Canada Announces Major Changes to Immigration System
December 18, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
On December 17, 2024, Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, introduced important changes to improve the country’s immigration system. These reforms are aimed at making the process fairer, more efficient, and more secure for everyone.
End of Flagpoling
One of the biggest changes is the end of flagpoling. Flagpoling happens when temporary residents leave Canada and re-enter just to quickly handle immigration matters at the border. This practice will no longer be allowed. Instead, people will need to apply online to extend their stay in Canada. This change will help reduce border congestion and make things run more smoothly.
Tackling Immigration Fraud
The government is also taking stronger action against immigration fraud. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will now have more power to cancel or suspend visas if they find signs of fraud or security risks. This is meant to keep the system secure and trustworthy.
Changes to Express Entry
In the Express Entry system, Canada is removing extra points for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) job offers. This change is designed to stop people from using job offers as a way to cheat the system and improve fairness for everyone applying.
Addressing Irregular Migration
Canada is also tightening its approach to irregular migration. The Safe Third Country Agreement, which requires refugees to claim asylum in the first safe country they enter, has been expanded to cover the entire border with the U.S. Since the changes, illegal crossings have dropped sharply. The government also introduced a partial visa requirement for Mexican nationals, leading to a 92% decrease in asylum claims from Mexico.
Stronger Border Security and International Cooperation
To strengthen border security, Canada is working closely with the United States and international partners. They’re improving information-sharing and focusing on tackling cross-border crimes. The government is also setting up systems to quickly address fraud on a large scale.
Promising Early Results
The results so far have been encouraging. Asylum claims from Mexico have dropped by 97%, and there’s been an 84% reduction in irregular crossings into the U.S. These reforms show that Canada is committed to maintaining a secure immigration system, while still providing opportunities for those who follow the proper steps.
In short, these changes are about making Canada’s immigration system safer, more efficient, and fairer for everyone involved.
If you have questions or need help regarding these major 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.
How to Sponsor Your Spouse or Partner for Canadian PR
December 17,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Sponsoring your spouse or partner for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process down into manageable steps makes it much easier to understand. Whether you're a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, the steps for sponsoring your loved one are pretty straightforward once you know what to do. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
1. Check if You and Your Partner Are Eligible
Before you start the application, you need to ensure that both you (the sponsor) and your partner (the person being sponsored) meet the eligibility requirements.
For you (the sponsor): You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You'll also need to prove that you can financially support your partner and take care of their basic needs when they arrive in Canada.
For your partner: Your partner must meet certain criteria, such as being admissible to Canada (not having a criminal record, for example). You’ll also need to prove that your relationship is genuine.
2. Decide if You Want to Use a Representative
You have two options: either handle the application yourself or hire a representative to help. A representative can be either paid or unpaid, but if you choose a paid representative, they must be authorized by the Canadian government.
If you go the representative route, you’ll need to officially declare them in your application. A representative can guide you through the entire process, from filling out forms to submitting documents, so this can be helpful if you’re unsure about anything.
3. Choose the Right Sponsorship Class
There are two main options for applying: Family Class (Outland sponsorship) and Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (Inland sponsorship). Which one you choose depends on where you and your partner are living and your plans for the future.
Family Class (Outland Sponsorship): This option is for couples who are living outside Canada or those who plan to leave Canada during the process. If you apply under this class, your partner can enter and leave Canada during the application process (if they have temporary status), and you can appeal if your application is refused.
Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (Inland Sponsorship): If your partner is already living inside Canada and holds valid temporary resident status (as a worker, student, or visitor), you can apply under this class. The main benefit of this class is that your partner may be eligible for an open work permit while their PR application is being processed. However, if the application is refused, there’s no appeal option.
4. Gather the Necessary Documents
Now it’s time to collect all the documents you’ll need. The specific documents vary depending on where your partner lives, but here are some common ones you’ll need:
Proof of your Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
Proof of your relationship (photos, communication records, joint bank accounts, etc.)
Identity documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
To make sure you don’t miss anything, you can use the IRCC’s "Get Ready to Apply" tool to help you figure out exactly which documents you need.
5. Complete and Submit the Online Application
Once you have all your documents in order, it’s time to fill out your application. You’ll need to visit the IRCC’s online portal and follow the instructions carefully. Here are some key steps:
Complete the application forms for both you (the sponsor) and your partner (the person being sponsored). Some forms you’ll need are the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) and Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669).
Make sure to digitally sign and upload all the necessary documents.
Don’t forget to pay the application fees. You’ll need to pay the processing fee, biometrics fee, and possibly the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). It’s a good idea to pay these upfront to avoid delays later on.
After paying, save the receipt—this is your proof of payment, and you'll need to submit it with your application.
6. Submit Biometrics, Medical Exams, and Police Certificates
Once you submit your application, IRCC will send you and your partner further instructions, which may include submitting biometrics, a medical exam, and police certificates.
Biometrics: Your partner will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken at a Service Canada location (or a Visa Application Center if applying from outside Canada).
Medical Exam: A medical exam by an IRCC-approved physician will be required.
Police Certificates: If your partner has lived in certain countries for an extended period, they may need to provide police certificates from those countries.
7. Wait for Processing
After all the paperwork is submitted, the IRCC will process the application. The processing time can vary depending on the specifics of your case, but during this time, make sure you’re responsive to any requests for additional documents or information.
8. Get the Decision
Once the application is processed, you’ll receive a decision. If it’s approved, your partner will receive their Canadian PR. If it’s denied, and you applied under the Family Class, you may have the option to appeal the decision. Unfortunately, if you applied under the Inland Sponsorship class, there is no appeal process.
Final Tips for a Smooth Application:
Be Honest: It’s important to provide accurate and truthful information on your application. Misrepresentation can result in serious consequences, including the refusal of your application or even being banned from applying in the future.
Double-Check Everything: Incomplete applications are returned, which can cause major delays. Double-check your documents and forms to make sure everything is in order before submitting.
Declare All Family Members: Don’t forget to list all family members in your application, even if they’re not coming with you to Canada. They need to be part of the process.
If you have questions or need help, 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 simplify the process of sponsoring your spouse or partner for Canadian PR. Good Luck!
Canada's Long-Awaited Rural and Francophone Community Immigration Pathways: Eligibility Criteria Released
December 16,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada has just released the much-anticipated eligibility criteria for the Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC) and Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC). While the official launch is expected in early 2025, the publication of these criteria is a major step forward. These new immigration pathways are not only aimed at addressing labor shortages in rural areas but also offer exciting opportunities for international students who wish to build a future in Canada.
These programs will attract skilled workers to rural communities and strengthen French-speaking communities outside Quebec. For international students, these pathways offer a chance to stay in Canada after graduation and transition to permanent residency.
Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC)
The RCIC is designed for skilled workers who want to settle in rural communities across Canada. To be eligible, applicants must:
Intend to live in a rural community outside Quebec.
Have one year of relevant work experience in the last 3 years.
Secure a genuine job offer from an employer in a designated community.
International graduates may be exempt from work experience requirements if they meet specific conditions such as studying in a designated community. Language proficiency (English or French) and educational credentials (Canadian or foreign assessed) are also required.
Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC)
The FCIC is tailored to attract French-speaking immigrants to communities outside Quebec. To qualify, applicants must:
Demonstrate proficiency in French (CLB 5 or higher).
Have one year of relevant work experience in the past 3 years.
Secure a genuine job offer from a designated employer in a Francophone community.
Similar to RCIC, applicants need to meet educational and language requirements.
Communities Involved
Several rural and Francophone communities are expected to participate in these pathways. Some of the designated communities include:
North Bay, ON
Sudbury, ON
Timmins, ON
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Thunder Bay, ON
Brandon, MB
Altona/Rhineland, MB
Moose Jaw, SK
Claresholm, AB
Vernon, BC
West Kootenay (Trail, Castlegar, Rossland, Nelson), BC
Next Steps for Applicants
Though the official pathways are expected to open in early 2025, you can start preparing now:
Research communities: Look into the participating communities and their priority occupations.
Gather your credentials: Ensure your language test results, work experience, and educational qualifications are ready.
Engage with Economic Development Organizations (EDOs): They will guide you through the process of securing a certificate of recommendation.
Stay updated: Monitor official updates from IRCC for the latest information on the program’s launch.
The release of these eligibility criteria is an exciting development for anyone looking to make Canada their new home, especially international students who have studied in Canada. These pathways offer a clear route to permanent residency for those eager to contribute to rural and Francophone communities. At Z and B Immigration, we’re here to help you navigate the process and ensure your application is strong and successful.
For more information, feel free to reach out to us at info@zandbimmigration.ca or amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca, or call 647-222-6795.
Latest IRCC Processing Times (December 2024)
December 12, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
If you’re planning to settle in Canada, the first thing you’ll need to figure out is the processing time for your immigration application. Whether you’re applying for citizenship, a permanent resident (PR) card, or a temporary visa, knowing how long the process will take is crucial for making informed decisions.
As we head into December 2024, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has provided its latest processing times for all major immigration categories. These updates help you get a better idea of when you can expect to receive an answer, plan your move, and avoid unnecessary delays.
Let’s dive into the most recent updates for IRCC processing times. These timelines reflect the average wait for various immigration services and can fluctuate depending on a range of factors, such as the complexity of your case and whether additional documents or checks are required.
Canadian Citizenship Applications
If you’ve applied for Canadian citizenship, the wait time is typically around 7 months for most applicants. This hasn’t changed in the past few months, but it’s important to note that some specific applications may take longer, depending on the completeness of the information provided.
For those applying for a citizenship certificate, the processing time has shortened to 3 months, a full month faster than previous updates.
Applications involving the renunciation of Canadian citizenship still take around 16 months, with no change in the timeline. Additionally, if you’ve requested a search of citizenship records, expect a processing time of 11 months.
Permanent Resident (PR) Cards
When it comes to renewing your PR card, the IRCC has made some improvements in processing times. Here’s a quick look at the current processing schedules:
New PR card applications: Typically take about 23 days.
PR card renewal applications: Are now processed in around 40 days.
This represents a slight improvement from last month’s updates, showing that IRCC is handling applications more efficiently.
Family Sponsorship Applications
Family sponsorship remains one of the most important pathways to Canadian immigration. However, wait times vary depending on your situation and location:
Sponsorship of a spouse or common-law partner (outside Canada): Expect around 10 months for approval.
Sponsorship of a spouse or common-law partner (inside Canada): This process typically takes around 12 months.
Parents and grandparents sponsorship remains lengthy, with an average wait time of 24 months for those outside Quebec. If you’re sponsoring from Quebec, this wait could extend up to 48 months.
While these are average times, the processing times for family sponsorship in Quebec remain particularly long, making it essential to plan well ahead if you are applying from this province.
Economic Immigration: Express Entry & Other Programs
For those applying through Express Entry or other economic immigration programs, processing times continue to be stable. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Approximately 5 months.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Also around 5 months.
Provincial Nominee Program (Express Entry): Typically takes 6 months.
Provincial Nominee Program (non-Express Entry): Can take up to 13 months.
An interesting change here is the Quebec Business Class immigration program, where processing times have risen significantly to 71 months, up from 58 months last month.
Temporary Residency: Visitor Visas, Study Permits, and Work Permits
If you're looking to enter Canada on a temporary visa, the processing times depend on your country of origin and the type of visa you're applying for. Here’s a breakdown of how long you can expect to wait:
Visitor Visa:
Applicants from India will wait around 111 days.
United States applicants: Expect about 26 days.
Philippines applicants: Your wait time is around 21 days.
Study Permit:
If you're from India, you can expect processing to take around 4 weeks (an increase of 1 week).
United States applicants will wait about 10 weeks (a decrease of 4 weeks).
Nigeria applicants can expect about 8 weeks, a slight decrease from the previous week.
Work Permits:
India: 18 weeks (a reduction of 5 weeks from last month).
Nigeria: Processing takes about 23 weeks.
Philippines: 4 weeks, which has decreased by 1 week compared to last month.
For those applying from within Canada, the processing times can be a bit longer, such as for work permit extensions, which now take up to 171 days.
The IRCC processing times are updated regularly:
Monthly updates for permanent resident card renewals, family sponsorships, and economic immigration programs.
Weekly updates for temporary residency applications and PR card processes.
It’s crucial to check the IRCC website regularly for the latest updates. Processing times can fluctuate based on the volume of applications and other internal factors.
Ensure your application is complete, double-check your documents, and be prepared for the wait. Processing times are not set in stone, and can change depending on various factors. Stay tuned for updates by regularly visiting our blog! We’ll keep you informed as soon as official information is released by IRCC.
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.
Good luck, and welcome to Canada!
Canada’s Immigration Boom in 2024
December 12,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is about to break records in 2024, with immigration levels projected to reach an all-time high. This surge in newcomers, with an expected 475,000 to 500,000 new permanent residents, highlights the country's ongoing commitment to diversity and economic growth. But what does this massive increase mean for Canada’s future? Let’s take a closer look.
Record Immigration Numbers: Why 2024 is a Milestone
In recent years, Canada has seen steady growth in immigration, and 2024 will continue that trend—likely surpassing 465,900 new permanent residents welcomed in 2023. This growth is not just a number—it's a vital part of Canada's strategy to address labor shortages, boost economic stability, and ensure long-term prosperity.
For perspective, Canada’s immigration levels surged by 120% in 2021, thanks to recovery efforts post-pandemic. This steady growth reflects Canada’s welcoming policies, which have been a cornerstone of its economic and social development.
How Provinces Are Welcoming Immigrants
While immigration is growing nationwide, the numbers vary by province. Some provinces are seeing huge increases due to targeted programs aimed at filling specific labor gaps.
Ontario is projected to welcome over 200,000 new residents, driven by its booming tech and financial sectors. Major cities like Toronto and Ottawa remain top destinations, although high living costs are becoming a concern for many newcomers.
British Columbia, with its mix of job opportunities in tech, healthcare, and its natural beauty, is expected to bring in 75,000 immigrants. Cities like Vancouver and Victoria continue to be top destinations.
Quebec, which caters to French-speaking immigrants, remains a key player, with 50,450 immigrants expected. Its unique focus on bilingual applicants keeps it distinct in Canada’s immigration landscape.
Alberta and Saskatchewan are increasingly attractive to immigrants seeking affordable living and strong job markets, particularly in energy, agriculture, and construction.
The Key Drivers Behind the Growth
Canada’s immigration surge is largely driven by a combination of economic need and humanitarian goals. In 2024, nearly 68% of immigrants will come through economic programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). These programs focus on attracting skilled workers to meet labor demands in key industries.
Other pathways, such as family sponsorships (22%) and humanitarian and refugee programs (10%), remain vital parts of Canada’s immigration strategy, reflecting the country’s values of inclusion and support for vulnerable populations.
What’s Next for Canada?
Canada’s immigration targets are set to decrease slightly in 2025, with projections of around 395,000 new permanent residents. But this reduction is unlikely to slow down the momentum. The focus will shift toward:
Rural Immigration: More programs, like the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, will target less-populated areas, helping to alleviate labor shortages outside major cities.
New Pathways for Key Sectors: Expect more programs designed for international students, healthcare workers, and tech professionals—sectors that are essential for Canada’s future growth.
As Canada continues to welcome newcomers at record levels, the nation’s future looks increasingly bright—fueled by a diverse and resilient population ready to shape the country's future.
In short, if you’ve been considering making Canada your home, there’s never been a better time. With a growing economy, robust programs, and a welcoming society, Canada is ready to continue its legacy as one of the world’s top destinations for immigrants.
If you have questions or need help, 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.
Stay tuned for more updates! We’re here to help make the immigration process easier for you.
The Future of Canadian Immigration: New Pathways for 2025
December 11,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is known for its inclusive immigration policies and its focus on welcoming skilled workers from around the world to contribute to the country's economic and social growth. As we look ahead to 2025, the Canadian government has announced several exciting new immigration pathways designed to address specific labor shortages, support rural and francophone communities, and enhance the immigration process for caregivers. These changes will offer even more opportunities for foreign nationals seeking to make Canada their permanent home.
Let’s take a closer look at the new immigration pathways that will be launched in 2025.
1. Enhanced Caregiver Pilot Programs
Who is it for?
Home care workers, such as those who provide childcare or support to individuals with medical or daily living needs.
In June 2024, Canada introduced two enhanced Caregiver Pilot Programs to help address the country’s growing need for home care workers. These programs are designed to replace the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot, which ended in June 2024.
What’s New?
One of the key updates in these pilot programs is that home care workers will be granted permanent residency (PR) upon arrival in Canada. This is a significant shift from the previous pilots, where workers had to wait before being eligible for PR. The new pilots will allow home care workers to work for organizations that provide temporary or part-time care to people who are semi-independent or recovering from injuries or illnesses.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for these programs, candidates must meet the following requirements:
A minimum language proficiency of level 4 on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).
The equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma.
Recent and relevant work experience in the home care sector.
A full-time job offer in a home care role.
More detailed information on these pilots, including application guidelines and other eligibility requirements, will be released closer to the program launch.
2. Rural Community Immigration Pilot
Who is it for?
Foreign nationals willing to move to and work in small rural communities in Canada to help address labor shortages.
Building on the success of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), Canada will launch a new Rural Community Immigration Pilot in 2025. This program will help address the labor shortages faced by small communities across the country, offering newcomers the opportunity to settle long-term in rural areas.
What’s New?
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot will focus on attracting skilled workers who are ready to make rural communities their home, contributing to local economies and filling critical labor gaps.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility criteria for this pilot will be announced closer to the launch. However, as with the RNIP, candidates will likely need to meet requirements such as having a job offer from a participating rural community and the ability to contribute to the local economy.
3. Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
Who is it for?
French-speaking individuals who want to settle in francophone minority communities outside of Quebec.
As part of Canada’s Policy on Francophone Immigration, the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot will focus on increasing the number of French-speaking immigrants in communities outside of Quebec. The goal is to help sustain and grow francophone minority communities across Canada by attracting newcomers who can contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of these regions.
What’s New?
This pilot will prioritize applicants who speak French and are willing to settle in communities outside of Quebec, where French speakers are in the minority. The program aims to improve the economic development of these communities and increase their demographic presence.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility details will be released closer to the program's official launch, but applicants will likely need to meet language requirements in French and demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the community.
4. Manitoba’s West Central Immigration Initiative Pilot
Who is it for?
Skilled workers who are interested in living and working in Manitoba’s rural west-central region.
On November 15, 2024, Manitoba announced a new three-year pilot to address labor shortages in its rural west-central region. This program will work in collaboration with seven rural municipalities and the Gambler First Nation to help meet labor market needs in the area. The initiative is expected to bring in 240-300 workers over the next three years.
What’s New?
This pilot will target skilled workers in various industries, with a focus on filling positions that local employers have struggled to fill. This is an exciting opportunity for people interested in rural living and working in a vibrant part of Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
While specific eligibility requirements are not yet available, the program will likely prioritize applicants with skills and work experience that match the needs of the west-central region of Manitoba. More information will be released closer to the program’s official start.
These confirmed immigration pathways present exciting opportunities for skilled workers, caregivers, and French speakers. Stay tuned for updates on eligibility and application details by regularly visiting our blog! We’ll keep you informed as soon as official information is released by IRCC.
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.
What’s Next for Canada’s Express Entry? Changes Coming in 2025
December 10, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
As Canada prepares for significant updates to its Express Entry system in 2025, prospective immigrants should be aware of the upcoming changes that could impact their eligibility and application strategy. With new draw categories, a heightened focus on Canadian residents, and adjustments to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), these modifications aim to address labor shortages, prioritize high-demand sectors, and streamline the immigration process for temporary residents already in Canada.
This post will outline the important changes expected in 2025, explore their implications, and provide guidance on how to navigate these new developments.
1. Introduction of Category-Based Draws
One of the most notable changes to Express Entry in 2025 is the shift towards category-based draws. Under this new structure, the Canadian government will prioritize applicants from specific sectors critical to Canada’s economy. This includes industries facing significant labor shortages, such as:
Healthcare: Nurses, physicians, allied health workers, and medical professionals
Skilled Trades: Electricians, welders, plumbers, and other tradespeople essential for infrastructure projects
Technology and STEM: Engineers, IT professionals, data scientists, and other tech-driven roles
Francophone Immigration: Prioritizing French-speaking candidates to support the bilingual nature of Canadian society
For candidates working in these in-demand fields, the new category-based draws are expected to result in lower CRS score thresholds, thus enhancing their chances of being selected for permanent residency.
2. Increased Focus on In-Canada Applicants
In response to the growing need to retain talent already residing in Canada, a new In-Canada Focus stream will be introduced in 2025. This stream will specifically target temporary residents, including international students and temporary foreign workers, providing them with easier access to permanent residency.
Given that these individuals are already integrated into Canadian society, with Canadian work experience and a strong cultural understanding, the new stream will offer more streamlined pathways for these candidates to transition from temporary to permanent status. This initiative aligns with Canada’s broader immigration strategy to retain skilled workers who have already contributed to the economy.
3. Enhancing Opportunities for Francophone Immigrants
In line with Canada’s commitment to linguistic diversity, significant efforts are being made to increase the number of Francophone immigrants outside of Quebec. The Canadian government aims to have 7% of all permanent residency admissions outside Quebec come from French-speaking individuals by 2025.
To facilitate this, language proficiency requirements for French-speaking candidates may be lowered, making it more accessible for those who are proficient in French but may not meet higher language thresholds. This change is particularly beneficial for bilingual individuals, as it opens up more opportunities for immigration.
4. Adjustments to CRS Score Requirements
The introduction of category-based draws is expected to impact the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which plays a crucial role in Express Entry selection. Here’s how the CRS score trends are likely to evolve in 2025:
For priority sectors: Candidates in high-demand fields such as healthcare, trades, and technology are likely to face lower CRS score thresholds due to the urgent need for talent in these areas. The CRS scores for these sectors could drop to around 450-490, making it easier for candidates to secure an invitation to apply.
For general applicants: Candidates without work experience in a priority field or a provincial nomination may continue to face higher CRS score requirements, likely around 540.
For candidates with Canadian experience: The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is expected to see more frequent draws, with a likely decrease in CRS score requirements, benefiting individuals with Canadian work experience.
As such, it is crucial for applicants to adjust their profiles based on the new sector priorities, whether by improving language proficiency, gaining Canadian experience, or targeting specific high-demand industries.
5. Potential Elimination of LMIA Bonus Points
Another significant potential change is the elimination of LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) bonus points. Currently, candidates with a job offer supported by an LMIA can receive up to 50 CRS points. However, the system has been criticized for facilitating fraudulent job offers and giving an unfair advantage to candidates with job offers, regardless of their overall qualifications.
By removing these bonus points, the Canadian government aims to ensure a more equitable selection process based on skills, qualifications, and experience. Applicants will need to rely more heavily on their education, language proficiency, and other personal attributes to boost their CRS score, rather than leaning on job offers alone.
How to Prepare for the 2025 Changes
To successfully navigate the upcoming changes to Express Entry, applicants should consider the following strategies:
Target priority sectors: If you work in a high-demand field like healthcare, skilled trades, or technology, focus on strengthening your qualifications to align with Canada’s economic priorities.
Improve your language proficiency: Whether in English or French, enhancing your language skills will not only increase your CRS score but will also improve your chances in category-based draws, especially for Francophone candidates.
Gain Canadian work experience: If you are already in Canada, make the most of your work experience. It will be highly valued in the In-Canada Focus stream and could help lower your CRS score in the CEC draws.
Stay updated on CRS trends: Keep a close eye on the CRS score trends and adjust your strategy accordingly. If you are targeting a general draw, you may need to focus on increasing your overall CRS score through education, language proficiency, or provincial nominations.
The 2025 changes to Canada’s Express Entry system are designed to address critical labor shortages, prioritize skilled workers already in Canada, and promote linguistic diversity. While the changes offer exciting opportunities for applicants in high-demand sectors, they also require strategic preparation. By understanding the shifts in the system and aligning your profile with Canada’s evolving needs, you can enhance your chances of success in the new Express Entry landscape.
As Canada’s immigration system adapts to a changing economy, 2025 represents a pivotal moment for skilled workers looking to make Canada their home. 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.