IRCC Archives - Page 3 of 3 - Apply GCMS Notes from IRCC [Official site]

Posted on August 1, 2023August 1, 2023 by admin

Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- CRS- 517- August 2023

Latest CRS- Canada Express Entry Invitation to Apply (ITA)- August 2023

In the latest Canada Express Entry draw held on August 01, 2023, a total of 2,000 candidates were issued invitations to apply for permanent residency. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to be invited was 517 points or above. This draw saw an increase in the CRS cut-off compared to previous draws in the month of July, indicating continued competitiveness in the Express Entry system.

Here is a summary of the recent Express Entry draws, including the latest draw on August 01, 2023, along with the CRS scores for each draw in the month of July:

Date	Category	Total ITAs	Minimum CRS Required
August 01, 2023	No Program Specified	2,000	517
July 12, 2023	French language proficiency (2023-1)	3,800	375
July 11, 2023	No Program Specified	800	505
July 7, 2023	French language proficiency (2023-1)	2,300	439
July 6, 2023	Healthcare occupations (2023-1)	1,500	463
July 5, 2023	STEM occupations (2023-1)	500	486
July 4, 2023	No Program Specified	700	511

As shown in the table, the draw on August 01, 2023, invited 2,000 candidates under the No Program Specified category, and the CRS cut-off score was set at 517 points. This indicates that candidates with a CRS score of 517 or above were invited to apply for permanent residency.

The tie-breaking rule used for this draw was June 30, 2023, at 11:45:05 UTC. In cases where multiple candidates had the same CRS score, the cut-off was based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles. This tie-breaking rule ensures that the process remains fair and transparent.

It is important to note that the Express Entry system remains a popular and competitive immigration pathway for skilled foreign workers seeking to make Canada their permanent home. Candidates with higher CRS scores and qualifications continue to have a better chance of receiving an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Candidates who have received an invitation to apply in the latest draw now have the opportunity to submit their applications for permanent residency. Once approved, they and their families can begin their journey to Canada, contributing to the nation’s diverse and thriving communities.

Posted on July 31, 2023July 31, 2023 by admin

Mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication for GCKey Users Starting July 31, 2023

In a significant move aimed at bolstering account security, the Canadian Government has made multi-factor authentication mandatory for users accessing Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) services through GCKey. The new policy, effective from July 31, 2023, applies to individuals creating a new account using GCKey as well as those signing in to their existing accounts.

With an increasing number of online threats and cyberattacks, the Canadian Government has recognized the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and personal data of citizens and immigrants. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an additional layer of protection to user accounts, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

GCKey is a secure credential that allows users to access a range of federal government services online. Its integration with multi-factor authentication is a proactive step taken by the government to safeguard the privacy and security of its citizens and ensure the integrity of the services provided.

Under the new policy, users will need to set up and configure MFA when creating a new GCKey account. Existing GCKey users will also be required to enable MFA when signing in to their accounts. Multi-factor authentication typically requires users to provide two or more forms of identification before granting access. This may include something they know (such as a password), something they have (like a mobile device or security token), or something they are (like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

The additional layer of security introduced by MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized account access, even if someone gains access to the user’s password. This added protection is particularly crucial for IRCC service users, given the sensitive nature of immigration and citizenship-related information.

The Canadian Government aims to enhance user confidence and trust in its online services through this security measure. By ensuring that personal information and immigration-related data remain secure, individuals can confidently engage with the government’s digital services while minimizing the risk of identity theft or cyberattacks.

In a statement, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship said, “The implementation of mandatory multi-factor authentication is a crucial step in our ongoing commitment to protect the privacy and security of Canadians and immigrants alike. We understand the importance of securing sensitive data and providing a safe online environment for our users. This measure reinforces our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of account security.”

Citizens and immigrants alike are urged to set up multi-factor authentication promptly to avoid any disruption in accessing IRCC services through GCKey. Detailed instructions on how to enable MFA for GCKey accounts can be found on the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/multi-factor-authentication.html).

As the world becomes increasingly reliant on digital platforms, the Canadian Government’s proactive approach to cybersecurity sets a positive example for other nations to prioritize the protection of their citizens’ sensitive information. Through this measure, the government seeks to build a safer and more secure online landscape for all Canadians and immigrants alike.

Click here to login to GCKey

Posted on July 26, 2023July 26, 2023 by admin

Assistance for Flood-Affected Nova Scotians: Free Document Replacement and Special Measures for People Affected.

In response to the severe flooding in Nova Scotia, the Government of Canada is taking swift action to assist communities and their residents. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, has introduced special measures to aid those impacted by the floods, addressing the need for document replacement and status extensions within the country.

Under these measures, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will provide free replacement documents to Canadians, permanent residents, and temporary residents in Nova Scotia who have been directly affected by the disaster. This includes lost, damaged, destroyed, or inaccessible items such as permanent resident cards, proof of citizenship, Canadian citizenship certificates, Canadian passports, and other travel documents.

Furthermore, individuals such as international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors directly impacted by the flooding, with statuses set to expire by November 30, 2023, will have the opportunity to extend or restore their status in Canada without any charges. This ensures that temporary workers, unable to work due to workplace closures, can maintain their status until operations resume. Similarly, international students facing delays or cancellations in their classes can extend their study permits, enabling them to complete their studies without any adverse consequences.

These special measures will remain in effect until November 30, 2023, providing ample time for Canadians, permanent residents, and temporary residents to resolve document or status-related issues, allowing them to prioritize their families, homes, and communities during this challenging time.

Reference: Free replacement documents for Canadians and special measures for people affected by flooding in Nova Scotia – Canada.ca

Posted on July 26, 2023July 26, 2023 by admin

New Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship: The Honourable Marc Miller

Marc Miller Appointed as Minister of Immigration

In a recent cabinet reshuffle, Marc Miller has assumed the role of Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, while Sean Fraser, former immigration minister, has been appointed as the new Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities.

The Honourable Marc Miller was elected as the Member of Parliament for Ville-Marie—Le Sud-Ouest—Île-des-Sœurs, in Montréal, in 2015. Before joining politics, he practiced law, specializing in mergers and acquisitions, particularly in international and commercial law. He worked in various cities, including Montréal, Stockholm, and New York City. Additionally, Minister Miller served as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces.

A notable moment in his political career occurred in 2017 when he delivered a historic statement entirely in Mohawk within the House of Commons, marking the first time the language had been spoken in either the House of Commons or Senate since Confederation. Throughout his tenure, Minister Miller has been a strong advocate for increased federal investment in affordable housing, public transit, and the Canada Child Benefit.

Apart from his political engagements, Minister Miller actively participates in charitable and pro bono legal initiatives. He has also authored articles on constitutional and human rights law.

Minister Miller holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Political Science from the Université de Montréal, as well as degrees in Common Law and Civil Law from McGill University. He was born and raised in Montréal.