Important Update: New PGWP Changes Effective November 1, 2024
It all begins with an idea.
October 16, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is introducing major changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which will take effect on November 1, 2024. These changes will impact international students who plan to work in Canada after completing their studies. Below, we outline the main updates and requirements to help you prepare for the transition.
What Remains Unchanged
Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Graduates must still complete their studies at a PGWP-eligible DLI.
Physical Presence: Students must remain in Canada for the majority of their academic program.
Existing Applications: Applications submitted before November 1, 2024, will follow the current PGWP rules.
Flight School Graduates: Those graduating from a PGWP-eligible flight school are exempt from the new criteria, even if applying after November 1, 2024.
New Eligibility Criteria for PGWP
Starting November 1, 2024, new eligibility requirements will be based on when the study permit application was submitted.
For Study Permits Submitted Before November 1, 2024:
University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.): Must achieve CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Other University Programs: The same language requirements apply (CLB 7 or NCLC 7).
College or Other Programs: Must achieve CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French).
For Study Permits Submitted On or After November 1, 2024:
University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.): Must achieve CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all language skills.
Other University Graduates: Must meet the CLB 7 or NCLC 7 language requirement, and the field of study must be in high demand in Canada.
College or Other Programs: Must achieve CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) and graduate from an eligible program related to fields experiencing long-term labor shortages.
Language Test Requirements
Language test results must be no older than two years when submitting your PGWP application. Accepted tests include:
CELPIP (General) for English
IELTS (General Training) for English
PTE Core for English
TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French
Prioritized Fields of Study for PGWP After November 1, 2024
The new rules will prioritize graduates in high-demand fields such as Healthcare, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Trades, Transportation, and Agriculture. Below are some examples of eligible fields and programs:
1. Agriculture and Agri-Food:
Agronomy and Crop Science (CIP Code: 01.1102)
Dairy Husbandry and Production (CIP Code: 01.0306)
Greenhouse Operations and Management (CIP Code: 01.0604)
2. Healthcare:
Veterinary Sciences (CIP Code: 01.8101)
Disability Studies (CIP Code: 05.0210)
Nutrition Sciences (CIP Code: 30.1901)
3. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM):
Molecular Genetics (CIP Code: 26.0802)
Computer Science (CIP Code: 11.0701)
Exercise Physiology (CIP Code: 26.0908)
4. Trades:
Meat Cutting (CIP Code: 12.0506)
Equestrian Studies (CIP Code: 01.0507)
5. Transportation:
Aircraft Pilot (CIP Code: 49.0102)
Heavy Equipment Operation (CIP Code: 49.0205)
Plan Ahead
Make sure you're prepared for these changes and ensure your eligibility by checking your program and field of study against the new criteria. Whether you're currently studying or planning to apply for a PGWP in the future, understanding these new rules is key to a successful application.
For more information and updates on PGWP changes, Please contact our immigration team info@zandbimmigration.ca.
International Experience Canada 2024 Season Set to Conclude on October 21
October 17, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
The International Experience Canada (IEC) 2024 season is approaching its end, with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announcing that the final round of invitations will be issued during the week of October 21, 2024. Prospective participants are urged to act swiftly, as all new IEC profiles must be submitted by 9 a.m. Eastern Time on October 21, 2024.
While new applications will no longer be accepted after this deadline, candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) before the program closes will still have the opportunity to submit their work permit applications.
As of now, the IRCC has reported processing times for the IEC 2024 season at approximately five weeks. The IEC program offers various work permits through three categories: Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op (Internship).
Categories Overview
Working Holiday Category
Provides open work permits that allow participants to work for multiple employers across Canada. This category is ideal for travelers looking to fund their stay while exploring the country.
Citizens from several countries, including Australia, Ireland, and Germany, still have excellent chances of receiving an invitation before the season concludes.
Young Professionals Category
Offers employer-specific work permits for participants who have secured a job offer in Canada that supports their professional development.
Countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and France have favorable opportunities for invitations in this category.
International Co-op (Internship) Category
Targets students requiring a work placement or internship in Canada to complete their studies. Countries like France and Germany are notable for their high availability of spots for last-minute applicants.
Important Information for Applicants
Final Round of Invitations: Scheduled for the week of October 21, 2024.
Deadline to Submit IEC Profiles: October 21, 2024, at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
Current Processing Time: Approximately five weeks.
What If You Receive an ITA?
Candidates who receive an ITA before the program's end will still be able to complete and submit their work permit application after the October 21 deadline.
With several countries, including Ireland, Japan, and France, still offering open spots across various categories, interested participants should act quickly to ensure their chance to work and travel in Canada through this unique program.
For more information about the IEC program, including application procedures and eligibility requirements, please visit the IRCC website.
Six Companies Offering LMIA-Exempt Work Permits in Canada Now Hiring
October 16, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Foreign nationals seeking work opportunities in Canada may have a chance to obtain an LMIA-exempt work permit through hiring by select companies in the tech sector. Earlier this month, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new work permit initiative under the Innovation Stream, part of Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy aimed at promoting economic growth by attracting skilled professionals.
As of October 16, six companies from the list of eight eligible for LMIA-exempt employer-specific work permits are actively hiring. Below are details about these companies, including their headquarters, locations, and current job vacancies:
Ada Support Inc.
Headquarters: Toronto
Hiring Locations: Toronto, remote
Glassdoor Rating: 3.1
About: Founded in 2016, Ada specializes in AI-driven customer service solutions. The company offers a remote work environment with various employee benefits, including stock options and unlimited vacation. Ada currently has over 15 positions available in areas like product development and customer experience.
AlayaCare
Headquarters: Montreal
Hiring Locations: Montreal, Toronto
Glassdoor Rating: 3.5
About: Established in 2014, AlayaCare focuses on healthcare technology, particularly in home care. With over 550 employees across multiple countries, it has a few openings in Canada, including positions requiring bilingualism in French and English.
CellCarta
Headquarters: Montreal
Hiring Locations: Montreal, remote
Glassdoor Rating: 2.2
About: CellCarta utilizes research and technology to enhance disease detection and treatment. The company has limited job openings in Canada, primarily for roles in technology architecture and revenue accounting.
Clarius Mobile Health
Headquarters: Vancouver
Hiring Locations: Vancouver
Glassdoor Rating: 4.3
About: Clarius aims to make ultrasound technology accessible to medical professionals. The company recently achieved certification from Great Place To Work® and currently has one opening for a manufacturing technician in Vancouver.
Clio
Headquarters: Burnaby
Hiring Locations: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, remote
Glassdoor Rating: 3.9
About: Clio provides cloud-based legal technology solutions for law firms. The company offers flexible work arrangements and has numerous positions available across its Canadian offices, including roles in sales and data science.
Lightspeed Commerce
Headquarters: Montreal
Hiring Locations: Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, remote
Glassdoor Rating: 3.7
About: Since its inception in 2005, Lightspeed has been dedicated to streamlining commerce for businesses. The company has various vacancies across Canada, including positions in software development and strategic pricing.
While Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group and Vive Crop Protection are recognized companies under the Innovation Stream, they are not currently hiring in Canada but may consider future opportunities.
The Innovation Stream provides these LMIA-exempt work permits as part of the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP), which aims to support innovative Canadian companies in job creation and economic growth. The first eight companies selected for this initiative are recognized as leaders and innovators within their industries.
Canada's Immigration Pilots Set to Launch in Fall 2024
October 17,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is introducing a series of immigration pilot programs aimed at addressing labor shortages in rural and specialized communities across the country. These programs will run over the next five years and aim to enhance the economic and demographic landscape of underserved areas.
Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)
Launch Date: Fall 2024
Duration: 5 years
Annual Applications: 2,750
The RCIP will focus on attracting skilled immigrants to rural communities to address critical labor shortages and stimulate local economies. Communities will have the opportunity to participate and nominate candidates who meet specific skills requirements, although detailed eligibility criteria are still under development.
New Caregiver Pilot Program – PR on Arrival
Launch Date: Fall 2024
A new pathway for home care workers, this program offers permanent residency (PR) on arrival for caregivers specializing in children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Applicants must meet requirements such as CLB Level 4 in English or French, a Canadian high school diploma equivalent, relevant work experience, and a full-time job offer in home care. Flexible working arrangements, such as part-time caregiving for semi-independent individuals, will be allowed.
New Immigration Pathway for Semi-Skilled Workers
Launch Date: Late 2024
Designed for workers in TEER 4 and 5 occupations, this pathway will provide a direct route to permanent residency for semi-skilled workers with at least one year of full-time Canadian work experience. This new pathway is expected to ease reliance on Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) by creating a more streamlined federal process.
Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)
Launch Date: Fall 2024
Duration: 5 years
Annual Applications: 2,750
The FCIP will focus on increasing the number of French-speaking immigrants in Francophone minority communities outside Quebec. The program will prioritize those with skills that align with regional economic needs, and local communities will play a pivotal role in the selection of newcomers.
Renewed Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
Launch Date: Fall 2024
The RNIP is transitioning from a pilot program to a permanent initiative. It aims to attract skilled workers to rural and northern communities struggling with labor shortages. The program will expand in scope, offering enhanced community support and broader opportunities for candidates.
Canada is introducing a series of immigration pilot programs aimed at addressing labor shortages in rural and specialized communities across the country. These programs will run over the next five years and aim to enhance the economic and demographic landscape of underserved areas.
Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)
Launch Date: Fall 2024
Duration: 5 years
Annual Applications: 2,750
The RCIP will focus on attracting skilled immigrants to rural communities to address critical labor shortages and stimulate local economies. Communities will have the opportunity to participate and nominate candidates who meet specific skills requirements, although detailed eligibility criteria are still under development.
New Caregiver Pilot Program – PR on Arrival
Launch Date: Fall 2024
A new pathway for home care workers, this program offers permanent residency (PR) on arrival for caregivers specializing in children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Applicants must meet requirements such as CLB Level 4 in English or French, a Canadian high school diploma equivalent, relevant work experience, and a full-time job offer in home care. Flexible working arrangements, such as part-time caregiving for semi-independent individuals, will be allowed.
New Immigration Pathway for Semi-Skilled Workers
Launch Date: Late 2024
Designed for workers in TEER 4 and 5 occupations, this pathway will provide a direct route to permanent residency for semi-skilled workers with at least one year of full-time Canadian work experience. This new pathway is expected to ease reliance on Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) by creating a more streamlined federal process.
Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)
Launch Date: Fall 2024
Duration: 5 years
Annual Applications: 2,750
The FCIP will focus on increasing the number of French-speaking immigrants in Francophone minority communities outside Quebec. The program will prioritize those with skills that align with regional economic needs, and local communities will play a crucial role in the selection of newcomers.
Renewed Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
Launch Date: Fall 2024
The RNIP is transitioning from a pilot program to a permanent initiative. It aims to attract skilled workers to rural and northern communities struggling with labor shortages. The program will expand in scope, offering enhanced community support and broader opportunities for candidates.
Thoughts on Canada's Upcoming Immigration Programs
These immigration pilots signal Canada's commitment to solving labor shortages in rural and underserved communities while supporting main sectors like caregiving and semi-skilled labor. The emphasis on community involvement ensures that these programs will not only meet the economic needs of these regions but also strengthen local engagement in the immigration process.
The Rural and Francophone pilots are especially promising, as they aim to revitalize communities that have struggled to attract and retain skilled labor. Similarly, offering PR on arrival for caregivers signals Canada's recognition of the crucial role these workers play in its social fabric.
While these programs are ambitious, success will depend on clear eligibility criteria, timely processing, and effective community engagement. It will be interesting to see how these initiatives evolve and whether they can serve as models for future immigration policy reform.
New Permanent Residence Pathway for Semi-Skilled Workers in Canada
October 21, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is set to introduce a new pathway allowing semi-skilled workers to become permanent residents. This move is part of the government’s initiative to better integrate these workers into the economy and reduce reliance on temporary residents.
TEER Levels
Canada's job classification system, TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities), breaks down occupations as follows:
TEER 0: Management roles (e.g., senior managers, restaurant managers).
TEER 1: Occupations requiring a university degree (e.g., doctors, engineers).
TEER 2: Jobs needing a college diploma or apprenticeship (e.g., electricians, chefs).
TEER 3: Roles requiring a college diploma or shorter apprenticeship (e.g., bakers, dental assistants).
TEER 4: Jobs needing only a high school diploma and on-the-job training (e.g., retail salespersons, office clerks).
TEER 5: Positions with no formal education requirements but short-term training (e.g., delivery drivers, cashiers).
Current Problem
Workers in lower-skilled roles (TEER 4 and 5) face limited opportunities for permanent residency. Many remain temporary residents, earning lower wages and facing slower career growth.
Proposed Changes
The new policy will establish a pathway for TEER 4 and 5 workers to apply for permanent residency. The goal is to modernize Canada's immigration system to include a wider range of skills and experiences.
Rationale for Change
Labour Market Trends: Many temporary foreign workers and students are employed in lower-skilled jobs, which offer less economic mobility.
Economic Impact: These jobs, while essential, often come with lower pay and fewer opportunities for career progression, making it challenging for workers to settle permanently in Canada.
Managing Temporary Residents
In 2023, over 2 million temporary residents were in Canada.
New policies aim to limit international student applications and focus on transitioning temporary residents into permanent status before admitting new immigrants.
Adjustments in Express Entry will prioritize those already living in Canada, particularly through provincial nominations and the Canadian Experience Class.
Benefits
For Semi-Skilled Workers: The proposed pathway will make it easier for these workers to achieve permanent residency, ensuring more job stability and career advancement.
Economic Integration: Canada aims to enhance economic integration for these workers by granting permanent status,.
More details on the proposed changes will be published on our website this fall. Additionally, specifics will be included in the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, expected by November 1.
Thoughts on this New Permanent Residence Pathway
The introduction of this new pathway for semi-skilled workers reflects Canada's recognition of the essential role these individuals play in the economy. Canada not only addresses labor market needs but also promotes social and economic stability for these workers, by creating a permanent residence option for TEER 4 and 5 workers,. This shift could help the country retain a diverse workforce, reduce the strain on temporary programs, and provide better support for those aspiring to build long-term futures in Canada.
Canada Introduces Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot Program to Boost French-Speaking Populations
October 24, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
The Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP) is a new immigration initiative launched by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), starting on August 26, 2024. This program aims to bring French-speaking international students to Francophone minority communities outside Quebec, focusing on regions with historically low study permit approval rates.
Program Objectives and Goals
The FMCSP has two main goals:
Support Francophone Communities: The program seeks to bolster French-speaking populations outside Quebec, promoting cultural and linguistic diversity across Canada.
Expand Opportunities for French-speaking Students: The program will simplify the immigration process and increase approval rates for students from underrepresented regions, by easing admission hurdles.
Main Benefits for Participants
Participants will enjoy several unique advantages:
No Proof of Intent to Leave Canada: Students and their families are exempt from proving they plan to return home post-study, reducing barriers to study permit approvals.
Lower Financial Requirements: Financial thresholds are reduced to 75% of the local low-income cut-off, improving accessibility for students from lower-income backgrounds.
Permanent Residency Pathway: Upon completing their studies, participants can apply directly for permanent residency, opening doors for long-term settlement in Canada.
Eligibility and Participation
To qualify, students must:
Be accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) where at least 50% of their courses are taught in French.
Be enrolled in a full-time, post-secondary program lasting two or more years.
Be citizens of one of the eligible countries listed in the program.
Eligible Countries
The program is open to French-speaking students from various regions, including Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. Eligible countries include:
Africa: Benin, Senegal, Togo, Tunisia, Morocco, etc.
Middle East: Lebanon, Egypt
Americas: Haiti, Dominica, Saint Lucia
Family Inclusion and Support
The FMCSP allows for the inclusion of family members, such as:
Spouses or Common-Law Partners: Eligible for visitor visas, open work permits, or study permits.
Dependent Children: Can access Canadian education while residing with their families.
Program Capacity and Future Plans
For its inaugural year, the FMCSP will accept 2,300 students, with plans to reassess the program’s capacity and make adjustments in August 2025, depending on its performance.
Thoughts on this New Student Pilot Program:
The FMCSP is a strategic move by the Canadian government to address the demographic challenges facing Francophone communities outside Quebec, while also providing international students from underrepresented regions an accessible pathway to education and residency. By reducing financial barriers and simplifying the application process, the program could play a crucial role in strengthening cultural diversity in Canada’s minority communities. However, the success of the program will depend on how effectively the government supports these students and their families during their transition and integration. Additionally, as the initial cap is relatively low, the program may see high demand, leading to potential expansions in the future.
Breaking News: Canada Unveils New Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027
October 24,2024 Amritpal Kaur
The new Canada Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027 outlines the country’s approach to welcoming new permanent and temporary residents over the next three years. Here's a simplified breakdown:
Permanent Resident Targets:
Focus on Transitioning Current Temporary Residents:
A significant part of the new plan is aimed at converting temporary residents (students and workers already in Canada) into permanent residents. These individuals already have housing and jobs, so their integration is smoother, helping the workforce without increasing pressure on social services.Long-Term Economic Growth:
A large portion of admissions will focus on economic immigration, targeting sectors like health and trades. By 2027, 61.7% of all permanent resident admissions will be in the economic category, aiming to support industries facing labor shortages.Francophone Immigration:
Canada aims to increase the number of French-speaking immigrants, especially outside of Quebec, aiming for 8.5% in 2025, growing to 10% by 2027. This is to strengthen Francophone communities and support their economic development.Overall Targets:
395,000 new permanent residents in 2025
380,000 in 2026
365,000 in 2027
This is a reduction compared to previous targets, as the 2024 plan aimed at welcoming 485,000 immigrants.
Temporary Resident Targets:
For the first time, Canada has set specific targets for temporary residents (workers and students):
Worker Arrivals:
These include people coming under programs like the International Mobility Program and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).Student Arrivals:
Canada will continue to admit a significant number of international students, contributing to economic and cultural growth.
Total Temporary Resident Arrivals:
673,650 in 2025
516,600 in 2026
543,600 in 2027
There’s a goal to reduce the number of temporary residents in the upcoming years, with a slight increase expected in 2027.
What’s Unique in the 2025-2027 Plan?
Permanent and Temporary Targets:
For the first time, Canada is setting targets for both permanent and temporary residents.Reduction in Overall Immigration:
The government is planning to decrease the number of both permanent and temporary residents, focusing on stabilizing immigration numbers and addressing workforce needs more efficiently.
Previous Plan (2024-2026):
The 2024-2026 plan targeted much higher levels of immigration, aiming to welcome up to 500,000 new permanent residents per year in 2025 and 2026. The new plan marks a significant reduction in these numbers.
In nutshell, the 2025-2027 plan reduces immigration targets, focuses on converting temporary residents to permanent ones, supports key economic sectors, and aims to strengthen Francophone communities.
In my view, this strategic shift could prove beneficial for Canada's labor market but may disappoint those hoping for faster family reunification or humanitarian entries.