Tag: Canada Immigration Application

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Express Entry Invitation Round Summary – October 24, 2023

Latest Express Entry Draw Results- CRS Score

Here is a summary of the latest Express Entry invitation round held on October 24, 2023, for the Provincial Nominee Program:

AspectData
ProgramProvincial Nominee Program
Number of invitations issued1,548
Rank required to be invited to apply1,548 or above
Date and time of roundOctober 24, 2023, 14:23:38 UTC
CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited776
Tie-breaking ruleJuly 07, 2023, 07:28:57 UTC

In this round, 1,548 invitations were issued for candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program. To be invited, candidates needed to have a ranking of 1,548 or higher, and the lowest-ranked candidate who received an invitation had a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 776. In the event of multiple candidates having the same lowest score, the tie-breaker was determined by the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles, with a tie-breaking rule set on July 07, 2023, at 07:28:57 UTC.

If you have applied through Express Entry and still waiting for your decision, please get GCMS notes to know where is your application is stuck.

Apply GCMS Notes from IRCC

Apply GCMS Notes from CBSA

Apply GCMS Notes from IRCC and CBSA

Apply for full case files with GCMS Notes

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Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- All Category- August 2023

Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- All Category Draw for August 2023

In the latest Canada Express Entry draw held on August 15, 2023, a substantial number of 4,300 candidates were issued invitations to apply for permanent residence. This draw, which targeted candidates with no specified program, featured a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement of 496 points or above. The draw continued the trend of inviting a large number of candidates, reflecting Canada’s ongoing commitment to welcoming skilled immigrants from around the world.

Key details of the draw are as follows:

  • Category: No Program Specified
  • Number of Invitations Issued: 4,300
  • Rank Required to be Invited: 4,300 or above
  • Date and Time of Round: August 15, 2023 at 14:23:51 UTC
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 496
  • Tie-breaking Rule: August 01, 2023 at 12:59:52 UTC

The CRS cut-off of 496 points indicated that candidates with competitive qualifications and skills were invited to apply for permanent residency. The tie-breaking rule ensured that candidates with the same CRS score were prioritized based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles.

DateCategoryTotal ITAsMinimum CRS RequiredTie-breaking Rule
August 15, 2023No Program Specified4,300496August 01, 2023 at 12:59:52 UTC
August 3, 2023Trade Occupations (2023-1)1,500388June 07, 2023 at 07:03:08 UTC
August 2, 2023French Language Proficiency (2023-1)800435July 31, 2023 at 09:57:30 UTC
August 1, 2023No Program Specified2,000517July 30, 2023 at 13:25:02 UTC

This draw follows previous draws in August, which saw invitations issued under different categories such as Trade Occupations, French Language Proficiency, and the general “No Program Specified” category. Canada’s Express Entry system remains a dynamic and accessible pathway for skilled workers and their families to establish themselves in the country.

The diversity of categories and the consistent invitation of candidates with varying CRS scores highlight Canada’s dedication to selecting candidates who possess the skills and attributes that align with the nation’s economic and labor market needs. As a result, candidates who received invitations have the opportunity to contribute to Canada’s economy and society while enjoying the benefits of permanent residency.

Candidates who received invitations in this latest draw can now proceed with their application process for permanent residence. As they navigate through the application requirements and procedures, they move closer to realizing their goal of becoming permanent residents of Canada, a nation known for its inclusivity, opportunities, and high quality of life.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer Schools as an International Student After and Before Visa Approval.

Step-by-Step Guide How to Transfer Schools as an International Student After and Before Visa Approval.

Already Enrolled Students in Canada:

  • Before changing your school or program, ensure you meet the study permit conditions by being enrolled at a designated learning institution (DLI) and actively studying.
  • Contact IRCC in specific cases, such as being a post-secondary student changing schools, changing co-op programs, or needing to change conditions on your study permit.
  • Failure to inform IRCC about changing schools may result in breaking study permit conditions, potential deportation, and future complications with study or work permits.

Changing your DLI if you’re outside Canada:

  • If your study permit application is in progress, inform IRCC by submitting a new letter of acceptance through the web form.
  • If your study permit has been approved and you change your DLI, submit a new study permit application with a new letter of acceptance and pay the necessary fees.
  • You can change your DLI in your online account without a representative, even if one was used during the initial study permit application.
  • Read here: Follow these instructions to change your DLI in your online account.

Moving to the next education level:

Post-secondary students changing schools:

  • Inform IRCC each time you change post-secondary schools, which can be done for free through your account.
  • Changing post-secondary schools does not require applying for a new study permit.
  • Confirm that the new school you plan to attend is a designated learning institution (DLI) before making the switch.

Studying in Quebec:

  • If moving to a school in Quebec, obtain an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
  • Contact the ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration if you’re already studying in Quebec and want to change your educational institution, program, or level of study.

Reference: Changing your school or program – Canada.ca

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First Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- Healthcare Occupations Category Announced

First Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- Healthcare Occupations

Today, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) initiated the initial wave of invitations to skilled individuals in the health care sector who have applied for Express Entry. This marks the commencement of a series of category-specific selection rounds that will persist throughout the year.

Category: Healthcare occupations (2023-1)

Invitations issued: 500

Minimum rank for invitation: 500 or higher

Round date and time: June 28, 2023 14:04:34 UTC

Lowest-ranked candidate’s CRS score invited: 476

Tie-breaking rule: November 12, 2023 12:47:27 UTC

Earlier IRCC Announced New Selection Categories for Express Entry Candidates which includes Healthcare Occupations.

Read here: Eligible Occupations List (NOC) under New Category-based Selection for Express Entry in 2023

All category rounds of invitation on 27th June 2023: Express Entry Invitation Draw: June 2023- Week

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What is GCMS Notes and How to Apply GCMS Notes?: Canada Immigration

Sample GCMS Note- Canada Study Permit Refusal

What is GCMS Notes?

GCMS stands for Global Case Management System, which is an internal system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage immigration and visa applications. GCMS notes, also known as CAIPS (Computer Assisted Immigration Processing System) notes, are detailed records of an individual’s immigration application stored in the GCMS database.

GCMS notes contain a comprehensive record of the processing of an immigration application. They include information such as the application forms submitted, supporting documents, correspondence between the applicant and IRCC, internal notes made by immigration officers, and any decisions or actions taken regarding the application.

GCMS notes are highly valuable for individuals who have applied for immigration or visa programs in Canada, as they provide insight into the status and progress of the application. These notes can be requested by applicants or their authorized representatives through an official request process, typically known as an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request.

Obtaining GCMS notes allows applicants to review the details of their application, identify any errors or discrepancies, understand the reasons for a decision, or gather information for an appeal or legal purposes. It provides a comprehensive overview of the immigration officer’s assessment and reasoning behind the application’s processing.

It’s important to note that GCMS notes are considered confidential and are provided only to the applicant or their authorized representative. They are not publicly accessible and can only be obtained through a formal request to IRCC.

To request GCMS notes for an immigration application, the process varies depending on whether you are making the request from inside or outside Canada. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both scenarios:

How to apply GCMS notes if you are inside Canada?

  1. Go to ATIP Portal (https://atip-aiprp.apps.gc.ca/atip/welcome.do)
  2. Start a New Request: Click on the “Start a new request” button to begin the request process.
  3. Select the Appropriate Options: Choose the applicable options for your request, such as “Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada” or “Canada Border Services Agency” as the government institution.
  4. Provide Personal Information: Fill in your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, immigration application number, UCI, Address, Contact number, Email Address.
  5. Submit the Request: Review the information you provided, ensure it is accurate, and submit your request. You may be required to pay the processing fee at this stage.
  6. Pay the Fee: Process the payment of the CAD $5 fee through the online payment options available on the portal.
  7. Wait for Processing: After submitting your request and payment, the ATIP office will process your request. The processing time may vary, but you should receive a response within a 30 to 60 days.
  8. Access the GCMS Notes: Once your request is processed, you will receive the GCMS notes either by email or through the ATIP portal, depending on the communication method you selected during the request process.

How to apply GCMS notes if you are outside Canada?

If you are located outside Canada, you are unable to directly request GCMS notes from IRCC or CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency). Instead, you can apply for your GCMS notes with the help of someone you know who is a Permanent Resident or Citizen of Canada. The fee for this service remains the same at CAD $5. To proceed, you will need to complete the consent form, which allows the individual in Canada to request the GCMS notes on your behalf.

In case you don’t have any contacts in Canada, there are third-party service providers available who can assist you in obtaining GCMS notes from IRCC and CBSA. These service providers will handle the process of requesting the GCMS notes on your behalf, and once they receive the notes, they will provide them to you. Typically, the third-party service providers charge a fee for their assistance. Ensure you understand their pricing structure and pay the applicable fee.

It is important to exercise caution when utilizing third-party services and ensure you choose reputable providers to safeguard the security and privacy of your personal information.

Click here to Apply GCMS Notes from IRCC and CBSA

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New Requirement: Biometric Submission Now Mandatory for All Canadian PR Applicants, Regardless of Prior Submissions.

Biometric Submission Now Mandatory for All Canadian PR Applicants, Regardless of Prior Submissions.

Starting from June 14, 2023, the temporary exemption policy for certain foreign nationals applying for Canadian PR (permanent residency) from submitting biometrics has been discontinued by the IRCC. As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the IRCC implemented a policy within the Global Case Management System (GCMS) that eliminated the requirement for PR applicants to re-submit their biometrics if they had already provided them within the past 10 years while applying for a temporary resident status.

According to an official update from the IRCC program delivery, this interim public policy will no longer apply to PR applications submitted on or after June 14, 2023.

Biometrics refer to the unique physical traits of an individual, such as fingerprints and photographs, which are required for Canadian immigration purposes.

Under the interim provision implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, foreign nationals applying for PR were exempt from providing biometric information if they had previously submitted it for an immigration or visa application within the past ten years.

Until June 14, 2023, PR applications meeting the above criteria were processed without the need for biometrics.

However, as of that date, all foreign nationals seeking PR, including those on work permits like yourself, must now submit their biometric data, regardless of whether they provided it four years ago.

If you fall within the age range of 14 to 79 and plan to apply for PR under the family class, economic class, or refugee category after June 14, 2023, you will need to provide your fingerprints, even if your previous biometrics are still valid.

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Understanding UCI and Application Number in Canadian Immigration: IRCC File Number Explanation

Canada Visa UCI and Application Number

What is UCI (Unique Client Identifier) in the context of Canadian Immigration?

When engaging with IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada), a distinct number is assigned to individuals. This number, known as UCI, can consist of either ten digits (e.g., 01-2345-6789) or eight digits (e.g., 1234-5678). UCI stands for Unique Client Identifier, and it serves as a unique identification for applicants. It allows IRCC to link individuals to their multiple applications. For instance, in a family of four applying for immigration or a visa, each member receives a separate UCI.

Temporary UCIs may also be issued by IRCC. Here are two examples:

  • Express Entry applicants are assigned UCIs starting with CAN000123456789.
  • Other applicants may receive temporary UCIs in the format X01-2345-6789 or T01-2345-6789.

These temporary UCIs will eventually be replaced by an eight or ten-digit UCI.

The UCI remains unchanged for each applicant throughout their lifetime, meaning that your UCI remains constant for all applications submitted to IRCC. It also remains consistent for any interactions you have with CBSA. This implies that if you are already aware of your UCI, you can utilize it for future applications.

Where to find my UCI?

Sample UCI number on IRCC communications

Having a UCI (Unique Client Identifier) is contingent upon prior interactions with Canadian immigration authorities. These interactions encompass various scenarios, such as:

  • Applying for temporary statuses like an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), TRV (Temporary Resident Visa), work permit, or study permit.
  • Dealing with a removal order.
  • Immigrating to Canada.
  • Sponsoring your spouse or common-law partner (both inland and outside-Canada options).
  • Making refugee claims within Canada.
  • Sponsoring other family members, such as parents or grandparents, siblings, nieces or nephews, or aunts or uncles.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive. Whenever you engage with immigration authorities, they correspond with you, which may involve receiving various documents, such as:

  • Emails.
  • AOR (Acknowledgement of Receipt) letter.
  • COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence).
  • Visa counterfoil.
  • PR (Permanent Resident) Card.
Sample UCI on VISA page

All these documents contain your UCI, so be sure to locate the 8 or 11-digit UCI on them. Sometimes, the term UCI or Client ID may be mentioned alongside the number. However, it’s worth mentioning that identifying the UCI on visa counterfoils can be a bit challenging. The accompanying image demonstrates how to locate the UCI on this particular document.

What is Canada Visa Application Number or File Number?

The application number or file number is an exclusive identifier assigned to your submitted application. Typically, this number commences with one or more letters, followed by nine digits. Here are some examples:

Full list of Canada Visa Application Number types and samples:

  • E123456789 for economic immigration
  • V123456789 for TRV (Temporary Resident Visa), Visitor Record, or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
  • S123456789 for study permit
  • W123456789 for work permit
  • H123456789 for Humanitarian and Compassionate considerations
  • L123456789 for refugee claimants
  • C123456789 for citizenship applications
  • D123456789 for TRP (Temporary Resident Permit)
  • I123456789 for IFHP (Interim Federal Health Program)
  • J123456789 for Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)
  • RHB1234567 for rehabilitation
  • ARC1234567 for ARC (Authorization to Return to Canada)
  • F123456789 for family reunification
  • EP12345678 for PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) applications
  • N123456789 for Removal orders
  • G123456789 for refugee resettlement or protected people PR (Permanent Residence) application
  • SV12345678 for verification of status
  • B123456789 for some older immigration applications
  • PR12345678 for Citizenship certificates

It’s important to note that instead of the placeholder “12345678,” you will receive a unique number specific to your application. In some cases, IRCC may issue temporary file numbers, indicated by an X at the beginning of the application number. However, if your application progresses, the X will be removed. There may also be rare instances where a temporary file number is replaced with a new one.

The file number or application number remains constant for a specific application, ensuring that you will not encounter any changes to the file number during the course of that application. It’s worth noting that if you were initially assigned a temporary application number, there is a possibility of receiving a new permanent number. However, once a permanent file number is assigned, it remains consistent for that particular application. It is important to emphasize that when opening a new application, a new file number will be allocated to you.

Read more: How to Apply for a Canada Visa and Avoid Refusal: A Guide to GCMS Notes

Where to find Canada visa application number or file number?

To find an immigration file number, the most effective method is to consult the correspondences you have received from IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). This can include emails or physical letters that they have sent to you. If you have enlisted the services of an immigration representative, you can also seek their assistance in locating the file number.

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Canada visa-free travel for 13 new countries

Canada visa-free travel for 13 new countries

Sean Fraser, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, made an announcement in Winnipeg today regarding the introduction of visa-free travel. As a result of this announcement, citizens from 13 countries will now have the ability to travel to Canada by air without the need for a Temporary Residence Visa. However, it’s important to note that this privilege applies only to travelers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa within the past 10 years or who currently possess a valid non-immigrant visa from the United States. The eligible countries whose passport holders can take advantage of this new policy include:

  1. Philippines
  2. Morocco
  3. Panama
  4. Antigua and Barbuda
  5. St Kitts and Nevis
  6. St Lucia
  7. St Vincent and Grenadines
  8. Trinidad and Tobago
  9. Argentina
  10. Costa Rica
  11. Uruguay
  12. Seychelles
  13. Thailand

Canada offers visa-free travel to over 50 countries, although most of them require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if they are arriving by air.

However, citizens of the United States do not need an eTA or a visa to enter Canada, unless their intention is to work or study in the country.

For nationals of countries that are not exempt from obtaining a visa, they must apply for a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV), also known as a visitor visa.

A TRV allows individuals to visit Canada for a period of up to six months, although the duration may vary for certain foreign nationals.

It’s important to note that arriving in Canada with a TRV does not grant permission to work or study in the country. Upon entry, individuals may be asked to provide evidence that their visit to Canada is temporary, such as for tourism or visiting family.

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Minister Fraser Clarifies How IRCC Uses AI in Application Processing

Minister Fraser Clarifies How IRCC Uses AI in Application Processing

The Canadian government’s immigration department, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has been harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline and enhance its application processing system. In a recent announcement, Minister Fraser shed light on how AI is being utilized to improve the efficiency and accuracy of immigration procedures.

Traditionally, the immigration process has been a complex and time-consuming journey for both applicants and government officials. However, with the integration of AI technology, the IRCC aims to revolutionize the way immigration applications are handled, creating a more efficient and responsive system.

Minister Fraser emphasized that the use of AI in immigration processing does not replace human decision-making but rather augments it. The technology acts as a supportive tool, helping officials sift through vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and make more informed decisions.

One of the key advantages of incorporating AI into the immigration system is the ability to expedite processing times. AI algorithms can quickly analyze large volumes of applications, identifying potential issues or irregularities that require further attention. By automating certain tasks, such as document verification and risk assessment, the IRCC can accelerate the overall processing timeline, reducing wait times for applicants.

Moreover, the integration of AI ensures greater consistency and fairness in decision-making. Human bias, which can inadvertently influence judgments, is mitigated as AI systems rely on objective criteria and predefined rules. This ensures that applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications, skills, and eligibility, leading to a more transparent and equitable process.

In addition to efficiency gains, AI also strengthens security measures within the immigration system. The technology can effectively detect patterns associated with fraud, forgery, or identity theft, enabling officials to identify high-risk cases and allocate resources accordingly. By fortifying the system’s security, the IRCC aims to protect the integrity of the immigration process and maintain public trust.

Minister Fraser was quick to address concerns regarding the use of AI, emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding privacy and maintaining strict data protection protocols. He stated that while AI technology requires access to personal data to perform its functions, the IRCC ensures that all data is handled in accordance with Canadian privacy laws and regulations. The privacy of applicants is a top priority, and robust measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access or misuse of sensitive information.

Looking ahead, Minister Fraser expressed the government’s ongoing commitment to harnessing AI’s potential to improve immigration services continually. The IRCC will continue to invest in research and development, working closely with industry experts and stakeholders to refine the AI systems and address any potential biases or limitations.

As the world rapidly evolves, AI presents a remarkable opportunity for the IRCC to enhance its processes and deliver a more efficient, transparent, and fair immigration system. The integration of AI technology promises to streamline application processing, reduce wait times, strengthen security measures, and ensure the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.

Read more: Understanding Chinook – The Tool Developed by IRCC to Simplify Visa Processing

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PGWP Application in Canada: Why Last-Minute Submissions Can Result in Rejections

PGWP denied

Submitting a visa application can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re unsure about the requirements and the timeline. When it comes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application in Canada, it’s crucial to understand that the application process can be affected by your immigration status, time zone differences, and online application submission policies. In this blog post, we’ll explore how missing out on some key details could result in a rejection of your PGWP application.

If you stay in Canada after your study permit expires, you need to restore your status as a student to apply for a PGWP. One of the essential requirements for restoring your status is to pay additional fees. The restoration of status fee is currently $200 CAD, and it must be paid along with your PGWP application.

The Canadian government website states that “if you stay in Canada and let your permit expire, you must apply to restore your status as a student to apply for your PGWP. To restore your status, you must pay additional fees.” This requirement is often overlooked by international students, leading to unnecessary delays or even rejections of their PGWP applications.

Another crucial detail to keep in mind is the time zone difference between your location and the UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) time zone, which is used by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for online application submissions. IRCC requires all electronic applications to be submitted before midnight UTC on the date the applicant’s status expires.

According to the IRCC website, “receipt dates and times do not depend on time zones; all applications must be submitted before midnight UTC on the date the applicant’s status expires.” This means that if you’re submitting your application on the day your status expires, you need to ensure that it’s submitted well before midnight UTC, taking into account the time zone difference between your location and UTC.

For instance, if you’re located in Toronto, Canada, and your status expires on March 30th, you need to submit your application before 8 PM (EST), as this is when midnight UTC occurs. If you submit your application at a later time, it will be considered as received on March 31st, and you will be out of status when the application was submitted.

Missing the deadline for submission or failing to pay the restoration of status fee can have serious consequences, leading to the rejection of your PGWP application. In such cases, you would need to leave Canada and apply for a new study permit from outside Canada, which can be a time-consuming and expensive process.

In conclusion, it’s essential to understand the requirements and policies related to the PGWP application process to avoid any delays or rejections. Make sure to pay the restoration of status fee along with your PGWP application and submit your application well before the deadline, taking into account the UTC time zone. By doing so, you can increase your chances of obtaining a PGWP and securing your post-graduation career in Canada.

These resources provide more detailed information about the requirements and policies related to the PGWP application process in Canada.