The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), Ontario’s official provincial nominee program (PNP), has updated its requirements to align with the federal Express Entry targeted draws. Watch this in-depth video covering the latest updates to the Ontario-OINP draw. Key Changes to OINP Express Entry Streams The OINP has modified the eligibility criteria for the Skilled Trades stream and the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) stream, aligning them more closely with federal Express Entry draws. Candidates in the Express Entry pool are now targeted under these streams if they have at least six months of experience (down from one year) in their primary occupation. However, a cumulative one year of experience in different occupations is still required for overall eligibility. How OINP Express Entry Stream Draws Work To qualify for one of OINP’s Express Entry streams, candidates do not need to create a separate profile with OINP. Instead, they must indicate Ontario as their intended province for immigration. OINP searches the IRCC’s Express Entry pool to identify profiles that meet their criteria. Based on the previous Express Entry draw, OINP announces the CRS cutoff score and sends invitations to eligible candidates. Those who accept the invitation and meet OINP’s criteria receive a provincial nomination, adding 600 points to their profile. This boost significantly increases their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency in subsequent IRCC draws. Updated Work Experience Eligibility for OINP Streams Skilled Trades Stream: Eligible candidates must have at least one year of cumulative full-time paid work experience, or equivalent part-time work, in specific Ontario NOC groups. If invited for a provincial nomination in a targeted OINP draw, candidates must demonstrate that at least six months of their one year of work experience is in the primary NOC code targeted. Human Capital Priorities (HCP) Stream: For Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates, a minimum of one year of cumulative full-time paid work experience, or the equivalent in part-time work, in Canada in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations is required. Invited candidates need to show at least six months of experience in the primary NOC code to be eligible for a targeted OINP draw. Gaps in Alignment with Federal Express Entry Draws Despite these changes, there are still gaps between OINP and federal Express Entry draws. For instance, while the federal Express Entry targets ten specific occupations in the Skilled Trades stream, OINP invites profiles from around 46 occupations but with a lower CRS cutoff score. Consequently, candidates with experience in the remaining 36 occupations may miss out on opportunities for permanent residency. OINP Express Entry Streams OINP has three Express Entry streams for candidates in the federal Express Entry pool who intend to reside in Ontario: Summary of OINP Express Entry Draws 2024 In 2024, OINP has conducted 10 Express Entry draws, inviting a total of 17,437 profiles to claim provincial nominations, compared to 17,502 last year. OINP ExpressEntry Stream Invitations CRS Score Range Human Capital Priorities stream 9,829 352-480 French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream 1,196 305-469 Skilled Trades stream 6,412 350-435 OINP Express Entry Draws Summary
Important Tips to remember while waiting for Express Entry Draws
Canada’s Express Entry system is a significant source of hope for skilled immigrants seeking a new life in Canada. However, the waiting period between submitting an Express Entry profile and receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) can be stressful and uncertain. To improve their chances of success and prepare for a smooth transition, candidates can take proactive steps. The IRCC sent the highest number of invitations in July 2024. Focusing on these steps can significantly improve their profile and successful integration after obtaining permanent residency. 1. Improve Your Language Scores Language Proficiency in Express Entry 2. Gain Additional Work Experience Maximizing Work Experience for Canadian Express Entry (ITA) 3. Enhance Your Educational Credentials Higher Education for CRS Score Improvement 4. Secure a Job Offer in Canada Canadian Job Offer Strategies 5. Stay Updated with Immigration News Staying Informed about Canadian Immigration Trends 6. Gather and Organize Your Documents Preparing for ITA in Canada 7. Improve Your CRS Score with Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) Provincial Nominee Programs Overview 8. Strengthen Your Personal and Professional Network Building a Strong Network for Immigration in Canada 9. Prepare for the Canadian Job Market Canadian Job Market Preparation 10. Plan Your Settlement in Canada Preparing for Canada Move and Settlement While waiting for the next Express Entry draw, proactive preparation and strategic actions can significantly enhance your chances of receiving an ITA and ensure a smoother transition to Canada. By improving your language scores, gaining additional work experience, enhancing your educational credentials, securing a job offer, staying updated with immigration news, gathering and organizing your documents, leveraging PNPs, strengthening your network, preparing for the Canadian job market, and planning your settlement, you can make the most of this waiting period and set yourself up for success in your new life in Canada. When is the next Express Entry draw? The next Express Entry draw is expected to be announced around July 30-31, based on a biweekly schedule.
Latest IRCC Update: Canada’s Immigration Backlog Rises
Canada’s immigration backlog has increased to 2,292,400 applications, up from 2,220,000 in the previous month. As of June 30, 2024, 936,600 applications were in the backlog, this is a rise of 6.62% when compared to the data as of May 31,2024.The system is also grappling with a significant backlog of temporary residency applications, which increased by 11.13% month-on-month. This article analyzes immigration backlog trends, implications, and future projections. The current state of Canada’s Immigration Backlog Canada’s immigration backlog, as of June 30, 2024, is 936,600 applications, divided into citizenship, permanent residency, and temporary residency. Despite a cap on international students, the backlog has increased for temporary residency applications. Permanent residency applications also contribute to the backlog, with a slight increase. However, for citizenship applicants, the backlog has reduced by nearly 6%, and most applications are now being processed within service standards. This indicates a significant increase in new temporary applications and an overall backlog. This backlog is segmented into three main categories: citizenship, permanent residency, and temporary residency. Here’s a breakdown of these categories: Applications Within Service Standards Despite the staggering backlog, it’s important to note that a substantial number of applications are being processed within service standards there is a significant backlog, the Canadian immigration system is still managing to process a large volume of applications. These changes indicate a complex and fluctuating landscape, with different types of applications experiencing varying levels of processing efficiency and demand. As of June 30, 2024, the figures for applications within service standards are as follows: Future Projections IRCC also shares future projections of backlog in context with the set service standards of processing 80% of the applications within that timeframe. Below are the official IRCC backlog projections: Seasonal Variations and Processing Capacity Canada’s immigration backlog is a complex issue that requires a strategic approach to manage. Seasonal variations, such as summer months, can lead to a surge in tourist and student visa applications. To manage this, immigration authorities could increase processing capacity or implement automated systems. The federal government plans to reduce the non-PR population to 5% by 2027, but the backlog still presents a significant challenge. To manage the backlog, Canada can implement policy reforms, leverage technological innovations, and strategically allocate resources. By addressing the issue, Canada can continue to be a model for other countries and reduce the non-PR population to 5% by 2027.
BC PNP Draw on July 23, 2024: Over 108 ITAs Issued for PR
The latest BC PNP draw on July 23 issued more than 108 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) across general and targeted rounds of invitations. B.C. has been consistently conducting these weekly draws without breaks since we entered the immigration news arena. However, a new trend has emerged: B.C. has started reducing the number of invitations (now less than half) while increasing the cutoff score. 35 invitations were issued in the general draw, considering all profiles meeting the minimum score eligibility criteria. The cutoff score remained the same as the previous BC PNP general draw. Additionally, 37 invitations were issued to profiles with experience as early childhood educators’ assistants or instructors (NOC 42202). 19 invitations went to profiles with experience in 39 healthcare-related occupations. 17 applicants with experience in 25 construction-related occupations were invited in British Columbia’s newest category-based draw, introduced in late 2023. Summary of Draw July 23 2024
Free documents replacement and measures for people affected by the 2024 wildfire season
News release On July 22, 2024, Canada experienced its worst wildfire season on record, posing threats to health, safety, and economic stability. The country’s climate is warming twice as fast as the global average, increasing the severity of heat waves and the risks of drought. The Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting those affected and assisting provinces and territories with emergency responses was demonstrated through special measures announced by Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, for people affected by wildfires. Free replacement documents, including permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, and Canadian passports, can be received by Canadian citizens and permanent residents if the originals were lost, damaged, destroyed, or made inaccessible due to wildfires. Employer-specific work permit holders are allowed to transition to an open work permit. These measures are in effect until November 30, 2024, providing time for people to determine necessary documents and address temporary status issues. International students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors directly affected by wildfires are also able to restore or extend their status in Canada or replace a status document free of charge. Additionally, international students are permitted to extend their study permits if classes are delayed or canceled. Measures have also been implemented to exempt foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to help fight wildfires from paying application and biometrics fees. Quotes “We remain steadfast in our efforts to support those affected by severe wildfires. Our measures will simplify the process for Canadians, permanent residents and temporary residents to replace lost documents. To the first responders and firefighters across the country, as well as the foreign emergency support personnel entering Canada to assist in the response, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your bravery and dedication in protecting our communities.” – The Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Quick facts
IRCC suggests amendments : Students to re-apply for a study permit if they change schools in Canada
Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced proposed changes to Canada’s international student program, including the requirement for international students to apply for a new study permit when switching their Designated Learning Institution (DLI). DLIs are the only schools in Canada approved to accept international students and must follow IRCC’s regulations. The federal government cannot ensure individual institutions are compliant with new admissions regulations. IRCC is proposing the following changes for international students who want to change schools in Canada: IRCC’s proposal includes an impact assessment, detailing the costs and benefits for various stakeholders affected by the policy. Key impacts on international students and DLIs are highlighted below: For international students: For DLIs: Will these changes be adopted? While it is impossible to predict with certainty whether IRCC will implement the proposed changes or to what extent they will be adopted, historical trends offer some insight. The proposed changes regarding the new study permit requirement are currently in a 30-day “consultation” phase. Since fall 2022, IRCC has consulted on various policies aimed at enhancing the International Student Program. These consultations included input from provincial and territorial ministries responsible for immigration and education, national education associations, individual DLIs, and student representative organizations. Many policies that were previously in consultation have since been implemented. For instance, a policy focus was the LOA verification process. Feedback from provincial and territorial representatives and national education associations highlighted the success of current ministerial instructions requiring LOA verification and suggested further leveraging this process to share information and reduce fraud. These suggestions were adopted on December 1, 2023. The current changes to study permit requirements will be in consultation until July 29, 2024. After this period, IRCC will consider the feedback received and decide on the next policy steps accordingly.
10 Important things to do after getting Canadian PR
Obtaining permanent residence (PR) in Canada is a dream for many, but after completing planning and status checks, there are 10 crucial steps to take after landing to ensure successful integration. These include planning for your future, envisioning your life, and ensuring your family’s well-being. List of things to be done 1. Activating permanent residency To activate your permanent residency in Canada, you must validate your Confirmation of Permanent Residency (COPR) at the first Canadian port of entry. Immigration officers will ask broad questions during the interview, stamping your PR. This can be done online for temporary residents transitioning to permanent residents, or through an online portal for those already inside Canada. A permanent resident card is not immediately given to new permanent residents, but is mailed to their Canadian address provided at the airport or while confirming PR online. 2. Get Social Insurance Number To work in Canada, Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required. New permanent residents can obtain it at airports like Toronto Pearson Airport, or at Service Canada’s physical locations or online. The SIN can be obtained at weekday hours or mailed to the applicant. Service Canada offices are available at Toronto Pearson Airport. 3. Apply For Benefits The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is responsible for the government and most provinces and territories in Canada. It offers benefits to Canadians with permanent residency, such as the GST/HST rebate, Canada Child Benefit, and Canada Workers Benefit. These benefits are usually automatically paid to tax-paying permanent residents. 4. Open Your First Bank Account Banking in Canada is straightforward, but account types have varying fees. Choose a bank that meets your needs and open your account first upon arrival to avoid overdrawing your home account or falling behind on payments. Compare ‘Newcomers’ programs and offers’ of different banks, as some may offer iPads or bonuses for newcomers. 5. Getting Your First Mobile Connection Upon arrival in Canada, it is crucial to obtain a Canadian cell phone plan with good coverage. Cellphone companies, similar to banks, offer attractive plans for new immigrants. Researching options is essential, with Rogers and Bell being major players in the Canadian cellphone industry. 6. Find Accommodation Finding a suitable area to live in can be challenging but accessible through resources like Kijiji, rental boards, and City Guides. Month-on-month rentals are expensive and difficult to find, while 12-month leases are common in major cities. It’s crucial to review agreements carefully to avoid future conflicts with the owner. 7. Obtain A Health Card Canada’s government finances healthcare, and having a health card grants eligibility for health benefits. Despite the perception of universal healthcare, Canadians with health cards receive free consultations at walk-in clinics or hospitals but must pay for most medicines at pharmacies. To apply for a health card, visit the provincial service office in your area. Newcomers to Canada may struggle to find a family doctor, so explore options as soon as you arrive. 8. Finding a Job The Canadian job market is facing challenges due to a decrease in job vacancies, with employers seeking Canadian-experienced professionals. However, there are numerous jobs targeting newcomers, and the government has a dedicated job portal for new immigrants. 9. Learn Canadian values Canada’s diverse culture requires alignment with its values, emphasizing respect and compassion. Canadians are welcoming and often use “sorry” and “thank you” to express their gratitude. The “C” in Canadian culture signifies compassion, making it an essential aspect of integrating into the Canadian economy. 10. Finally Explore Before making a decision to settle in a major city like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, it’s advisable to explore nearby cities and appreciate Canada’s beauty. Take time off, join a social group, and do something on your bucket list in your first week in Canada.
Can Canada Temporarily Suspend Immigration?
Immigration has become a significant concern for Canadians, including the immigrant community, who are now calling for a temporary halt to it. This issue was discussed in a recent interview with Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition, on Red FM Canada. Under the Liberal government, immigration levels have surged, rising from 271,000 in 2015 to a projected 500,000 by 2025. Additionally, the number of temporary residents in Canada has grown to 2.8 million by the first quarter of 2024, which includes international students, individuals with work permits, and asylum seekers. This group now makes up more than 6.8% of the total population, compared to 3.5% two years ago. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged in April 2024 that the number of temporary residents exceeds what the country can absorb and emphasized the need to reduce these numbers. Immigration Minister Marc Miller, in an interview with Bloomberg, also remarked that permanent residency should not be an assured promise for international students. For the first time, the Immigration Minister will announce annual immigration levels for temporary residents in November 2024, alongside the usual permanent resident levels. Challenges and Missteps Immigration has always been crucial for Canada’s growth, but the government has relied on retrospective data for decision-making. For instance, the immigration department is prioritizing professionals in skilled trades to address a labor shortage, despite recent Statistics Canada data showing a significant drop in job vacancies in this sector. The government has been slow to act on known issues, such as the increase in temporary residents. Although the immigration minister announced plans to limit the number of international students earlier this year, they are waiting until November to set annual targets for temporary residents. Proactive and timely action based on the latest data is essential to prevent problems from escalating. Can Canada Halt Immigration Temporarily? While some prospective immigrants and temporary residents might view this negatively, a temporary reduction could be beneficial. International students are facing high fees and living costs, only to find limited economic opportunities and pathways to permanent residency. Canada has a large pool of talented individuals to choose from, but admitting too many without sufficient economic opportunities is counterproductive. Limiting immigration can alleviate pressure and create better opportunities for both new and existing residents. Pierre Poilievre suggests that completely halting immigration is not feasible, but reducing it can help. It is anticipated that the government will lower immigration targets in November, influenced by the upcoming 2025 elections, where immigration will be a significant issue for voters. Controlled immigration, based on current economic data, will benefit new residents by providing them with better opportunities to integrate and succeed in Canada.
Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, and PEI Nominate Newcomers for Provincial Immigration Programs
This week, four provinces issued nominations for immigration candidates through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Candidates were invited through economic streams based on their education, employment, professional skills, and more. Here’s a province-by-province breakdown of the results for the week of July 13-19, 2024. Ontario This week, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) conducted four provincial immigration draws under its economic immigration streams. British Columbia (B.C.) On July 16, the British Columbia PNP (BCPNP) conducted five targeted draws under the Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option) stream, inviting a total of at least 68 candidates with professional experience in various in-demand occupations. The minimum scores for each draw were as follows: Manitoba This week, the Manitoba PNP (MPNP) held two immigration draws under different streams. Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) On July 19, the Prince Edward Island PNP (PEI PNP) issued invitations under two streams.
New Ontario Express Entry Draw Sends Out 1,240 PR Invitations
July 18,2024 the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) conducted its invitations under the Human Capital Priorities Stream (HCP) for 2024, issuing 1,240 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for provincial nomination. Eligible Express Entry profiles with a primary occupation in one of the 43 specified healthcare occupations and a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score between 425 and 444 received these invitations. Selected candidates have forty-five days to submit a complete application and secure their provincial nominations. Upon receiving an OINP nomination, these profiles will gain an additional 600 points, elevating their CRS scores to a range of 1,025 to 1,044, which ensures their inclusion in upcoming general Express Entry draws. Summary of OINP Express Entry Draw 18 July 2024 Number of NOIs issued CRS score range Profiles created in IRCC Express Entry system Notes 1,240 425-444 July 18, 2023 –July 18, 2024 Targeted draw for 43 healthcare-related occupations OINP Express Entry draw Full List of Healthcare Occupations Targeted in the Draw:
