Jul 19, 2023 | Becoming a Sponsor, Blog, Citizenship, Express Entry, Family Immigration, Help with Inadmissibility, How To, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, In the News, Spousal Sponsorship, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Family reunification is a fundamental cornerstone of Canada’s immigration strategy, and to further this objective, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented a new measure: Open Work Permits are now available for outland applications. The aim is to facilitate the reunification of more families within the country. Under this new measure, spouses, partners, and dependents of permanent residents, Canadian citizens, temporary workers, and students who are already in Canada may now be eligible for an Open Work Permit.
Previously, open work permits were restricted to applicants under inland sponsorship or those already residing in Canada on a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV). However, the recent change extends eligibility for open work permits to those applying from outside of Canada (outland sponsorship).
To expedite the process, IRCC aims to process all spousal sponsorship applications within 12 months.
Eligibility for open work permits
Family members include spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children over 18 years old.
Eligibility criteria for open work permits, as stated by IRCC, encompass the following conditions:
- The family member must have a valid temporary resident status, maintain their status, or be eligible for restoration of status.
- The sponsored party must have the same residential address as their sponsor in Canada when applying for the open work permit.
IRCC public policy allows officers to grant an open work permit to foreign nationals who meet any of the following conditions:
- They are the principal applicant with a submitted permanent residence application under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada, or as a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner under the family class, which has been accepted for processing by IRCC.
- They have submitted a work permit application for a maximum duration of two years.
- They are the subject of a sponsorship application submitted by their Canadian citizen or permanent resident spouse, common-law or conjugal partner.
- They have the same residential address as their sponsor in Canada at the time of the application and possess valid temporary resident status in Canada or have applied for restoration of status.
Alternatively, open work permits may also be granted to dependent children who meet the following conditions:
- They have been included as an accompanying family member in the application for permanent residence.
- They have submitted a work permit application for a maximum duration of two years.
- They have the same residential address as the principal applicant and their sponsor in Canada at the time of the application and possess valid temporary resident status in Canada or have applied for restoration of status.
Family reunification is a top priority in Canada.
This initiative was announced on May 26 by Immigration Minister Sean Fraser. Along with open work permits for outland spousal sponsorship, other family reunification measures were introduced, such as:
- Faster processing times for spousal applicants’ temporary resident visas (TRVs)
- New, dedicated processing tools for spousal TRV applicants.
- Open work permit extension availability for open work permit holders expiring between August 1st and the end of 2023.
Minister Fraser expressed IRCC’s dedication to reuniting families expeditiously and enabling them to work and support themselves more swiftly upon arrival. This approach not only helps newcomers fulfill their potential but also strengthens Canada’s economy and social fabric.
Jun 5, 2023 | 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
Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program Now Accepts Additional English Language Tests. Starting from August 10, 2023, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) will now accept results from Prometric’s Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) and Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) – General tests for expedited study permits. This update allows international students to choose Canadian-made English language proficiency tests when applying for study permits through SDS.
We are excited about these changes, and Prometric, the provider of the CAEL and CELPIP tests, shares our enthusiasm. Michael Holaday, Vice President of Business Development at Prometric, expressed his support, stating,
“We welcome the changes to the Student Direct Stream and look forward to supporting more students who wish to live, work, and study in Canada with our CAEL and CELPIP – General tests. These products were developed here in Canada and have already been integral to many people’s immigration and study plans.”
What is the CELPIP-General test?
The CELPIP-General test has been recognized as an approved English proficiency test for Canadian permanent resident status applications since 2009, and it has been successfully administered to thousands of test takers each year. Its approval for SDS study permits expands its usefulness to a wider range of applicants. Additionally, CAEL, already accepted by over 180 Canadian academic institutions, provides an alternative choice for prospective SDS applicants. CAEL, developed in 1987 by language assessment and testing experts at Carleton University, is a comprehensive exam that assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through computer-based language tasks. It is designed to reflect the Canadian academic context, replicating the first-year classroom experience and demonstrating the abilities required for success in the Canadian post-secondary environment. Prometric, a leading technology-enabled testing and assessment solutions provider, supports over 7 million test takers annually in more than 180 countries. With its global reach and extensive expertise, Prometric is well-positioned to deliver the CAEL and CELPIP tests to international students and leverage its industry-leading experience.
What is the SDS program?
The Student Direct Stream (SDS), launched in 2018, aims to streamline the process of obtaining study permits for international students from eligible countries. By adhering to specific requirements and providing the necessary documents upfront, eligible students can benefit from expedited processing times, ensuring a smooth transition to studying in Canada. The (SDS) program has expanded its eligibility to students from additional countries. These countries include China, Antigua and Barbuda, India, Brazil, Morocco, Colombia, Pakistan, Costa Rica, The Philippines, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Peru, Vietnam, and Trinidad and Tobago. This expansion, combined with the acceptance of CAEL, CELPIP, and IELTS language exams, offers greater flexibility and convenience for international students.
How to Take Your Language Exam: CAEL, CELPIP, IELTS
If you are planning to study in Canada, it is essential to prepare for a language exam. Whether you choose the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) test, Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), or International English Language Testing System (IELTS), here is a step-by-step guide on how to take your language exam:
- Research and Select the Appropriate Exam: Familiarize yourself with the requirements of your desired institution and determine which language exam is accepted. Evaluate the format, content, and scoring system of CAEL, CELPIP, and IELTS to make an informed decision.
- Register for the Exam: Visit the official websites of the respective exams (CAEL, CELPIP, or IELTS) and follow the registration process. Provide the necessary personal information, select a suitable test date, and pay the registration fee.
- Prepare for the Exam: Utilize available study materials, practice tests, and resources provided by the exam organizers. Consider enrolling in preparatory courses or engaging in self-study to enhance your language skills and familiarize yourself with the exam structure.
- Attend the Exam: On the scheduled date, arrive at the designated test center with your identification documents and any other required materials. Follow the instructions provided by the exam administrators and maintain focus throughout the exam.
- Receive Your Exam Results: After completing the exam, your results will be available within a specified timeframe. The exam organizers will provide instructions on accessing and interpreting your scores. Keep your results for future reference, as they are often required during the study permit application process.
Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the exam organizers for a successful and smooth exam experience. Following these steps will help you navigate the process of taking your language exam and take you one step closer to pursuing your educational goals in Canada.
Check out: Changes in Express Entry in 2023 (more…)
Apr 17, 2023 | Blog, Complete Representation, Express Entry, Family Immigration, How To, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, New Immigration Programs, Permanent Residency, Preparation of Application, Provincial Nominee Program, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers
Understanding Provincial Nomination Programs in Canada: Eligibility Requirements and Differences
Canada is known for its warm hospitality and has a range of opportunities for foreign nationals to call it their permanent home. One such opportunity is through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate foreign workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates for permanent residency. Each province and territory has its own unique PNP, with distinct eligibility requirements and selection criteria. To better understand the different eligibility requirements for these programs and how they differ from one another, read on.
What is a Provincial Nomination Program?
A Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) is a program designed to allow Canadian provinces and territories to select and nominate foreign nationals who are interested in settling in their region. PNPs were created to help address regional labor market shortages and attract talented individuals to Canada’s different provinces and territories.
Eligibility Requirements for Provincial Nomination Programs
The eligibility requirements for PNPs differ from province to province, but in general, they require candidates to have the following:
- Education and Language Proficiency: Most PNPs require candidates to have completed at least a high school education and to have demonstrated proficiency in either English or French, Canada’s official languages.
- Work Experience: PNPs require candidates to have a certain amount of work experience in their occupation, which varies by province and occupation.
- Age: PNPs typically target younger individuals who are likely to contribute to the labor market and the community for many years. The minimum age for PNPs is usually 18 years old, but some provinces require candidates to be between 21 and 45 years old.
- Job Offer: Most PNPs require candidates to have a job offer from an employer in the province. The job offer must be in an occupation that is in demand in the province.
- Adaptability: PNPs consider factors such as previous education or work experience in the province, family or friends in the province, and language skills in addition to the minimum eligibility requirements.
How do PNPs differ from each other?
PNPs differ from each other in terms of the eligibility requirements, the selection process, and the categories of candidates they target. Here are some of the main differences:
Eligibility Requirements:
Each province has its own set of eligibility requirements for PNPs. For example, the British Columbia PNP requires candidates to have a job offer in a skilled occupation, while the Saskatchewan PNP allows candidates without a job offer to apply for the program.
Selection Process:
PNPs use a point-based system to evaluate candidates based on factors such as education, work experience, age, language proficiency, and adaptability. However, the point system and selection criteria vary by province and can change over time.
Categories of Candidates:
Each PNP has its own categories of candidates, such as skilled workers, international graduates, entrepreneurs, or semi-skilled workers. Some PNPs prioritize certain categories over others, depending on the needs of the province.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) are an excellent way for foreign nationals to immigrate and settle in Canada. However, the eligibility requirements for PNPs differ by province, and candidates must carefully evaluate their eligibility before applying. It is essential to consult with an immigration consultant or lawyer to determine which PNP is the best fit for your qualifications and career aspirations. By understanding the different eligibility requirements and selection criteria for PNPs, candidates can increase their chances of being nominated and achieving their dream of living and working in Canada.
Mar 27, 2023 | 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, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. It’s a pathway that
- helps skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs
- gives employers access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings
The Canadian government is taking steps to address labor shortages by supporting skilled refugees and other displaced individuals in building their careers in Canada. Through programs like the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), the government is providing more opportunities for qualified individuals to thrive in high-demand industries such as healthcare, skilled crafts, and information technology. By helping these individuals build their careers in Canada, the government hopes to alleviate labor shortages and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
EMPP benefits
The new federal pathway will make the application procedure simpler and quicker by requiring only one application and following uniform qualifying requirements. The majority of applications will be approved within 6 months, allowing applicants to travel to Canada and start employment immediately. The new pathway will supplement current EMPP pathways and provide companies with more chances to fill various in-demand positions such as teachers, hospitality employees, truck drivers, software engineers, and long-term care aides.
The EMPP will help you apply to specific economic immigration programs by making it easier for you to
- be eligible for an economic immigration program
- complete and submit your application
- start your new life in Canada
Through this pilot, the IRCC will:
- make it easier for you to apply and be eligible for the economic program you choose
- waive the application and biometric fees for you and any of your dependents
- review and process your application in 6 months or less (in most cases)
- cover the cost of your pre-departure medical services and medical exams through the Interim Federal Health Program
- let you use a loan to meet the financial requirements to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds)
- give you access to the Immigration Loans Program (ILP), if your application is approved, to help with
- travel costs
- some pre-arrival travel services from the International Organization for Migration that the ILP covers the fee for
- some start-up costs after you arrive in Canada (which is also available to other economic immigration applicants)
- the right of permanent residence fee
- let you access the Canadian Orientation Abroad Programme to help you integrate and settle in Canada
New opportunities
The EMPP offers eligible candidates the opportunity to resume their professions and lives in safety with their families in Canada while also supporting companies in meeting their labor market demands. The eligibility criteria have been expanded to include other displaced individuals who require international protection and lack a long-term solution. More details, including eligibility requirements, will be made available on the EMPP website in the upcoming weeks.
How will EMPP work?
Employers will be allowed to recruit refugees and displaced persons who qualify under any National Occupation Classification 2021 category TEER 0-5 according to the new government gateway. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated that Canada will continue to develop innovative immigration measures to help employers address critical labor shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety.
The IRCC states that the EMPP was created to help skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs to support Canadian labour market needs. This is the second phase of the EMPP. In the first phase of this pilot, they learned that skilled refugees can qualify for permanent residence through our economic programs with some help.
Starting December 3, 2021, EMPP phase 2 the IRCC will help settle up to 500 skilled refugees, and their families, in Canada.
The pilot combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. Before you apply for the EMPP, you’ll apply for 1 of these immigration programs:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Who can apply?
According to the IRCC:
There are 2 sets of eligibility requirements you must meet to apply for the EMPP.
1. You must be a refugee
To prove this, you must
- be a convention or country of asylum refugee.
- we’ll determine if you meet one of these definitions or
- one of our partners (TalentLift, Talent Beyond Boundaries or Jumpstart Refugee Talent) will give you a referral letter stating you do
- be outside Canada and your country of persecution
- have no durable solution in the country you’re living in
- have one of these documents, if you don’t have a referral letter from one of our partners:
- a valid, positive Refugee Status Determination (RSD) from the UNHCR or a refugee-hosting state
- proof you’re an asylum seeker abroad, registered or recorded by the hosting state
- proof you’re registered or recorded as a person of concern by the UNHCR, if you don’t have a positive RSD yet
2. Admissibility
You must be admissible to Canada.
3. You must be eligible for an economic immigration program
You must be eligible for one of the following economic immigration programs:
To qualify for 1 of these, you must have:
- English or French skills
- education or job training, and work experience
- a job offer from a Canadian employer for full-time work
If you want to apply for AIP or RNIPAs part of the EMPP, you don’t need to meet some eligibility requirements for these programs:
- You don’t need to prove you worked the number of hours asked for in the timeframes listed. Instead, you only need to show you worked the same number of hours in general, before you apply.
- You can apply for a loan to meet the requirement of having enough money to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds).
These exemptions do not apply to PNP. The province or territory decides the requirements for this program.
How to apply
You can apply for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
There are 7 partner organizations outside government that can help you
- connect to employers in Canada
- prepare for a job offer, then apply for the EMPP
Some partner organizations can issue a referral letter, which makes it faster and easier for you to apply. Other partner organizations can help you apply, but won’t affect the documents you need to use.
1. If you use a partner that can issue a referral letter
- they make sure you meet the definition of a refugee for the EMPP before you apply
- you need fewer forms and documents for your application
- you still need a job offer from a Canadian employer
Partners that can provide a referral letter include
2. If you use another partner or apply on your own:
- you have to submit proof of your current refugee situation with 1 of these
- a valid, positive Refugee Status Determination (RSD) from the UNHCR or a refugee-hosting state
- proof you’re an asylum seeker abroad, registered or recorded by the hosting state
- proof you’re registered or recorded as a person of concern by the UNHCR, if you don’t have a positive RSD yet
- you have to complete the Schedule 20 form
These other partners include
3. Complete the applications
There are 2 applications you must complete for the EMPP:
- One application for the economic immigration program:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
- A second application for the EMPP.
You must submit both applications together.
There are now 2 ways you can apply:
- Online in the Permanent residence portal
- If you choose to apply online, you’ll complete and submit both online applications together.
- By email
- If you choose to apply by email, you must
- complete all forms for both applications and
- follow the EMPP instructions to submit them together
You can complete your applications yourself. If you decide to use an immigration representative, you can talk to one here: Talk to an adviser today! (Click here)
Quotes
“Canada is a global leader in helping skilled refugees connect with employers struggling to find workers in critical areas, while giving newcomers the opportunity to restart their careers and their lives here in Canada. Our government will continue to develop and scale innovative immigration measures to help employers address their critical labour shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to live in safety while rebuilding their lives.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“This is a solution for every hiring team in Canada. There are many thousands of women and men living as refugees globally who have enormous talent to contribute. Why not source your future colleagues from within refugee populations? You’ll find competitive skills, adaptability and creativity. These are people you want on your team. As visas get more seamless, Canada can become the world’s capital for hiring displaced talent.”
– Dana Wagner, Co-Founder and Managing Director, TalentLift
Check out: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa
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Mar 8, 2023 | 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, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
The basics of taxes in Canada
Taxes can be a complex and confusing topic for both residents and non-residents of Canada. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of taxes in Canada, including the difference between residents and non-residents and the different types of taxes that are applicable to each group.
Resident vs Non-Resident
The first thing to understand about taxes in Canada is the difference between residents and non-residents. A resident (or permanent resident) of Canada is someone who lives and works in Canada and is considered a Canadian for tax purposes. Non-residents, on the other hand, are individuals who do not live or work in Canada but may have income or investments in Canada.
Income Tax
Income tax is the primary tax that most individuals and businesses pay in Canada. The Canadian income tax system is based on a progressive tax system, which means that the more income you earn, the higher the percentage of tax you pay. For residents of Canada, income tax is based on worldwide income, which means that income earned from sources outside of Canada is also subject to Canadian income tax.
For non-residents of Canada, income tax is only applicable on income earned from Canadian sources. This includes income from employment, business, or investments in Canada. Non-residents are subject to a flat tax rate of 25% on their Canadian-sourced income, which is generally withheld at the source.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax that is applied to most goods and services sold in Canada. The current rate of GST is 5%. For residents of Canada, GST is included in the price of goods and services, and they are eligible to claim a credit for the GST paid on certain expenses. Non-residents of Canada may also be required to pay GST on goods and services purchased in Canada.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a mandatory retirement savings plan for residents of Canada. CPP contributions are made by both employees and employers and are calculated as a percentage of an employee’s earnings, up to a maximum amount. Non-residents of Canada are not required to contribute to the CPP.
Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance (EI) is a program that provides temporary financial assistance to workers who have lost their jobs or are unable to work due to illness or injury. Like CPP, EI contributions are made by both employees and employers and are calculated as a percentage of an employee’s earnings, up to a maximum amount. Non-residents of Canada may be eligible for EI benefits if they have worked in Canada and meet certain eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, taxes in Canada can be complex, but understanding the difference between residents and non-residents and the types of taxes that apply to each group is essential. If you are a resident of Canada, you are subject to income tax on your worldwide income, while non-residents are only subject to income tax on Canadian-sourced income. Other taxes, such as GST, CPP, and EI, may also apply depending on your circumstances. It is always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure that you are meeting your tax obligations and maximizing any available tax benefits.
Check out: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa
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Mar 1, 2023 | 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, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
When it comes to immigration, Canada is leading the way. In 2023, the Canadian government will be introducing a number of changes to its immigration system with the aim of welcoming more than 465,000 new immigrants. These changes will make the Canadian immigration system more efficient and effective while providing more opportunities for immigrants to come to Canada. Here are 5 of the major changes that will be taking place in 2023:
1. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) will no longer be used to determine who is eligible for an invitation to apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. Instead, the IRCC will be introducing targeted Express Entry draws to assess who is eligible for an ITA. This will help ensure that Canadian immigration is tailored to the country’s specific labour needs.
2. Immigration target
Canada is setting an ambitious immigration target of 465,000 new immigrants in 2023, 485,000 in 2024, and 500,000 in 2025. This is a significant increase from the 401,000 immigrants the country welcomed in 2020, and it is an indication of the country’s commitment to immigration.
3. Time-limited temporary public policies
Canada will also be introducing time-limited temporary public policies for temporary resident to permanent resident pathways, with all admissions anticipated by the end of 2023. This will help ensure that those with temporary status in Canada will have a path to permanency.
4. New travel authorization document
The USCIS is also introducing a new travel authorization document to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries. This will ensure that TPS recipients can travel to and from Canada as needed. This change is particularly important for those who have been living in Canada for some time, as it will allow them to stay connected to their family and friends abroad.
5. Reduce backlogs
Finally, the Canadian government is also looking to significantly reduce backlogs by 2024. This is an important step as it will help ensure that applications are processed in a timely manner and that people are not waiting for years to receive a decision on their application. The government is also investing in technology to help facilitate faster processing times and reduce backlogs. These initiatives, combined with the changes to the immigration system, will help ensure that Canada remains a top destination for immigrants.
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These changes are designed to make Canada’s immigration system more efficient and effective, while also providing more opportunities for immigrants to come to Canada. With these changes in place, the Canadian government is on track to welcome over 1.2 million new immigrants by 2023. This is an exciting time for immigrants looking to make Canada their home and take advantage of all the opportunities the country has to offer.
Check out: Changes to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) and how they affect Express Entry applicants
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