Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers are pleased to provide readers with the weekly round-up of Canadian immigration news. In addition to program delivery updates, last week saw the first Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program draws of 2023. Do not forget to follow us on our social media accounts to stay up-to-date with the latest news.
Express Entry draw 2023
Canada invited 5,500 candidates in the first Express Entry draw of 2023
On January 11, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 5,500 Invitations to Apply (ITA) to candidates in the Express Entry draw #237. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this draw increased by over 500 and was 507 points. As of January 11, 2023, 243,255 candidates were waiting in the Express Entry pool. With high immigration levels for 2023, the number of ITAs is expected to increase this year. If you want to immigrate to Canada via Express Entry, Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers can guide you through every step.
On January 12, 2023, IRCC proclaimed that the Federal Government would engage in open discussions with stakeholders to modify the Express Entry application process according to Canada’s economic demands and labour shortages. To achieve this objective, the department has crafted Express Entry categories that prioritize criteria such as academic qualifications, work experience, and knowledge of official languages. IRCC is actively seeking feedback from the public regarding selection priorities for immigration to address chronic economic and work deficiencies.
IRCC invited more than 10,000 youth in the first 2023 IEC draw
On January 9, 2023, Minister of Immigration Sean Fraser revealed that the International Experience Canada (IEC) program had been launched for international youths who aspire to pursue a work experience in Canada. Young people aged 18-35 are presented with an extraordinary opportunity to explore, work and experience Canada for up to two years through arrangements established between the nation and 36 countries across the globe. In 2023, over 90,000 international youth will have an opportunity to explore Canada through the IEC program. Last year, Canada welcomed 120,703 international youth through the program.
This year, Canada has already invited 11,810 young foreigners to apply for IEC work permits in just one invitation round. 26,013 candidates are still waiting in the IEC pools to be selected. In this draw, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Korea received the highest number of invitations. This program is vital in keeping Canada at the top of the list of most attractive destinations for international students, workers and entrepreneurs. The IEC program has been critical in attracting skilled workers, who are vital contributors to Canada’s dynamic economy. For more information about the program, contact Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers. Our immigration lawyers will guide you through the process and help you explore Canada.
Ontario invited candidates under two OINP streams
On January 10, Ontario held two draws in the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream (EJO FW) Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and issued 402 targeted ITAs, with a minimum score of 35. In addition, the province issued two targeted invitations for the federal Economic Mobility Pathways Project (EMPP). Additionally, on January 13, Ontario invited 1,252 candidates under the Skilled Trades Stream, with Express Entry CRS scores of 336-506. This year, the provincial government has already invited 1,656 candidates under the OINP.
The OINP is Ontario’s Provincial Nominee Program, which provides an opportunity for skilled workers, businesses and international graduates to pursue their dreams of settling in Ontario. The program is designed to fast-track the process of immigrating to Canada, as successful applicants receive a nomination certificate from the province that allows them to apply for permanent residence in Canada. The program also provides an opportunity for employers to recruit and hire foreign workers to fill labour market needs in Ontario. If you plan to settle in Ontario, Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers can help you with the entire process and ensure your immigration journey is successful.
Canada revised guidelines for super visa applications
On January 12, 2023, the Canadian Government announced that IRCC had revised instructions for the super visa applications. In particular, IRCC had revoked the previous policy of refusing medical insurance coverage to those paying in installments. Immigration officers must be satisfied that the applicant has obtained ample and suitable coverage for their entire year of entry, regardless of how payment was made. This revised policy is intended to streamline the super visa application process and make it easier for those wishing to see their family in Canada. With these modifications, individuals will have greater access to this opportunity.
A Super Visa is a temporary residence program that allows approved foreign nationals to visit their family in Canada for up to five years at a time. In addition, grandparents and parents who are already in Canada and have a super visa counterfoil or letter of introduction can apply for an extension on their temporary status in the country if they wish to stay longer than initially granted. Whether you want to apply for a super visa or extend your current term, Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers can help. Our professionals have worked with countless clients looking to obtain or extend their super visa status in Canada and can provide invaluable guidance throughout the process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your super visa application!
British Columbia held the second BCPNP draw of 2023
On January 10, 2023, the Government of British Columbia held the second draw of 2023 and issued new invitations in the Skilled Worker – International Graduate categories of the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). The province invited up to 150 candidates, including tech workers, early childhood educators (NOC 42202), and healthcare professionals. Candidates who received invitations had a score of at least 60 points in the BCPNP Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). Up to this draw, British Columbia has granted 361 invitations in 2023.
The BCPNP helps meet the province’s labour market needs through targeted immigration, emphasizing skilled workers who can contribute positively to local economies. The program also supports the economic development of under-served communities and rural areas throughout British Columbia. In addition, the program is also beneficial to employers looking for well-trained individuals who can fill labour shortages, resulting in increased productivity and a more robust economy for the province. Contact Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers to learn more about the BCPNP and how it can benefit you.
New Brunswick presented a new initiative to retain international students
On January 10, 2023, New Brunswick initiated the Study and Succeed in New Brunswick program to provide international students with the tools needed for a productive career transition. Through access to invaluable resources and support networks, participants will be given every opportunity necessary to make the province their new home. Building on the success of the 2018-2021 Study and Stay pilot program in Atlantic Canada, this initiative strives to boost skilled labour by retaining more international students after their graduation.
Opportunities New Brunswick and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) have collectively invested a total of $500,000 into this three-year program. By its completion, it is anticipated that nine cohorts of 100 international students will participate in the project. Opportunities New Brunswick is a Crown corporation and the primary economic development agency of the province. It helps invigorate growth by attracting global business, talent, and exports, also providing local companies and entrepreneurs with the necessary support to stay competitive.
Ottawa released 2023 allocations for two caregiver pilots
On January 13, 2023, the Government of Canada unveiled its allocations for the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot. The Gaining Experience Category will receive 1,650 applications – 60% of the total intake – while 40% or 1,100 applications are slated to be accepted through the Direct to Permanent Residence Category in 2023. This year, the Home Child Care Provider Pilot has been given a total of 250 alternate-format applications, which will be divided between two categories in a 60/40 ratio. With these initiatives, the Government of Canada aims to ensure that families have access to the care they need while addressing labour shortages.
Applicants can come to Canada to become permanent residents or work temporarily as caregivers. This will enable them to develop their skills and experience in Canada while providing important care to Canadian families. To be eligible for the Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots, applicants need to meet the eligibility requirements and have a job offer to work in one of the eligible occupations. Work permits issued under these pilots are occupation-restricted but do not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). After gaining the required work experience, applicants become eligible to apply for permanent residence. If you have recently worked as a home childcare provider or support worker, your professional experience can be taken into account to determine whether you qualify for permanent residence. Contact our immigration lawyers for more information about the pathways for caregivers.
Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers offer comprehensive legal services with a commitment to providing clients with the highest level of personal attention and care. We provide professional legal advice on all aspects of immigration law, including family sponsorship, economic immigration, deportation defence, asylum applications, writ of mandamus, and more. Our attorneys are dedicated to guiding our clients through the complex Canadian immigration system in a timely and cost-effective manner. Contact Abramovich & Tchern Immigration Lawyers to receive an initial assessment of your case and learn how we can help.
