IRCC’s New Open Work Permit Policy: A Golden Opportunity for Foreign Workers
November 26, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new policy aimed at making it easier for foreign workers in Canada to obtain an Open Work Permit (OWP). If you're currently working in Canada and have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), this could be your chance to gain more flexibility in your work options. But don’t wait too long—this policy is valid only until December 31, 2024.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for this open work permit, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Current or Expired Work Permit: If you have a valid work permit or your work permit expired after May 7, 2024, and you've applied for the restoration of your status.
Pending or Approved Work Permit Extension: If your work permit extension application is either pending or approved.
You’ll need a letter of employment from your current employer, a support letter from the provincial or territorial government confirming your EOI status, and a signed letter of intent with IRCC.
Application Details:
Online Applications Only: Applications must be submitted online, and in-person applications at the Canadian border are not accepted.
Residency Status: You must remain in Canada to maintain your temporary resident status when IRCC makes its decision. If you leave Canada, your application will be invalid, and you’ll have to restart the process.
Required Documents: Main documents include a passport ID page, digital photo (taken within 6 months), your current or expired work permit, and letters from your employer and the provincial or territorial government.
Validity & Fees:
Work Permit Validity: If granted, the OWP can be valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
Fees:
$155 for the work permit application
$229 for the restoration of status (if applicable)
$85 for biometrics (if required)
Family Benefits:
If you’re approved for the OWP, your spouse or common-law partner can also apply for their own open work permit. Dependent children (in kindergarten to grade 12) may either apply for a study permit or attend school without one, provided they are already in Canada.
Why Act Now?
This new policy offers foreign workers much-needed flexibility and could be a game-changer for those looking to work in Canada. But with the deadline fast approaching, make sure to apply before December 31, 2024 to take advantage of this opportunity. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth reaching out to us as immigration consultants, we can help you navigate the complex immigration process with ease.
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
Canada’s Immigration Overhaul: A Step Forward or a Step Back?
November 26, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada’s immigration system is at a breaking point. With asylum claims piling up and temporary workers exploited, it’s no surprise that Immigration Minister Marc Miller is pushing for reform. But as he unveils plans to overhaul the system, I can’t help but wonder—are these changes really the solution, or could they be a misstep?
The biggest issue facing the system right now is the asylum backlog. Claims are stuck in limbo for years, and only a fraction of them are processed each year. Miller’s focus on speeding up decisions is understandable—this inefficiency needs to end. But the danger here is rushing to fix things in a way that risks leaving vulnerable people in the cold.
Then there’s the LMIA system, which has become a breeding ground for exploitation. Immigrants have been paying consultants and employers hefty sums to secure points toward permanent residency. Miller’s plan to reduce these points makes sense in theory. But Canada’s economy relies heavily on foreign workers, and cutting back on the LMIA bonus could make it harder for businesses to find the talent they need.
Finally, Miller’s stance on temporary residency programs is something worth questioning. His view that temporary residency should stay temporary is harsh, especially for international students and workers who’ve been here for years, contributing to Canadian society. If we close the door to those who’ve invested in our country, we risk losing the very people who help it thrive.
Sure, the system is broken, but as Miller proposes sweeping changes, we need to ask ourselves: Are we fixing the problem or simply pushing it further down the road? Reform is necessary, but we must tread carefully. Canada’s immigration system should be efficient, yes—but it should never lose its heart.
I can’t help but think that the real challenge is not just changing the rules, but ensuring that the spirit of immigration—opportunity, fairness, and compassion—remains intact. After all, isn’t that what makes Canada, well, Canada? As immigration consultants, we can help you navigate the complex immigration process with ease.
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
Marc Miller Considers Ending LMIA Points for Permanent Residency: What It Means for Applicants
November 25, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada's immigration system may soon see a significant shift. Immigration Minister Marc Miller is considering the removal of bonus points awarded to applicants with a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). If this change goes ahead, it could drastically change how applicants secure permanent residency through the Express Entry system.
Why Are LMIAs Under Scrutiny?
The LMIA system was designed to ensure employers can only hire foreign workers when Canadians can’t fill the positions. Currently, applicants with a valid LMIA earn 50 bonus points under the Express Entry system, and even 200 points for managerial roles. These points can significantly boost an applicant’s chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
However, Minister Miller has expressed concern over the abuse of the LMIA system, particularly the sale of fake job offers. Unscrupulous recruiters have been offering fake LMIAs, often at steep prices, to boost applicants' points. This has led to a lack of integrity in the system, undermining the credibility of legitimate employers and applicants.
Fighting Fraud and Restoring Trust
Minister Miller has acknowledged the problem of LMIA fraud, where fake job offers are sold on the black market, leading to unfair advantages for some applicants. "We can’t let LMIA points become a tool for exploitation," Miller stated. By removing the points, Ottawa hopes to reduce fraud and restore fairness to Canada’s immigration process.
This potential policy change is part of a broader effort to address challenges within the system, including resource constraints and mounting public concerns over immigration.
Public Sentiment and Immigration Challenges
A recent survey revealed that more Canadians believe the country is taking in too many immigrants, raising questions about the country’s ability to absorb newcomers. With Canada facing housing and affordability issues, Miller has responded with a 20% reduction in permanent resident admissions and a cap on temporary resident numbers.
These shifts aim to better balance Canada’s commitment to immigration with the country’s capacity to integrate newcomers.
What’s Next for LMIA Points?
While the potential removal of LMIA points would significantly alter the immigration process for some applicants, it’s just one part of a broader strategy. Minister Miller is working on creating a more transparent and fair immigration system, which includes cracking down on fraud, addressing asylum backlogs, and ensuring sustainability in immigration levels.
For prospective immigrants, this could mean a tougher road to permanent residency without the added benefit of LMIA points. It’s crucial for applicants to stay informed as the policy evolves.As immigration consultants, we can help you navigate the complex immigration process with ease.
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
9 Immigration Pathways That Will Help International Students Stay in Canada
November 25, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international students, not just for its high-quality education, but for the opportunities it offers to stay and build a career post-graduation. If you’re wondering how you can transition from a student to a permanent resident, here’s a guide to 9 immigration pathways that might be your ticket to staying in Canada long-term.
1. Manitoba Career Employment Pathway: Your Quick Start to Permanent Residency
What You Need to Know: The Manitoba Career Employment Pathway allows international students to apply for permanent residency after completing their studies in Manitoba and securing a valid job offer.
Why It’s Ideal for You: This stream requires just one year of study and a job offer, which means you can start your residency journey much sooner.
Maximize Your Chances: Focus on high-demand fields such as healthcare, IT, and skilled trades, which increases your likelihood of being nominated.
Bonus: Manitoba offers affordable living, making it a great choice for students who want to live comfortably while building their careers.
2. BC International Post-Graduate Category: No Job Offer, No Problem
What You Need to Know: The BC International Post-Graduate Category offers international students who’ve completed a Master’s or PhD in British Columbia an immigration pathway without the need for a job offer.
Why It Works: This is an excellent option for students in STEM fields, which are given priority processing in the application process.
Tip for Success: BC’s growing tech industry offers a wealth of opportunities for students with specialized degrees.
Real Advantage: With Vancouver's thriving tech and innovation sector, BC is a prime place for international students to grow their careers.
3. Ontario Masters & PhD Graduates Stream: Stand Out with Research Experience
What You Need to Know: Ontario offers a pathway through its Masters & PhD Graduates Stream, which allows graduates to apply for permanent residency after completing a Master’s or PhD in Ontario.
Why It’s a Great Opportunity: The stream requires an Expression of Interest (EOI) and an invitation to apply, but graduates who have engaged in research or earned academic awards have an advantage.
Maximize Your Success: Research experience and academic accomplishments can boost your profile, making you more competitive for an invitation to apply.
4. Newfoundland and Labrador International Graduate Stream: Study Anywhere, Work in NL
What You Need to Know: This unique stream allows you to study at any Canadian institution, but requires you to work in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) for at least one year to apply for permanent residency.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: NL offers one of the lowest costs of living in Canada, providing a more affordable option to settle down after graduation.
Opportunities in NL: NL’s growing economy, particularly in natural resources and technology, offers students an exciting work environment after graduation.
Why It Works: Newfoundland’s growing job market in sectors like natural resources and tech means there are plenty of opportunities to gain work experience after graduation.
5. BC International Graduate Stream: Leverage Your Education and Work Experience
What You Need to Know: The BC International Graduate Stream is ideal for international graduates who want to combine their education with work experience in British Columbia.
How It Works: You need to gain two years of work experience in BC and secure a full-time job offer to qualify for permanent residency.
Why It’s a Winning Pathway: Graduates with Canadian education are highly valued by BC employers, particularly in technology, engineering, and healthcare.
Essential Takeaways: BC’s thriving tech industry offers excellent job prospects for graduates with the right skills.
6. Ontario International Students Stream: Secure a Job Offer for Residency
What You Need to Know: The Ontario International Students Stream offers a pathway to permanent residency for international students who have graduated from an Ontario institution and secured a valid job offer.
Why It’s Important: Having a job offer is a key eligibility requirement for this pathway, so it’s important to network and gain experience during your studies.
How to Succeed: Ontario’s diverse job market in fields like finance, business, and manufacturing means there are many opportunities for graduates to find employment and transition to permanent residency.
7. Atlantic Immigration Program: A Warm Welcome for International Graduates
What You Need to Know: The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed to help international students who’ve graduated from institutions in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador transition to permanent residency.
Why It’s Beneficial: There’s no need for work experience—just a job offer from a designated employer in the region.
Why Choose Atlantic Canada: The Atlantic provinces are known for having a higher demand for skilled workers, and these regions offer a more affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Canada.
Bonus: The cost of living in the Atlantic provinces is lower than in larger cities, making it a more affordable option for students.
8. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program: Tap into Emerging Job Markets
What You Need to Know: The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) allows international graduates who have studied in Saskatchewan to apply for permanent residency, provided they secure a job offer from a Saskatchewan employer.
Why It’s Worth Considering: Saskatchewan’s emerging job markets in sectors like agriculture, technology, and healthcare make it a promising place to begin your career post-graduation.
How to Strengthen Your Application: Stay updated on Saskatchewan’s regional employment trends to align your skills with the province’s needs.
9. Quebec Graduate Program: A Unique Pathway for French-Speaking Graduates
What You Need to Know: Quebec has its own immigration system, and the Quebec Graduate Program provides a pathway for international students who have completed their studies in Quebec.
Why It’s Special: Quebec values French-speaking graduates and requires applicants to demonstrate French proficiency in order to apply for permanent residency.
Increase Your Success: If you're not yet fluent in French, consider improving your language skills, as French proficiency is a main factor in the application process.
Finding the Right Pathway for Your Canadian Journey
Canada offers multiple pathways to permanent residency for international students, each with its own requirements and advantages. Whether you want to work in BC’s tech sector, enjoy affordable living in Newfoundland, or explore the emerging job markets in Saskatchewan, there’s a pathway suited to your skills and aspirations.
Start planning early, leverage your Canadian education, and make the most of networking opportunities during your studies to ensure a smooth transition from student life to permanent residency in Canada. As immigration consultants, we can help you navigate the complex immigration process with ease.
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
3 New Express Entry Draws in November 2024: 3,574 Invitations to Apply for Permanent Residency
3 New Express Entry Draws in November 2024: 3,574 Invitations to Apply for Permanent Residency
November 21, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
In an exciting week for Express Entry hopefuls, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted three draws, issuing a total of 3,574 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR). These draws reflect the latest trends and changes in Canada's immigration policies as the country continues to address labor shortages and prioritize key sectors.
November 20 Draw – Focus on Healthcare Occupations
On November 20, 2024, IRCC made an important move by holding a targeted Express Entry draw aimed at candidates in healthcare occupations. This was the first draw of its kind since July 2024. 3,000 ITAs were issued to individuals who had a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 463 or higher.
This targeted approach underlines the Canadian government's ongoing efforts to bolster the healthcare workforce. Given the current strain on healthcare systems, especially with a growing demand for professionals, this draw is an important signal to healthcare workers who may be looking to call Canada home.
November 19 Draw – Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Candidates
On November 19, IRCC invited 400 candidates from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). These candidates had a CRS score of 547 or higher. Interestingly, this cutoff score represents an increase of 8 points compared to the last CEC draw on October 22, where the CRS score cutoff was 539.
This slight uptick in CRS scores may suggest that IRCC is now selecting higher-scoring candidates, which could be a result of the larger pool of candidates in recent months. If you’re someone in the CEC pool with a CRS score close to the cutoff, it’s worth staying alert for future draws to see if the trend continues.
November 18 Draw – Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The November 18 draw was for candidates who received a provincial nomination from one of Canada’s provinces. A total of 733 ITAs were issued to those who had a CRS score of 812 or above. The CRS cutoff in this draw was 4 points higher than the last PNP-only round held on November 12, which had a cutoff of 808.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates are often in a unique position as their provincial nomination boosts their CRS score significantly, increasing their chances of receiving an invitation.
Summary of the Week’s Express Entry Draws
To recap, here’s a quick snapshot of the three Express Entry draws held this week:
In the most recent Express Entry draws, 3,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued on November 20, 2024 for candidates in healthcare occupations, with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 463 or above. The tie-breaking rule for this draw was October 21, 2024, at 16:12:39 UTC.
On November 19, 2024, IRCC sent out 400 ITAs to candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) who had a CRS score of 547 or higher. The tie-breaking rule for this draw was July 8, 2024, at 01:41:37 UTC.
Lastly, on November 18, 2024, 733 ITAs were issued to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), who had a CRS score of 812 or above. The tie-breaking rule for this round was August 28, 2024, at 05:12:34 UTC.
CRS Score Distribution in the Pool as of November 18
As of November 18, there were 218,167 candidates in the Express Entry pool. Here’s the breakdown of CRS scores across the pool:
601-1200: 100 candidates
501-600: 16,495 candidates
451-500: 64,596 candidates
401-450: 57,062 candidates
351-400: 51,434 candidates
301-350: 22,865 candidates
0-300: 5,615 candidates
The 451-500 CRS range continues to have the highest concentration of candidates, which reflects the level of competition in the pool. If you’re in this range, you’re still in a strong position to receive an invitation in the upcoming draws.
Canada’s Shift Towards "In-Canada Focus" for Immigration
Canada’s immigration strategy is evolving, and the new Immigration Levels Plan 2025–2027 clearly places a focus on transitioning temporary residents to permanent status. With programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), those who already have Canadian education or work experience are being prioritized.
This shift towards an "in-Canada focus" is about making it easier for those already in the country—such as international students and temporary foreign workers—to stay and contribute to Canada's economy. It’s a smart strategy, addressing labor shortages while supporting newcomers who are already integrated into the Canadian society. Industries like technology, healthcare, and construction are particularly in need of skilled workers, and this new focus is designed to ensure that people who have already demonstrated their skills in Canada are able to continue contributing.
How Does the Express Entry System Work?
The Express Entry system is a points-based immigration system that ranks candidates based on factors like education, work experience, language proficiency, and age. Candidates create an online profile, and the highest-ranking applicants are invited to apply for permanent residency.
To be eligible, candidates must meet the requirements of one of the federal economic immigration programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
My Thoughts on These Draws
From my perspective, these draws indicate that the Canadian immigration system is continuing to prioritize sectors where skilled labor is in demand, especially in healthcare and essential services. The increase in CRS scores for CEC and PNP candidates reflects the competitive nature of the Express Entry pool, but the overall trend is encouraging for those who qualify.
If you're in the Express Entry pool, I would suggest that you keep your profile updated and continue to improve your language scores or gain additional work experience if possible. Every little bit helps to boost your CRS score and improve your chances of being selected in future draws.
For healthcare professionals, this is a particularly good time to consider applying, as targeted draws for these occupations are likely to continue as part of Canada’s strategy to address healthcare staffing shortages.
Call to Action:
If you're thinking of applying through Express Entry or have questions about improving your profile, consider reaching out to us for expert advice. As immigration consultants, we can help you navigate the complex immigration process with ease.
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
Latest IRCC Processing Times Update – November 2024: What You Need to Know
Latest IRCC Processing Times Update – November 2024: What You Need to Know
November 21, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
November 2024 brings new updates on Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processing times. These updates are essential for anyone navigating the Canadian immigration system, especially with the ongoing backlogs. Knowing the current processing times is crucial for applicants to plan ahead, avoid delays, and make informed decisions about their immigration journey.
IRCC regularly publishes updated processing times for various application categories. These updates come monthly for major categories like citizenship, family sponsorship, and economic immigration, and weekly for more time-sensitive applications, such as PR cards and temporary residency. If you’re in the midst of your application, staying updated will help you manage expectations and better plan your next steps.
Let’s dive into the latest IRCC processing times as of November 2024 across key categories:
Citizenship Processing Times
(Updated Monthly)
If you’ve applied for Canadian citizenship or are planning to, here are the current processing times:
Citizenship Grant: Now 7 months (up 1 month since last update). This is a bit of a jump, so if you were expecting a quicker turnaround, be prepared for some additional wait time.
Citizenship Certificate: Still 4 months (no change). For those applying for a certificate, the process seems relatively steady.
Renunciation of Citizenship: This remains at 16 months (no change). For those renouncing Canadian citizenship, this lengthy process continues unchanged.
Search of Citizenship Records: Reduced to 11 months (down 1 month). If you’ve applied to search citizenship records, this is a slight but welcome reduction.
Citizenship processing can be one of the lengthiest parts of the immigration journey, so it’s good to plan accordingly and avoid expecting an overly quick resolution. The current times reflect some of the backlog IRCC is still working through.
Permanent Resident (PR) Card Processing Times
(Updated Weekly)
New PR Card: 25 days (no change). If you're applying for a new PR card, the process is relatively fast.
PR Card Renewal: 50 days (down 9 days). A small but helpful reduction in time for those renewing their PR cards.
Family Sponsorship Processing Times
(Updated Monthly)
Family sponsorships are critical for those seeking to bring loved ones to Canada. Here are the updated times:
Spouse/Common-Law Partner (Outside Canada, except Quebec): 10 months (no change). This continues to be a standard processing time.
Spouse/Common-Law Partner (Outside Canada for Quebec): 36 months (up 1 month). Unfortunately, for those applying from Quebec, the process has become lengthier.
Spouse/Common-Law Partner (Inside Canada, except Quebec): 12 months (down 1 month). A reduction here is definitely a good sign for applicants in Canada.
Spouse/Common-Law Partner (Inside Canada for Quebec): 27 months (no change). Quebec remains more time-consuming.
Parents/Grandparents (except Quebec): 24 months (no change).
Parents/Grandparents (for Quebec): 48 months (no change). If you’re sponsoring parents or grandparents from Quebec, expect a long wait.
Economic Immigration Processing Times
(Updated Monthly and Weekly)
For those applying through economic immigration streams like Express Entry, here’s the current breakdown:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 5 months (no change). This program remains stable.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): 5 months (no change).
Provincial Nominee Program (Express Entry): 6 months (no change).
Provincial Nominee Program without Express Entry: 13 months (up 1 month). This has gotten a bit longer, so be aware if you're in this stream.
Quebec Skilled Workers (QSW): 11 months (up 2 months). A significant increase, which is something to consider if you’re applying under this program.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 8 months (up 1 month). This program is also becoming slightly slower.
Federal Self-Employed Persons: 48 months (no change).
Quebec Business Class: 58 months (up 9 months). If you're looking to apply under the Quebec Business Class, this is quite a lengthy wait.
Start-up Visa: 40 months (no change).
The slight increases in some of the provincial programs, particularly for Quebec, are a bit concerning. If you are considering any of these streams, the extended waiting times might be a good reason to start planning even earlier than expected.
Temporary Residency Processing Times
(Updated Weekly)
Temporary residency applications, like visitor visas and study permits, are often the most time-sensitive for applicants. Here's the breakdown:
Visitor Visa (Outside Canada): Varies by country:
India: 112 days (down 2 days)
United States: 23 days (down 3 days)
Nigeria: 175 days (no change)
Pakistan: 29 days (up 2 days)
Philippines: 17 days (down 2 days)
Visitor Visa (Inside Canada):
Online: 19 days (down 5 days)
Extension: 133 days (down 19 days)
Super Visa:
India: 124 days (up 6 days)
United States: 137 days (no change)
Nigeria: 63 days (up 12 days)
Pakistan: 134 days (up 3 days)
Philippines: 114 days (up 4 days)
Study Permit (Outside Canada):
India: 3 weeks (down 5 weeks)
United States: 14 weeks (no change)
Nigeria: 10 weeks (no change)
Pakistan: 14 weeks (up 2 weeks)
Philippines: 5 weeks (down 1 week)
Work Permit (Outside Canada):
India: 27 weeks (down 1 week)
United States: 15 weeks (up 5 weeks)
Nigeria: 24 weeks (no change)
Pakistan: 18 weeks (down 1 week)
Philippines: 5 weeks (down 3 weeks)
If you’re looking to apply for a study or work permit, you’ll notice that the times for India and the Philippines have fluctuated. This is a good reminder that waiting times for temporary permits can be quite volatile, especially depending on where you’re applying from.
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
Canada’s New Rules for International Students: What You Need to Know
Canada’s New Rules for International Students: What You Need to Know
Canada is changing the game for international students. If you’re planning to study in Canada, here’s what you need to know about the new work rights and tighter compliance rules for schools. These changes, which took effect on November 15, 2024, could impact how you study, work, and transfer schools in Canada.
More Work Hours for Students
Good news for international students! Canada is now allowing you to work 24 hours per week while studying, up from 20. This gives you more flexibility to earn money, gain experience, and make the most of your time in Canada. If you're looking to balance work and study, this extra time could make a real difference.
What’s New for Schools?
Canada is stepping up its oversight of the institutions hosting international students. From now on, schools must report to the government twice a year to confirm that students are still enrolled and following the rules of their study permits. If a school doesn't comply, it could face serious consequences, including suspending study permit processing for up to a year.
Transfers? Get a New Permit
Thinking of switching schools? You'll need to apply for a new study permit. This ensures that the government can keep track of where students are studying and make sure they’re following the conditions of their permits.
Why This Matters
These changes are all about better tracking of international students, ensuring they’re working within their limits and staying enrolled in school. For students, it means more opportunities to work—but also more responsibility to stay compliant. For schools, it means stricter reporting requirements and the risk of penalties if they don’t follow the rules.
Are you ready for these new rules? Whether you're a current or future student, it’s time to pay attention to how these changes might affect your plans in Canada. Stay informed and stay compliant!
Canada's immigration process is becoming more challenging, whether you're looking to come to Canada or stay here. If you have questions or need help navigating these changes, our team of immigration experts is here for you.
Give us a call at 647-222-6795 or email us at info@zandbimmigration.ca, or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca. You can also book an appointment directly on our website www.zandbimmigration.ca.
We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.