The latest draw in the Express Entry system for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) has seen Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issue 471 invitations to apply (ITAs). The applicants who were selected had a minimum CRS score of 793. This is the first Express Entry draw of the year and comes after two PNP draws and one for French skills in December. Altogether, 2,561 ITAs were issued last month. Book Your Consultation Now In 2024, IRCC mainly operated in the CEC, PNP, and French skills selection categories. This trend is expected to continue into 2025. Those who are fluent in French and those with work experience in the health care and trade sectors are in the Federal Economic Priorities category as per the new Immigration Levels Plan of IRCTC. However, the “In-Canada Focus” category consists of CEC and PNP candidates and all the candidates from the Express Entry programs. These categories are expected to account for the largest number of admissions under Express Entry in 2025 with a target of 124,680 landings. Summary of Express Entry draws in 2024 Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Minimum CRS December 16 Provincial Nominee Program 1,085 727 December 3 French language proficiency 800 466 December 2 Provincial Nominee Program 676 705 November 20 Healthcare occupations 3,000 463 November 19 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 November 18 Provincial Nominee Program 174 816 November 15 French language proficiency 800 478 November 13 Canadian Experience Class 400 547 November 12 Provincial Nominee Program 733 812 October 23 Trade occupations 1,800 433 October 22 Canadian Experience Class 400 539 October 21 Provincial Nominee Program 648 791 October 10 French language proficiency 1,000 444 October 9 Canadian Experience Class 500 539 October 7 Provincial Nominee Program 1,613 743 September 19 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 509 September 13 French language proficiency 1,000 446 September 9 Provincial Nominee Program 911 732 August 27 Canadian Experience Class 3,300 507 August 26 Provincial Nominee Program 1,121 694 August 15 French language proficiency 2,000 394 August 14 Canadian Experience Class 3,200 509 August 13 Provincial Nominee Program 763 690 July 31 Canadian Experience Class 5,000 510 July 30 Provincial Nominee Program 964 686 July 18 French language proficiency 1,800 400 July 17 Canadian Experience Class 6,300 515 July 16 Provincial Nominee Program 1,391 670 July 8 French proficiency 3,200 420 July 5 Healthcare occupations 3,750 445 July 4 Trade occupations 1,800 436 July 2 Provincial Nominee Program 920 739 June 19 Provincial Nominee Program 1,499 663 May 31 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 522 May 30 Provincial Nominee Program 2,985 676 April 24 French proficiency 1,400 410 April 23 General 2,095 529 April 11 STEM occupations 4,500 491 April 10 General 1,280 549 March 26 French language proficiency 1,500 388 March 25 General 1,980 524 March 13 Transport occupations 975 430 March 12 General 2,850 525 February 29 French language proficiency 2,500 336 February 28 General 1,470 534 February 16 Agriculture and agri-food occupations 150 437 February 14 Healthcare occupations 3,500 422 February 13 General 1,490 535 February 1 French language proficiency 7,000 365 January 31 General 730 541 January 23 General 1,040 543 January 10 General 1,510 546 What is Express Entry? Express Entry is a system used to manage applications for three main federal economic immigration programs: Together, these programs form the largest economic immigration pathway to Canada. To be eligible under Express Entry, candidates must create a profile in the Express Entry pool, where they are ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This score is determined by factors such as age, education, and work experience. Candidates with the highest CRS scores receive invitations to apply for permanent residency (PR) through ITAs. Once an ITA is received, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete PR application. If the application meets all requirements, IRCC aims to process it within six months. Successful applicants will be granted Canadian PR, allowing them to live, work, and settle in Canada permanently, with the possibility of applying for Canadian citizenship.
Trudeau Announces Resignation: What Comes Next?
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has officially announced his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. However, he will remain in office as Prime Minister until a new leader is selected. This morning, Trudeau met with Governor General Mary Simon to request the prorogation of Parliament until March 24, 2025. The Governor General has approved the request. Prorogation refers to the suspension of a parliamentary session without dissolving it. Reports indicate that Trudeau, along with his Chief of Staff Katie Telford, informed staff members at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) that they did not see a viable path forward for his leadership due to insufficient support from the Liberal caucus. Book Your Consultation Now What happens next after Trudeau’s resignation announcement? Sources say that Liberal MPs have been invited to a special two-hour virtual briefing this afternoon, where they will discuss the party’s constitution and their role in leadership matters. According to the Liberal Party’s constitution, if a leadership “trigger event” occurs, such as a resignation, a meeting of the national board of directors must take place within 27 days. After consulting with the caucus, the board could appoint an interim leader. The party will also need to decide on a date for the leadership race and determine any restrictions related to it. Trudeau has led the Liberal Party since 2013 and has served as Prime Minister since 2015.
Is PM Justin Trudeau About to Resign? What’s Next for the Election?
Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to step down as leader of the Liberal Party, amid mounting internal dissatisfaction, plummeting public approval, and rising support for Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives. Although no official statement has been made, sources suggest Trudeau’s resignation could come as early as Monday, just before an important Liberal caucus meeting on Wednesday. Reasons Behind Justin Trudeau’s Resignation Several factors seem to be driving Trudeau’s decision to resign: Book Your Consultation Now What’s Next for the Liberal Party? The Liberal Party now faces crucial decisions about how to move forward: Who Could Replace Trudeau? Speculation about who will succeed Trudeau is rife. Potential candidates include: Will Trudeau’s Resignation Trigger an Election? Trudeau’s resignation does not automatically lead to a federal election. If an interim leader is chosen from the current Liberal caucus, they would immediately assume the role of Prime Minister, and an election would not be necessary unless a no-confidence vote is passed in Parliament. If the new leader is not a sitting MP, a by-election would be required for them to secure a seat. However, given the party’s declining popularity, finding a “safe seat” for a new leader may be challenging. A no-confidence vote, supported by opposition parties, could lead to an early election, with the Conservatives likely eager to capitalize on their strong polling numbers. The Bigger Picture Trudeau’s potential resignation represents a major turning point for the Liberal Party. Having led Canada since 2015, his leadership has been marked by both progressive successes and significant controversies. His departure would leave the party at a crossroads, tasked with the challenge of rebuilding public trust while facing a surging Conservative opposition. In the coming weeks, the Liberal Party’s decisions will be pivotal. Will a new leader be able to revitalize the party, or will Trudeau’s exit signal the beginning of Conservative dominance in Canadian politics? Only time will tell.
Canada to Stop Accepting New Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Applications in 2025
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made the decision to stop accepting new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program (PGP) in 2025. This move brings significant changes to the program and introduces alternatives for those hoping to reunite with family members in Canada. No New Applications for the PGP in 2025 IRCC has confirmed that, in 2025, the focus will be on processing applications submitted in 2024. The department intends to finalize approximately 15,000 sponsorship applications during the year. This decision is part of a broader effort to streamline the immigration process and reduce the existing backlog. While this might be a disappointment to potential sponsors, there are still other options, such as the Canada Super Visa, that families can consider. Understanding the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) The PGP is designed to allow Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered Indians to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency in Canada. Those who are approved under the program receive permanent residency, which grants access to healthcare and social services. The PGP is highly sought after, and as a result, IRCC runs a lottery system to select applicants. Sponsors express their interest through a submission form, and individuals are randomly chosen to submit their full application. Since 2020, no new sponsorships have been accepted, and only those who applied in 2020 have been invited to submit their full applications. Book Your Consultation Now Reasons Behind the Pause on New Applications The suspension of new applications for the PGP in 2025 is linked to IRCC’s updated immigration targets. The department has reduced its goal for permanent residents through the PGP in 2025: By concentrating on existing applications, IRCC aims to improve efficiency and manage resources effectively. This pause reflects a broader intention to focus on the quality of immigration programs rather than the sheer volume of applicants. Alternative to PGP: The Canada Super Visa For those unable to apply through the PGP, the Canada Super Visa serves as a viable alternative. This visa permits parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods without the need for permanent residency. Key benefits of the Super Visa include: The Super Visa offers families an opportunity for long-term visits, even when permanent residency sponsorship is not an option. PGP Processing Times For individuals already sponsoring their parents or grandparents, understanding the processing timeline is essential. The latest data from IRCC shows: Applicants are encouraged to monitor their application status using the IRCC’s online tools for updates. Conclusion The decision to pause new PGP applications in 2025 marks a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policy. While this limits immediate opportunities for permanent family reunification, options like the Canada Super Visa provide a flexible alternative. As IRCC works to clear backlogs and enhance processing times, the long-term goal is to create a more efficient immigration system. Stay informed about any updates and consider all available avenues to ensure family reunification remains possible.
Canada Announces Applications Cap for Agri-Food Pilot Pathway to Permanent Residence
The Canadian federal government has announced a cap on the intake for permanent residence applications under the Agri-Food Pilot. Effective immediately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept only up to 1,010 applications for this program in 2025. No further applications will be accepted after this cap has been reached, or after the pilot reaches its end date of May 14, 2025. Prior to the announcement of this year’s cap, IRCC limited applications to 2,750 per year. Book Your Consultation Now About the Agri-Food Pilot The Agri-Food Pilot is a pathway to permanent residence for non-seasonal workers in specific occupations in certain agriculture and food sectors. Eligible sectors include the following: To be eligible, foreign nationals must meet requirements around Over 4,500 agri-food workers and their family members have settled in Canada under this program since its launch in 2020. Read our dedicated webpage to learn more about the requirements for this program. Rationale for the cap Unlike many Canadian immigration programs—which generally require an invitation to apply (ITA)—applications to the Agri-Food pilot are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Any eligible foreign national can apply directly to IRCC for permanent residence under this program. On account of high demand for the program, IRCC expects a larger number of eligible applicants in 2025 than provisioned for in its 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan. About pilot programs Immigration pilot programs are one form of pathway to Canadian permanent residence. In contrast to permanent pathways, immigration pilots run for a maximum of five years, after which they expire. Successful pilots can later lead to permanent immigration programs. The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), for example, was preceded by a successful pilot. The Canadian federal government often establishes pilot programs to meet specific objectives. The Agri-Food pilot was created to help meet labour market needs of the agri-food sector.
IRCC Introduces New Fields of Study for PGWP Eligibility
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has in the recent past expanded the list of fields of study eligible for the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. The new list came into effect from December 17, 2024, and has a number of new programs particularly in the early childhood education and developmental service workers and this would provide international students in these fields an opportunity to get some working experience of Canada after their programs. Earlier, IRCC had defined PGWP eligible fields of study in five general areas of study that broadly matched the occupation-based categories of Canada’s Express Entry system. These categories were: The December update, however, introduces a sixth category: Education. This new category creates new opportunities for international students finishing programs in areas like early childhood education/developmental services works among others. Programs which are eligible within this field are identified by the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) which is the official system used in Canada to classify educational programs. Book Your Consultation Now The Addition of Education to the PGWP-Eligible Categories As part of this new update, the Education field now includes programs related to early childhood education and developmental service work, which are designed to address pressing labor shortages in these sectors. With these additions, international students studying in these fields will have greater access to PGWPs, allowing them to work in Canada after completing their studies. In previous updates, IRCC’s criteria had focused on more traditional fields of study. However, the expansion into education is an effort to diversify and support areas of growing demand, ensuring that Canada has the skilled professionals needed to meet current workforce challenges. Field of Study Requirements for PGWP Eligibility In September 2024, IRCC made a major change in the regulation guiding the issuance of PGWPs by making graduation from program related to the occupations in the long-term shortage list mandatory for any international student seeking the permit. This new field of study requirement applies to graduates of college programs and vocational university programs. However, university bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees are excluded from the requirement stated above. Hence, if you have done a program in any of the categories of field of study above, then you are exempted from the new field of study criteria. However, if you are going to transfer to another school or change your program after November 1, 2024, the following field of study requirements will be implemented. This change is one of the many undertaken by IRCC throughout 2024 to adapt the work permit program to the changing Canadian workforce. Language Requirement for PGWP Eligibility In addition to these changes in the field of study, IRCC has also introduced language requirements for the qualification of PGWP. The work permit requirements also vary with the level of study and international students will be required to satisfy a certain level of English or French language proficiency. This requirement is a part of a more extensive endeavour to guarantee that foreign graduates can assimilate into the Canadian job market, become productive members of the Canadian economy and, thus, increase their likelihood of being granted permanent residency. What is the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)? A Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an open work permit which permits graduates who have completed an eligible program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada to work for any employer in any sector in the Canadian economy. The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the completed study program of the foreign student. It can take from eight months to three years, and this program offers graduates an invaluable chance to acquire work experience in Canada. This is relevant especially to anyone with an intention to apply for permanent residence in Canada because the Canadian work experience will enhance their qualifying for the Canadian experience class under the Express Entry. Also, the work experience can enhance the CRS score of a graduate that will enhance their selection for permanent residency. How Long is a PGWP Valid? The validity of a Post Graduation Work Permit is tied to the duration of the study program completed by the student. A program that lasts one year may grant a work permit valid for one year, while a three-year program can result in a work permit lasting up to three years. The work permit offers international graduates the flexibility to work in Canada across a variety of industries, making it a valuable pathway for those interested in transitioning to permanent residency. How to Qualify for a PGWP To qualify for a Post Graduation Work Permit, international students must meet the following conditions: Implications of PGWP for Permanent Residency The PGWP is a pathway to professional working experience in Canada as well as an important step towards permanent residency. Obtaining Canadian work experience is a great advantage for international students aspiring to get permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream of the Express Entry. Further, the Canadian experience which a candidate is able to accrue during the course of the PGWP period is useful in boosting the CRS score. CRS is used by the Canadian authorities to rank the candidates for the PNP and prioritization is given to the working experience in the host country.
6 Important Updates for International Students in Canada for 2025
Canada continues to be one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering world-class education and diverse cultural experiences. However, starting in 2025, the Canadian government is implementing several significant changes that could impact your academic and work journey. These updates, announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), are aimed at enhancing the immigration system’s fairness, aligning education with labor market needs, and promoting a balanced student experience. If you’re planning to study in Canada or are currently navigating your student journey there, it’s important to be aware of these new rules. In this article, we’ll break down six key changes you need to know about for 2025, their potential impact, and how you can best prepare for them. 1. New Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Rules Starting November 1, 2024, Canada will introduce revised eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). These changes focus on aligning students’ programs with Canada’s labor market needs. What’s Changing? Why It Matters:These changes are designed to boost employability in high-demand sectors, ensuring international students can contribute effectively to Canada’s workforce post-graduation. Book Your Consultation Now 2. Changes to Off-Campus Work Hour Limits Effective November 2024, the number of hours international students can work off-campus during academic sessions will increase from 20 hours per week to 24 hours per week. What This Means: In surveys, many international students expressed that 20 hours per week was insufficient to cover living expenses. This increase aims to address that concern, providing more opportunities while ensuring academic priorities remain intact. 3. Ban on Flagpoling for PGWP Applications As of June 21, 2024, the practice of “flagpoling” — leaving Canada and re-entering at the border to process applications like the PGWP — will no longer be allowed. Alternatives: Why This Change?This shift is aimed at reducing inefficiencies and making the immigration process more transparent and consistent. 4. End of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) In November 2024, the Canadian government will phase out the Student Direct Stream (SDS), a program that fast-tracked study permit applications for students from certain countries. Why Is It Ending?While the SDS program was beneficial to certain students, it introduced concerns around fairness. By eliminating SDS, the IRCC aims to standardize the process for all international students, ensuring no group receives preferential treatment. What This Means for You:All students will now follow the same application process, which is designed to be fair and consistent for everyone, regardless of nationality. 5. New Restrictions on Spousal Work Permits As part of changes to immigration rules, spouses of international students will now face stricter eligibility requirements for open work permits. Only spouses of students enrolled in professional degree programs will be eligible. These programs include: Why This Change?The focus is to attract high-skilled workers to Canada and address critical labor shortages in various industries. 6. No More Study Permit Applications at Ports of Entry Effective December 23, 2024, study permit applications will no longer be accepted at Canadian ports of entry. What’s Changing? Why This Change?This policy aims to improve oversight and ensure that all study permits are processed consistently and efficiently. 7. Impact of the Changes The implementation of these new rules has several broad implications for international students: 8. How to Adapt and Prepare for the New Policies To successfully navigate these changes, here are a few steps to consider: Conclusion Canada’s updated rules for international students in 2025 reflect the country’s evolving approach to immigration and workforce integration. While these changes might seem like a challenge at first, they are designed to create a more streamlined and fair system, while also providing opportunities for students in critical sectors. By staying informed and preparing ahead, you can navigate these updates successfully and continue to enjoy a rewarding academic experience in Canada. Keep these changes in mind as you plan your studies and work opportunities, and ensure you are always aligned with the latest requirements.
TR to PR Pathway Applicants Eligible for Extended Open Work Permits
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended its temporary public policy allowing applicants in the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway to receive longer open work permits (OWPs) while their applications are in progress. This policy also extends the eligibility for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of principal PR applicants to apply for OWPs. The policy will now remain in effect until December 31, 2026. Background on the TR to PR Pathway The TR to PR pathway was a limited-time immigration program that allowed foreign workers with experience in essential occupations, healthcare professions, or recent graduates from Canadian post-secondary institutions to apply for permanent residency. This pathway was closed in 2021. However, applicants still in the PR application process can continue to benefit from the extended OWP policy. Applicants who received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC for their PR application, and who can provide valid language test results and proof of authorized work, can apply for an additional open work permit valid until the end of 2026. Book Your Consultation Now Eligibility for Principal PR Applicants To be eligible for an open work permit under this policy, principal PR applicants must meet the following criteria: Note on Legal Work Authorization: Legal work authorization can include, but is not limited to: Specific Language Requirements: Temporary public policies under which applications can build eligibility under this extension policy can be found on IRCC’s website. Applicants who apply for an OWP under this policy must pay the work permit processing fee but are exempt from the open work permit holder fee typically associated with OWP applications. Eligibility for Family Members to Receive an OWP Family members of the principal applicant may also be eligible for an open work permit under this policy, provided they meet the following conditions: Definition of a Dependent Child: A dependent child is defined as someone who is: Children aged 22 or older may still qualify as “over-age” dependents if they have relied on their parents for financial support since before turning 22 and are unable to support themselves due to a mental or physical condition. Note: If the principal applicant’s PR application is rejected, IRCC will also refuse all associated work permit applications for family members. For further details on eligibility and how to apply, please visit the official IRCC website.
