Today, the Government of Canada revealed that it will cease processing LMIAs for the Low-Wage Stream in metropolitan areas where the unemployment rate is 6% or above. In addition, the Canadian government introduced several major changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program. These changes are designed to reduce dependency on foreign workers and emphasize the importance of Canadian talent. This decision addresses the growing misuse of the program and reflects the evolving labour market conditions, including the increasing unemployment rate. Major Changes Starting September 26, 2024 Starting September 26, 2024, the Government of Canada will introduce the following changes to the TFW Program: Government’s Emphasis on Canadian Workers Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development, and Official Languages, highlighted the importance of focusing on the domestic workforce. “The Temporary Foreign Worker Program was intended to address labor shortages when qualified Canadians were unavailable for certain roles. Currently, there are more Canadians who are qualified for these positions. The changes we are implementing today will prioritize Canadian workers and ensure the program aligns with our economic needs,” stated Minister Boissonnault. The government is urging Canadian employers to tap into underutilized domestic talent, including youth, newcomers, and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, employers are encouraged to invest in retraining and upskilling their existing employees to better meet the demands of the changing economic environment. Oversight and Future Modifications The Government of Canada is dedicated to continuously monitoring labor market conditions and will adjust the TFW Program as needed. A thorough review of the program will be carried out within the next 90 days, which may result in modifications to the high-wage stream, sectoral exceptions, and the processing of current LMIA applications. Increasing Unemployment and Policy Changes These changes are part of a broader initiative by the Canadian government to reverse pandemic-era policies that were put in place to address an exceptional labor shortage. As the labor market in Canada has eased, with the unemployment rate rising to 6.4% in June 2024, the government has started reducing the validity period of LMIAs from 18 months to 6 months and decreasing the cap on temporary foreign workers from 30% to 20%. Additionally, on August 20, 2024, the Government of Canada approved Quebec’s proposal for a temporary freeze on new TFW approvals in the low-wage stream for Montreal. Effective September 3, 2024, the processing of LMIA applications will be paused for six months for job offers in Montreal that offer wages below $27.47 per hour, which is Quebec’s current median hourly wage. The Government of Canada’s recent measures demonstrate a firm commitment to ensuring the proper use of the TFW Program and prioritizing Canadian workers in the job market. As the labor market continues to evolve, additional adjustments to the program are anticipated to better align with the country’s economic requirements.
New Brunswick has reached its limit for Express Entry PNP allocations.
On August 16, New Brunswick announced that it would cease issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under its Provincial Nominee Program’s (PNP) Express Entry category. The province stated that it has already reached its full allocation of ITAs for this stream. However, New Brunswick has not disclosed its allocation numbers for 2024. The province has indicated that applications fully submitted before Friday, August 16, 2024, will continue to be processed. Additionally, candidates who received an ITA prior to this date are still encouraged to submit their complete nomination application. New Brunswick’s Express Entry New Brunswick offers three streams under its Express Entry category, each with distinct eligibility requirements. However, all candidates must be in the federal Express Entry application pool through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program. The NB Employment Connection stream is aimed at individuals who have been living in New Brunswick for at least six months and are either currently employed full-time or have a full-time job offer from a New Brunswick employer. The NB Student Connection stream is designed for international students enrolled in programs at designated institutions in New Brunswick that qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Through the NB Priorities Connection stream, candidates may receive a letter of interest if they can demonstrate that their experience aligns with the province’s labor market needs. Alternative ways to apply to the NB PNPNew Brunswick has grown increasingly popular among newcomers in recent years. Census 2021 data reveals that 44,125 people, or 5.8% of the population, are foreign-born immigrants (permanent residents), and 10,855, or 1.4%, are non-permanent residents. This nearly doubles the immigrant population from a decade ago, which stood at 28,465 in 2011. Interest in New Brunswick’s PNP has surged this year. On May 17, the province temporarily paused issuing Expressions of Interest under the New Brunswick Skilled Worker stream. This pause allows the immigration department to better manage the already large inventory of candidates. If you wish to apply under this stream, check your eligibility for the Atlantic Immigration Program. For those still aiming to immigrate to New Brunswick through the PNP, you can explore other options, such as the New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream. This stream targets French-speaking skilled workers who are committed to living and working in New Brunswick permanently. Another option is the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program, an employer-driven stream introduced in November 2022. This program aims to attract skilled workers to address urgent labor shortages in key industries across the province. You must apply to one of six designated employers under the Pilot program, who will then submit an application to the provincial government on your behalf.
Eligibility changes to the AAIP in response to the Alberta wildfires.
Alberta has temporarily suspended the work experience requirements for certain applicants under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). This temporary measure, which affects the Alberta Opportunity and Tourism and Hospitality Streams, aims to help workers impacted by the wildfires quickly find new employment. The Government of Alberta announced that the AAIP will accept open work permits issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for workers in these streams who have been affected by the wildfires and are seeking new job opportunities. The eligibility changes will be in effect from July 19, 2024, to November 30, 2024. This measure supports individuals at risk of losing their jobs due to the fires, which have impacted areas where many of Alberta’s hotels and resorts are located. Requirements for work experience Under normal conditions, the Tourism and Hospitality Stream requires candidates to have six consecutive months of work experience (780 hours) with their current employer. For the Alberta Opportunity Stream, candidates usually need: Post-Graduation Work Permit holders must have at least 6 months of full-time work experience in their current occupation in Alberta within the last 18 months. Applicants using the Rural Renewal and Express Entry pathways remain unaffected by these changes, as these programs do not specify work experience requirements. Additional support for those impacted by wildfires IRCC introduced these changes as part of a series of special measures to assist those directly affected by the wildfires. On July 26, the Alberta government announced that affected individuals could: Applicants will have one year to meet the AAIP criteria, including securing a new eligible position if they lost their jobs due to the fires. The Alberta government stresses that all other criteria for each stream will remain in effect and will continue to monitor the situation for further updates. Effects of wildfires on Alberta’s economy This summer, Alberta has battled over 100 wildfires in the past month. The fires have destroyed 358 of the 1,113 structures in Jasper, and the evacuation notice was lifted only on August 17, 2024. The wildfires have disrupted the local economy, particularly Jasper’s hospitality industry, which attracts thousands of tourists and temporary workers each year. Aiming to more than double the size of the tourism economy by 2025, the Alberta government is focusing its response on supporting the businesses and workers crucial to the hospitality sector.
The deadline has been extended for out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to apply for a pathway to permanent residency.
The temporary public policy aimed at providing permanent residency to out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has been extended. The policy will now remain in effect until December 31, 2024, or until it reaches the maximum of 1,000 applications, whichever comes first. Initially launched on January 2, 2020, this program was designed to address regional labour market needs. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the extension acknowledges the economic contributions of foreign construction workers in the GTA who have lost their status and have been working without proper authorization. The policy is designed to process both temporary and permanent residence applications for 1,000 out-of-status construction workers and their families in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Applicants do not need prior authorization to work in construction in the GTA to be eligible. Who is Eligible? “Out-of-status” refers to individuals who initially arrived in Canada with valid immigration status but have since lost it, leaving them susceptible to exploitation. To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria: A designated officer will make the final determination on whether an applicant meets the eligibility criteria. How to Apply? Applicants must contact the Canadian Labour Congress, which will assess their eligibility. If the applicant meets the conditions, the CLC will issue a referral letter following their evaluation. Applications will then be forwarded to the IRCC to be processed. Extension Highlights Increasing Demand in the Construction Industry The extension reflects the rising demand for skilled trades, particularly in the construction sector. According to IRCC, the construction industry is experiencing significant labor shortages, and maintaining a stable workforce is essential to ensuring the timely completion of housing and infrastructure projects. To address this growing demand, Canada introduced category-based Express Entry draws in 2023, targeting sectors and occupations experiencing high growth, including trade professions. Benefits for Workers This policy is also intended to support workers who have been contributing to Canada’s economy by meeting regional labor needs but remain vulnerable due to their out-of-status condition. As noted by IRCC, “Many undocumented construction workers may be unaware of their employment rights or reluctant to exercise them. These workers may not be benefiting from workplace regulations like health and safety inspections.” By providing legal status, the policy enables these workers to continue their contributions to the construction industry while becoming more informed and empowered regarding their workplace rights.
A recent Ontario Express Entry Skilled Trade draw issued 1,287 invitations for permanent residency.
On August 22, 2024, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Express Entry draw extended 1,287 invitations for provincial nomination through the Skilled Trades Stream. This round of invitations targeted all Express Entry profiles with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score between 400 and 435 and experience in one of the 46 specified skilled trade occupations as the primary NOC. Additionally, active Express Entry profiles created between August 22, 2023, and August 22, 2024, that met these criteria were eligible for this OINP draw. The cutoff score range has significantly expanded compared to the previous OINP Skilled Trades Stream draw. The lower end of the CRS score range has dropped by 8 points, from 408 to 400, while the upper limit remains unchanged. OINP generally sets the upper range of the CRS score based on the most recent federal Express Entry draw for 10 specific trade occupations. However, candidates with experience in the remaining 35–36 occupations have consistently voiced concerns about being overlooked in both OINP Express Entry draws and Federal Express Entry draws. Candidates who receive an invitation now have 45 days to accept it and submit a comprehensive application for provincial nomination. Securing a provincial nomination boosts the candidate’s existing Express Entry profile by 600 points. The invited profiles will see their Express Entry CRS scores rise to a range of 1,000 to 1,035, virtually ensuring selection in upcoming PNP or all-program Express Entry draws. The Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream draw doesn’t require a separate OINP profile; instead, eligible profiles must align with one of the trade occupations specified for this draw. OINP regularly reviews the Express Entry pool managed by IRCC to identify profiles that meet the criteria for one of Ontario’s Express Entry streams. List of occupations eligible for today’s OINP Express Entry draw: On 22 August 2024, OINP extended invitations to Express Entry profiles with experience in the following occupations. All OINP Skilled Trades Stream draws in 2024 Compared to the 7,512 invitations issued in 2023 under this stream, the OINP Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream has already invited 7,699 profiles across four draws this year. Date Invitations CRS score range Express Entry Profiles Creation Dates August 22, 2024 1,287 400-435 August 22, 2023 –August 22, 2024 July 11, 2024 1,277 408-435 July 11, 2023 –July 11, 2024 March 1, 2024 2,583 350-424 March 1, 2023 –March 1, 2024 January 11, 2024 2,552 350-424 January 11, 2023 –January 11, 2024 All The OINP Skilled Trades Streams Draw in 2024 What criteria must be met to qualify for the OINP Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream? You are automatically eligible for the OINP Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream draw if you have an Express Entry profile and have worked full-time in Ontario for at least one year (or the equivalent in part-time work). In the past two years, your work experience must be in one of the following groups: Major Groups 72 (excluding transportation officers), 73, 82, 83, 93 (excluding aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors), or Minor Group 6320 (excluding chefs).
Canada Spousal Sponsorship or Sponsorship for Boyfriend/Girlfriend
Canada’s spousal sponsorship program is an important route for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with loved ones from other countries by granting them permanent residency (PR). Whether you intend to sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner, it’s crucial to understand the details of the process. It’s important to note that Canada has recently introduced two new automation tools to expedite the process of sponsoring a spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner. This detailed guide will cover the meaning of spousal sponsorship, the distinctions between common-law and conjugal partners, eligibility requirements, financial obligations, necessary documents, application procedures, and steps to take if your sponsorship application is denied. Watch this in-depth video covering Spousal Sponsorship Navigation Guide What is Spousal Sponsorship?Common-Law vs. Conjugal Partners: Key DifferencesBasic Eligibility Criteria for Spousal SponsorshipFinancial Undertaking: Your Responsibility as a SponsorRequired Documents to Strengthen Your CaseHow to Apply for Spousal SponsorshipWhat to Do if Your Sponsorship Application Is Refused What is Spousal Sponsorship? Spousal sponsorship in Canada allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to obtain permanent residency in Canada. This program aims to reunite families and enable Canadians to build their lives in Canada alongside their loved ones. Types of Relationships The Canadian spousal sponsorship program recognizes three primary types of relationships: It’s essential to identify the correct category for your relationship to ensure your application is properly processed. Common-Law vs. Conjugal Partners: Key Differences In spousal sponsorship, it’s crucial to distinguish between common-law and conjugal partners. While both are recognized under Canada’s immigration laws, they have different definitions and criteria. Common-Law Partners A common-law partnership refers to a relationship where two individuals have lived together in a conjugal relationship for at least 12 consecutive months. To qualify as a common-law partner, you must provide proof of cohabitation, such as joint bank accounts, shared leases, or utility bills. The relationship must be genuine, with both partners intending to live together permanently in Canada. Conjugal Partners Conjugal partners are those who have been in a committed relationship for at least one year but are unable to live together due to circumstances beyond their control. These circumstances might include immigration barriers, cultural or religious reasons, or legal constraints. Unlike common-law partners, conjugal partners do not need to provide evidence of cohabitation. However, they must prove that their relationship is genuine and committed. Conjugal partner sponsorship is generally used when the couple cannot meet the requirements for marriage or common-law status, often due to external factors. Basic Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Sponsorship To successfully sponsor a spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to Canada, both the sponsor and the sponsored person must meet specific eligibility requirements. For the Sponsor: For the Sponsored Person: Meeting these eligibility requirements is crucial for the success of your sponsorship application. Financial Undertaking: Your Responsibility as a Sponsor When you sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to Canada, you are agreeing to a financial commitment. This commitment is a legal obligation to provide financial support for the sponsored person’s basic needs, including food, clothing, and shelter, as well as any healthcare not covered by public health services. Duration of the Financial Commitment The length of this financial responsibility depends on the type of relationship: It’s important to remember that this financial commitment remains in effect for the entire duration, even if your relationship with the sponsored person ends. Required Documents to Strengthen Your Case A strong, well-documented application is essential for the success of your spousal sponsorship. Providing complete and accurate documentation will help demonstrate the genuineness of your relationship and your eligibility to sponsor. Key Documents for the Sponsor: Key Documents for the Sponsored Person: Organizing these documents and presenting them clearly in your application will significantly improve your chances of approval. How to Apply for Spousal Sponsorship The process of applying for spousal sponsorship involves multiple steps. Completing each step accurately and thoroughly is crucial for a successful application. Step 1: Collect All Required Documents Before beginning the application process, gather all necessary documents for both the sponsor and the sponsored person. Be sure to review and confirm the specific requirements based on your relationship type. Step 2: Fill Out the Application Forms The spousal sponsorship application package includes several forms that must be completed by both the sponsor and the sponsored person. These forms are: Follow the instructions for each form carefully, making sure that all information is accurate and complete. Step 3: Pay the Application Fees The application fees for spousal sponsorship are as follows: Fees must be paid online, and proof of payment should be included in your application package. Step 4: Submit the Application After completing all forms and gathering the required documents, submit your application online by filling out the necessary online forms as outlined in Step 1. Be sure to retain copies of all forms and documents for your records. Step 5: Await Processing Processing times for spousal sponsorship applications can vary based on the applicant’s country of residence and other factors. Typically, processing takes around 12 months or longer. During this period, you might be requested to submit additional documents or attend an interview. What to Do if Your Sponsorship Application Is RefusedReceiving a refusal on your spousal sponsorship application can be disheartening, but it’s important to know that you have options if this happens. Understanding the Reason for Refusal First, determine why your application was refused. Common reasons include: You will receive a letter outlining the specific reasons for the refusal. Options for Addressing a Refusal If your application is refused, you have several options: Each option has specific procedures and deadlines, so it’s important to act promptly and seek legal advice if needed. Canada’s spousal sponsorship program is a crucial pathway for families seeking to reunite, but it involves a detailed and careful process. By understanding the distinctions between common-law and conjugal partners, meeting eligibility criteria, gathering the required documents, and knowing your options if your
Quebec stops LMIA processing for some low-wage temporary foreign workers.
Starting September 3rd, Quebec will suspend the processing of Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) in Montréal for job offers with hourly wages below $27.47 CAD, the median hourly wage in the province. This measure, approved by the Canadian federal government, is expected to last for six months. Quebec Premier François Legault and Immigration Minister Christine Fréchette announced the suspension this morning. The goal is to manage the number of temporary residents in the province and protect the integrity of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). (Note: Temporary residents are individuals living in Canada temporarily on a work permit, study permit, or visitor visa/eTA.) These changes do not apply to: *The administrative region of Montréal encompasses the following municipalities: The federal government has stated that it will closely monitor this policy as it continues to make decisions regarding the future of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Growing scrutiny of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) is Canada’s federal initiative allowing employers to hire foreign workers to address critical labor shortages that cannot be resolved domestically. To hire through this program, employers must support the process with a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The program has recently come under scrutiny following statements from Canada’s Employment and Immigration Ministers. On August 6th, Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development, and Official Languages, introduced a series of new measures aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the TFWP, with a particular focus on the program’s low-wage stream. Boissonnault has previously warned of the risk that employers could become reliant on cheap foreign labor, stressing that the TFWP is not intended to bypass the hiring of Canadian workers in industries where they are available. He also highlighted concerns that the low-wage stream of the TFWP might be used to artificially suppress wages in Canada and mentioned that the ministry might consider halting the processing of LMIA applications under this stream. These concerns were echoed by Immigration Minister Marc Miller in recent comments to Reuters. Part of a wider suite of measures These changes to the TFWP coincide with Canada’s broader reassessment of temporary immigration levels. In March, Minister Marc Miller announced the inclusion of temporary resident levels in Canada’s annual immigration plan. To support this shift, IRCC has introduced a temporary two-year cap on certain international students, limiting the issuance of study permits through a new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) system. Additionally, Miller has expressed plans to introduce new regulations for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) and to conduct more “domestic draws” aimed at granting permanent residence (PR) to temporary residents already in Canada.
British Columbia PNP Draw August 20, 2024 | 156 Invitations Issued in Latest BC PNP Draw
In the latest BC PNP draw held on August 20, 156 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency were issued across both general and targeted rounds. A total of 83 invitations were sent out in the general draw to candidates who met the minimum score requirement of 130 for the Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams, including their Express Entry variants. This cutoff score reflects a decrease of 2 points compared to the previous BC PNP general draw on August 7. Additionally, 38 invitations were issued to candidates with experience as early childhood educators’ assistants or instructors (NOC 42202). Fifteen candidates with experience in 39 healthcare-related occupations received invitations to apply for permanent residency. Another 20 applicants with experience in 25 construction-related occupations were invited through British Columbia’s newest category-based draw, introduced in late 2023. Full Details of Latest BC PNP Draw: August 20 Previous BC PNP Draw : 2024
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program becomes a key focus as ministers explore additional reforms.
Following a prolonged period of heightened scrutiny on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), both Canada’s Immigration Minister and the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development, and Official Languages have expressed their concerns about employer abuses within the system. On August 6th, Minister Boissonnault, speaking on behalf of Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) at a press conference, announced a series of measures aimed at addressing these abuses. These measures include: The Minister also outlined additional measures under consideration, including: These proposals build on remarks made by Employment Minister Boissonnault during a joint press conference with Immigration Minister Miller in March, where Boissonnault emphasized that Canadian employers should resort to the TFWP only as a last resort and not as a replacement for Canadian workers who could fill the same roles. The renewed focus on the TFWP and its potential abuses was amplified by a U.N. report released on July 22nd, which described the program as a “breeding ground” for significant exploitation of foreign workers. Following these developments, Minister Miller spoke to Reuters, acknowledging the need for changes in the TFWP. While admitting that the program requires reform, Miller clarified that it is not “fatally flawed.” He concurred with Boissonnault’s concerns regarding the low-wage stream, noting that it warrants closer scrutiny. Both Ministers have previously expressed concerns that the low-wage stream of the TFWP risks suppressing wages for both foreign and domestic workers in Canada. What rights do workers in the TFWP have, and how can they report abuse? Although a recurring issue with TFWP abuses is the lack of communication about workers’ rights, Canada has robust labour laws that protect even temporary foreign workers. As a temporary foreign worker in Canada, individuals have the right to: In addition, temporary foreign workers in Canada cannot be: If a foreign worker believes they are experiencing abuse from their employer, they can take several steps, including: Additionally, foreign workers can visit IRCC’s website to view a list of non-compliant employers who have violated their responsibilities under the TFWP. Employers who fail to comply with TFWP standards may face significant penalties, ranging from warning letters to Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs) ranging from $500 to $100,000 per violation, with a maximum of $1 million annually. More severe violations could result in temporary bans from the program, ranging from 1 to 10 years, or even permanent bans.
The deadline for CUAET participants to apply for work permits has been extended.
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently extended the deadline for participants in the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program to apply for work permits. CUAET participants currently in Canada as temporary residents now have until March 31, 2025, to apply for an open work permit. However, unlike previous CUAET measures, these work permit applications will no longer be fee-exempt. The open work permit is valid for up to three years, depending on the applicant’s passport expiry and biometrics. To be eligible, participants must have been approved under the CUAET measures and arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024. CUAET officially stopped accepting new applications on July 15, 2023. Those approved had until March 31 this year to arrive in Canada and fully benefit from the program’s supports, including fee exemptions. Settlement services for UkrainiansCUAET participants currently in Canada can still access many free settlement services until March 31, 2025. These services include assistance with finding employment, learning an official language, preparing for citizenship, and others targeted at specific groups such as women, 2SLGBTQI, or seniors. Permanent residence pathways for Ukrainians with family in CanadaSome Ukrainians may also qualify for a specific pathway to Canadian permanent resident status. IRCC is accepting applications through this pathway until October 22, 2024. There are two categories for eligible candidates, but in both, the applicant must prove a relationship with a family member in Canada who is already a citizen or permanent resident. Eligible family members include: In the first category, the applicant must be a Ukrainian national with a statutory declaration form signed by their family member in Canada confirming the relationship. The second category applies to the spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian national. They must prove that their spouse or partner has immediate family in Canada and that their spouse or partner is unable to leave Ukraine, is missing, has passed away, or is presumed deceased. CUAETCUAET was launched in February 2022 as a temporary measure for Ukrainians fleeing unrest due to the Russian invasion. Under this measure, Ukrainians and their immediate family members could stay in Canada as temporary residents for up to three years. After arriving, they could apply for a work or study permit without paying fees. This also applied to Ukrainians already in Canada who needed an extension on their work or study permits. According to IRCC data, between March 17, 2022, and April 1, 2024, the department received 1,189,320 applications for the program and approved 962,612. However, the data shows that fewer than 300,000 Ukrainians arrived in Canada during that period.
