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NEWS

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

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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 

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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 

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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 

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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 

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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

NEWS

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

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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

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

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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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IRCC reveals the programs that qualify for PGWPs

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IRCC has provided updated information on which educational programs now qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).  As of new guidelines released in September, certain international graduates across various study levels who apply for a PGWP after November 1 will be required to meet additional criteria based on their field of study to qualify for the work permit*.  *Note: These field of study requirements do not apply to graduates with a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD from a university.  Discover your options to study in Canada What are the fields of study eligible for PGWPs?  The eligible fields of study for PGWP align with occupational categories introduced by IRCC in 2023 under the Express Entry system, which are designed to reflect national labor market demands.  The eligible fields include:  Agriculture and Agri-food  Healthcare  Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)  Trades  Transportation  PGWP-eligible programs within these fields are classified and listed using the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP), which is Canada’s system for categorizing educational programs, similar to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) used for jobs in Canada.  The table below lists examples of instructional programs eligible for a PGWP in each field of study, along with their corresponding CIP codes:  CIP 2021 Title CIP 2021 Code Field of Study Category Agricultural business and management, general 01.0101 Agriculture and agri-food Animal/livestock husbandry and production 01.0302 Agriculture and agri-food Plant nursery operations and management 01.0606 Agriculture and agri-food Animal health 01.0903 Agriculture and agri-food Agronomy and crop science 01.1102 Agriculture and agri-food Special education and teaching, general 13.1001 Healthcare Exercise physiology 26.0908 Healthcare Physical therapy assistant 51.0806 Healthcare Polysomnography 51.0917 Healthcare Cytotechnology/cytotechnologist 51.1002 Healthcare Computer programming/programmer, general 11.0201 STEM Chemical engineering 14.0701 STEM Engineering mechanics 14.1101 STEM Water, wetlands and marine resources management 03.0205 STEM Computer graphics 11.0803 STEM Electrician 46.0302 Trade Heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration maintenance technology/technician 47.0201 Trade Machine tool technology/machinist 48.0501 Trade Insulator 46.0414 Trade Plumbing technology/plumber 46.0503 Trade Heavy equipment maintenance technology/technician 47.0302 Transport Air traffic controller 49.0105 Transport Truck and bus driver/commercial vehicle operator and instructor 49.0205 Transport Flight instructor 49.0108 Transport Transportation and materials moving, other 49.9999 Transport How to find your CIP code  International graduates who know the title of their program and wish to find the corresponding CIP code can follow these steps:  Visit the Statistics Canada webpage for the 2021 CIP system (accessible here).  Either enter keywords related to the program in the search bar above the table or browse the available study fields listed in the table.  Both methods will lead to a second table that breaks down the sub-categories for each study field.  Choose the relevant sub-category for your program. If uncertain, use the “display definitions” button to learn more about each category.  Proceed to the relevant sub-category.  On the final table, you will find detailed information about specific instructional programs within the chosen sub-category. If you are unsure, use the “display definitions” function to read more about each program.  Select the relevant program.  The last page will offer detailed information about each instructional program, including examples and exclusions. Note that program titles are general, so the descriptions are crucial for choosing the correct CIP code.  New language requirements for PGWP applicants  In addition to the new field of study conditions, IRCC has introduced language proficiency requirements for PGWP eligibility. These language criteria vary based on the level of education of international graduates. Both changes are summarized in the table below.  Level of Study Language Requirement Field of Study Requirement University bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 language areas All fields of study are eligible Any other university program CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all 4 language areas Must graduate in an eligible field of study College program or any other program not listed above CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all 4 language areas Must graduate in an eligible field of study *Students applying for a PGWP before November 1 of this year do not have field of study requirements but will still need to meet the language criteria listed above. Discover your options to study in Canada

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Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba are inviting candidates to submit applications for provincial nominations 

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Three Canadian provinces have extended invitations to candidates this week to apply for their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).  The PNP, established in 1998, aims to distribute the benefits of immigration more evenly across Canada by sharing immigration responsibilities between the federal government and provincial or territorial governments.  Today, the PNP is a key pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada.  Discover your options to study in Canada Although a provincial nomination doesn’t automatically result in permanent residency (PR), it significantly boosts a candidate’s application. Those in the Express Entry pool who receive a provincial nomination are awarded an extra 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, almost ensuring they will receive an invitation to apply (ITA) in a future Express Entry draw.  Provincial Immigration Results: October 5-11 Ontario  On October 8, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) sent out invitations to candidates eligible for the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream.  A total of 885 invitations were issued to individuals in skilled trades, with a minimum score requirement of 48.  Additionally, the province invited 841 candidates in a targeted draw under the same stream for priority occupations. To qualify for an invitation, candidates needed a minimum score of 52 and a job offer in a priority occupation. The list of priority occupations, categorized by NOC code, can be found here.  British Columbia  Also on October 8, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) invited over 173 candidates through the Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams.  The minimum cut-off varied according to industry. The breakdown can be seen below:  Draw type Minimum score Number of invitations Childcare 83 44 Construction 89 25 Healthcare 99 21 Tech 116 83 Veterinary care 80 <5 Manitoba  On October 10, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) held three separate draws.  The first draw, part of an occupation-specific selection under the Skilled Worker in Manitoba stream, issued 82 invitations to individuals who completed post-secondary education in Manitoba, with a minimum score requirement of 845 points.  On the same day, 114 candidates were invited through the International Education stream.  Lastly, the MPNP held a draw under the Skilled Worker Overseas stream, inviting 38 individuals with a minimum score of 711. Candidates had to be invited by the MPNP under a “Strategic Recruitment Initiative” to be eligible for this draw.  Discover your options to study in Canada

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Atlantic Immigration Program Offers Accelerated Route to Canadian Permanent Residency 

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The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an immigration route designed for skilled workers who are looking to settle in one of the four provinces in Atlantic Canada:  The AIP is driven by employers, meaning that in order to qualify, a foreign national must secure a job offer from a designated employer in one of these Atlantic provinces.  Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration Key Advantages of the AIP  Compared to other Canadian immigration programs, the Atlantic Immigration Program offers several benefits for individuals planning to settle in Atlantic Canada:    Faster processing times  The ability to work legally in Canada while applying for permanent residency (PR)  Work permits that do not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)  Personalized settlement assistance  Faster Processing Times  The AIP is highly sought after in Atlantic Canada because it provides eligible candidates with a streamlined process to work in Canada and apply for permanent residency simultaneously. The current processing time for PR applications through AIP is around eight months—faster than many other PR options.  LMIA-Exempt Work Permits  Candidates who want to begin working before their permanent residency is finalized can apply for a temporary work permit. This work permit does not require an LMIA.  To qualify for this work permit, a candidate needs:  A valid job offer from a designated employer  A referral letter from the Atlantic province where they will be employed  The work permit is valid for up to two years and is job-specific, meaning the candidate can only work for the employer that provided the job offer. However, receiving this work permit does not guarantee approval of the PR application.  Personalized Settlement Support  A key feature of the AIP is its emphasis on helping newcomers integrate into their new province. Employers must work with settlement agencies to create a personalized settlement plan for the new hires, offering them tailored guidance and support to better adjust to life in their new communities.  Who Can Apply?  Each Atlantic province processes a limited number of applications annually based on regional labor market needs. Applicants can either be inside or outside Canada but must meet the eligibility requirements.  In addition to having a job offer from a designated employer, candidates must either be:  A skilled worker (with experience either within or outside Canada), or  A recent graduate from a recognized post-secondary institution in one of the four Atlantic provinces.  Skilled Worker Eligibility for AIP:  Skilled workers are eligible for the AIP if they have:  At least 1,560 hours of work experience within the last five years, which equates to roughly 30 hours per week for one year.  Work experience that falls under National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021’s TEER categories 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4.  Recent Graduate Eligibility for AIP:  International graduates qualify for the AIP if they:  Have earned a credential from a recognized post-secondary institution in one of the Atlantic provinces, after completing at least two years of study  Were full-time students for the duration of their program  Lived in one of the Atlantic provinces for at least 16 months during the last two years before graduation  Held legal status to study, work, or train while in Canada.  Additional Criteria for AIP  In addition to the above, there may be other criteria that candidates must fulfill to be eligible for the program, based on the specific needs of the province or employer.  Educational Requirements  Education requirements vary depending on the NOC TEER of the candidate’s job offer:  NOC TEER Education requirements 0 or 1 One-year Canadian post-secondary educational credential or higher, or the equivalent from outside Canada 2, 3, or 4 Canadian high school diploma, or the equivalent from outside Canada All foreign degrees must undergo an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for recognition in Canada. The ECA report must be no older than five years when IRCC receives the application.  Language Requirements  Candidates are required to prove their language proficiency, which varies depending on the NOC TEER classification of their job offer.  NOC TEER Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 0, 1, 2, or 3 CLB 5 4 CLB 4 The language test results must be less than two years old from the date of application.  Settlement Funds  Applicants need to prove that they have money to support themselves and their family in Canada. The amount of money needed depends on the size of the family.  Number of family members Funds needed (in CAD) 1 $3,672 2 $4,572 3 $5,620 4 $6.824 5 $7,740 6 $8,729 7 $9,718 If more than 7, add this amount for every additional family member $989 What is the difference between the AIP and Provincial Nominee Programs?  The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) enables Canadian provinces to select and nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and plan to settle in a specific province.  With over 80 distinct provincial immigration streams, many PNPs differ from the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) in that they often don’t require candidates to have a job offer or prior Canadian work or study experience to qualify for a nomination.  The PNP typically involves a two-step process for obtaining permanent residency. First, candidates must secure a provincial nomination, then submit an application to the federal government for permanent residency.  Due to the additional steps and generally longer processing times, PNP applications may take longer to obtain PR status compared to AIP applications.    Atlantic Immigration Program Provincial Nominee Program Valid for New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island All provinces except for Nunavut and Quebec Need a job offer Yes, from designated employer Not necessary, depending on the PNP stream Pathway to PR One-step process. Eligible candidates can directly apply for PR Two-step process. Candidates must first be nominated by the province, then invited to apply to the federal government. Processing time until PR 8 months (as of October 2024) Varies according to province and stream. Approximate time for enhanced nominations: 8-12 months Approximate time for base nominations: 12-24 months Settlement funds Needed, but significantly lesser than proof of

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