Canada’s LMIA Wage Increase: What Employers and Foreign Workers Need to Know
November 11, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Effective November 8, 2024, Canada has introduced important changes to the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) program, which impacts businesses seeking to hire foreign workers through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These changes come with a 20% increase in wage thresholds across all provinces and territories, directly influencing how jobs are categorized as high-wage or low-wage positions. This update has the potential to significantly impact how companies recruit, compensate, and manage their workforce.
Let’s dive into what these wage changes mean for employers, foreign workers, and the overall Canadian labor market.
The LMIA Process and Wage Streams: A Quick Recap
Before hiring a foreign worker, employers in Canada are required to apply for an LMIA. The purpose of this process is to demonstrate that there is a legitimate labour shortage and that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the local job market.
The LMIA divides jobs into two primary categories based on the wage offered:
High-Wage Stream: For positions where the wage is at or above the provincial/territorial threshold.
Low-Wage Stream: For positions where the wage falls below the provincial/territorial threshold.
The new wage increase that took effect on November 8, 2024, raises the minimum salary levels for high-wage positions, impacting employers across Canada who wish to hire foreign workers.
Why Are the Wage Thresholds Changing?
The recent changes to the wage thresholds are a direct response to Canada’s growing need to ensure that foreign workers are paid fairly in alignment with the cost of living, particularly as inflation continues to rise. The increase in wage thresholds also addresses labour shortages in key industries and ensures Canada remains competitive in attracting skilled workers from abroad.
The thresholds will now reflect a 20% increase in many regions, which means businesses that previously hired foreign workers at slightly lower wages may now need to raise their compensation to qualify for the high-wage stream.
How These Wage Increases Impact Employers
If you're a business owner or HR manager in Canada, here’s how the new wage increases could affect your hiring process:
Budget Adjustments: Employers will need to reassess their compensation structures to meet the new wage requirements for high-wage positions. Businesses that were offering wages just below the high-wage threshold will need to increase them to stay competitive.
Industry-Specific Considerations: Certain sectors—such as construction, hospitality, agriculture, and manufacturing—rely heavily on foreign workers. The wage increase may significantly raise operational costs for these industries, especially in provinces where these positions are in high demand.
LMIA Application Process: High-wage positions generally face fewer restrictions and requirements compared to low-wage positions. For employers, this could simplify the hiring process, particularly when they meet the new wage thresholds and avoid additional obligations like hiring and training Canadians.
Increased Competition: With the wage increase, businesses will need to compete more aggressively for skilled foreign talent. This is especially true in high-demand industries like technology, healthcare, and finance, where attracting top talent has become increasingly competitive.
What Do These Changes Mean for Foreign Workers?
For foreign workers, the increased wage thresholds represent tangible benefits:
Better Pay: Foreign workers will benefit from higher wages, as many employers will raise salaries to meet the new thresholds. This is particularly important in industries where foreign workers fill key roles in high-demand sectors.
Easier Path to Immigration: Earning higher wages will also make it easier for foreign workers to qualify for economic immigration programs such as Express Entry, which prioritizes individuals with high-paying jobs and stable employment.
Improved Living Standards: With higher wages, foreign workers can enjoy a better quality of life in Canada. Higher pay increases their ability to afford housing, healthcare, and other essential services, making their transition into Canadian society smoother.
Wage Thresholds Across Canada: What You Need to Know
Here’s a breakdown of the new wage thresholds for high-wage positions across various provinces and territories. The 20% increase is reflected in the updated rates:
Alberta: The high-wage threshold has risen from $29.50 to $35.40.
British Columbia: The wage threshold now stands at $34.62, up from $28.85.
Manitoba: The new threshold is $30.00, a jump from $25.00.
New Brunswick: Employers in New Brunswick now need to offer at least $28.85, compared to the previous $24.04.
Newfoundland and Labrador: The wage threshold has increased from $26.00 to $31.20.
Northwest Territories: In the Northwest Territories, the threshold has risen from $39.24 to $47.09.
Nova Scotia: The wage requirement is now $28.80, up from $24.00.
Nunavut: Nunavut’s new threshold is $42.00, an increase from $35.00.
Ontario: Ontario’s new high-wage threshold is $34.07, up from $28.39.
Prince Edward Island: The wage threshold has moved from $24.00 to $28.80.
Quebec: Quebec now requires a minimum wage of $32.96, up from $27.47.
Saskatchewan: The high-wage threshold has increased from $27.00 to $32.40.
Yukon: Yukon’s wage threshold is now $43.20, a jump from $36.00.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Canada’s Labour Market
These wage increases signify a major step in Canada’s evolving approach to immigration and foreign labour. By ensuring fair pay for foreign workers and addressing the country’s labour shortages, Canada is positioning itself as a competitive, attractive destination for global talent.
For employers, this means adapting quickly to these changes to remain competitive. For foreign workers, this brings more financial stability, career opportunities, and improved pathways to permanent residency.
Final Thoughts: A Fairer, Stronger Labour Market
With the 20% increase in LMIA wage thresholds, both employers and foreign workers will need to adjust to these new standards. Employers must update their hiring practices and wage offerings to attract and retain skilled talent, while foreign workers stand to benefit from better compensation and smoother immigration pathways.
Canada’s commitment to fair pay and competitive wages is a clear step toward building a stronger, more inclusive economy, addressing labour shortages, and enhancing opportunities for workers from around the world.
If you're an employer looking to hire foreign talent, or a foreign worker considering opportunities in Canada, now is the time to stay informed about these crucial changes to the LMIA process.
End of the Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express: What It Means for International Students
November 11, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
In a significant move aimed at ensuring fair access to study permits for all international students, Canada has announced the end of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and the Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs.
Background on SDS and NSE
The Student Direct Stream was launched in 2018 to expedite the processing of study permits for eligible post-secondary students from specific countries. Over time, the SDS was extended to include legal residents from countries such as Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam. Similarly, the Nigeria Student Express was tailored specifically for prospective university students from Nigeria, providing a streamlined application process.
Reasons for the Change
Canada's goal with this change is to strengthen program integrity, address student vulnerability, and ensure that all students have equal and fair access to the application process. This shift is also designed to promote a positive academic experience for all international students.
What This Means for Prospective Students
As of 2:00 p.m. ET on November 8, 2024, the SDS and NSE initiatives have officially ended. Here’s what prospective students need to know:
Application Process: Moving forward, students will need to apply through the regular study permit stream. This standard process continues to accept Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) as proof of financial support, which allows students to demonstrate that they have adequate funds for their studies in Canada.
Processing of Current Applications: Applications for SDS and NSE that were submitted before the deadline will still be processed under those programs. However, any study permit applications submitted on or after this time will be handled under the regular study permit process.
Eligibility: This change does not negatively impact the eligibility of applicants from countries where the SDS or NSE were previously offered. All students, regardless of their past eligibility for these initiatives, must meet the standard study permit application requirements set by Canada.
Commitment to International Students
Canada continues to emphasize its commitment to welcoming international students from around the world. The end of the SDS and NSE programs is a step towards creating a more equitable application process, ensuring that all prospective students have a fair chance to pursue their education in Canada.
In a nutshell, while the fast-track options for study permits have been discontinued, Canada remains dedicated to supporting international students through a streamlined and fair application process.
Canada’s Immigration Plans for 2025: More Opportunities for Express Entry Candidates
November 7, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Exciting news for anyone looking to immigrate to Canada! The Canadian government has just unveiled its Immigration Levels Plan for 2025, and it’s packed with great news for Express Entry candidates. With increased targets for Permanent Resident (PR) spots, 2025 is shaping up to be a year full of new opportunities for skilled workers, especially for those already in Canada or working in high-demand sectors.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the upcoming changes, how they will affect Express Entry candidates, and what this means for your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
What's New in the 2025 Immigration Levels Plan?
Canada is increasing its target for Express Entry candidates in 2025, which is a huge win for anyone looking to make Canada their permanent home. According to the new levels plan, the country aims to invite 124,680 Express Entry candidates in 2025, a noticeable rise from the 2024 target of 117,500. This is in line with Canada’s ongoing strategy to address labour shortages and promote its economic growth through immigration.
But that’s not all. The increase in the target for 2025 also highlights the government’s focus on two key areas: Economic Priorities and In-Canada Focus. So, if you're already in Canada or have skills that match the country’s growing needs, you’re in a good position to benefit.
Increased Chances for In-Canada Candidates
One of the biggest changes in the new immigration plan is the prioritization of candidates who are already living and working in Canada. If you’re a temporary resident (for example, someone on a work permit), you’ll likely see higher chances of receiving an ITA in the coming year.
The Canadian government is keen on retaining skilled workers who are already contributing to the workforce. Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration Minister, has recently emphasized the importance of supporting temporary residents in their journey toward becoming Permanent Residents. Over 25,700 ITAs were issued between May and October 2024 alone in Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws, a clear signal that in-Canada candidates are a top priority.
Category-Based Draws: A New Focus on Key Sectors
Another exciting development in the 2025 immigration plan is the increased focus on category-based draws. These draws are designed to target specific skilled workers in sectors that are critical to Canada’s economy. The idea is to bring in talent where it's most needed, including fields like healthcare, agriculture, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and more.
The government has outlined the following key sectors for category-based draws:
French-language proficiency
Healthcare occupations
Transport occupations
STEM professions (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
Trade occupations
Agriculture and agri-food occupations
If you’re a skilled worker in one of these areas, this is great news. To be eligible for these category-based draws, you’ll need at least six years of experience (full-time or equivalent part-time) in an in-demand occupation over the past three years. The Canadian government aims to invite candidates in these fields to help address Canada’s labour shortages and promote its cultural diversity.
Looking Back: Category-Based Draws in 2024
In 2024, Canada introduced more targeted immigration through category-based draws, focusing on specific sectors in high demand. For instance, in the Agriculture and agri-food category, one draw resulted in 150 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). The French-language proficiency category saw the largest number of ITAs, with 21,400 invitations issued across nine draws, reflecting Canada's strong emphasis on bilingualism. In the Healthcare sector, two draws resulted in 7,250 ITAs, while STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) professionals received 4,500 ITAs from a single draw. Similarly, the Trade sector saw two draws issuing 3,600 ITAs, and Transport occupations had one draw with 975 ITAs issued. These category-based draws underscore the Canadian government’s strategic focus on attracting talent in key sectors that are critical to the nation’s economic development.
The French-language proficiency category led the way with a whopping 21,400 ITAs, highlighting how much Canada values bilingualism. Healthcare, trade, and STEM professions also saw significant numbers of ITAs, showing that these sectors are crucial to Canada’s workforce.
What Does This Mean for Overseas Candidates?
Now, what about candidates applying from outside Canada? While the increased emphasis on in-Canada applicants might sound concerning for overseas candidates, there’s no need to worry. If you have in-demand skills, especially in areas like healthcare, STEM, or French-language proficiency, you still have great opportunities ahead. The Canadian government is actively seeking skilled workers from all over the world, and the increase in PR targets means there will be more chances for you to land an ITA.
That said, competition could be higher in some sectors, so it’s essential to ensure your Express Entry profile is as strong as possible. A well-rounded profile with language proficiency, work experience, and education in high-demand fields will give you a significant edge in this competitive process.
Final Thoughts: 2025 Is Your Year for Canadian Immigration
With the increased PR targets for 2025, the emphasis on in-Canada candidates, and more category-based draws, there’s never been a better time to consider immigrating to Canada. Whether you’re already in Canada on a temporary work permit or planning to apply from overseas, now is the time to take action and prepare your Express Entry profile.
The 2025 immigration plan signals a welcoming future for skilled workers, and if you have the right qualifications, you could soon be on your way to becoming a Permanent Resident of Canada.
Good luck with your immigration journey—Canada is ready to welcome you!
IRCC Announces New Guidelines for Issuing Multiple-Entry Visas
November 7,2024 Amritpal Kaur
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated policies and procedures on the issuance of single and multiple-entry visas, aimed at providing clearer guidelines for visa applicants and stakeholders. The new guidelines, posted on the IRCC’s official website, outline key considerations for IRCC officers when determining eligibility for visitors seeking to travel to Canada.
The multiple-entry visa, a popular choice among frequent travelers, allows visa holders to enter Canada multiple times within the visa’s validity period, without the need to reapply for a new visa each time. The visa can be valid for up to 10 years or until the expiration of the passport or biometrics, whichever comes first. In the case where the visa is affixed to an old passport, it remains valid as long as the traveler carries both the expired passport and a newer, valid passport.
Criteria for Issuing a Multiple-Entry Visa
While applicants can apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, IRCC officers use their judgment to decide which type best suits an individual’s travel needs. Several key factors are taken into account:
1. Purpose of Visit
The primary consideration is the purpose of the applicant’s trip. Officers assess whether the individual is attending a one-time event, such as a conference or vacation, or planning to visit Canada regularly (e.g., for family visits or recurring business). Special cases, such as permit-exempt students or workers, or those visiting for compassionate purposes (e.g., to care for a critically ill family member), will also influence the decision.
2. Financial Stability
Applicants must demonstrate that they have the financial resources to support their stay in Canada. If the applicant’s host in Canada (family, friends, or an employer) is covering the costs, proof of the relationship and the host’s financial stability will be required. Similarly, applicants whose employers are sponsoring their trip for work purposes must submit an official letter from the employer confirming the funding.
3. Medical Considerations
Travelers with health conditions that may worsen over time, or those seeking medical treatment in Canada, must submit a mitigation plan, including proof of health insurance valid for the duration of their stay.
4. Strong Ties to Home Country
One of the most important factors in the visa decision is whether the applicant has strong ties to their home country, such as stable employment or family responsibilities. This helps demonstrate that the applicant is likely to return after their visit to Canada.
5. Previous Travel History
Officers will also review the applicant’s travel history, including previous trips to Canada and other countries. Travelers with a history of adhering to visa conditions are more likely to be granted multiple-entry visas.
6. Visa Refusals
Applicants who have been previously refused a visa for Canada or other countries must explain the reasons for the refusal. Officers will assess whether those issues have been addressed in the new application.
Determining the Validity Period of the Visa
While the maximum validity for a multiple-entry visa is 10 years, officers have the discretion to issue the visa for a shorter period depending on the applicant’s circumstances. Factors that may influence the validity period include:
Short-term purposes: If the purpose of the visit is temporary, such as providing after-sales support for a business transaction, the visa may be issued for a shorter duration.
Status in Home Country: The applicant’s status in their current country of residence and any potential changes in their ties to both their home country and Canada may impact the visa’s length.
Political or Economic Instability: If the applicant is from a country experiencing political or economic instability, officers may decide to issue the visa for a shorter period to allow for periodic reassessment.
In a nutshell,The updated guidelines on issuing multiple-entry visas reflect Canada’s commitment to balancing flexibility for legitimate travelers with the need to maintain the integrity of its immigration system. While applicants who meet the outlined criteria are more likely to be approved, it is crucial to ensure all required documentation is submitted to strengthen the application.
For further details and specific guidelines on applying for Canadian visas, visit the official IRCC website or consult with us, immigration professionals.
Why Skilled Workers and International Graduates in Quebec Should Look to Express Entry for Permanent Residency
November 7,2024 Amritpal Kaur
If you’re an international graduate or skilled worker living in Quebec, and you’re aiming to become a permanent resident of Canada, you’ve likely been keeping an eye on recent changes in Quebec’s immigration system. With the temporary suspension of the Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ) and the Graduate component of the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), you may be wondering about your next steps.
Fortunately, there’s a viable and streamlined alternative: Canada’s Express Entry system. While Quebec manages its own immigration system, Express Entry opens up pathways to permanent residency in all provinces and territories outside Quebec. In this blog post, we’ll break down why Express Entry could be your best option and how you can leverage this system to secure your place as a permanent resident in Canada.
What is Express Entry and How Does It Work?
The Express Entry system is Canada’s federal immigration platform for skilled workers, professionals, and graduates seeking permanent residency. Unlike Quebec, which has its own set of immigration rules, Express Entry is designed for candidates intending to settle outside the province. Express Entry manages applications for three major federal programs:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria for these programs can create a profile in the Express Entry pool, where they are ranked against others based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Candidates with the highest scores are then invited to apply for permanent residency.
Why Should You Consider Express Entry?
For those living in Quebec, especially with the recent suspension of key Quebec immigration programs, Express Entry presents a flexible and accessible alternative. Here are several compelling reasons to consider Express Entry:
1. Broader Opportunities Across Canada
Express Entry opens up permanent residency opportunities across all provinces and territories in Canada, excluding Quebec. While Quebec has its own unique immigration pathways, if you plan to live in another province, Express Entry is the primary route to permanent residency.
2. Faster Processing Times
Express Entry is known for its quick processing times. Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency, your application is usually processed in about six months. In comparison, some provincial immigration programs—like Quebec’s—can take significantly longer.
3. Larger Immigration Quotas
Unlike Quebec, which has specific immigration targets, Express Entry offers a larger number of spots for candidates across various sectors. In 2025, Canada’s federal immigration plan aims to welcome over 124,000 permanent residents through the Express Entry system, offering a greater chance of success for eligible candidates.
4. Opportunity to Improve Your Profile
The Express Entry system is dynamic, meaning you can improve your profile over time to increase your chances of receiving an ITA. Factors like language proficiency, a job offer, or even a provincial nomination can boost your CRS score and improve your chances of selection.
Which Express Entry Program is Right for You?
To apply through Express Entry, you need to qualify for one of the three main immigration programs. Let’s break down who should apply for each:
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
The Canadian Experience Class is ideal for international graduates or skilled workers who have gained work experience in Canada. If you've already worked in Canada, you may qualify for this program and benefit from a higher CRS score due to your Canadian experience.
Eligibility:
At least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years.
Language proficiency in either English or French (CLB 7 for jobs in NOC 0 or 1; CLB 5 for jobs in NOC 2 or 3).
Intent to live outside Quebec.
The CEC is often the best option for individuals who have Canadian work experience and meet the language requirements, as Canadian experience significantly boosts your CRS score.
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
If you’re a skilled worker without Canadian work experience, the Federal Skilled Worker Program might be the right choice. This program is designed for people who have experience in skilled occupations outside of Canada.
Eligibility:
At least one year of full-time skilled work experience in the last 10 years in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
Language proficiency equivalent to CLB 7 in English or French.
Proof of funds unless you have a valid job offer.
Educational credentials, either Canadian or a foreign degree assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
If you meet the eligibility criteria and score well on the FSWP points grid, this program offers a pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Canada.
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For those with experience in skilled trades, the Federal Skilled Trades Program offers another option for permanent residency. This program is designed for candidates who have experience in trades such as construction, plumbing, electrical, and more.
Eligibility:
Two years of skilled trade work experience in the last five years.
A valid job offer from a Canadian employer or a certificate of qualification from a Canadian province or territory.
Language proficiency of CLB 5 for speaking and listening and CLB 4 for reading and writing.
If you’re a tradesperson, the FSTP could be the best fit, especially if you have a job offer from a Canadian employer or a certification in your trade.
Category-Based Draws: A Boost to Your Chances
Express Entry offers Category-Based Draws, which prioritize candidates with specific skills or attributes. These categories include:
French language proficiency (NCLC 7 or higher).
Healthcare professionals.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) professionals.
Skilled trades and transport workers.
Agriculture and agri-food workers.
If you have a background in any of these areas, you could see your CRS score increase significantly, improving your chances of receiving an ITA in a category-based draw.
How to Improve Your CRS Score
Your CRS score plays a key role in whether you will be invited to apply for permanent residency. Here are some ways to boost your score:
Improve Your Language Skills: Take language tests in both English and French to maximize your score. Bilingual candidates can earn additional points.
Get a Job Offer: A valid job offer can give your score a significant boost.
Provincial Nomination: If you receive a provincial nomination, it adds 600 points to your CRS score, almost guaranteeing an ITA.
The Application Process: Step by Step
Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements for one of the Express Entry programs (CEC, FSWP, or FSTP).
Language Testing and Credential Assessment: Take language tests and get an ECA for any foreign education.
Submit Your Profile: Create your Express Entry profile online.
Receive an ITA: If your profile meets the cutoff score, you’ll receive an ITA in a subsequent draw.
Submit Your Application: Submit your complete application for permanent residency within 60 days of receiving your ITA.
Wait for Processing: Once your application is submitted, you can expect a decision within about six months.
A Pathway to Permanent Residency Outside Quebec
For skilled workers and international graduates in Quebec who are considering a move outside the province, Express Entry offers an efficient and straightforward pathway to Canadian permanent residency. With the right qualifications, improved language proficiency, or even a job offer, Express Entry provides the opportunity to live and work in one of the many provinces and territories across Canada.
So, if you’re looking to transition to permanent residency, and Quebec’s immigration programs no longer align with your plans, consider Express Entry as your next step toward achieving your Canadian dream.
Canada Immigration Backlog Update: Rising Applications and Ongoing Challenges
November 6, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
As we approach the final quarter of 2024, Canada’s immigration system continues to grapple with an increasing backlog of applications. Despite ongoing efforts to streamline processing times, the number of applications in limbo is still climbing. In fact, the latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that there are now nearly 2.5 million applications in process, with a substantial portion of them exceeding normal processing times.
New Data Release (November 4, 2024)
According to the latest official figures released by IRCC, as of the end of September 2024, 1.1 million applications are now officially categorized as "backlog" applications — those that have exceeded the expected service standards. This represents a 1.73% increase in backlog volume compared to the previous month, signaling that despite efforts to improve processing speeds, the system is struggling to keep up with demand.
A Deeper Look into the Immigration Backlog
The backlog can be broken down into three main categories: citizenship, permanent residency, and temporary residency. Here’s a closer look at how these categories are performing:
Citizenship Applications: There were 38,100 citizenship applications in backlog by the end of September 2024. This represents a slight decrease of 1.29% from August 2024 when there were 38,600 applications in backlog. Processing for citizenship applications has shown some improvement compared to other categories, with a reduction in the backlog month-over-month.
Permanent Residency Applications: For permanent residency, the backlog has increased by 1.46%, reaching 305,200 applications by the end of September. In August 2024, the number stood at 300,800. This suggests that there are ongoing delays in processing permanent residency applications, which remain a significant challenge for IRCC.
Temporary Residency Applications: The backlog of temporary residency applications, which includes study permits, work permits, and visitor visas, has risen notably by 2% from August 2024, reaching 753,700 by the end of September. This is a substantial increase compared to July 2024 when the backlog stood at 738,900 applications. Temporary residency continues to be the most heavily impacted category, likely due to seasonal spikes in demand.
Processing Within Service Standards
While the backlog has grown, it’s important to note that a substantial portion of applications is still being processed within IRCC's service standards. In fact, as of September 2024, over 1.35 million applications were processed within the expected timelines.
Citizenship: For citizenship applications, 184,800 applications were processed on time by the end of September 2024, down from 190,600 the previous month, marking a 3.04% decrease. Despite this drop, the processing for citizenship continues to perform relatively well compared to other categories.
Permanent Residency: In the permanent residency category, 510,800 applications were processed on time, which is a 1.19% increase from August when the figure was 504,800. This indicates that permanent residency applications are being processed at a slightly faster rate than before.
Temporary Residency: For temporary residency, 658,000 applications were processed within service standards, representing a 1.68% increase from the previous month when 647,100 temporary residency applications were processed on time. While there is an improvement, this category still faces significant challenges due to the volume of applications.
The Impact of Backlog on Applicants and the Canadian Economy
The growing backlog is affecting not only applicants but also the Canadian labor market and society at large. Here are some of the key consequences:
Labor Market Disruptions: Delays in processing work permits are causing strain on industries that rely on foreign talent, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and education. The delay in issuing permits can slow down economic recovery in key industries.
Family Reunification Delays: The backlog is also affecting families hoping to reunite in Canada. Delays in family sponsorships can cause emotional and financial strain for those separated by immigration procedures.
Financial and Emotional Strain on Applicants: Those waiting for permanent residency or citizenship often experience uncertainty, which can lead to financial instability as they wait for resolution. This uncertainty can hinder their integration into Canadian society, as they are uncertain about their work or living status.
What Lies Ahead: Projections and Challenges
Looking forward, IRCC's projections for the backlog remain concerning. The department aims to process 80% of applications within the service standards, but given the fluctuating demand, this goal is difficult to achieve. Here are the projected figures for the next two months:
Citizenship: The backlog for citizenship applications is projected to decrease slightly by the end of November, from 17% in September to 16% by November.
Express Entry: The backlog for Express Entry applications is expected to rise to 20% by the end of November from 17% in September.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): The backlog in the PNP category is expected to remain relatively stable at around 20%, down from 23% in September.
Spousal Sponsorship: The backlog for spousal sponsorship applications is projected to stay the same at 15%.
Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs): The backlog for temporary resident visas is the most concerning, with projections showing it will remain at around 59% by the end of November, down slightly from 72% in September.
Study Permits: The backlog for study permits is expected to decrease slightly, from 36% in September to 37% by the end of November.
Work Permits: The backlog for work permits, which had a significant surge in September, is projected to improve slightly to 44% by the end of November.
These projections highlight the ongoing challenges IRCC faces in managing the high demand for certain types of applications, particularly for temporary resident visas, study permits, and work permits.
Strategies for Managing the Backlog
To address these mounting challenges, several steps can be taken:
Increase Processing Capacity: During high-demand seasons, IRCC could increase staffing levels to reduce processing delays, especially for temporary resident visa applications.
Leverage Technology: Utilizing automation and AI in the application review process could streamline approvals, especially for straightforward applications like renewals or low-risk applicants.
Policy Adjustments: The government could implement more stringent criteria for some categories, such as work permits or student visas, to help manage the volume of applications more effectively.
Enhanced Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaborating with educational institutions and employers to better align application intake with processing capacity could alleviate some of the pressure on the system.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Canada’s Immigration System in 2024
The rise in Canada's immigration backlog is a clear signal that the system needs to evolve. While there are signs of improvement in some categories, others — especially temporary residency — continue to experience significant delays. As more applicants wait for resolution, Canada’s immigration system must adopt innovative strategies to manage demand and improve processing efficiency.
For prospective immigrants, staying informed about the latest updates and understanding the nuances of the backlog is critical. While the wait can be frustrating, it's also an opportunity to prepare and adapt for the changes that lie ahead.
Ontario Entrepreneur Stream Officially Closing to New Applications
November 5,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Ontario has announced that the Entrepreneur Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) will be closed to new applicants, effective as part of a broader wind-down of the program. This move follows the temporary pause on accepting new applications, which was implemented on December 4, 2023.
According to a statement from the Ontario government, the closure of the Entrepreneur Stream will officially conclude the program, with final amendments to regulations now in effect. The government has emphasized that these changes will not affect those who have already submitted applications prior to the pause in 2023.
Key Changes to the Program:
Amended Regulations: Ontario has updated the rules governing the program through two key regulations, Ontario Regulation 439/24 and Ontario Regulation 438/24. The new rules will guide the ongoing processing of applications already in the system.
You can read the amended regulations on e-Laws:
Ongoing Processing for Existing Applicants: Current applicants who have already applied under the Entrepreneur Stream will continue to have their applications processed, though under the updated regulations. These applicants may still be eligible for a nomination for permanent residence based on their business plans and commitments to establish a business in Ontario.
What Happens Next?
The Ontario government assured that all applicants who were in the process before December 2023 will be contacted directly in the coming days. These communications will provide more information about next steps and any additional requirements under the updated regulations.
Program Closure and Impact on Ontario's Immigration Landscape
The decision to close the Entrepreneur Stream is part of a broader reshaping of Ontario's immigration strategy. The program, which has long been a pathway for entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses in the province, will now cease accepting new applicants as the government seeks to streamline and focus on other immigration pathways.
Applicants who have already started the process are encouraged to stay in contact with the OINP and follow up on any instructions related to their applications.
For further information or any inquiries, current applicants can reach out via email to business.immigration@ontario.ca.