Sep 6, 2023 | Blog, Immigration, In the News, New Immigration Programs, New Laws, Student Visas
Canada is a popular destination for international students, with over 600,000 foreign students enrolled in the country each year. However, Canada’s international student program has been criticized for its lack of transparency and oversight. In response to these concerns, the Canadian government launched the Trusted Institutions Framework (TIF) in 2023.
Canada Trusted Institutions Framework requirements
The TIF sets out a clear set of standards for institutions that want to be designated as “trusted institutions.” These standards cover three key areas:
- Compliance with Canadian laws and regulations: Institutions must have a history of complying with all applicable Canadian laws and regulations, including those governing immigration, education, and labour.
- Quality educational offering: Institutions must provide a quality educational offering that meets the standards of Canadian post-secondary education. This includes having qualified faculty, providing a rigorous curriculum, and offering a safe and supportive learning environment.
- Commitment to the safety and well-being of international students: Institutions must have a commitment to the safety and well-being of their international students. This includes providing support services such as counseling, translation, and immigration advice.
In addition to the three key requirements mentioned above, the TIF also includes a number of other provisions, such as:
- A requirement for institutions to have a risk management plan in place to address potential issues such as fraud and exploitation.
- A requirement for institutions to provide regular updates to the government on their compliance with the TIF.
- A mechanism for the government to revoke the designation of an institution that fails to meet the requirements of the TIF.
According to IRCC, “Given that these discussions are ongoing, IRCC cannot speculate on future policy decisions. However, any new developments would be communicated publicly.”
DLIs will be tasked with sharing additional data, including retention rates, on-time program completion, revenue from international tuitions, support services expenditure, housing availability, and teacher-student ratios.
Measuring Institutional Performance under the TIF
The Trusted Institutions Framework (TIF) will evaluate the performance of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) based on a number of key indicators, including:
- Retention rate: The percentage of international students enrolled in multi-year study programs who choose to continue their studies at the same institution after their first year in Canada.
- On-time program completion rate: The percentage of international students who complete their programs within the advertised length of study.
- Revenue from international tuition: The percentage of a DLI’s total tuition revenue that is derived from international student tuition fees.
- Scholarships for less developed countries: The dollar value and the percentage of total scholarships and grants awarded to international students from countries identified on the United Nations Least Developed Countries list.
- Funding for international student support: The value of dedicated support services provided to international students per student and as a percentage of average international student tuition.
- DLI-administered housing availability: The total number and percentage of international students who are accommodated in housing administered by their respective institutions.
- Teacher-student ratio: The average teacher-student ratio for the ten courses with the highest enrollment of international students.
These indicators will be used to assess the effectiveness and commitment of DLIs to providing a high-quality education and support services to international students.
Benefits of the Trusted Institutions Framework
Institutions that meet these requirements will benefit from a number of advantages, including:
- Priority access to Canadian immigration programs
- Recognition of their commitment to excellence
- Improved reputation
The TIF is still a new initiative, but it has the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of international students in Canada. By ensuring that institutions are held accountable to high standards, the TIF can help to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for international students.
Conclusion
The TIF is a significant step forward in improving the quality and safety of Canada’s international student program. By establishing clear standards for institutions and holding them accountable to those standards, the TIF can help to ensure that international students have a positive experience in Canada.
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Aug 15, 2023 | Blog, Express Entry, Immigration, In the News, Permanent Residency, Why you need an immigration specialist
Recent Canada Express Entry draw
In the most recent draw held on August 15, the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) issued 4,300 invitations to apply to eligible candidates.
This targeted all-program Express Entry draw, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 496.
Understanding Express Entry
Express Entry is an innovative application management system that oversees the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Candidates in the Express Entry pool are assessed based on various factors like work experience, language ability, education, and age. They are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System score, and those with the highest scores are most likely to receive an ITA.
Benefits of Express Entry
Moreover, Express Entry has revolutionized how Canada selects its immigrants, prioritizing those who bring valuable skills and experience to the country. With unparalleled efficiency, this program processes applications at lightning speed, providing applicants with the opportunity to settle in Canada quickly and effectively.
Eligibility and Requirements
To succeed in Express Entry, meeting certain requirements is paramount. Your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other factors will determine your score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Keep your documents in order and strive to reach the minimum required score to receive an invitation.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Want to enhance your chances of receiving an ITA in future draws? Here are some tips to boost your Express Entry profile:
- Improve Language Skills: Dedicate time to enhancing your language proficiency in English or French. Higher language scores can significantly improve your CRS score.
- Job Offer Advantage: Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can increase your CRS score and chances of receiving an ITA.
- Maximize Education: Pursue higher education to gain additional points in the CRS system and stand out in future draws.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated with the latest Express Entry draws and changes to the selection criteria.
- Professional Guidance: Furthermore seek assistance from experienced immigration consultants to navigate the Express Entry process smoothly and optimize your profile.
How can we help you?
When you receive an ITA (Invitation to Apply), a new series of steps begins for you to obtain your permanent residency in Canada.
Get in touch with us as soon as possible to get access to our Post-ITA (post invitation to apply) services.
Do you want to do it yourself? Find out more about how to get an ITA and what to do next – Quick Guide.
Our expert immigration consultants are here to guide you through the Express Entry process and ensure a seamless and successful journey to permanent residency in Canada! You can speak with one of our consultants by clicking the button below.
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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Aug 3, 2023 | Blog, Express Entry, Immigration, In the News, Permanent Residency, Why you need an immigration specialist
Recent Canada Express Entry draw
In the most recent draw held on August 3, the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) issued 1,500 invitations to apply to eligible candidates.
This targeted category-based Express Entry draw focused for the first time on trades occupations, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 388.
Understanding Express Entry
Express Entry is an innovative application management system that oversees the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Candidates in the Express Entry pool are assessed based on various factors like work experience, language ability, education, and age. They are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System score, and those with the highest scores are most likely to receive an ITA.
New Category-Based Selection Criteria
Since May 31, IRCC introduced new category-based selection criteria, focusing on specific attributes rather than just a high CRS score. The six new categories for Express Entry candidates are:
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
- Transport
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Strong French-language proficiency
Benefits of Express Entry
Moreover, Express Entry has revolutionized how Canada selects its immigrants, prioritizing those who bring valuable skills and experience to the country. With unparalleled efficiency, this program processes applications at lightning speed, providing applicants with the opportunity to settle in Canada quickly and effectively.
Eligibility and Requirements
To succeed in Express Entry, meeting certain requirements is paramount. Your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other factors will determine your score in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Keep your documents in order and strive to reach the minimum required score to receive an invitation.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Want to enhance your chances of receiving an ITA in future draws? Here are some tips to boost your Express Entry profile:
- Improve Language Skills: Dedicate time to enhancing your language proficiency in English or French. Higher language scores can significantly improve your CRS score.
- Job Offer Advantage: Having a valid job offer from a Canadian employer can increase your CRS score and chances of receiving an ITA.
- Maximize Education: Pursue higher education to gain additional points in the CRS system and stand out in future draws.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated with the latest Express Entry draws and changes to the selection criteria.
- Professional Guidance: Furthermore seek assistance from experienced immigration consultants to navigate the Express Entry process smoothly and optimize your profile.
How can we help you?
When you receive an ITA (Invitation to Apply), a new series of steps begins for you to obtain your permanent residency in Canada.
Get in touch with us as soon as possible to get access to our Post-ITA (post invitation to apply) services.
Do you want to do it yourself? Find out more about how to get an ITA and what to do next – Quick Guide.
Our expert immigration consultants are here to guide you through the Express Entry process and ensure a seamless and successful journey to permanent residency in Canada! You can speak with one of our consultants by clicking the button below.
Jul 31, 2023 | Blog, Immigration, In the News, Permanent Residency, Why you need an immigration specialist
Significant Policy Change in Canadian Immigration: Termination of Biometrics Exemptions
The temporary policy exempting certain applicants from providing biometrics during the permanent resident application process has been discontinued. Therefore, biometrics are now mandatory for all Canadian PR applicants.
Understanding Biometrics and Its Importance
Biometrics, such as fingerprints and a photograph, are vital in establishing one’s identity. The Canadian government aims to enhance the safety and security of its immigrants by implementing this powerful tool to combat identity theft and avoid potential mix-ups between individuals.
Removal of Exemptions and Clarification on Requirements
Previously, if you had submitted your biometrics in the past ten years while applying for any other immigration or visa program, you were exempt. But from now on, all foreign nationals seeking permanent residency must provide their biometrics, regardless of previous submissions.
What are biometrics?
For the purposes of Canadian immigration, biometrics identification is the collection of an applicant’s fingerprints and photo for facial recognition.
Who Needs to Provide Biometrics and Why
You might be wondering whether your past biometrics are still valid. Unfortunately, if you are between 14 and 79 years old and applying for PR after June 14, 2023, you’ll have to resubmit. No exceptions.
The Significance of Biometrics
Biometrics are unique physical characteristics that help identify individuals accurately. They play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of Canada’s immigration system and safeguarding your identity.
Preparing for the New Requirement
Whether you’re applying through the family class, economic class, or refugee program, biometrics are now a mandatory part of your PR application. Be prepared for this crucial step!
Q: I am on a work permit in Canada. Do I need to give biometrics if I am applying for PR after June 14, even though I gave my biometrics 4 years ago?
A: Unfortunately, yes. Regardless of whether you have previously submitted your biometrics, the new policy requires all foreign nationals applying for permanent residency after June 14, 2023, to provide their biometrics again. So, you will need to resubmit your biometric information as part of your PR application.
Our expert immigration consultants are here to assist you through the process and ensure a smooth and successful journey to permanent residency in the Great White North! You can talk to one by clicking the button below.
