What International Students in Canada Need to Know About New Rules in 2025
December 30, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
For international students in Canada, 2025 brings a set of crucial changes that will impact everything from work permits to study permit applications. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced these new measures to streamline processes, ensure fairness, and better align education with Canada’s job market needs. Here’s a breakdown of the six most important updates:
1. Changes to PGWP Eligibility
Starting November 1, 2024, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria are getting tougher:
Language Proficiency: University graduates will need to meet a CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) level. For those in college or other programs, a CLB 5 or NCLC 5 is required.
Field of Study: Only graduates from specific fields like STEM, healthcare, agriculture, and trades will be eligible for a PGWP. This ensures that graduates can contribute to Canada’s labor market needs.
2. Off-Campus Work Hour Increase
As of November 2024, international students can now work up to 24 hours per week during the academic term, up from the previous limit of 20 hours. This change offers students a chance to gain more work experience and earn more while balancing their studies.
3. No More Flagpoling for PGWP Applications
International students can no longer apply for a PGWP by temporarily leaving Canada and re-entering, a practice called flagpoling. This will officially end as of June 2024. Students will now need to submit PGWP applications online or through regular immigration channels within Canada, helping reduce inefficiencies in the process.
4. End of the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which expedited processing for students from countries like India, China, and the Philippines, was officially discontinued in November 2024. By ending this program, IRCC aims to ensure fairer treatment for all applicants and eliminate any vulnerabilities within the system.
5. New Spousal Open Work Permit Rules
From 2024, only spouses or common-law partners of students in professional degree programs (such as medicine, law, engineering, or nursing) will be eligible for an open work permit. This change is designed to align Canada’s immigration policies with labor market needs by attracting highly skilled professionals.
6. Study Permit Applications Online
As of December 2024, international students will no longer be able to apply for a study permit at Canadian ports of entry. All applications for study permits or extensions must be completed online. Additionally, if a student leaves Canada with maintained status, they will need to wait until their application is approved before returning to resume their studies.
Preparing for the Changes
Check Your Program: Make sure your program qualifies for the updated PGWP criteria, especially if you plan to work after graduation.
Submit Early: With all permits moving online, it’s important to apply well in advance to avoid delays.
Stay Informed: Consult your school or an immigration expert regularly to ensure you’re up-to-date on any changes that may affect your status.
Need Help? We’re Here for You!
If you’re unsure about the new rules or need assistance with your application, feel free to reach out to us for expert guidance. We’re here to help make your experience in Canada as smooth as possible.
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Book an appointment directly on our website: www.zandbimmigration.caStay informed, and make the most of your opportunity in Canada!
Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship: Which One Is Right for You?
December 30, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
When you're looking to sponsor your spouse or partner for Canadian permanent residence (PR), you’ll need to decide between inland sponsorship and outland sponsorship. The right choice depends on where you and your partner are currently living and what your priorities are during the application process. Let’s break down the key differences between these two options.
What is Inland Sponsorship?
Inland sponsorship is for couples already living together in Canada. If you choose this option, both you and your partner must remain in Canada while the application is being processed. One of the benefits of inland sponsorship is that your partner can apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP), allowing them to work while waiting for PR approval. However, it’s important to note that there’s no appeal option if your application is refused. Additionally, both you and your partner must stay in Canada during the processing period.
What is Outland Sponsorship?
Outland sponsorship is for couples where the sponsored partner is living outside Canada, or if the sponsor is a Canadian citizen who is living abroad but plans to return to Canada once the application is approved. A main advantage of outland sponsorship is that the sponsored partner can freely travel in and out of Canada while their application is being processed. Furthermore, if the application is refused, you have the option to appeal the decision, which is not available with inland sponsorship.
Which One Should You Choose?
Inland Sponsorship is ideal if both of you are living in Canada, and you want your partner to be eligible for a work permit while waiting for PR approval. However, keep in mind that both partners must stay in Canada, and there is no option to appeal if the application is refused.
Outland Sponsorship is better suited for couples where one partner is living abroad, or if you need more flexibility, like the ability to travel during the application process. You also have the option to appeal if the application is refused.
Need Help With Your Sponsorship Application?
If you’re unsure which sponsorship option is right for you, or if you need help with your application, feel free to reach out to us!
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Or book an appointment directly on our website: www.zandbimmigration.ca
Stay informed and make the best decision for your family’s future in Canada!
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) 2024 Update: What to Expect in 2025
December 26,2024 Amritpal Kaur
As we wrap up 2024, there’s significant news for those interested in the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and the opportunities it presents for permanent residency in Canada. The Ontario government has just announced that it has met its 2024 quota for permanent residency nominations, and new expectations are already forming for 2025. If you’re considering applying for OINP, it’s important to understand the details behind this update and what it means for the upcoming year.
1. OINP 2024 Quota Fulfilled
OINP has met its 2024 quota for permanent residency nominations by distributing all 21,500 nominations allocated to Ontario by the Canadian federal government.
The 21,500 nominations were part of the total provincial nomination program (PNP) target of 110,000 for 2024.
2. What Happens After the 2024 Quota is Reached
As of December 23, 2024, no more nominations will be issued under the 2024 allocation.
New applications and those already submitted will be considered under the 2025 OINP quota.
3. OINP Streams and Application Process
OINP operates through several streams, including categories like Employer Job Offer, Skilled Trades, and Express Entry.
Applicants express interest (EOI) in a stream, and their profiles are scored. Draws are conducted to select candidates based on these scores.
For Express Entry candidates, Ontario also sends Notifications of Interest (NOIs) based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores.
4. 2024 Invitations and Notifications of Interest (NOIs)
The highest number of invitations to apply (ITAs) in 2024 were issued through:
Employer Job Offer: International Student stream (8,363 ITAs).
Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream (6,695 ITAs).
Masters Graduate stream (5,519 ITAs).
Notifications of interest were sent to candidates under Human Capital Priorities (12,731 NOIs) and Skilled Trades (9,006 NOIs).
5. Processing Times
Average processing times vary by stream. For instance:
Masters Graduate: 30-60 days.
Employer Job Offer streams: 120-150 days.
6. OINP Changes for 2025
2025 may see a drastic reduction in invitations, with the federal government cutting the overall PNP annual target by 54%, reducing Ontario's quota from 21,500 in 2024 to an expected around 10,747 nominations in 2025.
This reduction mirrors the 2022 quota of approximately 9,750 nominations, suggesting fewer invitations and possibly higher cutoff scores for candidates.
Important Takeaways for 2025
Expect fewer invitations from OINP in 2025.
Cutoff scores may rise, making it more challenging for candidates to receive an invitation to apply (ITA).
Contact Us:
If you have any questions or need assistance with your OINP application, feel free to reach out to us!
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Or book an appointment directly on our website: www.zandbimmigration.ca
Stay informed and plan ahead for these upcoming changes!
IRCC to Remove CRS Points for Job Offers in 2025
December 24,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Starting in the spring of 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will remove the additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points awarded for job offers under the Express Entry system. This change will impact how candidates for Canadian permanent residency are selected.
Current Situation: Job Offers and CRS Points
At present, candidates with a valid job offer can receive:
50 CRS points for most job offers (NOC skill levels 0, A, B).
200 CRS points for high-demand or senior-level positions.
These extra points can be crucial for getting an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
What’s Changing in 2025?
In spring 2025, job offers will no longer give extra points in the Express Entry CRS score. This change applies to all candidates with job offers, whether they’re new or already in Canada temporarily. However, it won’t affect those who’ve already received an ITA or have PR applications in progress.
Who Will Be Affected?
Impacted candidates: New and existing candidates with a job offer in the Express Entry pool.
Not impacted: Candidates with an ITA or whose PR applications are already being processed.
Why Is This Happening?
The IRCC’s goal is likely to prioritize other factors like skills, education, and language proficiency rather than focusing on job offers. This shift may also aim to select candidates who are better suited to the Canadian labor market.
Contact Us:
If you have any questions or need assistance with your Express Entry application, feel free to reach out to us!
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Or book an appointment directly on our website: www.zandbimmigration.ca
Stay informed and plan ahead for these upcoming changes!
Top Immigration Programs in Canada: Pathways to Permanent Residency
December 24, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
Canada is one of the most welcoming countries for immigrants, offering various pathways to permanent residency (PR) for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you're a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, a student, or a family member of a Canadian resident, there’s likely an immigration program that suits your situation. This blog post will explore the top immigration programs in Canada and how they lead to permanent residency.
1. Express Entry System: The Fast Track to PR
The Express Entry system is Canada’s main immigration pathway for skilled workers. Through a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), Express Entry selects candidates with the best skills and experience to become permanent residents. There are three key programs under Express Entry:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Designed for individuals with professional work experience in occupations classified under National Occupational Classification (NOC) skill types 0, A, or B.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For those with experience in skilled trades like carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals with at least one year of work experience in Canada.
Once in the Express Entry pool, candidates are ranked based on their CRS score, which takes factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency into account. The highest-scoring candidates are invited to apply for permanent residency. Express Entry also allows for provincial nominations, which can boost a candidate's CRS score significantly.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Tailored to Regional Needs
Canada’s provinces and territories have unique labor market needs, and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) helps address these by selecting individuals who can contribute to their local economies. If you have skills or experience that match the needs of a particular province, you may be nominated for PR.
Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta have their own PNPs that target specific sectors like technology, healthcare, and skilled trades.
A nomination from a province can boost your CRS score by 600 points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for PR.
The PNP offers both employer-driven streams, where a valid job offer is required, and independent streams, where the province selects candidates based on their skills and work experience.
3. Family Sponsorship: Reuniting Families
The Family Sponsorship Program is an essential pathway for family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This program allows Canadian residents to sponsor their close relatives to come and live in Canada as permanent residents.
Eligible sponsors can bring in:
Spouses or common-law partners
Dependent children
Parents or grandparents
Sponsorships are a great way to reunite families, and applicants must meet financial requirements to ensure they can support their relatives without relying on social assistance.
4. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Helping Atlantic Canada Thrive
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) targets skilled workers and international graduates to fill labor shortages in the four Atlantic provinces: Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.
To qualify for this program, applicants must have a job offer from a designated employer in one of these provinces. The program is designed to help these regions grow economically by attracting immigrants who can contribute to local communities and industries.
This program offers a streamlined path to PR and is especially appealing to individuals seeking a quieter, community-focused lifestyle in a smaller province.
5. Quebec Immigration: Unique Pathways for Francophones
Quebec has a unique immigration system, distinct from the federal system. If you wish to live and work in Quebec, you must apply through the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) or the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).
The QSWP is based on a points system similar to the federal Express Entry but is tailored to Quebec’s labor needs and cultural preferences.
French language proficiency is often a key factor in selecting candidates for Quebec’s immigration programs, making it an excellent choice for French speakers.
Once you are selected by Quebec, you will receive a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ), which allows you to apply for PR to the federal government.
6. Start-up Visa Program: For Entrepreneurial Immigrants
If you are an entrepreneur with an innovative business idea, the Start-up Visa Program can help you make Canada your home. The program is designed for individuals who wish to start and operate a business in Canada.
To qualify, your business idea must be supported by a designated Canadian venture capital fund, business incubator, or angel investor group. The program encourages people with the vision and skills to create businesses that will generate jobs and drive economic growth.
7. Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP): Strengthening Smaller Communities
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is a community-driven immigration program aimed at addressing labor shortages in smaller, rural, and northern communities.
To be eligible, applicants must have a job offer from an employer in one of the participating communities. The program encourages applicants to settle in these regions, where immigration can help boost local economies and support community development.
8. Caregiver Program: For Those Who Provide Essential Services
The Caregiver Program allows individuals who have provided care to children, elderly people, or people with medical needs in Canada to apply for permanent residency. The program has two main streams:
Home Child Care Provider Pilot
Home Support Worker Pilot
Caregivers must meet certain work experience requirements and demonstrate their ability to continue providing care to Canadians. After fulfilling these requirements, they can apply for permanent residency.
9. Self-Employed Persons Program: For Cultural and Athletic Professionals
The Self-Employed Persons Program targets individuals with experience in cultural activities, sports, or farming who wish to be self-employed in Canada. Artists, athletes, and other professionals can apply if they plan to contribute to Canadian society and economy in a meaningful way.
This program requires applicants to demonstrate relevant experience and financial stability, as well as the intention to make Canada their home.
10. International Graduate Programs: For Students Who’ve Studied in Canada
Canada offers pathways for international students who have graduated from designated learning institutions to transition to permanent residency. These pathways include:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Students who gain Canadian work experience after graduation can qualify for PR under the CEC.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Graduates can work in Canada and gain valuable experience, which helps increase their eligibility for PR applications.
Start Your Journey to Permanent Residency Today!
Canada offers numerous pathways to permanent residency, each designed to meet the needs of different individuals and families. Whether you're a skilled worker, entrepreneur, student, or family member, there’s a PR program suited to your skills and aspirations.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward permanent residency, we’re here to help guide you through the process.
Contact Us:
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Or book an appointment directly on our website: www.zandbimmigration.ca
Start your Canadian PR journey with us today!
Open Work Permit for Spouses in the Sponsorship Process
December 23, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
If you’re sponsoring your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for Canadian permanent residence (PR), one of the most important questions you may have is how your partner can support themselves financially while waiting for the PR application to be processed. Luckily, under certain conditions, your spouse or partner may be eligible for an Open Work Permit (OWP), which allows them to work for most employers in Canada. This blog post will guide you through the process of applying for an OWP during the sponsorship journey.
What is an Open Work Permit (OWP)?
An Open Work Permit is a type of work permit that allows its holder to work for any employer in Canada, without being tied to a specific job or company. For spouses or partners in the sponsorship process, an OWP can be a game-changer, as it enables them to earn a living while they wait for their permanent residence application to be processed.
Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit?
To qualify for an OWP while being sponsored for PR, your spouse or partner must meet certain eligibility requirements:
Relationship Requirements: They must be in a genuine relationship with you, the sponsor, and must be included in your PR application.
Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR): They must have received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), confirming that their PR application has been received and is in the processing stage.
Living in Canada: Your spouse or partner must be living with you in Canada while the PR application is being processed.
If they meet these criteria, they may apply for an OWP and, if approved, start working while waiting for their permanent residence status.
When is an OWP Application Not Allowed?
It’s important to note that an Open Work Permit cannot be applied for under the following circumstances:
Refused or withdrawn PR application: If the PR application has been refused, withdrawn, or returned, the OWP cannot be granted.
Work permit at a port of entry: If they plan to apply for the work permit at a port of entry (such as at the border), they are not eligible for an OWP under this process.
Step-by-Step Process for Applying for an Open Work Permit
If your spouse or partner is in Canada and meets the eligibility requirements, they can apply for the OWP through the following steps:
1. Submit Your PR Sponsorship Application
The first step in the process is for you to submit the application to sponsor your spouse or partner for permanent residence. They can only apply for an OWP after your PR application has been submitted.
2. Obtain the Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
Once the IRCC receives and processes your PR sponsorship application, they will send an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR). This is the document that confirms that the PR application is in process and is essential for applying for the OWP.
3. Create an IRCC Secure Account
After receiving the AOR, your spouse or partner should create or log into an IRCC Secure Account. This is where they will submit their OWP application. The IRCC account will provide a personalized checklist of required documents to complete the application.
4. Fill Out the OWP Application
Once logged in, your spouse will need to fill out the OWP application form. In the section called "Details of intended work," IRCC advises that applicants should enter:
Job title: “Open Work Permit.”
Brief description of duties: “SCLPC FC OWP” (Spouse/Common-Law Partner in Canada Family Class Open Work Permit applicant under public policy).
This is important to ensure that the OWP application is correctly processed.
5. Submit the Application
After filling out the form and uploading the necessary documents, your spouse can submit the application online. If you are using an immigration representative to assist with the process, they can submit the application through the Authorized Paid Representative Portal.
What Happens After Submission?
Once the application has been submitted, your spouse or partner will not be authorized to work until they have received their OWP. Here’s what to expect next:
Processing Time: Typically, the OWP application will be processed within four months if your spouse or partner is in Canada and has already received an AOR.
Legal Status: While waiting for the OWP, your spouse must maintain legal temporary resident status in Canada (e.g., through a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit).
Work Authorization: Your spouse can only begin working once the OWP has been issued by IRCC. If they already have a work permit, they may continue working until their current permit expires, as long as they apply for the OWP before it ends.
If the application is successful, your spouse will receive an online confirmation, and the OWP will be mailed to them. They can then legally begin working anywhere in Canada.
If the application is denied, IRCC will return the application and refund the fee for the work permit application.
Special Circumstances
There are certain situations in which your spouse or partner may be allowed to apply for an OWP without an AOR:
If their temporary resident status (such as a visitor visa or work permit) is about to expire in two weeks or less, and they have already submitted their PR sponsorship application, IRCC may allow them to apply for an OWP immediately, even without the AOR.
If you have questions or need help regarding Open Work Permit (OWP), 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.
Start Your Canadian Adventure: IEC 2025 Is Now Open for Applications
December 19,2024 Amritpal Kaur
Are you dreaming of working and traveling in Canada? Well, the wait is over! The International Experience Canada (IEC) 2025 season has officially begun, and it’s the perfect time to turn that dream into reality.
The IEC program allows young people from eligible countries to explore Canada while gaining valuable work experience. Whether you’re looking to work in a café in Toronto, gain professional experience in your field, or complete an internship as part of your studies, IEC has something for everyone.
If you're ready to embark on your Canadian adventure, here's everything you need to know about the IEC 2025 season, including key updates, how to apply, and why you should act fast!
What is International Experience Canada (IEC)?
The IEC program is designed for young people (typically aged 18-35, depending on the country) who want to work and travel in Canada. It’s a great way to experience life in Canada, build your resume, and make lifelong memories. The program is divided into three main categories:
Working Holiday: An open work permit that allows you to work for any employer in Canada and travel around the country.
Young Professionals: For those who have a job offer in Canada and want to gain professional work experience.
International Co-op (Internships): Designed for international students who need to complete a work placement as part of their academic program.
Each category has its own eligibility criteria, but the general goal is to help young people experience Canada in a meaningful way while gaining work experience.
What’s New in IEC 2025?
This year, there are some exciting updates to the IEC program. While full details for all countries are still being finalized, here are some of the key changes you should know:
Increased IEC Fee: The application fee has risen slightly to CAD $179.75, up from CAD $172 last year. It's a small increase, but it’s important to budget for it.
Quota Adjustments: The number of available spots for participants varies by country and category, and some countries have seen quota changes:
France has reduced spots for the Working Holiday and Young Professionals categories but has increased spots for the International Co-op program.
South Korea has seen a decrease in Working Holiday spots but an increase in the other two categories.
Taiwan saw the largest decrease in quotas, with a reduction of over 2,000 spots for Working Holiday applicants.
Australia: Previously, Australians had unlimited spots across all categories, but this year, there is uncertainty about quotas. If you're from Australia, you’ll need to keep an eye out for updates on this.
These changes mean that acting early is more important than ever to maximize your chances of being selected in the randomized lottery system.
Why You Should Apply Early
The IEC works on a lottery system. After you submit your profile, you’ll be entered into the draw, where invitations are issued randomly. The sooner you submit your profile, the more chances you have to be selected in multiple rounds of invitations.
By applying early, you give yourself the best shot at being chosen for an invitation. If you're thinking about applying, don’t wait – the first round of invitations for IEC 2025 starts the week of January 13, 2025, and spots fill up quickly.
How to Prepare for IEC 2025
If you're excited to apply but unsure where to start, don't worry – it’s easier than it sounds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
Check Your Eligibility: Make sure you meet the age, nationality, and other eligibility requirements for your country. You can use free online quizzes or check the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website to confirm your eligibility.
Create Your Profile: Log in to your IRCC account (or create one if you don’t already have one) and complete your profile. Even if you’ve participated in previous IEC seasons, you need to create a new profile for 2025.
Submit Your Profile: Once your profile is ready, submit it to the IEC pools. By submitting early, you'll increase your chances of being invited to apply for a work permit.
Prepare for the Work Permit Application: If you receive an invitation, you’ll need to accept it within 10 days. After that, you’ll have 20 days to submit your work permit application. Make sure you’re ready to move quickly!
Stay Updated: Quotas can change, and the number of available spots may vary, so keep an eye on any updates from IRCC.
Countries Eligible for IEC 2025
The IEC program includes many countries, but it’s important to know if your country is eligible. Here’s a quick list of some countries that are eligible for the Working Holiday program:
Andorra
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Chile
France
Germany
Ireland
Italy
South Korea
United Kingdom
New Zealand
Taiwan
Sweden
Each country has its own specific quotas and requirements, so it’s worth checking the full list on the IRCC website or contacting your local embassy to learn more.
The International Experience Canada 2025 season is now open, and it's the perfect opportunity to work, travel, and gain professional experience in Canada. Whether you’re looking to work on a farm in the countryside or explore the vibrant cities, there’s a place for you in Canada.
With updates to fees, quotas, and the need to act quickly, it's important to prepare ahead of time. Make sure you create your profile, submit it early, and stay informed about the latest updates to improve your chances of success.
If you have questions or need help regarding IEC, 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.
Don't wait – start your Canadian adventure today!