goals and expectations. Cultivating a strong mentor-mentee relationship is crucial for overcoming challenges and accessing new opportunities.

By embracing these insights, you can enhance your chances of finding a suitable job in Canada. Remember to stay persistent, learn about the local job market, and maintain a positive outlook throughout your job search journey. As a newcomer, your unique skills, diverse perspectives, and strong work ethic are all assets that can benefit a Canadian employer. With the right approach and a confident mindset, you’re well on your way to achieving professional success in Canada.

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TD offers online support and resources of interest to newcomers on topics such as banking basics, moving to Canada, credit score essentials, and more. TD is open longer hours for your convenience and has thousands of ATMs across Canada to help you take care of your everyday banking needs quickly and easily.

February 19, 2024
February 19, 2024

(IRCC) has officially confirmed to continue Express Entry Canada categories

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially confirmed that it will continue using the six categories currently eligible for category-based selection in Express Entry draws in 2024.

In an email alert from IRCC, the department said that it will continue selecting candidates with, “particular qualifications such as education, work experience, or language skills to support identified economic needs and priorities.”

The six categories target candidates with:

1.       French language proficiency 

2.       Work experience in healthcare occupations 

3.       Work experience in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations 

4.       Work experience in trade occupations 

5.       Work experience in transport occupations 

6.       Work experience in agriculture and agri-food occup ations 

Category-based selection draws for Express Entry candidates were introduced in May 2023 as a method of helping Canada to meet its economic goals.

The categories were chosen in 2023 following public consultations with provinces and territories and other stakeholders such as unions, employers, settlement service provider organizations, worker advocacy groups and immigration researchers.

By singling out Express Entry candidates who meet the criteria for these categories, IRCC aims to invite newcomers who can help fill urgent gaps in Canada’s workforce, in sectors that are critical to the economy and well-being of Canadians as well as meet its mandate to promote the French language outside of Quebec.

When the categories were introduced, IRCC noted that they would be reviewed each year as part of IRCC’s yearly report to parliament and amended as necessary.

Category-based selection in 2023

The first category-based selection draw took place on June 28, 2023, and invited 1,500 Express Entry candidates in eligible healthcare occupations.

Throughout the rest of the year, IRCC invited more than 16,000 Express Entry candidates through category-based selection over 17 separate draws. So far in 2024, there has been one category-based selection draw inviting 7,000 candidates with French language proficiency.

Who is eligible for category-based selection?

The first category-based selection draw took place on June 28, 2023, and invited 1,500 Express Entry candidates in eligible healthcare occupations.

Throughout the rest of the year, IRCC invited more than 16,000 Express Entry candidates through category-based selection over 17 separate draws. So far in 2024, there has been one category-based selection draw inviting 7,000 candidates with French language proficiency.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an application management system that oversees three prominent economic immigration programs in Canada: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

All three programs use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assign scores to candidates based on their human capital attributes. These include work experience, age, language ability, occupation and age, and others.

Each factor is scored and added together for a total that becomes a candidate’s overall CRS score. The CRS score is then ranked against other candidate’s scores and those who have the highest scores are the most likely to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) in an upcoming Express Entry round of invitations.

Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to submit their final application for permanent residency to IRCC.

February 17, 2024
February 17, 2024

Alberta pauses processing for Alberta Opportunity Stream applications; will launch stream for tourism and hospitality

Author By Admin Categories Immigration

As of February 15, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has temporarily paused processing applications for the Alberta Opportunity Stream until further notice.

The AAIP says the pause will give the province time to “address its current inventory and focus its limited immigration nominations on priorities, such as filling labour shortages in healthcare, technology, construction, agriculture, tourism and hospitality and other in-demand sectors.”

The province will continue to assess any Alberta Opportunity Stream applications submitted before February 15 and says it will be implementing measures to “manage future application volumes against program priorities and to maintain reasonable service standards across its streams.”

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

The Alberta Opportunity Stream of the AAIP targets temporary foreign workers who currently work full-time in the province on a valid Canadian work permit and have a full-time job offer from an employer in Alberta. Post-Graduation Work Permit holders may also be eligible.

Province launches new PNP stream for tourism and hospitality

On March 1, the AAIP is introducing a new stream that targets “individuals who have already been working for a tourism and hospitality business for at least six months and who have met criteria to establish themselves in Alberta permanently.”

Further, candidates must have a “valid full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an approved employer operating within the appropriate industry.”

A recent release by the Alberta government says that the stream will help with shortages throughout the sector and help businesses throughout the province, including those in rural areas, retain workers and the economy.

The province says it will accept a limited number of applications for the stream and expedite their processing within other priority processing initiatives. More details are expected to be released on March 1.

Alberta is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. According to data from the provincial government, 32 million people visited the province in 2022, which generated $10.7 billion in expenditures.

Immigrating to Alberta

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that the Government of Alberta uses to select the economic immigration candidates who are likely to economically establish successfully within the province.

Like all PNPs, there are multiple streams that select candidates with different in-demand attributes. For example, the province has PNP streams that target skilled workers in specific occupations such as healthcare or agriculture. It also has PNP streams for those who work in rural communities within in the province as well as entrepreneurs.

Through the PNP, provinces are allocated a specific number of nominations that they can issue throughout the year. In 2023, Alberta issued 9,750 nominations to AAIP candidates. The province says it has not yet confirmed the number of nominations it has been allocated for 2024 but according to the federal Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026 Canada will welcome 110,000 newcomers through the PNP by the end of this year.

February 16, 2024
February 16, 2024

Making Toronto home: A newcomer’s guide to life in Canada’s largest city

Author By Admin Categories Canada Life

Toronto is Canada’s biggest city. With its vibrant mix of cultures, robust job opportunities, and a bustling city life, Toronto is an appealing destination for anyone seeking a dynamic and enriching place to live.

This guide offers valuable insights and practical tips to help immigrants navigate the nuances of Toronto, ensuring a smoother transition as they establish their new life in Canada’s largest metropolis.

Toronto’s neighborhoods

The downtown core, anchored by the iconic CN Tower, is a hub of business, entertainment, and culture. Here, the Financial District showcases towering skyscrapers, while the Entertainment District comes alive with theaters, restaurants, and nightlife.

Neighborhoods like Queen West and Kensington Market showcase Toronto’s artistic and eclectic side. Queen West is renowned for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and hip cafes while Kensington Market is a melting pot of cultures, offering a mixture of international flavors and street art.

The Annex, nestled near the University of Toronto, is a mix of students and professionals, featuring tree-lined streets and Victorian houses. While some parts of the Annex can be relatively expensive, there are also more affordable housing choices, making it accessible to both students and professionals.

In contrast, the suburb of Scarborough in the eastern part of the city is a vast and diverse area, home to various cultural enclaves. It is often recognized for its diverse and affordable housing options. This area includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings, providing a range of choices for families and individuals seeking more budget-friendly living arrangements.

North York boasts a mix of residential, commercial, and green spaces. With neighborhoods like Willowdale and Don Mills, North York offers a suburban feel while maintaining close proximity to the city’s amenities. The area around Yonge and Sheppard is a condominium hotspot, attracting young professionals with its convenient access to public transportation.

Navigating the TTC

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, streetcars, and subways, providing a comprehensive network that covers the Greater Toronto Area.

The subway system is a primary mode of transportation for many commuters. With four main lines—Yonge-University, Bloor-Danforth, Sheppard, and the Scarborough extension—the subway connects key areas of the city. The subway runs from approximately 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM.

In addition to the subway, the TTC operates an extensive bus network that reaches neighborhoods not directly served by the subway. Streetcars also traverse various routes, particularly in the downtown core.

TTC fares are paid through a token, a Metropass (now known as the Presto card), or by cash when boarding buses. The Presto card, a contactless smart card offers a convenient and efficient way to pay for rides across all modes of transportation.

Understanding the schedules, routes, and potential delays is essential for efficient travel. You can get real-time updates, available through the TTC website, smartphone apps, and digital displays at subway stations.

Parks and outdoor spaces in Toronto

Toronto boasts an impressive array of outdoor spaces and parks, providing residents with opportunities to escape the urban hustle. High Park, located in the west end, is a sprawling green oasis featuring hiking trails, a serene lake, and even a zoo. Its cherry blossoms draw crowds in the spring.

The Toronto Islands, accessible by ferry, offer a peaceful retreat just a short ride from the downtown core with beaches, bike paths, and skyline views.

Trinity Bellwood’s Park, situated in the trendy Queen West neighborhood, is a popular gathering spot for locals. The park hosts a range of activities, from picnics to pickup games of soccer or tennis.

Toronto’s waterfront has undergone significant revitalization, resulting in a network of parks and trails along Lake Ontario. Sugar Beach creates an urban beach experience, while the Martin Goodman Trail invites cyclists, joggers, and walkers to enjoy the scenic waterfront.

Thriving industries in Toronto

Toronto is a thriving economic hub with a diverse range of industries contributing to its robust economy. The financial sector stands out prominently, with the city hosting the headquarters of major banks and financial institutions. The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) is one of the world’s largest stock exchanges, playing a crucial role in global finance.

The technology and innovation sector is booming in Toronto, earning it the nickname “Silicon Valley North.” The city has become a hotspot for tech start-ups, attracting talent and investment.

The film and television industry is another cornerstone of Toronto’s economy. Known as Hollywood North, the city has a robust production scene, with numerous studios and soundstages. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) attracts global attention, solidifying the city’s reputation as a major player in the film industry.

Toronto’s healthcare and life sciences industries are also significant contributors to its economic landscape. The city is home to world-renowned hospitals, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies.

Emergency services in Toronto

In case of a medical emergency, residents and visitors can dial 911, a universal emergency number connecting callers to police, fire, and ambulance services. Toronto Emergency Medical Services (EMS) operates a fleet of ambulances equipped with advanced life support systems, and paramedics are trained to provide immediate care on the scene and during transportation to hospitals.

The Toronto Police Service is responsible for maintaining law and order in the city. In non-emergency situations, individuals can contact the police at their general inquiry number, which varies depending on the specific division. For urgent matters or emergencies, calling 911 is the quickest way to seek police assistance.

The Toronto Fire Services responds to fire emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, and other rescue operations. Similar to police and EMS, the fire services can be reached by calling 911 in case of emergencies. Fire stations are strategically located throughout the city to ensure timely responses to incidents.

Newcomer services in Toronto

Toronto is committed to providing a welcoming environment for newcomers, and the city offers a range of services and programs to help immigrants integrate successfully into their new lives.

Organizations like the Toronto Newcomer Office provide guidance on various settlement matters, including language training, employment services, and community orientation. These agencies often host workshops and programs to help newcomers navigate the Canadian job market, understand the education system, and adapt to cultural differences.

Toronto offers language training programs to help newcomers improve their English or French language skills. These programs, provided by organizations like the YMCA and local community colleges, aim to enhance communication abilities, increasing newcomers’ confidence and facilitating their engagement with the broader community.

In addition to settlement agencies, community centers across Toronto offer a wide array of services to support newcomers. These centres provide a welcoming space for individuals and families, offering cultural activities, recreational programs, and social events that help newcomers connect with others in similar situations.

Education in Toronto

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is one of the largest and most diverse school boards in Canada, serving over 247,000 students in nearly 600 schools. The TDSB offers a range of educational programs, including elementary and secondary schools, specialized schools, and alternative education options. In addition to the public education system, Toronto is home to numerous private and independent schools.

Toronto is also a hub for higher education, boasting several world-renowned universities and colleges. The University of Toronto, consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting students from around the world. Ryerson University and York University are other prominent institutions contributing to Toronto’s reputation as an educational centre.

 

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