Ashish - GS Immigration Advisors - Page 2

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NEWS

Application Pool Closing for International Experience Canada 2024 

Deadline: October 21, 2024  The application pool for the International Experience Canada (IEC) 2024 program will close on October 21. Launched by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) last December, the IEC allows youth from over 30 countries with Youth Mobility Agreements to apply for work permits, giving them the chance to live and work in Canada temporarily. For the 2024 intake, the target is 90,000 applicants.  Program Overview  The IEC program offers Canadian citizens the opportunity to work abroad in partner countries, while foreign nationals aged 18 to 35 (or 18 to 30, depending on the country) can live and work in Canada. Candidates meeting the basic criteria must submit a profile to the IEC pool, from which IRCC selects candidates and invites them to apply for work permits.  Countries may allow applicants to participate more than once, but the rules differ based on nationality.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration IEC Streams  Applicants can choose from three streams within the IEC program:  International Co-op (Internship):  For students who want to intern at a Canadian company.  A co-op placement must be confirmed before applying.  Young Professionals:  Requires a job offer from a Canadian employer.  Participants receive an employer-specific work permit.  Working Holiday:  Offers open work permits, allowing participants to work for most employers in Canada.  Provides flexibility in job location and duration, with a maximum stay of up to two years.  Application Process  Once invited to apply, candidates have 20 days to submit their work permit application. IRCC will confirm the exact deadline in the applicant’s online account.  Arrival in Canada  Upon arrival, IEC participants must present:  A valid passport  A Port of Entry Letter  Proof of health insurance  Proof of sufficient funds (at least $2,500 CAD) via a recent bank statement  A return ticket or proof of financial ability to buy one  Candidates must ensure their bank statements are dated no more than one week before their departure.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

Ontario and British Columbia Conduct Provincial Nominee Program Draws 

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), established in 1998, enables provinces and territories to collaborate with the federal government on immigration responsibilities. This program aims to spread the benefits of immigration throughout Canada. While a provincial nomination does not directly grant permanent residency, it substantially enhances an applicant’s profile by adding 600 points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Express Entry candidates, greatly increasing the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residency in future draws.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Recent Provincial Immigration Highlights  Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)  Date: October 17, 2024  Stream: Express Entry – Skilled Trades  Invitations: 1,307 candidates  CRS Range: 405-435  Eligibility: Candidates must have work experience in specific occupations as outlined by the National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes.  British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)  Date: October 16, 2024  Total Invitations: More than 190 candidates  Draw Breakdown:  General Selection: 102 candidates were invited across various streams.  Targeted Draws: Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams (including Express Entry BC options) focused on candidates with professional experience in specific industries.   General draw  Newfoundland & Labrador Approaching Maximum Nomination Capacity for 2024  On October 8, 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills announced that the province is nearing the limit of its allocated nominations for the year.  Each year, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets an immigration target, which includes a quota for provincial nominations. These quotas vary by province based on factors like labor market needs and the province’s capacity to support new immigrants.  As Newfoundland and Labrador reaches the end of its 2024 allocation, the provincial immigration department will focus on applications in key labor shortage areas, such as:  Healthcare  Early Learning  Construction  While applications will continue to be accepted under the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), they won’t be processed until early 2025, except for those with extenuating circumstances. The standard 25-day processing time for the NLPNP will resume in January 2025.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

“Important Updates to Canada’s International Student Program for 2025 and Beyond”

As of 2024, the Canadian government has been taking significant measures to strengthen the integrity of its international student program. In response to increasing concerns about the sustainability and transparency of the system, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented a temporary cap on study permits earlier this year. This cap aims to regulate foreign enrollment numbers, ensuring that international students have access to quality facilities during their studies.  On September 18, 2024, Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, announced additional changes that will greatly affect prospective international students planning to study in Canada.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Key Changes Affecting International Students in 2025 and Beyond  New Study Permit Cap for 2025-2026 with a 10% Reduction In 2025 and 2026, the Canadian government will impose a further cap on the number of study permits issued. In 2024, around 485,000 study permits were granted, but the new annual target will be 437,000, marking a 10% reduction compared to 2024. Importantly, this cap will now include both Master’s and PhD students. International students aspiring to pursue these degrees will be required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) with their study permit applications. This measure aims to align enrollment figures with the country’s capacity to support international students while upholding educational standards.  Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) There will be notable adjustments to PGWP eligibility. Currently, international students can qualify for a PGWP of up to three years. However, upcoming changes will alter the criteria for public college graduates. Only those graduates from public college programs whose studies are aligned with areas experiencing significant labor market demand will be eligible for the full three-year PGWP. Fortunately, the duration for university graduates will remain unchanged.  New Language Proficiency Requirements for PGWP To enhance employability and facilitate pathways to permanent residency, Canada will introduce mandatory language proficiency requirements for the PGWP program. Later this year, all PGWP applicants will need to demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in English or French. University graduates must achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7, while college graduates will need a CLB score of 5 to qualify for a post raduation work permit. These changes are designed to better equip international graduates for integration into the Canadian job market.  Revised Work Permit Rules for Spouses of Master’s Students A significant update relates to work permits for the spouses of international students. Under the new regulations, spouses of students pursuing a Master’s degree in Canada will only qualify for an open work permit if the student’s program lasts a minimum of 16 months.  These recent updates from the IRCC aim to refine the rules and eligibility for international students, ensuring they achieve academic success and are well-prepared for life in Canada after graduation.  For international recruiters, it’s essential to keep students informed about these changes to ensure they are adequately prepared for the 2025 intake and beyond. Let’s collaborate to help students secure brighter futures worldwide!  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

Six Canadian companies that can offer LMIA-exempt work permits are currently hiring 

Foreign nationals may now be eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit if hired by one of eight Canadian companies, mainly from the tech sector. This new work permit is part of the Innovation Stream, introduced earlier this month by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).  The Innovation Stream is a key component of Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy, which is designed to stimulate economic growth by attracting skilled talent to the country. Below is an overview of the eight companies offering LMIA-exempt, employer-specific work permits, along with the job opportunities they have available as of October 16:  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Companies Hiring and Job Openings  Ada Support Inc.  Location: Toronto (remote roles also available)  Founded: 2016  Focus: AI-driven customer service solutions for companies worldwide.  Perks: Remote work, stock options, unlimited vacation, work-from-abroad opportunities, home office budget.  Open Roles: Over 15 positions across product development, revenue, operations, finance, and customer experience.  Examples:  HR Generalist (Toronto)  Staff Software Engineer, Solutions (Remote – Canada)  DevOps Engineer (Remote – Canada)  Senior Technical Writer (Remote – Canada)  Manager, Sales Development (Toronto)  AlayaCare  Location: Montreal (with offices in Toronto)  Founded: 2014  Focus: AI and technology to address healthcare challenges, especially in home care.  Perks: Diverse global workforce; some positions require bilingualism (French and English).  Open Roles:  Bilingual Senior Technical Services Specialist (Montreal)  Implementation Specialist (Toronto)  Senior DevOps Analyst (Montreal)  Senior Developer, Scheduling (Montreal)  Engineering Manager – SRE (Montreal)  CellCarta  Location: Montreal  Focus: Research and technology for personalized disease detection and prevention through biomarker identification.  Perks: Global presence with offices in China, Australia, the U.S., and Belgium.  Open Roles:  Global Technology Architecture Manager (Montreal)  Global Revenue Accounting Manager (Remote)  Clarius Mobile Health  Location: British Columbia  Founded: 2014  Focus: Affordable ultrasound tools for medical professionals.  Perks: Hybrid work, employee recognition, professional development, and team events.  Open Roles: Manufacturing Technician (Vancouver)  Clio  Location: Headquarters in British Columbia, with offices in Toronto and Calgary.  Focus: Cloud-based legal technology for law firms, assisting with client management, billing, payments, and more.  Perks: RRSP matching, flexible paid time off (minimum of 4 weeks), parental leave benefits, health, dental, and vision benefits.  Open Roles:  Account Executive, Customer Sales (Vancouver, Calgary)  Business Development Representative (Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary)  Data Scientist (Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto; remote option available)  Director, Product Research (Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver; remote option available)  Lightspeed Commerce  Location: Montreal, with offices in Toronto and Ottawa.  Founded: 2005  Focus: All-in-one commerce platform for businesses.  Open Roles:  Team Lead, Software Development (Montreal)  Software Development Manager (Toronto)  Senior Site Reliability Engineer (Ottawa)  Senior Product Manager, Payment Processing (Montreal)  Additional Companies (Not Currently Hiring in Canada)  Vive Crop Protection  Location: Mississauga, Ontario  Focus: Ag-tech solutions to optimize farming through a patented delivery system.  Note: No current openings in Canada, but open to applications from qualified candidates.  Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group (DPG)  Location: Montreal  Focus: Pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving patient health and developing new medicines.  Perks: Hybrid telework options, flexible schedules, and summer hours.  Note: No current openings in Canada.  How Companies Are Chosen for LMIA-Exempt Permits  The Innovation Stream allows LMIA-exempt work permits for companies participating in Canada’s Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP). This initiative aims to support innovative Canadian companies, helping them create jobs, scale their businesses, and contribute to national economic growth. The first eight companies selected, listed above, are recognized for their leadership and innovation within their respective industries.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

IRCC to Offer Financial Support for Gazans Arriving in Canada 

Palestinians leaving Gaza will soon receive transitional financial aid from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) when they arrive in Canada. This support is designed to help cover essential needs such as food, housing, and clothing while they search for employment. The IRCC plans to release more information about the program when it becomes available.  Canada’s immigration minister, Marc Miller, emphasized that providing both settlement and financial assistance is crucial to supporting Gazans as they find safety in Canada.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Additional Support for Gazans  In addition to financial assistance, Gazans fleeing the ongoing conflict will benefit from several other forms of support, including:  Temporary Health Coverage: Three months of coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program to address urgent medical needs upon arrival.  Settlement Services: These include language training, guidance on integrating into Canadian society (e.g., enrolling children in school or setting up bank accounts), and help with finding employment.  Current Numbers  As of now, 4,245 applications are under processing through IRCC’s temporary resident pathway for extended Palestinian family members in Gaza, and 733 individuals have been approved to come to Canada. These individuals had pending Temporary Resident Visa applications and were able to submit their biometric information.  IRCC has acknowledged that movement out of Gaza is highly difficult due to factors beyond Canada’s control but has committed to working with local authorities to facilitate the process. As of October 5, 334 people have arrived in Canada under the temporary public policy.  Humanitarian Aid  Canada has also committed $140 million in humanitarian assistance to help address urgent needs in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and surrounding areas. This funding will support critical supplies, including food, water, and emergency medical care.  Broader Humanitarian Measures  IRCC has implemented several additional measures for Palestinians and Israelis affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.  Earlier this year, the department introduced a new policy for Palestinians in Gaza who have close family members that are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This policy supports their transition to life in Canada. Eligible relatives include:  Spouses or common-law partners  Children or grandchildren  Siblings  Parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents  Successful applicants under this pathway can receive temporary resident status in Canada for up to three years, allowing them to work (with an open work permit) and/or study during this time. Family members accompanying these applicants may also apply for study or work permits.  Additionally, IRCC has expedited the processing of family-class permanent residence applications for Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

What we know about the forthcoming Immigration Levels Plan 

Between now and November 1, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will present its 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan. This plan will set targets for the number of permanent residents expected to be admitted to Canada over the next year, along with provisional goals for the two years following that, covering a total span of three years.  The Plan not only shapes Canada’s immigration objectives but also influences various aspects of the country’s social and economic landscape, such as population growth, taxation, housing affordability, healthcare services, and labor market expansion.  However, this year’s Plan will see a notable change, as Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed in March that, for the first time, temporary residents (those with work or study permits, as well as visitor visas) will be included. In 2023, Canada had more than 2.5 million temporary residents, representing 6.2% of the population. Minister Miller has stated that the upcoming Plan will aim to decrease the number of temporary residents admitted over the next few years, with the goal of reducing this figure to 5% of the total population within three years.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The specific number of temporary residents Canada will admit in the future is yet to be finalized. However, based on previous announcements, there are some indications of how IRCC’s future plans could shape the upcoming Immigration Levels Plan.  Study Permits  In January, IRCC announced a cap on study permits for international students, indicating it would process 606,000 applications in 2023, with an expected approval of 360,000—a 35% reduction in the number of study permits processed. This decision came as a surprise, given that Minister Miller had previously opposed placing caps or targets on Canada’s international student program.  International students made up 42% of the temporary resident population in 2023. In September, the minister further stated that the number of processed study permits would be reduced to 437,000 by 2025. Master’s and PhD students, who had previously been exempt, would now be included under this cap.  Open Work Permits  In addition to study permits, the IRCC has signaled its intention to decrease the number of Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) and Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) issued over the next three years. New requirements for PGWP applicants have been introduced, including a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates.  The minister estimated that these changes would result in 175,000 fewer PGWPs being issued over the next three years. Regarding SOWPs, changes are expected to reduce the number by 50,000, as spouses of international master’s students will now only qualify if their spouse’s program is 16 months or longer or if they are in a field identified by the IRCC as critical. Additionally, only the spouses of “highly skilled, specialized workers” will remain eligible for SOWPs, which is projected to further reduce the number of permits issued by 100,000 over the next three years. Altogether, these changes are expected to lead to 325,000 fewer open work permits issued during this period.  Closed Work Permits  There have also been significant updates to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Minister of Employment Randy Boissonnault introduced changes that limit employers to hiring no more than 10% of their workforce through the TFWP. Additionally, the maximum duration of employment for workers in the Low-Wage stream has been reduced from two years to one.  Furthermore, IRCC will not process low-wage Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) from employers in areas with an unemployment rate exceeding 6%, though some exceptions apply. Minister Boissonnault has expressed concern about Canadian employers’ heavy reliance on the TFWP, stressing that it was only intended as a last resort.  Permanent Residents  The Immigration Levels Plan 2024-2026 set a goal of welcoming 500,000 permanent residents annually by 2025 and maintaining that target through 2026. Permanent residents are admitted through various channels, including economic immigration, family sponsorship, refugee programs, and humanitarian initiatives.  Minister Miller has hinted that significant changes could be on the horizon for the number of permanent residents Canada admits in the coming years, and that adjustments to the type of immigration Canada prioritizes could be forthcoming. Currently, 60% of immigration focuses on economic immigrants—skilled workers who are expected to integrate into the workforce and boost the economy. This is an unusually high proportion compared to many other nations, according to the minister.  Broader Context  As Canada’s population grows, concerns have emerged about the strain that high immigration levels place on key issues like affordable housing and an already stretched healthcare system. These topics are likely to influence the next federal election and were highlighted in a 2023 Environics Institute report on Canadian attitudes toward immigration. The report noted a noticeable decline in support for immigration compared to 2022, although most respondents did not express concerns about immigrants themselves.  Minister Miller has also emphasized the need to limit the number of temporary residents, particularly international students, to prevent exploitation and ensure newcomers receive adequate support. Nonetheless, both Miller and Boissonnault have frequently highlighted the cultural benefits of immigration, acknowledging that immigration is responsible for virtually all of Canada’s labor force growth. They cautioned, however, that any policy adjustments must avoid being overly restrictive.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

IRCC Application Backlog Continues to Rise Steadily Over the Summer 

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) saw its application backlog increase to 1,078,300 by the end of August 2024. This represents a 7.6% rise in the backlog compared to the previous month, July 2024.  July marked a notable milestone, as the backlog exceeded one million applications for the first time in several months. Despite ongoing efforts by the IRCC to address and reduce the backlog, it currently accounts for 1,078,300 out of a total of 2,420,800 applications, meaning that 1,342,500 applications are still being processed within the department’s service standards.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The IRCC defines an application as being in backlog if it is not processed within the published service standards. These standards represent the timelines the department deems reasonable for processing specific types of applications. The timelines vary depending on the type of immigration pathway and the nature of the application. For instance, the IRCC aims to process most Express Entry applications within six months of receiving a completed application, while study permits generally take 60 days.  The IRCC strives to process 80% of all applications within these service standards, leaving the remaining 20% to account for more complex applications or cases requiring additional processing time.  In an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) request obtained earlier in 2024, the IRCC stated that it is committed to reviewing and updating its service standards, with new standards expected to be published by December 31, 2024.  Current Backlog  Permanent Residence Applications  As of August 31, 2024, the IRCC had a total of 805,600 applications in inventory for permanent residence programs. These included Express Entry programs, Express Entry-aligned streams of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and family sponsorship programs for spouses, partners, and children.  Of the total permanent residence applications, 37% (300,800) were considered part of the backlog.  While exact numbers weren’t provided, the IRCC did share percentages that show how the backlog is distributed:  Express Entry: The backlog reached 16%, which is slightly higher than the projected 15%, though still within the acceptable 20% threshold set by the department.  Express Entry-aligned PNP: The backlog for this stream stood at 22%, exceeding the projected 20%.  Spouses, Partners, and Children (outside Quebec): This category had a smaller backlog than projected, with only 14% of applications in backlog, below the expected 15%.  Temporary Residence Applications  The backlog for temporary residence applications continues to rise, reaching 53% in August 2024, up from 49% in July. This means that 738,900 out of 1,386,000 temporary residence applications are now in backlog.  The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) backlog is particularly significant, with 71% of applications in backlog, far exceeding the projected 43%.  Both study permits and work permits show substantial backlogs as well, with 32% and 47%, respectively, being categorized as backlog. Citizenship Applications  As in the previous month, citizenship applications remain the only category within acceptable backlog thresholds. As of August, 38,600 out of a total of 229,200 citizenship applications were in backlog, representing 17%, unchanged from July’s figures.  IRCC’s Efforts to Reduce the Backlog  The IRCC has implemented various measures to reduce the backlog, which surged to critical levels in 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff shortages, and resource allocation issues at international offices. Among the steps taken to streamline the process are:  Expanding and enhancing online application processes for permanent residence and citizenship.  Introducing virtual citizenship ceremonies and online status-checking portals to reduce administrative delays.  Prioritizing applications from individuals in essential occupations to address ongoing labor shortages.  To further manage the backlog, the IRCC also plans to limit the number of temporary residents. The department aims to reduce the volume of temporary residents entering Canada to just 5% of current levels by introducing a “soft cap” on the number of temporary resident permits issued.  With these initiatives, the IRCC is striving to bring the backlog under control while continuing to meet the country’s immigration and labor market needs. The department’s updated service standards, set to be released by the end of 2024, are expected to provide clearer guidance on processing times and help streamline the application process going forward.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

Uncategorized

How to Travel to Canada with a Criminal Record: A Guide to Understanding Criminal Inadmissibility 

If you have a criminal record, you may be barred from entering Canada. Only Canadian citizens have the automatic right to enter the country. For non-citizens, Canadian authorities may determine inadmissibility based on criminal history. If found inadmissible, you could be denied a visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA), refused entry at the border, or even asked to leave the country. To avoid complications, individuals with criminal records should address any inadmissibility issues before planning travel to Canada.  What is Criminal Inadmissibility?  Criminal inadmissibility refers to someone being prohibited from entering or remaining in Canada due to their involvement in a crime. This could be a conviction or act committed either in or outside Canada. When determining inadmissibility, Canadian authorities consider several factors, such as: The severity of the offense  The penalty received  The time since the offense occurred or the sentence was completed  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration How is the Severity of an Offense Determined?  For immigration purposes, Canadian authorities classify offenses as either “criminality” or “serious criminality,” and this distinction affects how inadmissibility is determined. To assess the seriousness of an offense, you must compare it to the equivalent crime in Canada, typically under the federal Criminal Code of Canada.  Offense Categories Under Canadian Law:  Summary Offenses: These are minor offenses, comparable to misdemeanors in other countries, and usually come with lighter penalties and quicker legal processes. Examples include causing a disturbance, indecent exposure, and Indictable Offenses: More serious than summary offenses, indictable offenses are similar to felonies. Examples include robbery, drug trafficking, and aggravated assault. However, not all indictable offenses automatically qualify as “serious criminality.” Canadian authorities assess whether an offense is considered “serious criminality” based on the maximum sentence possible under Canadian law. If the crime is punishable by a maximum of 10 years or more in prison, it is classified as serious criminality.  loitering. A person who has committed a single offense equivalent to a summary offense under Canadian law may still be admissible.  Hybrid Offenses: These offenses can be prosecuted either as summary or indictable offenses. For immigration purposes, hybrid offenses are treated the same as indictable offenses when assessing criminal inadmissibility.  Who Can Be Deemed Inadmissible?  A foreign national (non-citizen and non-permanent resident) may be considered inadmissible for reasons including:  Conviction of an indictable offense in Canada or another country that would be considered indictable under Canadian law.  Committing an act outside Canada that is an offense both in the country where it occurred and under Canadian law.  You could be deemed inadmissible even if you have not been convicted, but have been arrested or charged with a crime. Multiple convictions for summary offenses (if not arising from the same incident) may also result in inadmissibility.  How Does Canada Access Foreign Criminal Records?  Canada shares criminal record information with the U.S. through travel documents. When traveling from the U.S. or applying for entry, Canadian border agents can access your criminal history via your passport or visa, which could lead to questioning or entry denial. Travelers from visa-exempt countries applying for an eTA may face similar issues.  When applying for permanent residency, foreign nationals must submit police certificates from the countries where they have lived for six months or more since turning 18. Temporary residents such as foreign workers or students may also be required to disclose their criminal history.  Can Permanent Residents Be Deemed Criminally Inadmissible?  Yes, even permanent residents of Canada can be deemed inadmissible due to “serious criminality.” However, they cannot be deemed inadmissible for less severe offenses (regular criminality). For instance, committing a serious crime like theft over CAD 5,000 or driving under the influence (post-December 2018) could jeopardize a permanent resident’s status in Canada.  How to Determine if a Foreign Offense Is Criminal in Canada?  To assess whether an offense committed abroad is considered a crime in Canada, you would compare the laws of the foreign country with Canada’s federal laws, primarily the Criminal Code of Canada. If unsure, consulting an immigration lawyer may be helpful.  Options for Overcoming Criminal Inadmissibility  If you have a criminal record and wish to enter or immigrate to Canada, you can explore several options to overcome criminal inadmissibility:  1. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)  A TRP allows individuals with a criminal record temporary access to Canada if their reason for entry outweighs any risk posed to Canadian society. TRPs are typically issued for the duration of the visit but can be valid for up to three years. There is no guarantee of approval.  2. Deemed Rehabilitation  You may be considered “deemed rehabilitated” if immigration authorities believe you no longer pose a risk to Canada. Eligibility for deemed rehabilitation depends on:  Number and type of offenses: Deemed rehabilitation usually applies to a single conviction, and multiple convictions may disqualify you unless they are summary offenses.  Seriousness of the offense: Serious crimes are not eligible for deemed rehabilitation.  Time since the completion of the sentence: Typically, 10 years must have passed since the sentence was served for an indictable offense, or five years for a summary conviction.  No additional criminal activity: You must have remained crime-free after completing your sentence.  3. Criminal Rehabilitation  If you do not qualify for deemed rehabilitation due to serious criminality or multiple indictable offenses, you must apply for criminal rehabilitation. This is available if at least five years have passed since the completion of your sentence. Once granted, criminal rehabilitation permanently waives your inadmissibility, provided there is no further criminal activity.  4. Legal Opinion Letter  A Canadian immigration lawyer can provide a legal opinion letter outlining whether your foreign offense is equivalent to an offense under Canadian law. This letter may be helpful if you are uncertain about your admissibility or want to clarify potential immigration consequences.  Other Reasons for Inadmissibility  Criminality is not the only reason someone may be deemed inadmissible to Canada. Other factors include:  National security concerns  Human or international rights violations  Economic reasons  Health-related issues  Misrepresentation (which may result in a

NEWS

Quebec Limits Foreign National Invitations Under Regular Skilled Worker Program to 25% Per Country 

On October 9, 2024, Quebec’s immigration minister, Jean François Roberge, introduced a new policy that caps the number of invitations issued to foreign nationals under the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) to 25% from any one country. This policy will be in effect from October 9, 2024, to October 9, 2025.  For each immigration draw conducted by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, no more than 25% of the invitations will be allocated to applicants from a single country. According to Roberge, the goal of this policy is to enhance the diversity of economic immigrants settling in Quebec by ensuring a broader range of national origins.  Roberge noted that in 2024, the diversity of origins among applicants for the Regular Skilled Worker Program has noticeably decreased, prompting the implementation of this measure. Although the current restriction only applies to the Regular Skilled Worker Program, there is potential for it to extend to the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ), which will eventually replace the Regular Skilled Worker Program.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration The Quebec government also clarified that the new policy would not affect the proportion of French-speaking applicants who receive invitations.  About the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ)  Quebec’s immigration process for skilled workers is unique compared to other provinces in Canada. To begin the process, candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Arrima platform, where they are evaluated and ranked based on several criteria, including:  Age;  Education;  Language skills;  Work experience;  Family composition;  Job offers; and  Family ties to Quebec.  Candidates proficient in French are awarded significantly higher points compared to those with English language skills under the scoring grid for the Regular Skilled Worker Program. Quebec selects the highest-ranking candidates from the Arrima pool and invites them to apply through the Mon Project Quebec portal.  Successful applicants receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which is necessary to apply to the federal government for permanent residency in Canada.  This new policy aims to promote a more diverse immigrant population while maintaining Quebec’s commitment to welcoming French speakers.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

NEWS

How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship: A Step-by-Step Guide 

If you are a permanent resident of Canada, at least 18 years old, and have lived in the country for more than three of the last five years, you may qualify to apply for Canadian citizenship.  Canadian citizenship offers several advantages compared to permanent residency. For instance, as a naturalized citizen, you can hold dual citizenship, participate in political elections, and apply for a Canadian passport.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Citizenship Eligibility Overview  According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the key requirements for becoming a naturalized Canadian citizen include:  Holding permanent resident status; Physically residing in Canada for at least 3 out of the past 5 years;  Filing income taxes in Canada for at least three of the last five years;  Demonstrating proficiency in either English or French;  Passing a citizenship test;  Taking the citizenship oath. (Source: IRCC)  Application Process  Most individuals can apply for Canadian citizenship online through the IRCC’s digital form.  However, you’ll need to apply on paper if:  You’re including time spent outside of Canada in your physical presence calculation because of service as a crown servant or being a family member of one (child, spouse, or common-law partner);  You want a representative to complete and submit your application.  To apply on paper, request a citizenship application package from the IRCC website.  Fees  Regardless of how you apply, fees must be paid online. While the exact amount depends on your application type, the IRCC provides guidelines for expected costs. Fees generally include both a processing fee and a right of citizenship fee.  IRCC advises that:  Fees should only be paid when you’re ready to submit your application;  You must include the payment receipt with your application;  If submitting multiple applications, fees can be paid all together or separately.  Submitting Your Application  Ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements for Canadian citizenship at least by the day before you sign your application.  Key reminders from IRCC include:  Paying your fees when you’re ready to submit;  Including the receipt with your application;  Ensuring your application arrives at IRCC within 90 days from the date on the form, or it will be returned.  IRCC also recommends using a postal service that provides tracking to verify your application’s delivery.  Language Proficiency Requirements  Applicants aged 18 to 54 (on the day the application is signed) must demonstrate adequate proficiency in either English or French. IRCC defines this as the ability to:  Participate in everyday conversations;  Follow simple instructions and directions;  Use basic grammar and sentence structures;  Understand enough vocabulary to express yourself clearly.  This is equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 4 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) Level 4 in French.  Language skills are assessed by:  Reviewing the language proof you submit;  Observing your spoken language abilities during interactions with citizenship officials;  Evaluating your language during the citizenship test, if required.  Various certificates, diplomas, and language test results are accepted as proof of language proficiency.  Application Processing  The current processing time for citizenship applications is approximately seven months.  However, in certain urgent situations, IRCC may expedite your application. Examples include needing citizenship for:  Employment;  Avoiding job loss;  Traveling due to a family emergency;  After winning a Federal Court appeal on a previous citizenship application.  Restrictions and Prohibitions  If you’ve committed a crime inside or outside of Canada, you may be barred from obtaining citizenship for an unspecified period. Time spent serving imprisonment, parole, or probation does not count toward your residency requirement. Each case is reviewed individually.  Checking Application Status  After receiving an acknowledgment letter or email, you can track the status of your citizenship application online. Contact IRCC if you:  Change your address;  Leave Canada for more than two consecutive weeks;  Cannot check your application status online and the processing time has passed;  Are charged with a crime;  Need to proceed with your application independently if you applied with a group.  If you have trouble communicating in English or French, provide written consent for a family member to communicate with IRCC on your behalf.  Citizenship Test  The citizenship test typically follows a week after the acknowledgment of receipt. It includes 20 multiple-choice or true/false questions about:  Rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens;  Canada’s history, geography, economy, government, laws, and symbols.  The test is 45 minutes long, and applicants must score at least 15 correct answers out of 20 to pass.  You will have up to three attempts to pass the test within 30 days of receiving the invitation. If unsuccessful, you will be invited to a hearing with a citizenship officer, who will ask questions similar to those on the test. Failing this hearing means your application will be refused, and you will need to reapply and pay the fees again.  Most people will take the test online, but those with specific accessibility needs may be offered alternatives like taking it over Microsoft Teams or in person.  IRCC provides a free study guide called Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship, available in various formats, including an online version, MP3, PDF, eBook, or a paper copy.  Citizenship Ceremony  The final step in the citizenship process is the ceremony. Ceremonies are held throughout the year, either online or in person. On the day, you must bring:  Your ceremony notice;  A signed Permission Release and Consent form (included with the notice);  Permanent resident card (or confirmation of permanent residence);  Record of Landing (for those who became permanent residents before June 28, 2002);  Two pieces of personal ID (one must have your photograph and signature);  Passports or travel documents (both current and expired) listed in the application;  A holy book (optional) for the Oath of Citizenship.  At the ceremony, adults and children aged 14 or older must attend to take the Oath of Citizenship. You’ll receive your citizenship certificate, sign the oath form, and sing Canada’s national anthem, “O Canada.”  After this, you’ll officially become a Canadian citizen! Parents will receive certificates for their children under 14, although children in this

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