Abramovich Immigration Law presents weekly news reviews on Canadian immigration policy updates and procedural modifications. Follow our professional social media channels to remain informed of significant immigration developments.

Canada removes CRS points for arranged employment in the Express Entry system

Effective March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has eliminated the additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points previously awarded for arranged employment in the Express Entry system. This change affects candidates who previously received 50 or 200 bonus points for valid job offers, including those supported by Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA).

The federal government implemented this temporary measure to combat immigration fraud and strengthen system integrity following former Immigration Minister Marc Miller’s December 2024 announcement. While this change impacts candidates’ CRS scores in the Express Entry pool, it does not affect those who have already received invitations to apply or have permanent residence applications in progress. Job offers remain relevant for eligibility criteria in various immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program.

Canada raises Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship cap to 25,000

The Canadian federal government has announced a notable expansion of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) through the Canada Gazette on March 22, 2025. Under this policy enhancement, the program will now accommodate 25,000 sponsorship applications in the current year, marking an increase from the initial 15,000 application limit. This move supersedes the previous plan to suspend new applications in 2025, enabling the processing of applications from both the 2024 and 2025 submission periods.

This expansion provides significant opportunities for Canadian citizens and permanent residents who previously submitted sponsorship interest forms in 2020 and await invitations. Through a systematic selection process, qualifying applicants will have the opportunity to facilitate permanent residency for their parents or grandparents. Additionally, the Super Visa program remains a complementary option, offering extended visitation periods of up to five years within a 10-year multiple-entry visa, subject to adequate private health insurance coverage.

Canada introduces comprehensive Home Care Worker Immigration initiative for 2025-2030

IRCC has unveiled detailed application requirements for two new caregiver pilot programs starting March 31, 2025. The Home Care Worker Immigration programs, divided into Child Care and Home Support classes, will replace existing pilots to create more straightforward pathways to permanent residence. For the 2025-2026 period, each class will accept 2,610 applications exclusively from Stream A candidates with Canadian work experience.

The programs maintain strict eligibility criteria, including language proficiency at CLB/NCLC 4 or higher, recognized educational credentials, and minimum work experience requirements. Applicants must secure genuine job offers from private households or businesses outside Quebec, with wages meeting or exceeding provincial medians. Starting in 2027, Stream B will open opportunities for newcomers without Canadian experience, requiring additional proof of settlement funds equal to 50% of the Minimum Necessary Income for their family size.

Canada enhances Start-up Visa Program with new work permit guidelines

IRCC has announced significant improvements to the Start-up Visa (SUV) program, effective October 3, 2024. The key change allows eligible permanent resident applicants under the SUV program to obtain open work permits during their permanent residence processing, replacing the previous requirement for employer-specific permits. This modification aims to streamline the immigration process for startup entrepreneurs.

For implementation purposes, temporary resident visa-exempt foreign nationals can apply for work permits through the International Mobility Program at ports of entry. However, IRCC recommends submitting work permit applications online using administrative code A77 due to the complexity involved. Applications submitted prior to October 3, 2024, will continue to be processed under the existing employer-specific permit framework.

Canadian universities rise in global rankings amid international student cap

Three prestigious Canadian universities have secured positions in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 top 50 list, reinforcing Canada’s status as a leading destination for higher education. The University of Toronto claims the highest spot at 21st place, followed by the University of British Columbia at 41st and McGill University at 45th. These rankings showcase Canada’s commitment to academic excellence and research innovation.

However, this achievement comes during a significant policy shift as the Canadian government implements new restrictions on international student enrollment. While these universities demonstrate world-class standards in research, teaching, and global outlook, the recent cap on international student numbers poses challenges for future recruitment. The University of Toronto, in particular, stands out with its impressive research quality score of 93.4 and diverse student body, where international students comprise 29% of the total enrollment.

Canada’s call to action: Building a stronger nation in an uncertain world

In a compelling analysis of Canada’s future, experts argue for a dramatic transformation of the nation’s infrastructure and policies. As global tensions rise and traditional alliances become less reliable, Canada faces a critical juncture in its development. With the United States showing signs of shifting priorities, Canada must take decisive action to strengthen its position on the world stage through increased population growth, enhanced infrastructure, and robust defence capabilities.

The vision for a more resilient Canada includes ambitious goals, such as reaching a population of 100 million by 2100. However, this growth must be supported by substantial improvements in housing construction, transportation networks, and military capacity. Recent statistics showing the addition of six million people between 2014 and 2024 demonstrate Canada’s growth potential but also highlight critical infrastructure gaps that must be addressed. With a projected housing supply deficit of 3.5 million units by 2030, the nation faces immediate challenges in accommodating its expanding population while maintaining economic stability and national security.

US-to-Canada migration surge: A shifting demographic pattern

Recent data from Statistics Canada reveals a significant transformation in migration patterns from the United States to Canada. While immigration from the US has steadily increased since 1980, the most notable change lies in the demographic composition of these newcomers. The data shows a dramatic shift from predominantly US-born residents to non-citizen residents of the US choosing Canada as their new home. This trend has intensified since 2010, with the number of US non-citizen residents moving to Canada quadrupling from approximately 2,100 to over 9,000 annually by 2019.

The surge in US-to-Canada migration can be attributed to several key factors. Canada’s welcoming immigration policies, including streamlined pathways to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs, have made it an attractive destination. Additionally, the country’s robust social support systems, universal healthcare, and reputation for multiculturalism have drawn many newcomers seeking stability and quality of life. Political changes in the US have also influenced this trend, particularly affecting those on temporary US visas who face uncertainty about status renewals.

Abramovich Immigration Law specializes in helping individuals and families navigate the complex journey of immigrating to Canada. Our experienced team provides comprehensive support through various immigration pathways, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to your new life in Canada. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your immigration goals, and let us guide you through the process with expertise and dedication.