Tag: Canada Immigration

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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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New: Open Work Permit for US H-1B Visa Holders

Open Work Permit for US H-1B Visa Holders

Introduction:
Canada introduces a new streamlined work permit for H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the United States (US) to work in Canada. The initiative aims to improve labour mobility, particularly in the high-tech sector, and foster economic growth within Canada.

Key Points:

  1. Eligibility and Benefits: Starting from July 16, 2023, H-1B visa holders in the US, along with their immediate family members, can apply for an open work permit in Canada. The permit is valid for up to three years, allowing work for any employer in Canada. Spouses and dependents can also apply for temporary resident visas, including work or study permits.
  2. Objectives: The streamlined work permit aims to enhance labour mobility and talent retention by providing skilled workers with opportunities to advance their careers in the high-tech industry. It promotes economic growth and collaboration between Canada and the US.
  3. Duration and Application Cap: The initiative will be effective for one year or until the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives 10,000 applications. Only principal applicants count towards the application cap, not their accompanying family members.
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Express Entry Invitation Draw: June 2023- Week 5

Latest Rounds of invitations- 27 June 2023

Latest Rounds of Invitation

Canada has invited 4,300 candidates to apply for permanent residence in the second Express Entry draw of June 2023. The draw was held on June 27, 2023, and was an all-program draw, meaning that candidates from all three Express Entry programs were eligible.

Minimum CRS 486

CRS Cut-off Score and Tie-breaking Rule

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) in this draw was 486. Following the most recent draw on June 8, where 4,800 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 486 were invited in an all-program draw, this marks the second draw of June 2023. Notably, the minimum CRS score requirement of 486 in this draw is same as in the previous all-program draw on June 8th 2023.

The tie-breaking rule for this draw is June 21, 2023 00:57:04 UTC. This means that candidates with a CRS score of 486 or higher who submitted their profile before this date and time received an ITA in this draw.

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New Update: Extension of Study Authorization for Work Permit Holders

Extension of Study Authorization for Work Permit Holders

Date: June 27, 2023
Location: Ottawa

The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Honourable Sean Fraser, has introduced a new rule that lets temporary foreign workers study in Canada without a study permit for as long as they want. Before, there was a limit on how long they could study without a permit. But now, they have the chance to get more education and training to help them in their careers. This change will also increase their chances of becoming permanent residents in the future. It’s a temporary rule that will last for three years.

Introduction:
In Canada, temporary foreign workers contribute significantly to the economy and fill essential gaps in the labor market. However, these workers often face limitations when it comes to pursuing their desired study programs, hindering their ability to create new opportunities and achieve their dreams. In response to this challenge, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced a new temporary measure that removes the restrictions on the duration of study programs available to temporary foreign workers without a study permit.

Details of the Measure:
Effective immediately, foreign workers holding valid work permits or pending work permit extension decisions as of June 7, 2023, will have the opportunity to pursue additional training and education without the need for a separate study permit. This measure enables foreign workers to expand their career prospects, enhance their skills, and increase their chances of transitioning to permanent residence.

Previously, foreign workers could engage in studies while working, but only in programs lasting six months or less. This limitation posed a barrier for individuals seeking to improve their education, gain additional training, or validate their foreign credentials through specific programs. However, with the implementation of this three-year temporary measure, foreign workers can now enroll in study programs of any length, either on a full-time or part-time basis, for as long as their work permits remain valid or until the policy expires.

Importance and Implications:
This policy change recognizes the vital role played by temporary foreign workers in the Canadian economy and aims to empower them to pursue their career goals and aspirations. By removing barriers to skills development, the measure seeks to address critical labor shortages and provide opportunities for foreign workers to contribute to sectors such as healthcare and construction. The initiative also benefits employers, workers, and the economy as a whole, while fostering the growth of Canadian communities.

Potential Benefits for Permanent Residence:
While Canadian work experience gained during full-time studies does not count toward eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class, this temporary measure can positively impact foreign nationals’ chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence through the Express Entry system. By undertaking further studies, individuals may increase their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, for example, by acquiring a higher level of education, improving language proficiency, gaining qualifying work experience during part-time studies, or obtaining higher-skilled employment opportunities. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will evaluate the outcomes of this policy and utilize the findings to inform potential future policy changes.

Conclusion:
The extension of study authorization for work permit holders marks a significant step in enabling foreign workers to pursue their educational aspirations and unlock their full potential in Canada. By removing limitations on the length of study programs, the government aims to enhance the skills of temporary foreign workers, address labor market gaps, and create a pathway for them to contribute more effectively to the Canadian economy. This policy change aligns with Canada’s reliance on immigration for labor force growth and highlights the country’s commitment to fostering a robust and inclusive society.

Read more: Canada Announces New Open Work Permit for Family Class and Spousal Applicants

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

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

The Minister of Immigration for Canada, Sean Fraser, has revealed the introduction of selection draws based on specific categories for candidates applying through the Express Entry program. The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will prioritize candidates with significant expertise in the French language or work experience in the following sectors:

  1. French-language proficiency
  2. Healthcare occupations
  3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations
  4. Trade occupations
  5. Transport occupations
  6. Agriculture and agri-food occupations

These categories have been chosen for the year 2023.

In order to receive an invitation through a category-based round, you are required to fulfill the following criteria:

  1. Meet the minimum requirements for Express Entry, including eligibility for one of the three immigration programs it encompasses.
  2. Fulfill all the specified requirements mentioned in the instructions for that particular round.

During a category-based round of invitations, the following actions will be taken:

  1. Candidates in the pool who meet the category requirements will be ranked.
  2. Top-ranking candidates will be invited to apply for permanent residence.

Requirements for the French-language proficiency category eligibility are as follows:

  1. Possess French-language test results indicating a minimum score of 7 in all four language abilities as per the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens.
  2. Fulfill all the requirements specified in the instructions provided for that particular round.

For comprehensive details regarding eligibility, please refer to the instructions accompanying each round.

Requirements for eligibility in the healthcare occupations category are as follows:

  1. Acquire a minimum of six months of continuous work experience (either in Canada or internationally) within the past three years in a single occupation listed in the provided table.
  2. Satisfy all the requirements mentioned in the instructions for the specific round.

Comprehensive details regarding eligibility can be found in the instructions provided for each round.

Occupation 2021 NOC code 2021 TEER category 
Audiologists and speech language pathologists311121
Chiropractors312011
Dentists311101
Dieticians and nutritionists311211
Education counsellors413201
General practitioners and family physicians311021
Instructors of persons with disabilities422032
Kinesiologists and other professional occupation in therapy and assessment312041
Licensed practical nurses321012
Massage therapists322012
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations331013
Medical laboratory technologists321202
Medical radiation technologists321212
Medical sonographers321222
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates331023
Nurse practitioners313021
Nursing co-ordinators and supervisors313001
Occupational therapists312031
Optometrists311111
Other assisting occupations in support of health services331093
Other practitioners of natural healing322092
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating312091
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment321092
Paramedical occupations321022
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants331033
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals313031
Physiotherapists312021
Psychologists312001
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses313011
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists321032
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine311001
Specialists in surgery311011
Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies413011
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists322002
Veterinarians311031
Healthcare Occupations Eligible for New Category-based Selection for Express Entry in 2023

Requirements for eligibility in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) category are as follows:

Occupation2021 NOC code2021 TEER category
Architects212001
Architecture and science managers200110
Business systems specialists212211
Civil Engineers213001
Computer and information systems managers200120
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)213111
Computer systems developers and programmers212301
Cybersecurity specialists212201
Data scientists212111
Database analysts and data administrators212231
Electrical and electronics engineers213101
Engineering managers200100
Industrial and manufacturing engineers213211
Information systems specialists212221
Land surveyors212031
Landscape Architects212011
Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries212101
Metallurgical and materials engineers213221
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers414001
Software developers and programmers212321
Software engineers and designers212311
Urban and land use planners212021
Web designers212331
Web developers and programmers212341
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Occupations Eligible for New Category-based Selection for Express Entry in 2023

Requirements for eligibility in the Trade category are as follows:

Occupation 2021 NOC code 2021 TEER category 
Residential and commercial installers and servicers732003
Elevator constructors and mechanics724062
Machine fitters724052
Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics724022
Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics724002
Carpenters723102
Plumbers723002
Electricians (except industrial and power system)722002
Welders and related machine operators721062
Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers720142
Trade Occupations Eligible for New Category-based Selection for Express Entry in 2023

Requirements for eligibility in the Transport occupations category are as follows:

Occupation 2021 NOC code 2021 TEER category 
Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors932003
Transport truck drivers733003
Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators726042
Engineer officers, water transport726032
Deck officers, water transport726022
Air traffic controllers and related occupations726012
Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors726002
Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors724042
Railway carmen/women724032
Managers in transportation700200
Transport Occupations Eligible for New Category-based Selection for Express Entry in 2023

Requirements for eligibility in the agriculture and agri-food occupations category are as follows:

Occupation 2021 NOC code 2021 TEER category 
Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services820312
Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors820302
Butchers- retail and wholesale632013
Agriculture and agri-food Occupations Eligible for New Category-based Selection for Express Entry in 2023
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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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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