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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Aug 9, 2023 | Blog, Canadian Employers, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Skilled Workers, Temporary Foreign Workers, Working In Canada
In a move aimed at simplifying the process of hiring temporary foreign workers, the Canadian federal government is introducing the “Recognized Employer Pilot” program. This initiative seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for employers and provide a streamlined path for bringing in foreign workers. However, as this program unfolds, experts and advocates are raising important questions about the program’s scrutiny measures, potential economic implications, and its impact on Canadian society.
The Recognized Employer Pilot: A Breakdown
Streamlining the Hiring Process
The Recognized Employer Pilot program, set to launch in September, is poised to revolutionize the way Canadian employers engage temporary foreign workers. Initially targeting the agriculture sector, the program will later extend to all industries in January. 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 Recognized Employer Pilot will cut red tape for eligible employers, who demonstrate the highest level of protection for workers, and make it easier for them to access the labour they need to fill jobs that are essential to Canada’s economy and doof security”
Addressing Concerns and Enhancing Protections
However, with this shift comes valid concerns about the level of scrutiny these workers will receive and the economic landscape they will enter. As Canada grapples with challenges such as housing affordability, rising interest rates, and high inflation, critics are urging a closer look at the conditions foreign workers will face.
The Current Scenario: Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Presently, employers must undergo a labor market impact assessment (LMIA) each time they hire foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. This assessment ensures that a genuine need exists for filling the position. In recent years, the number of approved temporary foreign worker positions has surged, from approximately 89,000 in 2015 to over 221,000 in the last year. This doesn’t account for international students, graduates with open-work permits, and mobility agreements with various countries.
The Shift Towards Recognized Employers
The Recognized Employer Pilot promises to alleviate administrative burdens for qualified employers. These are employers who can demonstrate a robust commitment to worker protection. The program aims to simplify labor access for vital roles within Canada’s economy and food security. Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault highlights the program’s budget of $29.3 million over three years and asserts that the application process will be rigorous, targeting employers with exemplary recruitment practices.
Balancing Opportunity with Responsibility
Worker Protections and Social Impact
The growing reliance on foreign workers, though addressing labor shortages, is not without its challenges. Workers in low-skill, low-wage positions have reported abuses and exploitation by employers. Critics argue that without thorough oversight, such abuses could continue to persist, even within the trusted employer framework. The flexible labor force facilitated by these initiatives may strain housing markets, healthcare accessibility, and education systems.
Syed Hussan, executive director of Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, emphasizes that the effectiveness of the Recognized Employer Pilot hinges on the scrutiny of employers. He raises concerns about workers’ reluctance to complain due to potential reprisals. While the government has taken steps to protect migrant workers, further vigilance is necessary to ensure their rights and well-being.
Conclusion: Toward a Balanced Approach
In a bid to bolster Canada’s workforce and ensure essential services, the Recognized Employer Pilot program offers a unique pathway for employers to hire temporary foreign workers. While this move is promising, it also calls for a careful balance between streamlining processes and safeguarding worker rights. The success of this program lies in the implementation of stringent scrutiny measures and ongoing efforts to protect the well-being of all workers involved.
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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.
Mar 27, 2023 | 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, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. It’s a pathway that
- helps skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs
- gives employers access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings
The Canadian government is taking steps to address labor shortages by supporting skilled refugees and other displaced individuals in building their careers in Canada. Through programs like the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), the government is providing more opportunities for qualified individuals to thrive in high-demand industries such as healthcare, skilled crafts, and information technology. By helping these individuals build their careers in Canada, the government hopes to alleviate labor shortages and create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
EMPP benefits
The new federal pathway will make the application procedure simpler and quicker by requiring only one application and following uniform qualifying requirements. The majority of applications will be approved within 6 months, allowing applicants to travel to Canada and start employment immediately. The new pathway will supplement current EMPP pathways and provide companies with more chances to fill various in-demand positions such as teachers, hospitality employees, truck drivers, software engineers, and long-term care aides.
The EMPP will help you apply to specific economic immigration programs by making it easier for you to
- be eligible for an economic immigration program
- complete and submit your application
- start your new life in Canada
Through this pilot, the IRCC will:
- make it easier for you to apply and be eligible for the economic program you choose
- waive the application and biometric fees for you and any of your dependents
- review and process your application in 6 months or less (in most cases)
- cover the cost of your pre-departure medical services and medical exams through the Interim Federal Health Program
- let you use a loan to meet the financial requirements to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds)
- give you access to the Immigration Loans Program (ILP), if your application is approved, to help with
- travel costs
- some pre-arrival travel services from the International Organization for Migration that the ILP covers the fee for
- some start-up costs after you arrive in Canada (which is also available to other economic immigration applicants)
- the right of permanent residence fee
- let you access the Canadian Orientation Abroad Programme to help you integrate and settle in Canada
New opportunities
The EMPP offers eligible candidates the opportunity to resume their professions and lives in safety with their families in Canada while also supporting companies in meeting their labor market demands. The eligibility criteria have been expanded to include other displaced individuals who require international protection and lack a long-term solution. More details, including eligibility requirements, will be made available on the EMPP website in the upcoming weeks.
How will EMPP work?
Employers will be allowed to recruit refugees and displaced persons who qualify under any National Occupation Classification 2021 category TEER 0-5 according to the new government gateway. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated that Canada will continue to develop innovative immigration measures to help employers address critical labor shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety.
The IRCC states that the EMPP was created to help skilled refugees immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs to support Canadian labour market needs. This is the second phase of the EMPP. In the first phase of this pilot, they learned that skilled refugees can qualify for permanent residence through our economic programs with some help.
Starting December 3, 2021, EMPP phase 2 the IRCC will help settle up to 500 skilled refugees, and their families, in Canada.
The pilot combines refugee resettlement and economic immigration. Before you apply for the EMPP, you’ll apply for 1 of these immigration programs:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
Who can apply?
According to the IRCC:
There are 2 sets of eligibility requirements you must meet to apply for the EMPP.
1. You must be a refugee
To prove this, you must
- be a convention or country of asylum refugee.
- we’ll determine if you meet one of these definitions or
- one of our partners (TalentLift, Talent Beyond Boundaries or Jumpstart Refugee Talent) will give you a referral letter stating you do
- be outside Canada and your country of persecution
- have no durable solution in the country you’re living in
- have one of these documents, if you don’t have a referral letter from one of our partners:
- a valid, positive Refugee Status Determination (RSD) from the UNHCR or a refugee-hosting state
- proof you’re an asylum seeker abroad, registered or recorded by the hosting state
- proof you’re registered or recorded as a person of concern by the UNHCR, if you don’t have a positive RSD yet
2. Admissibility
You must be admissible to Canada.
3. You must be eligible for an economic immigration program
You must be eligible for one of the following economic immigration programs:
To qualify for 1 of these, you must have:
- English or French skills
- education or job training, and work experience
- a job offer from a Canadian employer for full-time work
If you want to apply for AIP or RNIPAs part of the EMPP, you don’t need to meet some eligibility requirements for these programs:
- You don’t need to prove you worked the number of hours asked for in the timeframes listed. Instead, you only need to show you worked the same number of hours in general, before you apply.
- You can apply for a loan to meet the requirement of having enough money to support yourself and your family when you come to Canada (your settlement funds).
These exemptions do not apply to PNP. The province or territory decides the requirements for this program.
How to apply
You can apply for the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)
There are 7 partner organizations outside government that can help you
- connect to employers in Canada
- prepare for a job offer, then apply for the EMPP
Some partner organizations can issue a referral letter, which makes it faster and easier for you to apply. Other partner organizations can help you apply, but won’t affect the documents you need to use.
1. If you use a partner that can issue a referral letter
- they make sure you meet the definition of a refugee for the EMPP before you apply
- you need fewer forms and documents for your application
- you still need a job offer from a Canadian employer
Partners that can provide a referral letter include
2. If you use another partner or apply on your own:
- you have to submit proof of your current refugee situation with 1 of these
- a valid, positive Refugee Status Determination (RSD) from the UNHCR or a refugee-hosting state
- proof you’re an asylum seeker abroad, registered or recorded by the hosting state
- proof you’re registered or recorded as a person of concern by the UNHCR, if you don’t have a positive RSD yet
- you have to complete the Schedule 20 form
These other partners include
3. Complete the applications
There are 2 applications you must complete for the EMPP:
- One application for the economic immigration program:
- Atlantic Immigration Program
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot
- A second application for the EMPP.
You must submit both applications together.
There are now 2 ways you can apply:
- Online in the Permanent residence portal
- If you choose to apply online, you’ll complete and submit both online applications together.
- By email
- If you choose to apply by email, you must
- complete all forms for both applications and
- follow the EMPP instructions to submit them together
You can complete your applications yourself. If you decide to use an immigration representative, you can talk to one here: Talk to an adviser today! (Click here)
Quotes
“Canada is a global leader in helping skilled refugees connect with employers struggling to find workers in critical areas, while giving newcomers the opportunity to restart their careers and their lives here in Canada. Our government will continue to develop and scale innovative immigration measures to help employers address their critical labour shortages and provide refugees with the opportunity to live in safety while rebuilding their lives.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“This is a solution for every hiring team in Canada. There are many thousands of women and men living as refugees globally who have enormous talent to contribute. Why not source your future colleagues from within refugee populations? You’ll find competitive skills, adaptability and creativity. These are people you want on your team. As visas get more seamless, Canada can become the world’s capital for hiring displaced talent.”
– Dana Wagner, Co-Founder and Managing Director, TalentLift
Check out: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa
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Mar 8, 2023 | 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, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
The basics of taxes in Canada
Taxes can be a complex and confusing topic for both residents and non-residents of Canada. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of taxes in Canada, including the difference between residents and non-residents and the different types of taxes that are applicable to each group.
Resident vs Non-Resident
The first thing to understand about taxes in Canada is the difference between residents and non-residents. A resident (or permanent resident) of Canada is someone who lives and works in Canada and is considered a Canadian for tax purposes. Non-residents, on the other hand, are individuals who do not live or work in Canada but may have income or investments in Canada.
Income Tax
Income tax is the primary tax that most individuals and businesses pay in Canada. The Canadian income tax system is based on a progressive tax system, which means that the more income you earn, the higher the percentage of tax you pay. For residents of Canada, income tax is based on worldwide income, which means that income earned from sources outside of Canada is also subject to Canadian income tax.
For non-residents of Canada, income tax is only applicable on income earned from Canadian sources. This includes income from employment, business, or investments in Canada. Non-residents are subject to a flat tax rate of 25% on their Canadian-sourced income, which is generally withheld at the source.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax that is applied to most goods and services sold in Canada. The current rate of GST is 5%. For residents of Canada, GST is included in the price of goods and services, and they are eligible to claim a credit for the GST paid on certain expenses. Non-residents of Canada may also be required to pay GST on goods and services purchased in Canada.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a mandatory retirement savings plan for residents of Canada. CPP contributions are made by both employees and employers and are calculated as a percentage of an employee’s earnings, up to a maximum amount. Non-residents of Canada are not required to contribute to the CPP.
Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance (EI) is a program that provides temporary financial assistance to workers who have lost their jobs or are unable to work due to illness or injury. Like CPP, EI contributions are made by both employees and employers and are calculated as a percentage of an employee’s earnings, up to a maximum amount. Non-residents of Canada may be eligible for EI benefits if they have worked in Canada and meet certain eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, taxes in Canada can be complex, but understanding the difference between residents and non-residents and the types of taxes that apply to each group is essential. If you are a resident of Canada, you are subject to income tax on your worldwide income, while non-residents are only subject to income tax on Canadian-sourced income. Other taxes, such as GST, CPP, and EI, may also apply depending on your circumstances. It is always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure that you are meeting your tax obligations and maximizing any available tax benefits.
Check out: GCKey: Apply Online For Canada Immigration and Visa
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Mar 1, 2023 | 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, Permanent Residency, Provincial Nominee Program, Work Permits, Working In Canada
When it comes to immigration, Canada is leading the way. In 2023, the Canadian government will be introducing a number of changes to its immigration system with the aim of welcoming more than 465,000 new immigrants. These changes will make the Canadian immigration system more efficient and effective while providing more opportunities for immigrants to come to Canada. Here are 5 of the major changes that will be taking place in 2023:
1. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) will no longer be used to determine who is eligible for an invitation to apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. Instead, the IRCC will be introducing targeted Express Entry draws to assess who is eligible for an ITA. This will help ensure that Canadian immigration is tailored to the country’s specific labour needs.
2. Immigration target
Canada is setting an ambitious immigration target of 465,000 new immigrants in 2023, 485,000 in 2024, and 500,000 in 2025. This is a significant increase from the 401,000 immigrants the country welcomed in 2020, and it is an indication of the country’s commitment to immigration.
3. Time-limited temporary public policies
Canada will also be introducing time-limited temporary public policies for temporary resident to permanent resident pathways, with all admissions anticipated by the end of 2023. This will help ensure that those with temporary status in Canada will have a path to permanency.
4. New travel authorization document
The USCIS is also introducing a new travel authorization document to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries. This will ensure that TPS recipients can travel to and from Canada as needed. This change is particularly important for those who have been living in Canada for some time, as it will allow them to stay connected to their family and friends abroad.
5. Reduce backlogs
Finally, the Canadian government is also looking to significantly reduce backlogs by 2024. This is an important step as it will help ensure that applications are processed in a timely manner and that people are not waiting for years to receive a decision on their application. The government is also investing in technology to help facilitate faster processing times and reduce backlogs. These initiatives, combined with the changes to the immigration system, will help ensure that Canada remains a top destination for immigrants.
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These changes are designed to make Canada’s immigration system more efficient and effective, while also providing more opportunities for immigrants to come to Canada. With these changes in place, the Canadian government is on track to welcome over 1.2 million new immigrants by 2023. This is an exciting time for immigrants looking to make Canada their home and take advantage of all the opportunities the country has to offer.
Check out: Changes to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) and how they affect Express Entry applicants
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