Tag: IRCC News

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Express Entry Launches Transport Category-Based Selection for Immigration

New Express Entry Launches Transport Category-Based Selection for Immigration

Ottawa, September 18, 2023 – In a significant move aimed at addressing labor shortages and supporting Canada’s economic goals, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today the initiation of the first round of invitations for Express Entry’s Transportation category-based selection. This new approach, implemented by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), will focus on attracting skilled talent with expertise in the transportation sector, including commercial truck drivers, pilots, and aircraft assembly workers.

Canada’s Express Entry system, a flagship application management system for permanent immigration, has been revamped through category-based selection, introduced on May 31, 2023. This process prioritizes candidates with specific work experience or French language proficiency, aligning with the country’s economic priorities.

Minister Marc Miller stated, “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 labor 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 labor market needs.”

This innovative approach is expected to bolster the transportation sector, which is vital to Canada’s economy. The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport, emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, “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 travelers 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.”

Express Entry’s category-based selection rounds, including those for transport occupations, will continue throughout the year, alongside general and program-specific invitation rounds.

Quick Facts:

  • Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application management system for permanent immigration through programs such as 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, changes were made 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 labor market needs. A complete list of eligible jobs for the new categories is available on the IRCC website.
  • Under the Canada–Québec Accord, Quebec establishes its own immigration levels. From 2018 to 2022, admissions under the federal high-skilled programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program, accounted for 34% to 40% of overall French-speaking admissions outside Quebec.

Canada’s commitment to attracting top global talent and addressing labor shortages through category-based selection reflects its dedication to building a stronger and more prosperous future for the nation.

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Parents and Grandparents Canada Visa Program Set to Reopen This Fall

Parents and Grandparents Program Set to Reopen This Fall

Ottawa, August 8, 2023 – The Parents and Grandparents Program exemplifies Canada’s dedication to maintaining intact families. This program assists Canadian citizens and permanent residents in bringing their families to Canada. The government is demonstrating its commitment to family reunions by inviting more parents and grandparents than ever before.

This year, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will take sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents. They anticipate receiving up to 15,000 applications. Beginning on 10 October 2023, IRCC will begin inviting approximately 24,200 individuals who have expressed interest in sponsorship, with the expectation that 15,000 of them will submit applications. These invitations will be mailed over the course of two weeks.

If you submitted your name in 2020 but were not invited in 2021 or 2022, do not lose hope. This year, the IRCC will select candidates from the list for 2020 rather than creating a new one. They performed the same action in 2021 and 2022. If you fall into this category, keep a watch on your email for an invitation.

Those fortunate enough to be invited in 2023 can register online via the Permanent Residence Portal or the Representative Permanent Residence Portal to keep things simple and expedient. It is part of Canada’s strategy to streamline and modernize the immigration process.

There is an alternative for those who did not receive an invitation but still want their parents and grandparents to visit. They may request an enhanced visa. This visa allows family members to enter and remain for an extended period. You can remain in Canada for up to 5 years at a time and extend your stay by up to 2 years without leaving the country.

Want more information on prior Parents and Grandparents Program admissions? Check out the new report on their website titled “The Parents and Grandparents Program: Intake Report, 2014 to 2019.” By the end of this year, they will have published a report spanning the years 2020 to 2021.

Consequently, if you wish to reunite with your family in Canada, the Parents and Grandparents Program could be your ticket. Prepare for your opportunity this autumn!

If you are still waiting for you decision on immigration application or you have received a refusal, please get GCMS notes.

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Canada Considers Limiting International Students

Canada Considers Limiting International Students

The Canadian government is now considering a cap on international students as an option to address the housing crunch. This decision reflects the delicate balance that needs to be struck between meeting labour needs and ensuring adequate housing for all residents.

While this situation unfolds, international students planning to apply for a study visa for Canada should stay updated on the latest policy changes. It’s important to remember that while these changes may affect work opportunities, the primary purpose of a study visa is to pursue education in Canada.

Canada, known for its open approach to immigration, is currently facing a unique challenge. The country’s welcoming stance towards international students, seen as a solution to the labour shortage, is now being reconsidered due to the worsening housing crunch1.

The Government of Canada had previously announced the temporary lifting of the 20-hour-per-week cap on the number of hours that eligible post-secondary students are allowed to work off-campus while class is in session2. This measure, effective from November 15, 2022, until December 31, 2023, was aimed at addressing the labour shortage and aiding economic recovery2.

However, this influx of international students, coupled with other non-permanent arrivals, has led to a rapid population growth. This growth is driving up rents in the country’s biggest cities and exacerbating the housing shortage1. The vacancy rate on rental buildings is now below 2% — the lowest since 20011.

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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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First Express Entry Draw for Trade Occupations Category with CRS Cut-Off at 388 Points – August 3, 2023

First Express Entry Draw for Trade Occupations Category with CRS Cut-Off at 388 Points - August 3, 2023

In a significant development for Canada’s Express Entry system, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its first-ever draw under the Trade Occupations (2023-1) category on August 3, 2023. A total of 1,500 candidates were issued invitations to apply for permanent residence, signaling Canada’s efforts to attract skilled workers with expertise in various trade occupations.

Here are the key details of the latest draw:

  • Category: Trade Occupations (2023-1)
  • Number of Invitations Issued: 1,500
  • Rank Required to be Invited: 1,500 or above
  • Date and Time of Round: August 03, 2023 at 13:24:52 UTC
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 388
  • Tie-breaking Rule: June 07, 2023 at 07:03:08 UTC

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off for this draw was set at 388 points, making it an attractive opportunity for skilled workers in trade occupations to secure an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residency. The tie-breaking rule was implemented, ensuring fair and transparent selection when multiple candidates possess the same CRS score. In such cases, the cut-off is based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles, giving priority to those who applied earlier.

The introduction of the Trade Occupations category in the Express Entry system demonstrates Canada’s commitment to addressing labor market needs and recognizing the significance of skilled tradespeople in the nation’s economy. Trade professionals play a vital role in various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and more, making their expertise highly valuable to Canada’s continued growth and development.

This draw marks a crucial step in diversifying the pool of candidates eligible for permanent residency through Express Entry. By opening opportunities for skilled workers in trade occupations, Canada aims to meet the demand for their expertise and provide them with a pathway to establish themselves and their families in the country.

Candidates who received an invitation to apply in this inaugural Trade Occupations draw can now begin their application process for permanent residency. Upon approval, they will have the chance to contribute to Canada’s workforce and communities while enjoying the numerous benefits of living in one of the most welcoming and diverse countries in the world.

As Canada continues to shape its immigration policies to meet evolving economic needs, skilled workers in various occupations can anticipate more opportunities through the Express Entry system. The IRCC’s commitment to attracting talent from around the globe ensures a prosperous and inclusive future for the nation and its residents.

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Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- French Language- CRS- 435

Express Entry Rounds of Invitations- French Language- CRS- 435

In the latest Canada Express Entry draw held on August 2, 2023, there was a specific focus on candidates with French language proficiency. A total of 800 candidates were issued invitations to apply for permanent residence under the French language proficiency (2023-1) category. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to be invited was 435 points or above. This draw aimed to further enhance Canada’s linguistic diversity and welcome French-speaking skilled immigrants.

Here is a comparison of the recent French language proficiency draws, including the most recent draw on August 2, 2023, along with relevant details from previous draws:

DateTotal ITAsMinimum CRS RequiredTie-breaking Rule
August 2, 2023800435July 31, 2023 at 09:57:30 UTC
July 12, 20233,800375June 30, 2023 at 11:45:05 UTC
July 7, 20232,300439June 1, 2023 at 12:34:56 UTC
Latest Rounds of Invitation- French Language Proficiency- Canada Express Entry

In the French language proficiency draw on August 2, 2023, a total of 800 candidates were invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada. The CRS cut-off for this draw was 435 points, which allowed candidates with competitive French language skills to secure an invitation.

To manage situations where multiple candidates had the same CRS score, the tie-breaking rule was applied. In this draw, the cut-off was based on the date and time the candidates submitted their Express Entry profiles. The candidate who submitted their profile earlier received preference.

The Express Entry system places a strong emphasis on linguistic diversity, especially for French-speaking candidates. By conducting specific draws targeting candidates with French language proficiency, Canada aims to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to Francophone communities across the country.

In contrast, the July 12, 2023 draw for French language proficiency (2023-1) issued a record-breaking 3,800 invitations, with a minimum CRS score of 375. The tie-breaking rule was set on June 30, 2023, at 11:45:05 UTC. Similarly, on July 7, 2023, another draw targeted at French language proficiency (2023-1) issued 2,300 invitations, and the CRS cut-off was 439 points. The tie-breaking rule for this draw was June 1, 2023, at 12:34:56 UTC.

Canada’s commitment to promoting French language proficiency reflects its dedication to linguistic diversity and inclusion. French-speaking candidates with desirable skills and qualifications continue to have excellent opportunities to obtain permanent residency and make significant contributions to Canada’s social and economic fabric.

Candidates who received an invitation to apply in any of the French language proficiency draws can now proceed with their application process for permanent residency in Canada. As they embark on their immigration journey, they become part of Canada’s vibrant multicultural society, enriching the nation’s cultural tapestry.

Click here to See full history of Canada Express Entry Draws

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IRCC Announces First Trades Round for Express Entry

IRCC Announces First Trades Round for Express Entry

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have taken a momentous step towards addressing labor shortages in the construction sector by announcing the launch of the first-ever trades round for Express Entry’s category-based selection. The initiative is set to open this week, targeting candidates with trades expertise, including carpentry, plumbing, and welding.

The Express Entry system, known for its point-based immigration management, plays a crucial role in attracting skilled foreign workers to contribute to Canada’s economic growth and prosperity. With the new focus on tradespeople, the Canadian government aims to meet the growing demand for skilled talent in the construction sector, allowing it to drive infrastructure development and other essential projects.

Candidates who receive invitations through the trades round will have the opportunity to apply for permanent residence in Canada. Successful applicants will gain access to various social benefits, healthcare facilities, and education opportunities, fostering their integration into Canadian society.

As the first trades round opens this week, the focus on attracting skilled talent to Canada’s construction sector is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country’s economic development and prosperity.

Earlier IRCC Announced New Selection Categories for Express Entry Candidates.

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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:

DateCategoryTotal ITAsMinimum CRS Required
August 01, 2023No Program Specified2,000517
July 12, 2023French language proficiency (2023-1)3,800375
July 11, 2023No Program Specified800505
July 7, 2023French language proficiency (2023-1)2,300439
July 6, 2023Healthcare occupations (2023-1)1,500463
July 5, 2023STEM occupations (2023-1)500486
July 4, 2023No Program Specified700511

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.

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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.