Mar 5, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Working In Canada
Effective March 4, 2024, British Columbia implements the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) system for international students applying for study permits. This new process aligns with the recent cap on study permits introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
What are Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs)?
PALs serve as verification documents issued by the B.C. government to designated learning institutions (DLIs). These institutions then forward the letters to accepted international student applicants. The PAL acts as proof that the student has been accepted by a DLI within its allocated quota for study permit applications.
IRCC’s Study Permit Cap and Allocation
On January 22, 2024, IRCC announced a nationwide cap of 360,000 new study permits for 2024, a significant decrease from 2023 levels. Each province receives an allocation based on population. B.C., as Canada’s third most populous province with approximately 5.6 million residents, has been granted a total allocation of 83,000 undergraduate study permit applications.
Impact on B.C.’s International Student Program
The cap is expected to have a greater impact on private institutions in B.C., which typically have a higher intake of international students. The provincial government anticipates approximately 50,000 approved study permits for 2024 based on historical acceptance rates. This reflects a decrease from the 60,000 permits issued in 2023 for undergraduate programs.
Furthermore, B.C. has implemented additional measures to address concerns about “unsustainable growth” within the provincial international student program. These measures include:
- A pause on approvals for new post-secondary institutions seeking to enroll international students until February 2026.
- Stricter approval standards for private degree programs, focusing on program quality, graduate employability, and adequate student support resources.
- Imposition of new minimum language proficiency requirements for students at private institutions.
Conclusion
The introduction of PALs and stricter provincial regulations aim to streamline the international student application process and ensure a more sustainable model for B.C.’s education system. This aligns with IRCC’s national cap and broader efforts to enhance the overall quality and value of the Canadian international student experience.
Feb 29, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Working In Canada
As of February 29, 2024, Mexican citizens can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Canada by air under certain circumstances. This streamlines the travel process for many Mexican visitors while maintaining the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
Canada and Mexico have enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership, collaborating for over 80 years. As part of their ongoing commitment to fostering strong ties and facilitating travel between the two nations, Canada has adjusted its travel requirements for Mexican citizens.
What is new?
Starting February 29th, 2024, at 11:30 PM Eastern Time, Mexican citizens can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when travelling to Canada by air, if holding a valid US non-immigrant visa or those who have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years. This simplifies the process for many Mexican citizens, as a significant portion already hold US visas, allowing them to continue visa-free travel to Canada.
This new eTA option applies to Mexican citizens:
- Travelling by air
- Holding a valid US non-immigrant visa
- OR having held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years
Who is still required to apply for a visa?
Individuals who do not meet the above criteria, such as those travelling by land or sea, will need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa.
Who can still travel visa-free?
- Most Mexican citizens, as the majority already hold US visas.
- Those who meet the criteria for visa-free travel will continue to enjoy seamless entry into Canada.
Why the change?
This adjustment comes in response to a rise in asylum claims from Mexican citizens which were eventually refused, withdrawn, or abandoned. It aims to strike a balance between facilitating travel and tourism while ensuring sound management of the immigration and asylum systems.
What about work and study permits?
The application process for Mexican citizens seeking work or study permits in Canada remains unchanged. Existing pathways like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the International Mobility Program are still readily available.
What does this mean for the future?
Canada remains committed to fostering travel, tourism, and business with Mexico. They will continue to collaborate with the Mexican government to strengthen immigration pathways and support both managed migration and those genuinely seeking asylum. Additionally, Canada is expanding its network of visa application centers in Mexico for improved service.
This move aims to alleviate pressure on the Canadian border, immigration system, and social services while maintaining convenient travel options for Mexican citizens wishing to visit Canada.
Furthermore, Canada is actively looking to expand the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) by including year-round primary agriculture, seasonal fish and seafood, and primary food processing. This modernization will benefit both Canadian and Mexican workers and businesses, solidifying the mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries.
Quotes
“Mexico is an important partner to Canada. We will continue to welcome Mexican temporary workers, students, visitors and immigrants who bring diverse skills and important contributions to our economy and communities. We strive for balance between the movement of people between our two great countries, and the need to relieve pressure on our immigration system so we can provide protection to those who need it the most.”
– Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick facts
- Asylum claims made by Mexican citizens reached a record high in 2023 at a time when Canada’s asylum system, housing and social services were already under significant pressure. The majority of these claims (approximately 60%) were either rejected by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, or withdrawn or abandoned by the applicant.
- In 2023 alone, asylum claims from Mexican citizens accounted for 17% of all claims made that year from all nationalities around the world. The country’s asylum claim rate has risen significantly since the visa was first lifted in 2016 (from 260 claims in 2016 to 23,995 claims in 2023).
- All eTAs issued to Mexican passports before 11:30 p.m. Eastern time on February 29, 2024, will no longer be valid—except for eTAs linked to Mexican passports with a valid Canadian work or study permit. Mexican citizens travelling to Canada without a valid work or study permit will need to apply for a visitor visa or reapply for a new eTA—if they are eligible.
- Mexican citizens holding a valid work or study permit can still travel by air to Canada with their existing eTA as long as it remains valid, and they can continue to study or work in Canada based on the validity and conditions of their permit. Mexican visitors who are already in Canada on an eTA can stay for as long as they are authorized (up to six months from the date they arrive in Canada). However, if they plan to leave Canada and wish to return, they must have the proper travel documents (visa or new eTA).
- Most approved visa applicants receive multiple-entry visas, which allow them to visit Canada as many times as they want, for up to 10 years, or until their passport expires.
- The eTA is a digital travel document that most visa-exempt travellers need in order to travel to or transit through Canada by air. IRCC first began expanding its eTA program to eligible citizens from visa-required countries in 2017. Mexico will now be among 15 countries whose citizens can to fly to Canada on an eTA, instead of a visa, if they meet certain requirements.
Feb 24, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Federal Skilled Trades, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Working In Canada
The Canadian government announced on Friday the launch of a new family-based humanitarian pathway for Sudanese refugees and nationals who were residing in the country on April 15, 2023. The aim is to allow these individuals to reunite permanently with their family members in Canada.
How to get more information about the new humanitarian pathway
For more information on the new humanitarian pathway, including how to apply, visit the official IRCC website.
Generally speaking, Individuals can make a refugee claim in Canada at a port of entry upon arrival or online if already in Canada. CBSA or IRCC officials will determine if an individual is eligible to be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board for a hearing. Factors determining an individual’s eligibility to make a refugee claim include whether the claimant has committed a serious crime, made a previous claim in Canada, made a claim in another country with which Canada shares immigration information, or received protection in another country.
Why was the new humanitarian pathway created?
The Canadian government created the new humanitarian pathway in response to the ongoing crisis in Sudan. The country has been engulfed in conflict since April 2023, which has caused a severe humanitarian crisis.
What other measures has Canada taken to help those affected by the crisis in Sudan?
In 2023, Canada allocated over $165 million in humanitarian assistance funding to experienced partners in Sudan and neighboring countries impacted by the crisis. In addition to the measures announced on Friday, Canada has already announced temporary measures for Sudanese nationals:
- Allowing Sudanese nationals in Canada to apply to extend their stay or change their status as a visitor, student or temporary worker, free of charge.
- Waiving the application fees for temporary residence for foreign nationals who fled Sudan with their Canadian family members.
What impact will the new humanitarian pathway have?
The new humanitarian pathway will allow thousands of Sudanese refugees and nationals to reunite with their family members in Canada and start a new life in a safe and prosperous country.
Feb 5, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Federal Skilled Trades, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Working In Canada
Canada’s healthcare system, long lauded for its universal coverage, faces a stark reality: a critical shortage of family doctors. This deficit, widening against a backdrop of rapid population growth, threatens equitable access to primary care for millions of Canadians. Understanding the complex interplay of factors driving this shortage and exploring the multifaceted solutions being implemented is crucial to ensuring a sustainable healthcare system for the future.
Contributing Factors
At the heart of the issue lies a mismatch between demand and supply. Canada’s population has burgeoned by over 5 million in the past decade, placing immense strain on existing healthcare infrastructure. Yet, the number of medical residencies dedicated to family medicine has barely budged, creating a significant gap between available practitioners and the population’s needs.
Further compounding the problem is a declining interest in family medicine among medical graduates. The allure of lucrative specializations like emergency medicine or anesthesiology, coupled with the perceived challenges of primary care, is drawing talent away from this crucial field. This trend, documented by the Canadian Resident Matching Service, has seen the percentage of graduates choosing family medicine drop by over 7% in the past nine years.
Untapped Potential and Streamlined Integration
Recognizing the limitations of solely relying on domestic training, Canadian policymakers are turning their attention to international medical graduates (IMGs). These skilled professionals hold immense potential to bolster the healthcare workforce. However, their path to practice in Canada is often fraught with hurdles, including lengthy credential recognition processes and limited residency opportunities.
Fortunately, recent initiatives aim to unlock this untapped potential. The federal government’s investment of $86 million in foreign credential recognition programs will expedite the process, allowing IMGs to contribute their expertise sooner. Additionally, targeted Express Entry draws prioritize healthcare workers, streamlining their immigration and integration into the Canadian system.
Building a Robust Pipeline for the Future
While leveraging international talent offers immediate relief, long-term solutions require increasing domestic training capacity. Several provinces are taking decisive action. Ontario is spearheading the expansion of postgraduate medical training spaces, with a commitment to add 449 positions over the next five years. This bold move will inject much-needed new physicians into the workforce.
Further bolstering the pipeline are groundbreaking developments like the establishment of new medical schools in Prince Edward Island and British Columbia. These institutions, slated to open in 2025 and 2026 respectively, represent a significant investment in the future of healthcare, promising to graduate future generations of family physicians equipped to serve the evolving needs of the population.
Beyond Numbers: Fostering a Thriving Family Medicine Landscape
While expanding training opportunities and integrating foreign talent are crucial steps, addressing the root causes of declining interest in family medicine is equally important. Initiatives that enhance job satisfaction, promote work-life balance, and provide mentorship opportunities can make family practice a more attractive career choice for aspiring medical professionals.
A Collaborative Path Forward
Canada’s family doctor shortage presents a complex challenge, demanding a multifaceted response. By implementing a combination of strategies – from attracting international talent and expanding training capacity to fostering a more appealing family medicine landscape – stakeholders at all levels can work together to build a more resilient and accessible healthcare system for all Canadians. The journey ahead requires sustained commitment and collaboration, but the collective effort holds the promise of a brighter future where high-quality primary care is available to everyone who needs it.
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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.
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Jan 12, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Working In Canada
Phase 2 of the Recognized Employer Pilot Program (REP) is now open, offering faster and more streamlined processes for hiring temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in crucial roles.
What is the REP?
The Recognized Employer Pilot program, launched last September, offers a new approach to how Canadian employers can engage temporary foreign workers. Initially targeting the agriculture sector, the program will later extend to all industries in January, 2024. Eligible employers with a strong history of compliance with program requirements will receive a three-year permit to bring in foreign workers without the need for frequent reapplications.
The REP is a pilot program designed to reward employers with a proven track record of compliance with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Qualifying businesses benefit from:
- Longer LMIA validity: LMIAs (Labour Market Impact Assessments) typically expire after 18 months. REP-eligible employers receive LMIAs valid for up to 36 months, reducing administrative burdens and facilitating long-term workforce planning.
- Simplified future applications: Once accepted into the REP, employers enjoy streamlined LMIA applications for future positions on the designated “in-shortage” list. This saves valuable time and resources.
- Enhanced visibility: Participating businesses receive a Job Bank designation highlighting their REP status, attracting qualified TFW candidates.
Expanded occupations in Phase 2
Effective January 2024, phase 2 of Canada’s REP opens access to critical talent marking a significant expansion compared to its initial focus on agriculture. Over 80 in-demand occupations across various sectors, from tech and healthcare to construction and manufacturing, are now eligible for REP, opening doors for a wider range of Canadian businesses. This broader scope aligns with the country’s diverse economic needs and creates more opportunities for skilled foreign talent to contribute to Canada’s growth.
Phase 2 occupations list
TFW Wages
When hiring TFWs in Canada, understanding wage requirements is essential to avoid complications and comply with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Under the Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) program, you must pay the prevailing wage, which is the highest of two options:
- Regional median hourly wage on Job Bank: This is a helpful resource to see what other employers are paying for similar positions.
- Wage within your current employee range: If you have existing employees doing the same job, ensure the TFW wage falls within the range you pay them.
For jobs in primary agriculture, including programs like the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, different rules apply. Wages must meet or exceed the rates outlined in the National Commodities List (NCL) wage tables, or applicable minimum wage rates, whichever is higher.
Job Bank: Your Wage Look-Up Tool
Finding the median wage on Job Bank is easy:
- Visit “Compare wages on Job Bank.”
- Enter the job title or National Occupational Classification (NOC) code that best describes the position.
- The hourly median wage will be listed in the middle column, by community or area.
Additional Factors and Exceptions
Remember, if the TFW position requires more skills or experience than the typical NOC description, the wage should reflect that. Overtime, tips, and other forms of compensation don’t count towards the guaranteed wage used for assessment.
Hiring TFWs for unionized positions comes with specific obligations. You must offer the same wage rates and forms of compensation outlined in the collective agreement.
Certain industries have established, specific wage rates considered prevailing. Visit “Variations to the wage requirements” for details. Offering a wage below the prevailing rate can result in a negative Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Wage Reviews: Staying Up-to-Date
For LMIA applications submitted after January 1, 2024, wage reviews are mandatory. This ensures TFWs receive the prevailing wage throughout their employment period, regardless of the initial LMIA wage. Review and update wages annually based on updated Job Bank information (by January 1st of the following year).
Failing to update wages according to the prevailing rate can lead to sanctions, including fines and even bans from the TFW Program. Remember, fair treatment extends beyond wages. TFWs are entitled to the same rights and protections as all Canadian workers. Ensure you:
- Pay them for all work (including overtime)
- Provide workplace safety insurance
- Offer the same benefits as other workers
- Respect their identification and documents
Quebec: A Different Wage Table
If you’re hiring TFWs in Quebec, consult the wage table provided by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).
Seek Help: Navigating the Rules
Most provincial and territorial labor ministries provide information and resources for employers and TFWs. If you’re unsure about any aspect of TFW employment, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance.
By following these guidelines and prioritizing fair treatment, you can ensure a positive and productive experience for both your business and your temporary foreign workers.
Conclusion: Staying Informed and Taking Action
For employers interested in REP, staying updated on eligible occupations and program details is crucial. Remember, responsible TFW practices remain the cornerstone of the program. By leveraging REP’s benefits and adhering to its ethical framework, Canadian businesses can unlock a wider talent pool and contribute to a thriving national workforce.
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