Abramovich Immigration Law provides a weekly news review on immigration policy changes for the first week of October. Follow our professional social media platforms for up-to-date insights and expert guidance on navigating the complexities of immigration regulations.

Canada’s Express Entry: Q4 2024 forecast reveals shift in immigration trends 

As Canada enters the final quarter of 2024, immigration experts project approximately 30,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to be issued through the Express Entry system. This forecast, averaging 10,000 ITAs per month, indicates a slight decrease from Q3’s robust 41,413 invitations. However, it still surpasses the numbers seen in the year’s first half, highlighting the system’s ongoing evolution and Canada’s commitment to its immigration goals. 

The focus for Q4 remains on the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws, with an increased emphasis on category-based selections. French language proficiency continues to be a priority, aligning with Canada’s bilingual objectives. As the country approaches its target of admitting 120,000-125,000 permanent residents through Express Entry this year, potential applicants should stay vigilant for possible STEM and healthcare-specific draws in the coming months, reflecting Canada’s strategic approach to addressing labour market needs.

Asian and African Nations Became Predominant Sources of Immigration in 2024 

African and Asian countries have emerged as the primary sources of new permanent residents in 2024. India leads the pack with a projected 148,894 new permanent residents by year-end, nearly quadrupling its contribution from a decade ago. The Philippines and China remain in the top three. At the same time, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Eritrea have made notable entries into the top 10 list, displacing traditional sources like the United States and the United Kingdom. 

This transformation reflects Canada’s evolving immigration strategy and changing global dynamics. While India’s dominance continues to grow, the rise of African nations in the immigration rankings highlights Canada’s newcomer population diversification. The shift impacts the cultural fabric of Canadian society and has significant implications for the country’s workforce and economic growth. As Canada aims to welcome 1.485 million immigrants over the next three years, these emerging trends will likely shape the nation’s demographic landscape for years to come.

IRCC extends immigration medical examination exemption for low-risk applicants 

IRCC has announced a five-year extension of its temporary public policy exempting certain low-risk, in-Canada foreign nationals from additional immigration medical examinations (IMEs). The policy, which has already benefited over 286,000 clients, will continue until October 5, 2029. This extension aims to streamline the application process and improve client service for eligible applicants while allowing IRCC to assess operational results further and monitor public health considerations in collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada. 

The exemption applies to foreign nationals applying for permanent or temporary residence from within Canada who have completed an IME within the last five years and pose no risk to public health or safety. This measure significantly reduces processing times and administrative burdens for both applicants and immigration officials. As Canada continues to welcome newcomers, this policy extension reflects the government’s commitment to efficient and effective immigration processes while maintaining public health standards.

Canada expands work permit options for Start-Up Visa candidates 

The Government of Canada has announced that Start-Up Visa candidates can now apply for open work permits. Effective October 3, this change allows applicants to supplement their income while establishing their businesses. Previously limited to closed work permits tied to their start-up ventures, candidates can now explore diverse employment opportunities across Canada. This three-year permit aims to provide greater flexibility and financial stability for aspiring entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenging early stages of business development. 

The new policy also extends benefits to immediate family members of Start-Up Visa applicants. Spouses and partners are eligible for their own open work permits, while children can obtain study permits for Canadian schools. This comprehensive approach underscores Canada’s commitment to attracting and retaining global talent by creating a supportive environment for innovative business leaders and their families. The change applies to both new and existing applicants, with those who applied before October 3 able to submit a new application for the open work permit.

The Federal Court of Canada launches pilot program for faster study permit judicial reviews 

Canada’s Federal Court has introduced a new pilot project aimed at expediting judicial reviews for study permit refusals. Commencing on October 1, 2024, this initiative promises to slash processing times from the current 14-18 months to a mere five months. The program comes as a response to the mounting pressure on Canada’s immigration system, which has seen record-high rejection rates for three consecutive years. 

The streamlined process eliminates the need for hearings, with judges now ruling on both the leave and merits of judicial reviews simultaneously. This approach not only saves time but also conserves court resources. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific criteria, including agreement from both parties to participate and consensus on the facts of the case. Chief Justice Paul Crampton hailed the initiative as a “win-win” for applicants and the Court, emphasizing its potential to reduce costs and significantly save judicial resources.

Canada’s foreign worker PR transition rates show disparities 

A recent study reveals significant disparities in the transition rates to permanent residency (PR) among foreign workers in Canada, depending on their work permit programs. The analysis, focusing on temporary foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP), shows an overall increase in PR transition rates across successive arrival cohorts. 

The study highlights that while some programs, such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program, have seen substantial increases in transition rates, others, like agricultural programs, have maintained low rates. This growing disparity has led to an increased gap between high- and low-transition rate programs. Additionally, the PNP and CEC have emerged as the primary pathways for work permit holders to achieve permanent residency, reflecting changes in Canada’s immigration priorities and strategies.

Ontario implements minimum wage increase, yet financial stability remains a concern for new residents 

Ontario has increased its minimum wage from $16.55 to $17.20 per hour, effective October 1, 2024. This change and similar increases in Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan aim to align wages with inflation rates. For full-time workers in Ontario, this translates to an average gross annual income of approximately $35,150 before taxes. However, after deductions, the net take-home pay amounts to around $29,026, raising questions about the sufficiency of this wage for newcomers trying to establish themselves in the province. 

The financial challenges for newcomers in Ontario, particularly in Toronto, where 46.6% of the population consists of immigrants, remain significant. With the average monthly cost of essentials for a single person in Toronto estimated at $3,408, or $40,894 annually, the gap between minimum wage earnings and living expenses is evident. This discrepancy is further exacerbated for newcomers who often face additional hurdles, such as credential recognition delays, forcing many to work in lower-paying jobs outside their trained professions temporarily. While there are ways to reduce costs, the current minimum wage increase may not fully address the financial stability concerns of newcomers in Ontario.

Abramovich Immigration Law specializes in providing comprehensive assistance to individuals seeking to immigrate to Canada. Our team of experienced legal professionals offers expert guidance through the complex Canadian immigration process, ensuring that our clients have the best possible chance of success. We provide tailored solutions for various immigration pathways, including skilled worker programs, family sponsorship, business immigration, and study permits. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail sets us apart in navigating the intricate legal landscape of Canadian immigration. For more information on how we can assist you in realizing your Canadian immigration goals, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team is ready to provide you with personalized consultation and support throughout your immigration journey.