Apr 10, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws
Employers seeking to hire foreign workers through Canada’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program will see a mixed bag of changes in processing times announced by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) on April 5, 2024.
While the processing times for the in-demand Global Talent Stream remain steady at 7 business days, some streams have seen increases, potentially impacting hiring timelines.
Streamlining Some Streams, Delays in Others
The update brings some positive news for employers utilizing the High-wage Stream, which saw a decrease of 3 business days, bringing the processing time down to 51 business days. This could benefit companies seeking to attract highly skilled foreign workers in fields facing talent shortages.
However, the Permanent Residence Stream and the Low-wage Stream experienced delays. The Permanent Residence Stream processing time increased by 6 days to 79 business days, potentially impacting employers hoping to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency. The Low-wage Stream also saw a slight increase of 1 business day, reaching 55 business days.
The Agricultural Stream and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program also saw a one-day increase, bringing their processing times to 13 and 7 business days respectively.
Current average LMIA processing times
Global Talent Stream – 7 business days
Agricultural stream – 13 business days (+1 day)
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program – 7 business days (+1 day)
Permanent residence Stream – 79 business days (+6 days)
High-wage Stream – 51 business days (-3 days)
Low-wage Stream – 55 business days (+1 day)
Understanding the Impact
These changes reflect the ongoing demand for foreign workers across various sectors in Canada. The continued fast processing for the Global Talent Stream highlights the government’s focus on attracting highly skilled individuals to fill critical labour gaps.
However, the delays in other streams could pose challenges for some employers. Businesses heavily reliant on temporary foreign workers, particularly in lower-wage sectors or those seeking permanent residency sponsorship for their employees, may need to adjust their hiring timelines or explore alternative recruitment strategies.
It’s important for employers to stay informed about these updates and work closely with immigration consultants to navigate the LMIA process effectively.
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Apr 10, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws
Canada’s immigration system, which prioritizes selecting skilled immigrants, is having a positive impact on the overall educational attainment of the country. Statistics Canada reports that immigration is a key factor behind a rise in the number of residents with bachelor’s degrees, with racialized women leading the surge.
Educated Arrivals: A Boon for the Economy
Canada’s point-based Express Entry system awards points for factors like education and work experience. This system successfully attracts skilled immigrants who are more likely to integrate into the workforce quickly. A study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives found that immigrants with Canadian work experience contribute significantly to the economy through their skills and knowledge.
The influx of educated immigrants is particularly beneficial for certain sectors. A report by the Conference Board of Canada highlights that immigrants fill crucial skill gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This not only benefits the national economy but also fosters innovation across various industries.
Racialized Women: Leading the Charge
The data shows a remarkable trend among racialized women. Statistics Canada reports that in 2021, 48.4% of racialized women between the ages of 25 and 64 held a bachelor’s degree or higher. This surpasses the rate for racialized men (46.5%) and the national average (32.9%).
There are a few possible explanations for this trend. Racialized women may be coming from countries with strong educational systems that emphasize female education. Additionally, they may be driven by a desire to overcome potential barriers in the job market.
Challenges Remain
While Canada’s immigration strategy is fostering a more educated population, there are still challenges to address. Many newcomers face difficulties getting their foreign credentials recognized. This can prevent them from working in their chosen fields and lead to underemployment.
Another challenge is ensuring language proficiency, particularly French in Quebec. Language training programs are essential to help newcomers reach their full potential in the Canadian workforce.
Overall, Canada’s immigration strategy is proving successful in raising educational attainment levels across the country. Addressing the challenges faced by newcomers, particularly with credential recognition and language training, will further enhance the positive impacts of immigration on Canada’s economy and society.
Apr 10, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws
Over the last week, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held new draws in the pools of International Experience Canada (IEC).
What is the International Experience Canada?
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is a fantastic opportunity designed for young adults from participating countries to broaden their horizons by living and working in Canada for up to two years. It caters specifically to individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 (though the upper limit may vary slightly depending on your home country).
What IEC has to offer?
- Work Experience: Gain valuable hands-on experience in a foreign workplace. This can significantly boost your resume, giving you a competitive edge when you return home or pursue opportunities elsewhere.
- Language Immersion: Canada is a bilingual country with English and French as its official languages. Living and working in Canada allows you to immerse yourself in your chosen language, significantly improving your fluency and communication skills.
- Travel and Exploration: The IEC program is not just about work. It’s a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Canada, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver. With the income you earn, you can fund your travels and experience all that Canada has to offer.
- Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in Canadian culture. You’ll meet new people, experience local customs and traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of Canadian life.
The selection process for IEC is competitive, but if you’re chosen, it can be a life-changing experience. It’s a chance to develop both professionally and personally, while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Latest Invitations
From April 1 to April 7, Canada invited 9,043 young foreigners to apply for an IEC open work permit. As of April 5, 33,881candidates were registered in the pool and waiting for the invitation.
In this round, there were:
- 982 ITAs for Australia
- 31 ITAs for Austria
- 149 ITAs for Belgium
- 96 ITAs for Chile
- 33 ITAs for Costa Rica
- 2 ITAs for Croatia
- 14 ITAs for the Czech Republic
- 17 ITAs for Denmark
- 8 ITAs for Estonia
- 3 ITAs for Finland
- 1,426 ITAs for France
- 588 ITAs for Germany
- 34 ITAs for Greece
- 49 ITAs for Hong Kong
- 707 ITAs for Ireland
- 254 ITAs for Italy
- 1,019 ITAs for Japan
- 913 ITAs for Korea
- 8 ITAs for Latvia
- 15 ITAs for Lithuania
- 1 ITA for Luxembourg
- 67 ITAs for the Netherlands
- 273 ITAs for New Zealand
- 3 ITAs for Norway
- 80 ITAs for Poland,
- 34 ITAs for Portugal
- 17 ITAs for Slovakia
- 232 for Spain
- 14 ITAs for Sweden
- 5 ITAs for Switzerland
- 133 ITAs for Taiwan
- 1,836 ITAs for the United Kingdom.
In 2024, Canada issued 62,576 ITAs under the IEC Program.
If you want to know how to successfully immigrate to Canada but are unsure where to start download our free E-book “The Ultimate Canadian Immigration Guide” here.
Apr 5, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws
Prince Edward Island (PEI) is actively seeking skilled immigrants to address labor shortages in key sectors. On April 4, 2024, they conducted a draw through the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) in the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams inviting 66 candidates to apply for provincial nomination.
This draw targeted specific professions in high demand: healthcare, manufacturing, and early childhood education. These sectors are crucial for the province’s economic growth and social well-being.
The PEI PNP offers an immigration pathway for skilled workers and recent graduates seeking permanent residency in Canada. With a clear focus on labor market needs, the program prioritizes candidates with experience in areas facing shortages. This targeted approach helps PEI attract qualified individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the province’s development.
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So far in 2024, PEI has invited a total of 511 candidates, with the vast majority (506) coming through the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams. These categories cater to skilled workers and international graduates with the potential to establish themselves in the province.
The PEI PNP is a fast-track option for obtaining Canadian permanent residency. With the next draw scheduled for April 18, 2024, interested candidates with relevant skills and experience are encouraged to explore this pathway to living and working in beautiful Prince Edward Island.
Considering immigrating to Prince Edward Island? The process can be complex, but you don’t have to go it alone. Schedule a strategic call with an immigration expert today to discuss your eligibility and explore your options for a successful PEI PNP application.
Apr 2, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws
In a bid to revitalize its tourism sector and reach its ambitious goal of doubling the industry’s economic contribution by 2035, Alberta has launched a dedicated immigration stream. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program’s Tourism and Hospitality Stream aims to attract foreign workers seeking permanent residency in Canada by offering a faster pathway to citizenship.
High Demand, Mixed Results
Since its launch on March 1st, the program has seen significant interest. However, Tracy Douglas-Blowers, CEO of the Alberta Hospitality and Lodging Association, has noted a surprising decrease in job vacancy postings despite the program’s introduction.
Eligibility and Concerns
The program offers a streamlined path to permanent residency for eligible workers with at least six months of full-time experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, coupled with a confirmed permanent job offer from an Alberta employer.
Proponents believe the program will revitalize the tourism industry, fostering economic growth and enriching Alberta’s cultural landscape. Opponents urge careful consideration of potential drawbacks, emphasizing the need for robust safeguards to prevent exploitation.
What do you think? Will the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program effectively address the labor shortage in the province’s tourism industry? Could it lead to unintended consequences for worker rights? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs)
For those unfamiliar, Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs) are immigration programs administered by individual Canadian provinces and territories. These programs allow provinces to nominate candidates who meet their specific economic needs for permanent residency in Canada, providing a valuable tool for attracting skilled labor to address regional gaps.
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is a Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) specific to Alberta.
AAIP offers several program streams beyond the Tourism and Hospitality Stream, catering to different immigration goals and skillsets. Here’s a brief breakdown of some other streams:
- Alberta Opportunity Stream: This stream targets skilled workers with job offers in Alberta, aiming to fill labor shortages across various industries.
- Alberta Express Entry Stream: This stream leverages the federal Express Entry system, allowing candidates with profiles in the pool to be nominated by Alberta if they meet specific criteria. It includes the:
- Accelerated Tech Pathway: A fast-track option for tech professionals in the Express Entry pool.
- Rural Renewal Stream: This stream focuses on attracting skilled workers to smaller communities in Alberta, aiming to revitalize rural economies.
- Business Streams: AAIP also offers programs for entrepreneurs seeking to establish or purchase businesses in Alberta, including:
- Farm Stream: Supporting the establishment of agricultural businesses.
- Graduate Entrepreneur Stream: For international graduates who want to start businesses in Alberta.
- Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream: Similar to the Graduate Entrepreneur Stream, but for international graduates who studied outside Canada.
- Rural Entrepreneur Stream: Encouraging business ownership in rural Alberta.
Mar 28, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, Immigration Reform, In the News, New Laws
Ontario Announces Revamp of International Student Allocation — The Ontario government unveiled a revamped plan for allocating international student study permits, placing a strong emphasis on public universities and colleges. This shift aims to align student programs with critical labor market needs within the province.
Public Institutions Take Center Stage
A significant portion, 96%, of international student study permits will be directed towards public universities and colleges. This allocation strategy marks a clear departure from the past and reflects the government’s desire to equip graduates with skills directly applicable to the current job market. The remaining 4% of permits will be distributed amongst language schools, private universities, and other institutions. Notably, career colleges, which are typically private institutions, will be excluded from receiving any allocations under this new system.
Focus on High-Demand Fields and French Language Skills
The Ontario government has identified several “high-demand areas” that will be prioritized for international student enrollment. These areas include skilled trades, healthcare, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), hospitality, and childcare. This focus aligns with the province’s strategic plan to address skill shortages in these crucial sectors. Additionally, the government will prioritize programs offered in French, recognizing the growing demand for French-language proficiency in the workforce.
Allocation Limits and Comparisons with Other Provinces
The plan outlines limitations on the number of permits individual institutions can issue. To ensure a balanced approach, institutions cannot exceed their 2023 study permit issuance numbers. Furthermore, the proportion of international students at a public university (excluding high-demand fields) cannot be greater than 55% of the institution’s first-year domestic enrollment in 2023.
This allocation strategy differs significantly from other provinces. For instance, British Columbia, the province with the second-highest number of designated learning institutions after Ontario, opted for a more balanced approach, splitting its allocation roughly equally between public (53%) and private institutions (47%).
Next Steps for International Students
While the total number of study permit allocations Ontario received from the federal government remains undisclosed, it is expected to be the largest in Canada due to the province’s population size. International students are advised to contact their chosen school directly to obtain details on the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) application process. The Ontario College Application Service (OCAS) clarifies that students won’t need to apply directly. Their designated learning institution (DLI) will submit the application on their behalf to the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Once approved, students will receive their PAL from the DLI.
The official launch of Ontario’s PAL issuance system is imminent, expected to roll out in the coming days. The federal deadline for provinces to implement a PAL system is March 31st. This new allocation system and the prioritization of public institutions mark a significant shift in Ontario’s approach to international student education, aiming to bridge the gap between educational programs and the province’s labor market needs.
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