Expected list of 6 occupations for the new Express Entry draw category
January 7,2025 Amritpal Kaur
Canada’s New Focus on Education
In 2025, Canada will introduce a new Express Entry draw category aimed at addressing the ongoing shortage of skilled workers in the education sector. This category will focus on professions that play a critical role in Canada's educational system.
Why is the Education Category Being Introduced?
The education category is designed to fill crucial labor gaps in Canada’s education sector. With many teaching and child development roles facing significant shortages, this move will help bring in skilled workers to support Canada's long-term educational needs.
Expected Occupations in the Education Category
Based on recent updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), here are the six occupations most likely to be included in the new Express Entry education category:
Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers (NOC 41221)
These teachers are responsible for providing foundational education to young children, covering subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic.Teacher Assistants (NOC 43100)
Teacher assistants support educators in classrooms and play an essential role in helping students, especially in inclusive and special needs settings.Early Childhood Educators (NOC 42202)
Early childhood educators develop and implement learning programs for children from infancy through age 12, helping them grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220)
Secondary school teachers deliver academic and vocational education to students in grades 9 to 12, preparing them for higher education or the workforce.Educational Counsellors (NOC 41320)
These professionals guide students in making educational and career decisions, helping them plan their future academic and professional paths.Instructors for Persons with Disabilities (NOC 42203)
Instructors in this field provide specialized support to individuals with disabilities, helping them enhance communication and social skills.
The Link Between PGWP and Express Entry
The new education category is linked to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Graduates from eligible education programs, such as early childhood education or Montessori teacher training, will be able to apply for a PGWP, allowing them to work in Canada and gain experience that can support their permanent residency application through Express Entry.
How Does the Category-Based Selection Work?
The Express Entry system uses a points-based approach to select candidates for permanent residency. With the new education category, skilled professionals in education will be prioritized, ensuring that Canada’s educational needs are met.
Need Help with Your Application?
If you’re confused about how the new Express Entry education category could impact your application or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to help guide you through the process and ensure that your application is successful.
Call us at: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Book an appointment: www.zandbimmigration.ca
Canada Pauses Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship in 2025
January 6, 2025 Amritpal Kaur
In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will not accept new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program (PGP). This decision is aimed at processing existing applications and managing immigration backlogs.
Why Is This Happening?
The IRCC is focusing on clearing the backlog of PGP applications from previous years. In 2025, the target for PGP landings is 24,500, down from 32,000 in 2024. This pause helps improve processing times and efficiency.
What is the PGP?
The PGP allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency in Canada. Due to high demand, the program has used a lottery system for selecting applicants.
Alternative: The Canada Super Visa
If you can’t apply for the PGP, consider the Canada Super Visa. This allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to 5 years at a time without permanent residency. The visa is valid for up to 10 years and can be extended by 2 years.
Processing Times
For those already applying, processing times are about 24 months in Canada (excluding Quebec) and up to 48 months in Quebec due to additional requirements.
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.ca
Stay informed, and make the most of your opportunity in Canada!
Canada Agri-Food Pilot 2025: Your Guide to New Application Rules
January 6,2025 Amritpal Kaur
The Canada Agri-Food Pilot continues to be a vital pathway for experienced workers in the agricultural and food processing sectors to secure permanent residency in Canada. However, for 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced some important changes that will affect the number of applications accepted for this program.
Important Changes for 2025
Application Cap: The Agri-Food Pilot will now accept only 1,010 new applications for 2025, a sharp reduction from the 2,750 applications in 2024.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by May 14, 2025, or until the cap of 1,010 is reached—whichever happens first.
This is an important development as it signals the final year for the Agri-Food Pilot program, which is set to expire on May 14, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Agri-Food Pilot, applicants must meet several key criteria:
Work Experience: At least 1 year of full-time, non-seasonal work (minimum of 1,560 hours) in eligible agri-food occupations within the last 3 years.
Job Offer: A full-time, permanent job offer in one of the qualifying agri-food sectors.
Education: A Canadian high school diploma or an equivalent foreign credential (verified through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)).
Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB Level 4 in either English or French.
Settlement Funds: Applicants must show sufficient funds to support themselves and their family, unless they are already working in Canada under a valid work permit.
Eligible Occupations and Industries
The program targets specific occupations in the agri-food industry, including:
Meat Product Manufacturing: Butchers, meat cutters, and meat processing workers.
Greenhouse, Nursery, and Floriculture Production: Farm supervisors, livestock workers, and harvesting laborers.
Animal Production: Farm supervisors, livestock workers, and harvesting laborers.
Application Process
If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow these steps to apply:
Review the Application Guide: Visit the official IRCC website for detailed instructions on how to apply.
Prepare Your Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of work experience, educational credentials, language test results, and settlement funds.
Submit Your Application: Submit online if eligible or through an alternate format if needed. Be sure to follow the IRCC guidelines.
Track Your Application: Use the IRCC portal to monitor your application's status and provide additional information as required.
Need Help? We’re Here for You!
Navigating the immigration process can be complicated, especially with the recent changes to the Agri-Food Pilot. If you need assistance or have questions about your application, we’re here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through every step to make your immigration experience as smooth as possible.
Contact us today:
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Book an appointment: www.zandbimmigration.ca
Don’t wait—this is the final year to apply under the Canada Agri-Food Pilot. Secure your spot before the cap is reached and get started on your path to permanent residency in Canada!
Justin Trudeau Resigns: What Happens Next for Canada?
January 6, 2025 Amritpal Kaur
On January 6, 2025, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced he is stepping down as the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. While he resigns from the party leadership, Trudeau will continue as Prime Minister until a new leader is chosen.
What Does Prorogation Mean?
Trudeau also requested that Parliament be prorogued (temporarily suspended) until March 24, 2025. This means that Parliament will not meet during this time, allowing for a smoother transition of leadership without major legislative interruptions.
The Leadership Transition
The resignation triggers a process for choosing a new Liberal leader. Within 27 days, the party's national board must meet to designate an interim leader and decide when to hold a leadership vote. Liberal MPs will soon be briefed on this process.
What’s Next for Trudeau and Canada?
While the leadership transition unfolds, Trudeau will remain as Prime Minister, ensuring stability. The Liberal Party will now focus on finding a new leader, and Canadians will be closely watching this next chapter in Canadian politics.
Contact Us:
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Visit www.zandbimmigration.ca.to explore our services or book a consultation.
Stay informed and start your journey with Z&B Immigration Consultancy Inc. to make the most of these exciting opportunities!
New Canadian PR Programs Coming in 2025
January 2,2025 Amritpal Kaur
Canada remains a top destination for individuals seeking permanent residency (PR), and 2025 will bring new opportunities. Several new immigration programs are launching to address labor shortages, support rural communities, and enhance cultural diversity. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:
1. Enhanced Caregiver Pilot Programs
Launching in 2025, these programs will replace the current Home Childcare Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots. Permanent Residency (PR) on arrival for caregivers. This reflects Canada's commitment to supporting essential home care workers.
Eligibility:
Minimum CLB Level 4 language proficiency.
Equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma.
Recent relevant work experience.
Full-time job offer in home care.
2. Rural Community Immigration Pilot
This program will target labor shortages in rural areas and encourage long-term settlement in small communities across Canada. Following the success of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), it aims to bring skilled workers to fill vital gaps.
Who Can Apply: Skilled workers interested in living and working in rural areas.
3. Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
Designed to increase the number of French-speaking immigrants in Francophone communities outside Quebec, this program supports Canada's bilingual and multicultural identity.
Focus on attracting French-speaking professionals.
Promote the growth of Francophone communities.
4. Manitoba’s West-Central Immigration Initiative
Launching in 2025, this program addresses labor shortages in Manitoba’s West-Central region. The initiative will bring 240 to 300 skilled workers over three years to fill job vacancies.
Eligibility: Details are still to be released, but it’s based on previous successful immigration programs in Manitoba.
How to Get Started?
If you're interested in these programs, now is the time to start preparing. At Z&B Immigration Consultancy Inc., we offer personalized consultations to guide you through the immigration process. We provide consultations for individuals interested in Canadian immigration, including study permits, work permits, business immigration, Express Entry, and more.
Book a virtual consultation from anywhere around the world or meet us in person if you live in Ontario. To learn more about our services and get started, visit our website at www.zandbimmigration.ca.
Contact Us:
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Visit www.zandbimmigration.ca.to explore our services or book a consultation.
Stay informed and start your journey with Z&B Immigration Consultancy Inc. to make the most of these exciting opportunities!
Canada’s Open Work Permit Extension for Temporary Residents
January 1,2025 Amritpal Kaur
Canada's immigration policies often evolve to support those striving to make the country their new home. One such policy is the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) Pathway, which helps individuals in Canada transition from temporary status to permanent residency. For those navigating this pathway, a significant update has just been made: the open work permit application deadline has been extended until December 31, 2026. This extension brings fresh opportunities for applicants and their families as they wait for their permanent residency (PR) decisions.
The Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident Pathway
The Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident Pathway is a special program designed to help people already living in Canada move from temporary status to permanent resident status. This pathway is available to various groups, such as:
Workers with recent Canadian experience in essential occupations (both healthcare and non-healthcare).
French-speaking workers in essential occupations.
Recent international graduates from Canadian institutions.
These applicants can apply for PR while they continue to live and work in Canada.
Benefit: The Open Work Permit Extension
The most recent development in the TR-PR pathway is the extension of the deadline to apply for an open work permit. The previous deadline has been moved to December 31, 2026, offering applicants more time to apply for work permits while their permanent residency applications are in progress. This means:
Stability for Workers: If you're waiting for your PR application to be processed, this extension allows you to continue working without worrying about your work permit expiring.
Flexibility: You will have the ability to work for any employer and in any occupation while waiting for your PR decision, offering flexibility during a potentially long wait.
Peace of Mind: The extension reduces the pressure to reapply for a work permit before it expires, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life in Canada.
Who Is Eligible for the Open Work Permit?
Not everyone will be eligible for the open work permit under this extension. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria:
Current Residency in Canada: You must be living in Canada at the time of your application.
PR Application Under the TR to PR Pathway: You must have submitted an application for permanent residency under one of the designated TR-PR pathways. These include:
Workers with recent experience in essential occupations (healthcare and non-healthcare).
French-speaking workers in essential occupations.
Recent international graduates from Canadian institutions.
Authorization to Work: You must have been authorized to work in Canada when you submitted your PR application. This can be through a valid work permit, authorization to work without a permit, or another form of public policy.
Language Proficiency: You must meet the language requirements specific to the TR to PR pathway you applied under, which typically involves passing an approved language test.
Valid Immigration Status: You must either have valid temporary resident status or be eligible to restore your status if it expired.
Family Members Can Apply Too
This public policy doesn't just benefit the principal applicants. Family members—such as spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children—are also eligible to apply for an open work permit, as long as they meet certain conditions:
They must be 18 or older.
They must be a dependent of the principal applicant and listed as such in the PR application.
They must either have valid temporary resident status in Canada or be eligible to restore their status if it expired.
Family members can apply for an open work permit at the same time as the principal applicant, which helps streamline the process and ensures the family can stay together and work while awaiting a PR decision.
How to Apply for an Open Work Permit
Applying for an open work permit is a straightforward process, but it must be done online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ensure Eligibility: Before applying, make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements outlined above.
Prepare Your Documents: Gather all the required documents, including proof of your permanent residency application and any supporting documents that show you meet the work permit criteria.
Pay the Processing Fee: There’s a processing fee of CAN$155 for the work permit application. Applicants are exempt from paying the open work permit holder fee (CAN$100).
Create an Online Account: Sign in or create an account on the IRCC website to start your application.
Complete the Application: Fill out the necessary forms and upload the required documents. Be sure to specify your job title as “TRPR pathway PP OWP” (for initial applicants) or “TRPR pathway PP OWP-EXT” (for extensions).
Submit the Application: Once your application is complete, submit it online. You will also be able to track its progress through your online account.
Important Considerations
Work Permit Duration: The work permit can be issued until December 31, 2026, or the expiry date of your passport or biometrics. Ensure that your work permit duration is requested within the allowable timeframe.
Document Checklist: After starting your application, you will receive a personalized document checklist. Follow it closely to ensure you submit the correct documents.
Family Member Applications: Family members applying at the same time should follow similar steps, but with additional details about the principal applicant’s unique client identifier (UCI).
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.ca
Stay informed, and make the most of your opportunity in Canada!
Canada Immigration Changes for 2025
January 1,2025 Amritpal Kaur
Canada’s immigration system is evolving in 2025 with new changes designed to improve efficiency, address labor shortages, and focus on family reunification. Whether you are looking to move to Canada for work, study, or to reunite with family, these updates will shape your immigration experience. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Faster Processing Times
In an effort to reduce backlogs and speed up processing, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is incorporating AI and automation to handle straightforward cases more efficiently. While there is still a backlog, these changes are expected to lead to faster processing for many applicants, especially skilled workers and family sponsorships.
2. Focus on Economic Immigration
Canada continues to prioritize skilled workers to address labor shortages in critical sectors.
Express Entry updates: The Express Entry system will focus on high-demand industries like healthcare, technology, and construction.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Provinces will have greater flexibility to select candidates who meet regional needs, opening up more opportunities for skilled workers.
These changes make it easier for skilled workers to immigrate and contribute to Canada’s economy.
3. Family Sponsorship
Canada’s commitment to family reunification remains a priority:
Faster processing times for family sponsorships will make it easier for spouses, dependent children, and parents to join their family members in Canada.
There may be expanded eligibility for family sponsorships, helping more people reunite with their loved ones.
These changes aim to bring families together more quickly and efficiently.
4. International Students and Temporary Workers
Canada continues to be a top destination for international students and temporary workers. Key updates include:
More work flexibility for international students: Students will be able to work more hours during breaks and summer vacations, gaining valuable Canadian work experience.
Temporary work permits: There will be easier access to work permits, particularly in sectors facing labor shortages such as healthcare, agriculture, and construction.
These changes provide more opportunities for international students and foreign workers to gain experience in Canada and build a future.
5. Refugee and Humanitarian Pathways
Canada’s refugee and humanitarian programs are expanding:
Faster processing for refugees, particularly those displaced by climate change and conflict.
Continued support for vulnerable populations, offering safe haven and opportunities for rebuilding lives.
Canada remains committed to providing refuge to those in need.
6. Digital Immigration Tools
Canada is advancing its use of digital tools to make immigration easier:
More applications will be processed through online portals, giving applicants greater transparency and control.
Biometric data collection will be more widely used to ensure security while expediting applications.
These innovations will streamline the immigration process, making it faster and more secure.
7. Green Economy and Sustainability Focus
As part of its commitment to a greener future, Canada is prioritizing applicants with skills in sustainability and green technologies. If you have expertise in clean energy, environmental conservation, or green innovation, you may find more opportunities to contribute to Canada’s growing green economy.
8. Citizenship and Language Policy Adjustments
Changes to citizenship applications include:
Simplified language assessments and possibly more flexible residency requirements, making it easier for permanent residents to apply for citizenship.
These changes are designed to make the citizenship process more accessible and efficient.
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.ca
Stay informed, and make the most of your opportunity in Canada!