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Alberta Launches New AAIP Pathway for Law Enforcement Professionals

Alberta Launches New AAIP Pathway for Law Enforcement Professionals

Jul 10, 2024 | Blog, Business Immigration, Immigration, In the News

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) will begin accepting applications for its new law enforcement professionals pathway later this year, with the exact date yet to be determined.

The AAIP, one of Canada’s 11 Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), is unveiling a new permanent residence (PR) pathway. This initiative aims to bolster Alberta’s police services by achieving recruitment goals for public safety and addressing crime across the province.

Addressing Decline in Police Career Interest

The province has observed a significant decline in the number of residents pursuing careers in policing. This new PNP stream is designed to support Alberta Police Services by attracting qualified professionals.

Check Your Eligibility for Canadian Immigration

In 2024, the AAIP law enforcement pathway will offer 50 nominations for PNP candidates. This stream is aligned with Express Entry, meaning candidates must meet all Express Entry criteria to qualify for PR.

Introduction and Eligibility Criteria

Announced on June 25 by the Government of Alberta, this pathway has specific eligibility requirements. Candidates must have a job offer from an employer who is a member of the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police (AACP) and meet all other Express Entry criteria.

Eligible occupations include:

– Commissioned and non-commissioned police officers
– Public protection services professionals
– Police investigators and related investigative roles
– Specialized law enforcement positions

Overview of the AAIP

The AAIP is an economic immigration program that allows Alberta to nominate candidates for permanent residence based on their potential to fill labor market gaps and demographic needs. The program comprises several streams designed to meet these objectives, including:

– Alberta Opportunity Stream
– Alberta Express Entry Stream
– Accelerated Tech Pathway
– Rural Renewal Stream
– Farm Stream
– Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
– Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
– Rural Entrepreneur Stream

Each AAIP stream has specific eligibility criteria. Some streams require an existing connection to Alberta, such as a job offer, family ties, or educational history in the province.

Managing High Demand

Due to high demand, Alberta has introduced new application guidelines to manage the intake process efficiently. These guidelines affect the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Rural Renewal Stream, and Accelerated Tech Pathway.

The province will accept a targeted number of applications each month. Candidates who cannot apply due to the monthly cap can reapply the following month.

 

More Jobs Opportunities in Ontario’s Provincial Nominee Program

More Jobs Opportunities in Ontario’s Provincial Nominee Program

Jul 10, 2024 | Blog, Business Immigration, Immigration, In the News

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has broadened its Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream, opening doors for more newcomers to gain provincial nomination. Announced on July 4th by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, the update includes an additional 35 National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes to the list of eligible occupations:

NOC 14400 – Shippers and Receivers

NOC 14402 – Production logistics workers

NOC 65320 – Dry cleaning, laundry and related occupations

NOC 74200 – Railway yard and track maintenance workers

NOC 74203 – Automotive and heavy truck and equipment parts installers and servicers

NOC 74204 – Utility maintenance workers

NOC 74205 – Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers
NOC 75101 – Material handlers

NOC 75119 – Other trades helpers and labourers

NOC 75211 – Railway and motor transport labourers

NOC 75212 – Public works and maintenance labourers

NOC 85102 – Aquaculture and marine harvest labourers

NOC 94101 – Foundry workers

NOC 94102 – Glass forming and finishing machine operators and glass cutters

NOC 94103 – Concrete, clay and stone forming operators

NOC 94104 – Inspectors and testers, mineral and metal processing

NOC 94112 – Rubber processing machine operators and related workers

NOC 94120 – Sawmill machine operators

NOC 94121 – Pulp mill, papermaking and finishing machine operators

NOC 94123 – Lumber graders and other wood processing inspectors and graders

NOC 94142 – Fish and seafood plant workers

NOC 94143 – Testers and graders, food and beverage processing

NOC 94200 – Motor vehicle assemblers, inspectors and testers

NOC 94202 – Assemblers and inspectors, electrical appliance, apparatus and equipment manufacturing

NOC 94203 – Assemblers, fabricators and inspectors, industrial electrical motors and transformers

NOC 94205 – Machine operators and inspectors, electrical apparatus manufacturing

NOC 94211 – Assemblers and inspectors of other wood products

NOC 94212 – Plastic products assemblers, finishers and inspectors

NOC 95100 – Labourers in mineral and metal processing

NOC 95101 – Labourers in metal fabrication

NOC 95103 – Labourers in wood, pulp and paper processing

NOC 95104 – Labourers in rubber and plastic products manufacturing

NOC 95106 – Labourers in food and beverage processing

NOC 95107 – Labourers in fish and seafood processing

This expansion strengthens the program’s ability to address critical labor shortages in the province.

Eligibility Requirements for the Employer Job Offer Stream

In-Demand Skills Stream is a targeted pathway within Ontario’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) designed to address pressing labor needs across the province. This stream prioritizes occupations in key sectors like agriculture, construction, skilled trades, and manufacturing.

To qualify for this stream, several criteria must be met. First, the job offer must be full-time (minimum 1,560 hours annually or 30 hours weekly) and permanent (no end date) from a legitimate Ontario employer. Contract positions are not eligible.

Secondly, candidates need demonstrable experience in Ontario. At least nine months of cumulative, full-time, paid work experience in the same field (matching NOC code) as the offered position is required. This experience can be accumulated within three years before submitting an application.

Language proficiency is also essential. A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of four in all four skill areas (reading, writing, listening, speaking) in either English or French is mandatory.

Educational qualifications are another factor. A Canadian high school diploma or equivalent foreign credential is preferred. If lacking Canadian education, an Education Credential Assessment (ECA) will be necessary.

Lastly, for professions requiring licensing, candidates must possess the relevant license from the appropriate provincial regulatory body before applying for nomination under this stream.

Canada’s Weekly Earnings Climb to $1,240: StatsCan Report

Canada’s Weekly Earnings Climb to $1,240: StatsCan Report

Jul 2, 2024 | Blog, Business Immigration, Immigration, In the News

A new report by Statistics Canada reveals that Canada’s average weekly earnings for employees rose to $1,240 in April 2024. This represents a 3.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The previous month (March 2024) saw a growth of 4.1%.

Several factors contributed to this rise in earnings, including adjustments in wages, employment composition, hours worked, and the impact of the baseline year used for comparison. In June 2023, the average weekly earnings sat at $1,204.

Employee Numbers and Job Vacancies

The report also highlights a trend of declining employee numbers and job vacancies. This is the third consecutive month where the number of payroll employees receiving pay and benefits has dipped, with a decrease of 22,700 (-0.1%) in April.Job vacancies also fell by 32,000 (-5.3%) to 575,400 during the same period.

Sectors April 2024 March 2024 Month-on-Month Change Year-on-Year change
Average for all sectors 1240.18 1234.94 0.42% 3.69%
Wholesale trade 1545.50 1472.87 4.93% 8.38%
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction 2397.01 2320.93 3.28% 3.15%
Other services (excluding public administration) 1080.29 1064.72 1.46% 6.41%
Utilities 2145.11 2117.98 1.28% 0.81%
Manufacturing 1325.82 1313.10 0.97% 0.89%
Health care and social assistance 1121.61 1112.10 0.86% 8.28%
Transportation and warehousing 1298.87 1290.29 0.66% 3.81%
Public administration 1587.31 1577.51 0.62% 3.28%
Construction 1495.64 1486.59 0.61% -0.24%
Real estate, rental and leasing 1261.81 1255.47 0.50% 1.28%
Forestry, logging and support 1368.20 1367.84 0.03% -3.90%
Professional, scientific and technical services 1744.37 1746.75 -0.14% 2.31%
Information and cultural industries 1702.69 1706.17 -0.20% 4.52%
Arts, entertainment and recreation 756.64 758.53 -0.25% 9.31%
Accommodations and food services 494.79 497.39 -0.52% 3.98%
Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services 1051.45 1059.64 -0.77% 3.81%
Finance and insurance 1600.95 1614.09 -0.81% 0.40%
Educational services 1212.61 1223.11 -0.86% 1.45%
Retail trade 741.99 750.52 -1.14% 5.97%
Management of companies and enterprises 1775.27 1810.81 -1.96% 6.85%

Average weekly earnings in Canada

Breakdown by Sector

The report provides a detailed breakdown of average weekly earnings and payroll employment across various sectors.Some sectors that witnessed a rise in earnings include wholesale trade (up 4.93% to $1,545.50), mining and oil extraction (up 3.28% to $2,397.01), and healthcare and social assistance (up 0.86% to $1,121.61).

Conversely, sectors like retail trade (-1.14% to $741.99) and administrative and support services (-0.77% to $1,051.45) experienced a decline in average weekly earnings.

Provincial Analysis

The report further explores average weekly earnings across Canadian provinces. While some provinces like Ontario (-0.29% to $1,271.04) and Quebec (-0.16% to $1,181.70) saw minimal month-to-month changes, others like Yukon (1.55% to $1,441.64) and Alberta (1.53% to $1,317.98) reported a significant increase.

Job Vacancies on the Decline

Job vacancies witnessed a substantial decrease of 223,400 (-28.0%) in April 2024 compared to the same month in 2023.This decline primarily resulted in an increase in the unemployment-to-job vacancy ratio, reaching 2.3 in April.

The retail trade sector was particularly affected, with a decrease of 5,200 vacancies (-8.6%) in April 2024 compared to the previous month. This represents the lowest number of vacancies in the sector since November 2019.

National Unemployment Rate

While this report focuses on job vacancies and earnings, it’s important to note that the unemployment rate in Canada has risen to 6.2% as of May 2024, according to the latest data from Statistics Canada.

Job Vacancy Rate

The report doesn’t explicitly state the job vacancy rate, but it can be calculated by dividing the number of vacant positions by the total labor demand (filled jobs + vacant jobs). This ratio would provide the vacancy rate as a percentage.

Quick Guide: National Occupational Classification (NOC) in Canada

Quick Guide: National Occupational Classification (NOC) in Canada

Apr 24, 2024 | Business Immigration, Canadian Experience Class, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Federal Skilled Trades, Humanitarian & Compassionate, Permanent Residency, Processing Times

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a standardized system used to classify and categorize occupations in Canada. This system is used for various purposes, including immigration, labor market research, and wage reporting. For immigrants to Canada, the NOC is an essential tool for understanding their eligibility for certain immigration programs and for finding work in their field.

What is the NOC?

The NOC is a five-tiered hierarchical structure that classifies occupations based on their skill level, education, training, and experience requirements. There are 10 broad occupational categories, 45 major groups, 89 minor groups, 162 minor groups, and 516 unit groups. Each unit group is assigned a unique four-digit NOC code.

How is the NOC used for immigration?

The NOC is used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess the eligibility of applicants for certain immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system. The NOC code of an applicant’s occupation is one of the factors that is used to calculate their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. A higher CRS score means that an applicant is more likely to be invited to apply for permanent residency.

How can I find my NOC code?

There are a few ways to find your NOC code. You can search for it by job title using the NOC website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/eligibility/find-national-occupation-code.html, or you can browse the NOC structure by occupational category. You can also find your NOC code in job postings.

What are some tips for using the NOC for immigration?

  • Make sure you are using the correct NOC code. The NOC was updated in 2021, so make sure you are using the most recent version of the code.
  • Choose a NOC code that is closely related to your occupation. If you are not sure which NOC code to choose, you can contact an immigration consultant or job counselor.
  • Be prepared to provide evidence of your work experience. When you apply for an immigration program, you will be asked to provide evidence of your work experience. This may include job letters, transcripts, and references.

The Most Common NOC Classifications for Immigrants to Canada

The following table shows the most common NOC classifications for immigrants to Canada in 2021:

NOC Code Job Title Number of Immigrants
21111 Software engineers and software developers 23,875
41511 Nursing assistants and orderlies 22,440
22111 Financial officers 18,425
21711 Information systems analysts and programmers 17,320
32131 Retail salespersons and cashiers 16,845
42111 Supervisors of food and beverage service occupations 16,015
42141 Cooks 15,525
21311 Bookkeepers 15,425
43111 First-line supervisors of construction, repair and maintenance trades workers 14,985
52511 Construction trades helpers and labourers 14,825

Please note that this is just a small sample of the many NOC classifications that are relevant to immigrants to Canada. The best way to find the NOC code that is right for you is to search the NOC website or to contact an immigration consultant.

https://consultations.canadianvisas.com/canadianvisas-generalconsultation

Additional tips for using the NOC for immigration

  • Consider your skills and experience. When choosing a NOC code, it is important to consider your skills and experience. What are you good at? What experience do you have? Choose a NOC code that is a good match for your skills and experience.
  • Research the job market. Once you have chosen a NOC code, it is important to research the job market for that occupation. Is there a demand for workers in that occupation? What are the average salaries for that occupation?
  • Be prepared to adapt. The Canadian job market is different from the job market in many other countries. Be prepared to adapt your skills and experience to meet the needs of the Canadian workforce.

Conclusion

By understanding the NOC and how it is used for immigration, you can increase your chances of successfully immigrating to Canada and finding work in your field.

Quick Guide: How to get an ITA and what to do next

Quick Guide: How to get an ITA and what to do next

Mar 12, 2024 | Business Immigration, Canadian Experience Class, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Federal Skilled Trades, Humanitarian & Compassionate, Permanent Residency, Processing Times

Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residence Canada (ITA)

If you are interested in becoming a Permanent Resident of Canada, you will need to be invited through an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This ITA is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). After receiving an ITA, applicants will have the chance to apply for Canadian permanent residence and bring their accompanying family members, such as their spouse or common-law partner and any dependent children, along with them.

 

Step-by-step process of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to immigrate to Canada:

1. Create an Express Entry profile to enter the Express Entry pool.

The first step involves submitting information about your skills, language ability, education, and work experience. If you meet the criteria for immigration to Canada, you will be placed in the Express Entry pool.

2. Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System score.

You will then be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information in your Express Entry profile. The CRS score is used to rank candidates based on their skills and other factors.

3. Boost Your CRS Score

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assigns points based on your human capital factors like skills, education, age, language proficiency, and work experience. A higher score increases your chances of receiving an ITA. Consider these strategies:

  • Improve Language Skills: Aim for high scores on English or French language tests like IELTS or CELPIP. Strong language abilities are essential for integrating into Canadian society and the workforce.
  • Gain Work Experience: Relevant Canadian or international experience boosts your score. Look for opportunities in fields listed in Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) for additional points.
  • Pursue Higher Education: A Canadian degree, diploma, or relevant post-secondary qualification can be advantageous. Consider Canadian institutions or programs approved by Canadian education credential assessment services.
  • Secure a Valid Job Offer: A job offer from a Canadian employer with LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) approval adds significant points and demonstrates your employability in Canada.
  • Provincial Nomination: Receiving a nomination from a Canadian province/territory can significantly increase your CRS score. PNPs target skilled workers to address specific labor market needs. Research programs offered by provinces that align with your skills and experience.

4. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) if your score is above the cut-off threshold score.

IRCC regularly conducts draws inviting candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residence. The cut-off score for each draw varies depending on the number of applications received by IRCC.

If your CRS score is higher than the cut-off threshold score for that specific Express Entry draw, you will receive an ITA.

5. Submit a complete application for permanent residence (APR) in your online account.

Once you receive an ITA, you will have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence (APR) in your online account. This involves providing documents such as passport, language test scores, job offer letter, and more.

Read more about: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa

6. Receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and/or a Permanent Residence Visa.

After your application is approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and/or a Permanent Residence Visa.

7. Live and work in Canada as a Permanent Resident.

Finally, once you have your permanent residence visa, you can travel to Canada and live and work as a Permanent Resident.

Schedule you discovery call

National Occupational Classification (NOC) and Express Entry

The NOC is a system used by the Canadian government to categorize jobs based on skill level, type of work performed, and educational requirements. When creating your Express Entry profile, you’ll need to identify the NOC code that best reflects your primary work experience. Occupations in higher NOC skill levels (typically NOC 0, A or B under NOC 2016 or TEER levels 3, 4 or 5 under NOC 2021) are generally eligible for Express Entry.

Here’s how the NOC can influence your Express Entry profile:

  • Eligibility: Choosing the correct NOC code ensures your work experience aligns with eligible occupations for Express Entry.
  • CRS Points: Certain NOC codes may award more points under the CRS compared to others. Jobs requiring higher skill levels or those in high demand by Canadian employers tend to receive more points.

Research the NOC carefully and choose the code that most accurately reflects your main work duties. A mismatch can affect your eligibility or CRS score. You can find the NOC list and descriptions on the Employment and Social Development Canada website: Find your National Occupation Classification (NOC).

What Should You Do After You Receive an ITA

If you have received an Invitation to Apply (ITA), you have only 60 days to put together and submit all of your required supporting documents. To ensure that you’re ready to apply and make the most of the two-month period, it is important to begin collecting and organizing the necessary documents ahead of time.

In case you are unable to submit your application within the 60-day period, you will have the option to re-enter the Express Entry pool and start the process over.

How to Get an Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residence

To receive an ITA, you must first be eligible to immigrate by meeting the minimum requirements for the Express Entry pool. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is used to assess a candidate’s eligibility.

The CRS score ranks an individual based on:

  • Skills
  • Education
  • Language ability
  • Work experience,
  • and other factors.

Invitations to apply (ITA) will be given to those with a minimum CRS score or higher of that specific Express Entry draw.

Read more about: Changes in Express Entry in 2023

Documents you will need to apply for Permanent Residency

You will need the following documents to apply for a Canadian Permanent Residence:

  • Passport
  • Language Test score results
  • Birth Certificate
  • Work experience documentation
  • Police Verification report
  • Upfront medical receipt
  • Medical report

PNP programs may require additional documents, including:

  • Education Credential Assessment (ECA)
  • Proof of Funds
  • Offer letter from a Canadian employer
  • Provincial Nomination Certificate or territorial certificate of nomination
  • Marriage certificates or divorce certificates (if applicable)
  • Your Personal reference code
  • Express Entry Profile Number
  • Job seeker validation code
  • Letter of recommendation from previous employers.

Not Getting an ITA?

If you don’t receive an ITA in this round, don’t be discouraged. Consider these options:

  • Re-entering the Express Entry pool: Keep your profile updated and look for ways to improve your CRS score. Aim to gain more work experience, improve your language proficiency, or pursue further education.
  • Exploring Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Research targeted provincial nominations that align with your skills and experience. These programs can boost your CRS score and provide a direct path to permanent residence in a specific Canadian province.

 

We Can Help You Determine Your Eligibility! Talk to an adviser today! (Click here)

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Its Official: Pearson Test of English Core Now Valid for Most Canadian Immigration Pathways

Its Official: Pearson Test of English Core Now Valid for Most Canadian Immigration Pathways

Jan 31, 2024 | Becoming a Sponsor, Blog, Business Immigration, Canadian Employers, Citizenship, Complete Representation, Express Entry, Family Immigration, Help with Inadmissibility, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, Provincial Nominee Program

As of January 30th, 2024, you have a new choice for proving your English proficiency for Canadian immigration – the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core test! This computer-based exam is now accepted for most immigration pathways, except the Student Direct Stream (SDS).

This opens up a new, potentially faster and more accessible option for individuals seeking to demonstrate their English proficiency and pursue their Canadian dream.

What is the PTE?

The PTE Core is a computer-based English test designed specifically for Canadian immigration applications. It assesses your everyday English skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening within a two-hour timeframe. With over 400 testing centers globally, it offers convenient accessibility.

This test is available at Pearson’s global testing centers and is fully digital, using the latest AI technology for scoring and biometric data collection for enhanced security measures, as well as voice recognition software for the speaking element of the test.

PTE is already accepted by the UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments, and more than 90% of universities in Canada.

Who can benefit from the PTE Core?

This new test caters to a wide range of immigration pathways, excluding only the Student Direct Stream (SDS). So, whether you’re aiming for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination, applying through an Express Entry managed program, or seeking Canadian citizenship, the PTE Core could be your key to language test success.

Comparing PTE Core to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)

The PTE Core aligns with the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) and joins five other accepted language tests:

  • CELPIP General Test (English)
  • IELTS General Training (English)
  • TEF Canada (French)
  • TCF Canada (French)

Each test assesses the same four skills, but specific program requirements may vary. For instance, Express Entry candidates under the FSWP need a minimum CLB 7 in all skills, while FSTP candidates require CLB 5 in speaking & listening and CLB 4 in reading & writing. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) has different requirements based on the NOC skill level of your job.

Skill PTE Core Score CLB Level
Speaking 50-79 7
Writing 50-79 7
Reading 50-79 7
Listening 50-79 7

Choosing the right test:

Selecting the most suitable language test for your immigration journey depends on various factors, including your preferred testing format, budget, desired timeframe for results, and individual strengths and weaknesses. Carefully research each test’s format, scoring process, and acceptance by your chosen immigration programs to make an informed decision.

Why is it good news?

This should help some of the most qualified applicants get into Canada more quickly.

The PTE test is also more convenient than other English proficiency tests. It is available online and results can be provided in as little as five days. Immigration applicants can also send their scores directly to the Canadian government, saving time and effort.

Overall, the introduction of PTE scores in the immigration process is a welcome change that should help more qualified applicants gain access to Canada. It should ease the process of immigration and help those who have the necessary skillset to get into Canada more quickly.

We Can Help You Determine Your Eligibility! Talk to an adviser today! (Click here)

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