Jun 12, 2024 | Blog, Immigrate to Canada, In the News, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Canada’s immigration system is brewing significant changes for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, according to discussions between federal and provincial officials. Currently, the PGWP grants international students who graduate from designated learning institutions (DLIs) an open work permit.
Linking PGWPs to Labor Market Needs
Internal documents from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Deputy Minister’s office (2024) shed light on a potential overhaul too link PGWP issuance directly to labor market needs. This translates to potentially smoother access to work permits for graduates with in-demand skills, while potentially restricting access for graduates from other programs.
Aligning Education with In-Demand Skills
The driving force behind this potential shift appears to be aligning educational programs with the skills most sought-after in the Canadian job market. Internal IRCC survey documents reveal efforts to map job titles to specific programs of study.This mapping exercise involved synchronizing Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) system with the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) system. Essentially, these systems categorize occupations (NOC) and educational programs (CIP) by field. The documents use the example of the “carpenter” NOC being linked to programs like “construction trades,” “carpentry,” and “woodworking/general.”
Why the Shift? Realigning with Labor Market Needs
IRCC reiterates its goal of “re-aligning with labor market needs” to facilitate work permits for graduates entering high-demand fields, while potentially limiting access for others. Notably, Canada’s last major PGWP update came in 2008,introducing open work permits based on study length. IRCC data highlights a 214% increase in PGWP issuance between 2018 and 2023.
Potential Downstream Effects on Immigration Pathways
These proposed PGWP changes might be part of a larger picture concerning temporary residency levels in Canada. Recent sweeping changes announced by IRCC regarding temporary residents (work/study permits, visitor visas, electronic travel authorizations) hint at further motivations. Following the 2024 international student cap announcement, IRCC took the historic step of including temporary resident levels in the annual Immigration Levels Plan for the first time. This move,beyond prioritizing permanent resident and citizen hiring, might also be a strategy to address pressure on social services (healthcare, housing) by potentially reducing the annual influx of temporary residents.
The potential PGWP revamp could have significant downstream effects on immigration pathways for international graduates in Canada. Gaining Canadian work experience through the PGWP is a key factor for eligibility in many permanent residence (PR) programs, particularly federal and provincial economic programs that often target graduates. If implemented, these changes could significantly impact future immigration opportunities, even for those currently studying in Canada.
https://consultations.canadianvisas.com/canadianvisas-generalconsultation
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
May 28, 2024 | Blog, Immigration, In the News, Preparation of Application, Work Permits, Working In Canada
When processing work permit applications for regulated occupations in Canada, like doctors, immigration officials don’t just look at your ability to do the job. They also need to be confident you have the qualifications to do it legally in Canada, which often means having the required license or certificate.
Making Sure You’re Qualified
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers play a key role here. They’re responsible for verifying that applicants for work permits in regulated occupations possess the necessary education, certifications, training, or licensing to practice in Canada.
This can be tricky if you’re applying from outside Canada and can’t get licensed before you arrive. In those cases, IRCC or CBSA will assess the likelihood of you obtaining the license within a reasonable timeframe, typically within 4 months of entering Canada (think one semester of studies at most).
Not Having a License Isn’t an Automatic Disqualification
There are a couple of situations where the lack of a license might not automatically disqualify you from getting a work permit.
- Getting Licensed Once You’re In Canada: Some professions require licenses that can only be obtained by working in Canada itself.
- Working Under Supervision Until Licensed: For certain occupations like architects or surveyors, a licensed professional can review and approve your work until you get your own license.
General categories of occupations commonly regulated in Canada
- Healthcare Professions (e.g., doctors, nurses, pharmacists)
- Engineering Professions (e.g., civil engineers, electrical engineers)
- Legal Professions (e.g., lawyers, paralegals)
- Skilled Trades (e.g., plumbers, electricians, carpenters)
- Financial Services (e.g., accountants, financial advisors)
- Education Professions (e.g., teachers, principals)
Work Permit Options for Applicants Without a License
Even if you don’t have your license yet, there are still a couple of ways your work permit application might be approved:
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Employer-Funded Training: If your employer offers to cover the cost of training or testing while you’re working for them, you’ll need to show proof that you’re enrolled in the program and have the language skills to succeed.
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Starting in a Lower-Level Position: You could enter Canada in a lower-level position that doesn’t require the license, use that time to get licensed, and then apply for a new work permit in the higher-level occupation you originally aimed for.
Getting Approved or Denied
Ultimately, the processing officer will decide whether to approve your application. They’ll base their decision on whether they believe you’re likely to obtain the required license/certificate within a reasonable timeframe and meet all the other conditions. If they’re confident, they might approve your application with a specific condition requiring you to get your license within a certain time frame.
On the other hand, if the officer has concerns about your language skills, the availability or timeframe of the training, or your ability to afford it, they may have reason to deny your work permit application.
Oct 19, 2023 | Blog, Corporate Solutions, Immigration, In the News, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Why you need an immigration specialist, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Canada launches fast-track work permit program for Filipinos. The program is designed to help Canadian employers fill skilled labor shortages and to attract Filipino workers to Canada.
The new program is open to Filipino workers who have a job offer from a Canadian employer in a TEER 0 or 1 occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. TEER 0 occupations are the highest-skilled and most in-demand occupations in Canada. TEER 1 occupations are also in high demand, but require less specialized training or experience.
Filipino workers who apply for the new program must also have a valid passport and meet the medical and security requirements for entering Canada.
The processing time for work permit applications under the new program is expected to be two weeks. This is significantly faster than the standard processing time for work permit applications, which can take several months.
Benefits of the program for Filipino workers
The new fast-track work permit program offers a number of benefits to Filipino workers, including:
- Fast processing times: Work permit applications under the new program are expected to be processed within two weeks.
- No need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Filipino workers who apply for the new program will not need to obtain an LMIA from the Canadian government. An LMIA is a document that demonstrates that there is a need for a foreign worker in a particular position.
- Open to a wide range of occupations: The new program is open to Filipino workers in a wide range of occupations, including skilled trades, healthcare, and technology.
- Opportunity to immigrate to Canada: Filipino workers who gain work experience in Canada under the new program may be eligible to immigrate to Canada permanently.
Benefits of the program for Canadian employers
The new fast-track work permit program also offers a number of benefits to Canadian employers, including:
- Access to a large pool of skilled workers: The Philippines has a large population of skilled workers, many of whom are eager to work in Canada.
- Reduced hiring costs: The new program eliminates the need for Canadian employers to obtain an LMIA, which can be a costly and time-consuming process.
- Increased productivity: Hiring skilled workers from the Philippines can help Canadian employers to increase their productivity and competitiveness.
Impact of the program on the Canadian economy
The new Canada-Philippines fast-track work permit program is expected to have a positive impact on the Canadian economy. By helping Canadian employers to fill their labor needs, the program will contribute to economic growth and job creation.
Conclusion
The new fast-track work permit program is a positive development for both Canada and the Philippines. It will help Canadian employers fill their labor needs and provide Filipino workers with an opportunity to live and work in Canada.
The program is also a reflection of the strong relationship between the two countries. Canada and the Philippines have a long history of cooperation on a range of issues, including trade, investment, and immigration.
The new fast-track work permit program is a welcome addition to the suite of programs and initiatives that are designed to attract and retain skilled workers from around the world. The program will help Canada to remain competitive in the global economy and to build a more prosperous future for all Canadians.
If you are a Canadian employer who is interested in hiring Filipino workers under the new fast-track program, our expert immigration consultants are here to guide you through the process and ensure a seamless and successful journey! You can speak with one of our consultants by clicking the button below.
Sep 18, 2023 | Blog, Express Entry, Federal Skilled Trades, Immigrate to Canada, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Provincial Nominee Program, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Canada launches new Express Entry for transport workers under a new category-based selection process to invite skilled newcomers with work experience in the transport sector to apply for permanent residence. This includes occupations such as commercial truck drivers, pilots, and aircraft assembly workers.
The IRCC announced that the first round of invitations for transport occupations through category-based selection in Express Entry will occur this week.
The new process will help to address labour shortages in the transport sector and support Canada’s economic growth. Category-based selection will allow Canada to invite candidates with the specific skills and experience that are needed to fill key positions.
Canada’s Express Entry system is now tailored to provide a streamlined and efficient pathway for individuals with expertise in critical fields. By prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers with work experience in transport occupations, Canada aims to meet the increasing demand for talent and fill key positions that contribute to the nation’s economic growth and advancement.
Category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, alongside general and program-specific invitation rounds.
Quotes:
“As Canada grows its economy, we’re committed to improving transport and infrastructure to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods and passengers across the country. Category-based selection helps us invite newcomers with experience in transport occupations to fill significant labour gaps and ensure the future success of the Canadian transport sector. I look forward to welcoming more skilled workers to our country, as their knowledge and expertise are invaluable, to meet our labour market needs.”
– Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“The transportation sector is crucial to our economy, and if we want to keep things moving, we need to invest in the people that move travellers and transport our goods. With this new initiative, we are helping address a critical skills shortage while also attracting new, talented people to communities across Canada. Truck drivers, pilots, aviation mechanical engineers and seafarers play a critical role in our economy and Canadians’ lives. Filling vacancies in these professions will boost economic growth and create stronger and more resilient supply chains.”
– Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport
Quick facts:
- Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application management system for those seeking to immigrate permanently through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program.
- In June 2022, the Government of Canada made changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to allow for the selection of immigrants based on key attributes that support economic priorities, such as specific work experience or knowledge of French.
- On May 31, 2023, the Honourable Sean Fraser, former Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the launch of category-based selection, a new process to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in priority jobs as permanent residents.
- The categories were determined following extensive consultations with provincial and territorial partners, stakeholders, and the public, as well as a review of labour market needs. A complete list of eligible jobs for the new categories is available on the Canada.ca website.
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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.
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