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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.

Express Entry: Canada holds a Provincial Nominee Program draw on June 19, 2024

Express Entry: Canada holds a Provincial Nominee Program draw on June 19, 2024

Jun 19, 2024 | Blog, Express Entry, Immigration, Permanent Residency, Why you need an immigration specialist

Recent Canada Express Entry draw

In the latest Express Entry draw held on June 19, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,499 invitations to apply to eligible candidates.

This draw targeted Provincial Nominee Programs, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 663.

Express Entry: Canada holds a Canadian Experience Class draw on May 31, 2024

Understanding Express Entry

Express Entry is an innovative application management system that oversees the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Candidates in the Express Entry pool are assessed based on various factors like work experience, language ability, education, and age. They are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System score, and those with the highest scores are most likely to receive an ITA.

Benefits of Express Entry

Moreover, Express Entry has revolutionized how Canada selects its immigrants, prioritizing those who bring valuable skills and experience to the country. With unparalleled efficiency, this program processes applications at lightning speed, providing applicants with the opportunity to settle in Canada quickly and effectively.

Eligibility and Requirements

To succeed in Express Entry, meeting certain requirements is paramount. Your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other factors will determine your score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Keep your documents in order and strive to reach the minimum required score to receive an invitation.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Want to enhance your chances of receiving an ITA in future draws? Here are some tips to boost your Express Entry profile:

  1. Improve Language Skills: Dedicate time to enhancing your language proficiency in English or French. Higher language scores can significantly improve your CRS score.
  2. Job Offer Advantage: Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can increase your CRS score and chances of receiving an ITA.
  3. Maximize Education: Pursue higher education to gain additional points in the CRS system and stand out in future draws.
  4. Stay Informed: Stay updated with the latest Express Entry draws and changes to the selection criteria.
  5. Professional Guidance: Furthermore seek assistance from experienced immigration consultants to navigate the Express Entry process smoothly and optimize your profile.
https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide

https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide

How can we help you?

When you receive an ITA (Invitation to Apply), a new series of steps begins for you to obtain your permanent residency in Canada.

Get in touch with us as soon as possible to get access to our Post-ITA (post invitation to apply) services.

Do you want to do it yourself? Find out more about how to get an ITA and what to do next – Quick Guide.

Our expert immigration consultants are here to guide you through the Express Entry process and ensure a seamless and successful journey to permanent residency in Canada! You can speak with one of our consultants by clicking the button below.

B.C.’s International Credential Recognition Act Benefits 29 Professions

B.C.’s International Credential Recognition Act Benefits 29 Professions

Jun 18, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, In the News, Skilled Workers

A new act, the International Credentials Recognition Act, will come into effect in British Columbia (B.C.) on July 1,2024, aiming to significantly ease the licensing process for qualified professionals in 29 occupations. This initiative targets 18 regulatory authorities, requiring them to remove unnecessary barriers for internationally trained individuals.With this act, experienced professionals with certifications obtained outside of Canada will have a smoother path to pursuing and gaining recognition for their qualifications.

One of the key changes addresses the long-standing challenge faced by many newcomers – the catch-22 of Canadian work experience requirements. Previously, individuals needed Canadian work experience to obtain a license, but were unable to gain that experience without a license in the first place. The new act eliminates this requirement for qualified professionals, opening doors for them to contribute their skills.

The act also promotes fairness by mandating regulatory bodies to charge the same fees to both international and domestic applicants. Additionally, unnecessary English language testing requirements will be eliminated, reducing unnecessary hurdles for qualified individuals.

To ensure public accountability and transparency, the act introduces additional data collection and reporting obligations for regulatory authorities. This will be accompanied by enforcement mechanisms to guarantee compliance with the legislation.

Details and Timeline

Regulations implementing the act will be rolled out in stages. A significant step will occur on July 1, 2025, with the removal of Canadian work experience requirements for licensing by 18 regulatory bodies that currently have this as a prerequisite.

While some regulations take effect later, the core aspects of the act will be in place on July 1, 2024. These include:

  • Establishing clear guidelines for the superintendent of international credential recognition to issue exemptions to regulatory bodies with a well-founded justification for requiring Canadian work experience in specific cases.
  • Setting a maximum administrative penalty of $100,000 for non-compliance.

Key Features of the International Credentials Recognition Act

The act introduces several key features to improve the overall experience for internationally trained professionals:

  • Reduced need for re-submitting English language tests: Applicants who have previously submitted valid English language test results will not be required to provide new ones.
  • Standardized fees: Regulatory bodies will be mandated to charge the same fees to both international and domestic applicants.
  • Improved efficiency: The act aims to ensure that candidates receive the information they need to obtain professional certification swiftly and without unnecessary delays.
  • Reduced wait times: The province will require regulatory bodies to make licensing decisions within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Increased transparency: Regulators will be required to make all information about their certification assessment processes readily available online.
  • Enhanced accountability: The act introduces new reporting requirements and grants enforcement authority to ensure regulatory bodies are held accountable.
  • Establishment of a dedicated superintendent role: A new superintendent of international credential recognition will be appointed. This individual will be responsible for promoting fair credential recognition practices, reviewing the performance of regulatory bodies, and overseeing compliance with the new legislation.

New International Credentials Recognition Act: Full List of 18 Regulatory Authorities

  • Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC
  • Architectural Institute of BC
  • Association of BC Forest Professionals
  • Association of BC Land Surveyors
  • Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC
  • BC College of Social Workers
  • BC Institute of Agrologists
  • BC Registered Music Teachers’ Association
  • BC Society of Landscape Architects
  • College of Applied Biologists
  • College of Veterinarians of BC
  • Director of Teacher Certification (and BC Teachers’ Council)
  • Director of the Early Childhood Educator Registry
  • Emergency Medical Assistants Licensing Board
  • Law Society of BC
  • Organization of Chartered Professional Accountants of BC
  • Society of Notaries Public of BC
  • Superintendent of Real Estate (and BC Financial Services Authority)

New International Credential Recognition Act: Full List of 29 Occupations

  • registered music teacher
  • professional engineer
  • professional teaching certificate holder
  • land surveyor
  • early childhood educator
  • landscape architect
  • early childhood educator assistant
  • applied science technologist
  • conditional teaching certificate holder
  • certified technician
  • social worker
  • veterinarian
  • registered clinical social worker
  • lawyer
  • professional biologist
  • architect
  • applied biology technician
  • notary public
  • registered biology technologist
  • emergency medical assistant, including paramedics
  • professional geoscientist
  • chartered professional accountant
  • registered professional forester
  • associate real estate broker
  • registered forest technologist
  • managing real estate broker
  • professional agrologist
  • real estate representative
  • technical agrologist
https://consultations.canadianvisas.com/canadianvisas-generalconsultation

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

How Category-Based Selection Draws Can Benefit Certain Express Entry Candidates

How Category-Based Selection Draws Can Benefit Certain Express Entry Candidates

Jun 12, 2024 | Becoming a Sponsor, Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws

Recent trends suggest that Express Entry candidates meeting the eligibility requirements for category-based draws are more likely to receive an ITA even with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score below 500. CRS scores represent a point value assigned to each candidate based on human capital factors. These scores are crucial for Express Entry draws, as the cut-off score determines the minimum CRS score required for an ITA invitation in a particular draw.

Challenges of High CRS Cut-Off Scores in General Draws

Many immigration candidates have expressed concerns regarding high CRS cut-off scores in general Express Entry draws. In 2024, none of these draws have had a cut-off score under 524. For comparison, in 2023, 17 out of 25 non-category-based draws had cut-off scores lower than 518.

Benefits of Category-Based Draws

IRCC has conducted eight category-based draws so far in 2024. Every single one of these draws has had a significantly lower CRS cut-off score compared to general draws this year, with a minimum reduction of 33 points. The specific cut-off scores for these category-based draws have ranged from 336 to 491.

Eligibility for Category-Based Selection Draws

To be eligible for an ITA through a category-based draw, candidates must meet specific criteria that vary depending on the category. These categories include French language proficiency, healthcare professions, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professions, trades occupations, transport occupations, and agriculture and agri-food occupations. More details on these categories and their eligibility requirements can be found on the dedicated IRCC webpage.

Focus on French Language Proficiency

In 2024, IRCC has prioritized French language proficiency, anticipating it to be the leading category for ITAs issued through category-based draws this year (approximately 30% of total ITAs). To qualify under this category, candidates must have a minimum Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) score of 7 in all four language abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) test.

Focus on Specific Occupations

This year, IRCC has targeted immigration candidates with work experience in five key industries: healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, and agriculture and agri-food. For all these categories, a minimum of six months of continuous, full-time or equivalent part-time work experience in the past three years is required, obtained in either Canada or abroad. The specific National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes eligible for each category may vary.

Who Can Benefit Most?

Assuming they meet the eligibility requirements, foreign nationals with CRS scores below 500 (based on the lowest general draw cut-off score in 2024, which was 524) are most likely to benefit from category-based draws. This includes both candidates whose scores fall near 500 and those who wouldn’t qualify for an ITA otherwise, even with a CRS score increase.

Alternatives for Ineligible Candidates

For candidates aiming to improve their CRS scores for general draws without changing occupations, there are a few strategies:

  • Language Skills: Maximizing language proficiency can significantly increase CRS points (up to 310 points when combined with other factors like education). Scoring above the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) requirements can be beneficial. Additionally, proficiency in Canada’s second official language (French) can grant further points.
  • Education: Depending on where your educational credentials were obtained (inside or outside Canada), education can contribute up to 250 CRS points. Having Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) completed for foreign credentials or pursuing further education can improve your score.
  • Work Experience: The level of your NOC and the duration of your work experience can influence your CRS score. Assessing your current work experience to see if it aligns with a skilled NOC and the total time spent working can help you gain more points. Gaining additional work experience can also be a strategy.
  • Changing the Principal Applicant: In some cases, couples applying through Express Entry might benefit from reviewing their CRS scores. If a spouse or common-law partner has a higher CRS score than the initially selected principal applicant, switching the principal applicant on the Express Entry profile can improve the overall score and increase the chance of receiving an ITA. Alternatively, each spouse could submit a separate Express Entry profile.

Important Considerations for Category-Based Draws

While category-based draws offer an opportunity for some candidates with lower CRS scores, there are some crucial aspects to consider:

  • Limited Number of ITAs per Draw: Compared to general Express Entry draws, category-based draws typically offer a smaller number of ITAs. This can increase competition within each specific category.
  • Specificity of Categories: The categories for these draws target specific professions or language skills. Candidates who don’t perfectly align with these categories won’t be eligible, even with a lower CRS score.
  • Fast-Moving Process: Express Entry draws, including category-based ones, happen regularly. Staying informed about upcoming draws and their requirements is essential to ensure you can submit an application when eligible.

Category-based selection draws present a valuable opportunity for specific Express Entry candidates with lower CRS scores, particularly those in high-demand professions or with strong French language skills. However, careful consideration of eligibility requirements, competition levels, and the fast-paced nature of Express Entry draws is crucial for maximizing your chances of success.

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

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

Canadian Government Launches Innovation Stream Pilot to Attract Global Talent

Canadian Government Launches Innovation Stream Pilot to Attract Global Talent

Jun 7, 2024 | Becoming a Sponsor, Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Work Permits, Working In Canada

The Canadian government, through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is offering a new pathway for highly skilled foreign workers to contribute to the country’s innovative businesses. Launched on April 15, 2024, the Innovation Stream Pilot is a two-year initiative designed to streamline the work permit process for select Canadian companies participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP).

Fast-Track Work Permits for High-Demand Skills

This pilot program exempts eligible employers from the requirement to conduct a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for specific positions. LMIA is a process that verifies if hiring a foreign worker will negatively affect Canadian employment opportunities. The Innovation Stream Pilot prioritizes filling high-skill roles (as defined by National Occupational Classification or NOC levels 0, 1, 2, or 3) with qualified foreign talent.

Benefits for Workers and Families

This new Innovation Stream Pilot will allow certain Canadian companies to bring in highly skilled foreign workers on work permits without needing an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment). Jobs in National Occupational Classification (NOC) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3(Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) are considered high-skilled jobs. Furthermore, family members of these foreign workers will be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work for almost any employer in Canada. The Innovation Stream is scheduled to continue for two years, ending on March 22, 2026, unless there are any changes.

Program Duration and Eligibility

The Innovation Stream Pilot is currently scheduled to run until March 22, 2026. To be eligible, foreign workers (whether inside or outside Canada) must possess a valid job offer from a company participating in the GHP. The offered position must fall under an NOC 0, 1, 2, or 3 category and meet the prevailing wage standards for the specific region. Additionally, immigration officials will assess the applicant’s qualifications to ensure they align with the job requirements.

  • Employers: Companies participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project are eligible to hire through the Innovation Stream.
  • Workers: Foreign nationals with job offers in high-skilled occupations (National Occupational Classification categories 0, 1, 2, or 3) can apply from within or outside Canada. These categories typically require extensive education, training, or experience.
  • Family Members: Spouses and dependents of approved workers will be eligible for open work permits, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada.

Companies Participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project

As of today, eight Canadian companies are authorized to hire foreign talent under the Innovation Stream Pilot without the LMIA requirement. These companies include:

  • Ada Support Inc.
  • AlayaCare
  • CellCarta
  • Clarius Mobile Health
  • Clio
  • Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (DPG)
  • Lightspeed Commerce
  • Vive Crop Protection

The Global Hypergrowth Project: Fostering Innovation

The GHP is a government initiative designed to accelerate the growth of Canadian businesses. It provides participating companies with customized support and resources tailored to their specific needs. This not only empowers these companies to thrive but also creates a dynamic environment that attracts top international talent.

Employer-Specific Work Permits Explained

An employer-specific work permit restricts the holder’s employment to the terms outlined in the permit document. These terms typically specify the employer’s name, duration of employment, and authorized work location.

The Innovation Stream Pilot represents a significant step by the Canadian government to attract skilled foreign talent and bolster the nation’s innovation ecosystem. This program offers promising opportunities for both Canadian businesses and qualified foreign workers seeking to contribute their expertise to Canada’s economic growth.

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

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

Express Entry: Canada holds a Canadian Experience Class draw on May 31, 2024

Express Entry: Canada holds a Canadian Experience Class draw on May 31, 2024

May 31, 2024 | Blog, Express Entry, Immigration, Permanent Residency, Why you need an immigration specialist

Recent Canada Express Entry draw

In the latest Express Entry draw held on May 31, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 3,000 invitations to apply to eligible candidates.

This draw targeted Canadian Experience Class, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 522.

Express Entry: Canada holds an All-Program draw on April 23, 2024

Understanding Express Entry

Express Entry is an innovative application management system that oversees the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Candidates in the Express Entry pool are assessed based on various factors like work experience, language ability, education, and age. They are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System score, and those with the highest scores are most likely to receive an ITA.

Benefits of Express Entry

Moreover, Express Entry has revolutionized how Canada selects its immigrants, prioritizing those who bring valuable skills and experience to the country. With unparalleled efficiency, this program processes applications at lightning speed, providing applicants with the opportunity to settle in Canada quickly and effectively.

Eligibility and Requirements

To succeed in Express Entry, meeting certain requirements is paramount. Your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other factors will determine your score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Keep your documents in order and strive to reach the minimum required score to receive an invitation.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Want to enhance your chances of receiving an ITA in future draws? Here are some tips to boost your Express Entry profile:

  1. Improve Language Skills: Dedicate time to enhancing your language proficiency in English or French. Higher language scores can significantly improve your CRS score.
  2. Job Offer Advantage: Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can increase your CRS score and chances of receiving an ITA.
  3. Maximize Education: Pursue higher education to gain additional points in the CRS system and stand out in future draws.
  4. Stay Informed: Stay updated with the latest Express Entry draws and changes to the selection criteria.
  5. Professional Guidance: Furthermore seek assistance from experienced immigration consultants to navigate the Express Entry process smoothly and optimize your profile.
https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide

https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide

How can we help you?

When you receive an ITA (Invitation to Apply), a new series of steps begins for you to obtain your permanent residency in Canada.

Get in touch with us as soon as possible to get access to our Post-ITA (post invitation to apply) services.

Do you want to do it yourself? Find out more about how to get an ITA and what to do next – Quick Guide.

Our expert immigration consultants are here to guide you through the Express Entry process and ensure a seamless and successful journey to permanent residency in Canada! You can speak with one of our consultants by clicking the button below.

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