Mar 7, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Federal Skilled Trades, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Working In Canada
Launched in 2015, Express Entry has become the primary pathway for skilled workers to obtain Canadian permanent residency. This innovative system streamlines the immigration process, ranking candidates based on their human capital factors and inviting those with the highest scores to apply for permanent residency.
How Express Entry Works
1. Eligibility
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must meet the minimum requirements under one of the three federal programs:
-
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):
- Requires at least one year of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the past 10 years in an occupation classified under National Occupational Classification (NOC) Skill Level 0, A, or B.
- Possess a valid Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization proving your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian educational credential.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French by meeting the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) through an IRCC-approved language test.
- Meet the minimum points requirement in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
-
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):
- Targets skilled workers in specific trades facing labor shortages in Canada, as listed on the In-Demand Skills List.
- Requires a minimum of two years of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the past 10 years in a qualifying skilled trade.
- Must possess a valid Certificate of Qualification from a provincial or territorial regulatory body in Canada for your specific trade.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French by meeting the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities.
- Meet the minimum points requirement in the CRS.
-
Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
- Offers a pathway for skilled workers who have gained at least one year of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the past 3 years.
- Must have held a valid Canadian work permit for the skilled work experience.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French by meeting the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities.
- Meet the minimum points requirement in the CRS.
2. Building Your Express Entry Profile
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to create your Express Entry profile. This online profile is where you showcase your skills and experience to IRCC. Be sure to meticulously fill out all sections, including:
- Work Experience: Detail your work history, including job titles, duties, employers, and employment dates.
- Education: Provide details of your educational qualifications, including diplomas, degrees, and institutions attended.
- Language Skills: Submit results from approved language tests to demonstrate your English or French proficiency.
- Adaptability: Include information about your spouse/common-law partner’s education and work experience, as well as any previous Canadian study or work experience you may have.
3. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The CRS is the heart of Express Entry. It assigns points based on various factors that contribute to your potential success as a Canadian permanent resident. These include:
- Age: Younger applicants receive higher points.
- Education: Points are awarded based on your educational qualifications and their Canadian equivalency.
- Work Experience: Points are granted for skilled work experience relevant to your NOC code and Canadian labor market needs.
- Language Proficiency: Your proficiency in English or French significantly impacts your CRS score.
- Skill Transferability: Points are awarded for factors that demonstrate your ability to adapt and succeed in the Canadian workplace, such as your spouse/common-law partner’s skills and qualifications.
4. Enter the Express Entry pool
Your profile will be placed in the pool where it will be compared against other candidates.
5. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Periodically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invites candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency.
6. Applying for Permanent Residency
If you receive an ITA, congratulations! You’ll have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application, including supporting documents such as:
- Medical examinations
- Police certificates
- Proof of work experience and education
- Proof of funds
https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide
Factors Affecting Your CRS Score
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Language proficiency (English or French)
- Adaptability (spouse/common-law partner factors, Canadian work experience, etc.)
Maximizing Your CRS Score
A high CRS score is crucial for receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC. Here are some strategies to enhance your CRS score:
- Improve Language Skills: Aim for higher scores in English or French language tests.
- Gain Additional Canadian Work Experience: Work experience in Canada carries significant weight in the CRS point system.
- Pursue Higher Education in Canada: Obtaining a Canadian educational credential can boost your score.
- Explore Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs): Many PNP programs align with Express Entry, offering additional CRS points if you receive a nomination from a specific province.
- Consider a Spouse or Common-Law Partner: Their education, work experience, and Canadian ties can positively affect your CRS score.
Benefits of Express Entry
Express Entry offers several advantages compared to traditional immigration streams:
- Faster Processing Times: Applications are typically processed much quicker through Express Entry.
- Transparent System: The point-based system ensures a clear and meritocratic selection process.
- Flexibility: Successful applicants can choose where to live and work in Canada (with some exceptions).
Conclusion
Express Entry is a powerful tool for skilled workers seeking to build a life in Canada. By understanding the eligibility requirements, optimizing your CRS score, and exploring additional options, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency. Start your journey today and unlock the possibilities that Canada has to offer!
Mar 7, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Federal Skilled Trades, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Working In Canada
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer a compelling pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and individuals with strong ties to a specific province or territory. Launched in 1999, PNPs empower provinces and territories to address their unique labor market needs and economic development goals by selecting immigrants who are a perfect fit.
Understanding the PNP Landscape
PNPs operate independently from the federal Express Entry system, offering a valuable alternative for those who may not meet Express Entry’s criteria. Each province and territory designs its own PNP with a distinct set of eligibility requirements, application processes, and immigration streams. This diversity allows you to tailor your immigration journey based on your skills, experience, and aspirations.
A Spectrum of Streams
PNPs cater to a wide range of applicants through diverse immigration streams. Here are some of the most common:
- Skilled Worker Streams: Ideal for individuals with in-demand skills and work experience aligning with provincial labor market needs. These streams may target specific occupations, educational backgrounds, or language proficiency.
- Business Immigration Streams: Attract entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who can contribute to the province’s economic growth. These streams often require business ownership or investment plans, accompanied by job creation potential.
- Family Sponsorship Streams: Allow Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor close relatives for permanent residency. Some PNPs offer expedited processing times or lower eligibility requirements for family members.
- Graduate Streams: Designed to attract and retain international graduates with valuable skills and Canadian educational credentials. These streams may offer bonus points for those who studied in the province.
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot: A unique federal-provincial collaboration offering permanent residency to skilled workers and international graduates seeking to live and work in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador).
Benefits Beyond Processing Speed
While faster processing times compared to traditional immigration streams are a significant advantage, PNPs offer additional benefits:
- Increased Success Rates: PNPs can provide an alternative pathway for those who may struggle to meet the competitive point requirements of Express Entry.
- Provincial Support: Many PNPs offer settlement services to help nominees integrate smoothly into their new communities. This includes language training, job search assistance, and information on housing, healthcare, and education.
- Targeted Opportunities: Aligning your skills and experience with a specific province’s needs can lead to better job prospects and a smoother transition into the Canadian workforce.
Determining Your Eligibility
Eligibility for PNPs varies greatly, but common factors include:
- Age: Most PNPs target working-age individuals.
- Education: Specific educational qualifications or Canadian educational credentials may be required.
- Work experience: Relevant work experience in skilled trades or professions is often sought after.
- Language proficiency: English or French language skills are typically required, with varying proficiency levels depending on the stream.
- Connection to the province: Some PNPs prioritize applicants with existing ties to the province, such as previous work experience or family connections.
https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide
Navigating the Application Process
The application process for PNPs can be complex and vary depending on the province or territory. Here’s a general roadmap:
- Research and Identify: Explore the PNPs of your preferred provinces and assess your eligibility based on their specific requirements.
- Create an Online Profile: Some PNPs require an online profile where you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining your skills and experience.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your profile aligns well with a program’s needs, you may receive an ITA to submit a formal application for a provincial nomination.
- Application and Supporting Documents: Complete the application form and gather all required documents, such as proof of education, work experience, language proficiency, and financial resources.
- Provincial Nomination: Upon successful application review, you will receive a provincial nomination certificate.
- Permanent Residency Application: Use your nomination certificate to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry (if applicable) or directly with IRCC.
Popular PNP Options
Several PNPs consistently rank high for their efficiency and diverse streams. Here are some of the most popular:
- Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Offers skilled worker, entrepreneur, and graduate streams.
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Features skilled worker, entrepreneur, and international graduate streams.
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Caters to a wide range of applicants through various streams, including skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and French-speaking skilled workers.
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Focuses on attracting skilled workers in occupations facing labor shortages.
-
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): This program boasts a streamlined process and diverse streams, including skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and business manager categories. The MPNP is known for its focus on attracting newcomers to settle outside of Winnipeg, the provincial capital.
-
Quebec Experience Class (PEQ): Operates independently of the federal Express Entry system and caters to skilled workers, students, and business people with experience in Quebec. French language proficiency is a mandatory requirement for the PEQ.
-
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Offers a variety of immigration streams, including skilled worker, entrepreneur, and Atlantic Immigration Pilot options. The NSNP is particularly attractive for those seeking a welcoming and affordable Atlantic Canadian lifestyle.
-
Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP): This program prioritizes attracting skilled workers and entrepreneurs with genuine interest in settling and contributing to Prince Edward Island’s economy. The PEI PNP is known for its efficient processing times and focus on smaller communities.
-
Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP): Designed to address the province’s labor market needs, the NL PNP offers skilled worker and employer sponsorship streams. This program is ideal for those seeking an opportunity in a beautiful and resource-rich province.
Maximizing Your PNP Success
Obtaining a provincial nomination can significantly increase your chances of securing permanent residency in Canada. Here are some strategies to enhance your PNP application:
- Target the Right Province: Research provincial labor market needs and align your skills and experience with the in-demand occupations listed by your preferred PNP.
- Boost Your Language Skills: Strong English or French language proficiency is crucial. Consider taking language tests and aiming for higher scores to improve your competitiveness.
- Highlight Your Canadian Ties: If you have any previous work experience or family connections in your target province, emphasize them in your application. This demonstrates your established ties to the community and commitment to settling there.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Immigration consultants can provide valuable assistance in navigating the complexities of PNP applications and tailoring your profile for success.
- Consider Additional Qualifications: Earning a Canadian educational credential or gaining relevant work experience in Canada can significantly strengthen your application.
Life After PNP
Receiving a provincial nomination is a significant step towards your Canadian dream. However, the journey doesn’t end there. Here are some additional considerations:
- Settlement Services: Many provinces offer settlement services to help newcomers integrate into their new communities. Take advantage of these resources to learn about Canadian culture, find employment, and adjust to your new life.
- Building Your Network: Networking with professionals in your field and joining community organizations can facilitate your job search and overall integration into Canadian society.
- Continuing Education: Consider pursuing further education or professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and qualifications, increasing your employability in the Canadian job market.
Conclusion
Provincial Nominee Programs offer a strategic pathway to Canadian permanent residency. By understanding the diverse PNP landscape, exploring your options, and preparing a compelling application, you can increase your chances of building a successful future in Canada. Start today and unlock the exciting possibilities that PNPs offer!
https://bit.ly/TheUltimateCanadianImmigrationGuide
Mar 6, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Working In Canada
Canada is taking steps to strengthen the economies and cultural fabric of rural and Francophone minority communities by launching two new immigration pilot programs. The announcement, made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on March 6, 2024, comes alongside the positive results of the existing Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot
The existing RNIP has been a game-changer for rural communities struggling with labor shortages. Since its launch in 2019, it’s connected thousands of skilled newcomers with remote areas, breathing new life into local economies. Recognizing this success, the IRCC is launching the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) in the fall of 2024, and taking a two-pronged approach:
- Transitioning RNIP to a Permanent Program: This signifies a long-term commitment to supporting rural communities by ensuring a steady stream of skilled immigrants to address labor shortages.
- Introducing the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP): Launching in fall 2024, the RCIP will provide pathways to permanent residence for newcomers with skills aligned with critical needs in rural areas. This fosters long-term community development by encouraging newcomers to settle and build their lives there.
This new pilot goes a step further by aiming to create a permanent pathway to permanent residence for skilled immigrants willing to put down roots in rural Canada. This targeted approach directly addresses critical labor shortages in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality, ensuring these communities have the workforce they need to thrive.
The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
Running alongside the RCIP is the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot, also launching in fall 2024. This program aligns perfectly with Canada’s Francophone Immigration Policy, aiming to significantly increase the number of French-speaking newcomers settling outside Quebec.
The benefits are twofold. The pilot will bolster the economic and demographic weight of Francophone minority communities, while simultaneously strengthening the presence of the French language across Canada. This is a significant step towards achieving the government’s ambitious targets for French-speaking immigration.
How Communities Can Get Involved
IRCC will open applications for communities to participate in these pilots this spring. The specific details and selection criteria will be unveiled in the coming months.
This focus on collaboration underscores the government’s dedication to regional immigration strategies. As Immigration Minister Marc Miller highlighted, working hand-in-hand with rural and Francophone communities is crucial for attracting and retaining skilled immigrants. This collaborative approach fosters economic growth and ensures the long-term vitality of these regions.
Key Facts
- As of December 31, 2023, over 4,500 newcomers have obtained permanent residence through the RNIP, filling crucial positions in healthcare, hospitality, and other key sectors.
- Recent changes to the existing RNIP program extended the application deadline and increased the number of candidates communities can recommend, allowing for continued participation and labor market support.
- The launch of the RCIP aligns with the recommendations outlined in IRCC’s report, “An Immigration System for Canada’s Future,” which highlights the importance of regional immigration strategies.
- The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot fulfills IRCC’s commitment to expand opportunities for French-speaking immigrants as outlined in the 2024-2028 Implementation Plan for the Policy on Francophone Immigration.
These new initiatives demonstrate Canada’s commitment to building a strong and inclusive immigration system that benefits both newcomers and the communities they choose to call home.
Mar 6, 2024 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Federal Skilled Trades, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Working In Canada
Launched in 2015, Express Entry has become the primary pathway for skilled workers to obtain Canadian permanent residency. This innovative system streamlines the immigration process, ranking candidates based on their human capital factors and inviting those with the highest scores to apply for permanent residency.
How Express Entry Works
1. Eligibility
To be eligible for Express Entry, you must meet the minimum requirements under one of the three federal programs:
-
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):
- Requires at least one year of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the past 10 years in an occupation classified under National Occupational Classification (NOC) Skill Level 0, A, or B.
- Possess a valid Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization proving your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian educational credential.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French by meeting the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) through an IRCC-approved language test.
- Meet the minimum points requirement in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
-
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):
- Targets skilled workers in specific trades facing labor shortages in Canada, as listed on the In-Demand Skills List.
- Requires a minimum of two years of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) paid work experience in the past 10 years in a qualifying skilled trade.
- Must possess a valid Certificate of Qualification from a provincial or territorial regulatory body in Canada for your specific trade.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French by meeting the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities.
- Meet the minimum points requirement in the CRS.
-
Canadian Experience Class (CEC):
- Offers a pathway for skilled workers who have gained at least one year of continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the past 3 years.
- Must have held a valid Canadian work permit for the skilled work experience.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English or French by meeting the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in all four abilities.
- Meet the minimum points requirement in the CRS.
2. Building Your Express Entry Profile
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to create your Express Entry profile. This online profile is where you showcase your skills and experience to IRCC. Be sure to meticulously fill out all sections, including:
- Work Experience: Detail your work history, including job titles, duties, employers, and employment dates.
- Education: Provide details of your educational qualifications, including diplomas, degrees, and institutions attended.
- Language Skills: Submit results from approved language tests to demonstrate your English or French proficiency.
- Adaptability: Include information about your spouse/common-law partner’s education and work experience, as well as any previous Canadian study or work experience you may have.
3. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The CRS is the heart of Express Entry. It assigns points based on various factors that contribute to your potential success as a Canadian permanent resident. These include:
- Age: Younger applicants receive higher points.
- Education: Points are awarded based on your educational qualifications and their Canadian equivalency.
- Work Experience: Points are granted for skilled work experience relevant to your NOC code and Canadian labor market needs.
- Language Proficiency: Your proficiency in English or French significantly impacts your CRS score.
- Skill Transferability: Points are awarded for factors that demonstrate your ability to adapt and succeed in the Canadian workplace, such as your spouse/common-law partner’s skills and qualifications.
4. Enter the Express Entry pool
Your profile will be placed in the pool where it will be compared against other candidates.
5. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Periodically, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invites candidates with the highest CRS scores to apply for permanent residency.
6. Applying for Permanent Residency
If you receive an ITA, congratulations! You’ll have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application, including supporting documents such as:
- Medical examinations
- Police certificates
- Proof of work experience and education
- Proof of funds
Factors Affecting Your CRS Score
- Age
- Education
- Work experience
- Language proficiency (English or French)
- Adaptability (spouse/common-law partner factors, Canadian work experience, etc.)
Maximizing Your CRS Score
A high CRS score is crucial for receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC. Here are some strategies to enhance your CRS score:
- Improve Language Skills: Aim for higher scores in English or French language tests.
- Gain Additional Canadian Work Experience: Work experience in Canada carries significant weight in the CRS point system.
- Pursue Higher Education in Canada: Obtaining a Canadian educational credential can boost your score.
- Explore Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs): Many PNP programs align with Express Entry, offering additional CRS points if you receive a nomination from a specific province.
- Consider a Spouse or Common-Law Partner: Their education, work experience, and Canadian ties can positively affect your CRS score.
Benefits of Express Entry
Express Entry offers several advantages compared to traditional immigration streams:
- Faster Processing Times: Applications are typically processed much quicker through Express Entry.
- Transparent System: The point-based system ensures a clear and meritocratic selection process.
- Flexibility: Successful applicants can choose where to live and work in Canada (with some exceptions).
Conclusion
Express Entry is a powerful tool for skilled workers seeking to build a life in Canada. By understanding the eligibility requirements, optimizing your CRS score, and exploring additional options, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency. Start your journey today and unlock the possibilities that Canada has to offer!
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.
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