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Skilled Trades Workers

Canadian Provinces Unite to Tackle Shortage of Skilled Trades Workers

Nova Scotia, Ontario / By

Ontario and Nova Scotia have recently joined the other in signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that recognized the need of the skilled trades workers in the country. This is important for Canada to support the economy and to continue to provide hundreds of sectors dependent on skilled workers. Harmonizing Training and Certification Standards to Address the Shortage of Skilled Trades Workers A major issue that exists throughout the regions of skilled trades today is the lack of conformity to the training and certification processes, and that plays a role in producing a lack of skilled trades workers. By aligning these standards, provinces are in progress of developing a consistent procedure which will let tradespeople to travel freely across the various provinces without having to spend more time being recertified. Thus, the MOU signed between Ontario and Nova Scotia can be considered as the first step to enhance the efficiency of the skilled trades system and reduce the lack of skilled trades workers. It is also continuing to expand these partnerships to other provinces such as Alberta in order to create a more unified pool for skilled talent. Its purpose is in response to the increasing need for skilled tradespersons in the construction, manufacturing and energy sectors and the continuous shortage of education and training for these tradespersons. Facilitating Integration of Internationally Skilled Workers Besides the integration of the standards across the country, the split also aimed at absorption of internationally trained workers in the Canadian context. Since immigration contributes significantly to workers to fill vacancies, the government has the ambition to allow workers educated in other countries to adapt to the existing health systems in Canada. This process will be made easier by the integration that will happen between provinces in terms of certification and the steps of going about recognizing foreign credentials. Internationally skilled workers are necessary in areas that Canada lacks in qualified workers including welding, plumbing and electrical work. What the provinces are doing by assisting such workers become certified and be employed more easily is to take a step closer towards solving the skilled trades dilemma faced in the current world. Enhancing Post-Journeyman Certification Another significant part of the agreement is the improvement of the certification after the journeyman’s completion of his or her work. This certification offers trades people with further credentials outside their primary training; thus, increases their occasions and value to personnel. Thus, through post-journeyman certification the provinces are helping tradespeople to enhance their knowledge and proceed along the career ladder that, in turn, strengthens the economy and makes it more flexible. The Ontario and Nova Scotia strategy also throws into sharp relief the idea of a coordinated interprovincial strategy toward satisfying the skilled trades deficit. These partnerships have a goal of facilitating access to mobility and certification for tradespeople while at the same time opening up more opportunities for Canada to remain relevant in the global market. Addressing the Growing Demand for Skilled Trades Workers There is a medium long-term outlook for skilled trades worker occupation in Canada with its prospect showing a general rising trend in the next decade. With infrastructure development and growth of new industries more trades persons will be required to build and maintain these structures. Governments must still persevere in cooperation at a provincial level to meet this demand by offering solutions for domestic and international labor forces to be able to enter the job market. These collaborative activities are essential not only in regards to the present preparation for the supply of human capital, but also to forecast future trends within the Canadian economy. In doing so, provinces are creating education and training pipelines for industries which are important to the Canadian economy to ensure that provinces can fill demand and also attract investment in the increasingly competitive global economies. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “Canadian Provinces Unite to Tackle Shortage of Skilled Trades Workers,” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

Invitations to Apply

British Columbia Issues 156 Invitations to Apply Under BC PNP

British Columbia, PNP / By

On August 20, 2024, British Columbia made strides to strengthen its workforce by issuing 156 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). These new draws focused on highly skilled candidates across various essential sectors, reflecting the province’s commitment to addressing labor market shortages and supporting economic growth. General Draw: Invitations to Apply for Skilled Candidates Under BC PNP In the general draw under the BC PNP, British Columbia issued 83 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to skilled workers with expertise in diverse fields. Candidates had to achieve a minimum score of 110 points to qualify. This demonstrates the province’s focus on attracting top-tier talent to sustain its competitive edge and boost innovation through the BC PNP. Sector-Specific Targeted Draws: Focus on Childcare, Healthcare, and Construction To address critical needs in key sectors, British Columbia also conducted targeted draws for professionals in childcare, healthcare, and construction. These targeted draws underline the government’s commitment to supporting vital industries and ensuring essential services continue to thrive. Targeted invitations to apply to the Skills Immigration streams may be based on one or more of the following factors: BC PNP: A Pathway to Permanent Residency The BC PNP continues to be an effective pathway for foreign nationals to achieve permanent residency in Canada. In 2024 alone, British Columbia has invited 4,477 candidates, showcasing its robust commitment to attracting and retaining global talent. Through the BC PNP, successful candidates not only gain the opportunity to settle in British Columbia but also contribute to the province’s long-term economic and social development. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “British Columbia Invites 156 Candidates Under BC PNP,” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

Updated LMIA Processing Time

ESDC Announces Updated LMIA Processing Times for 2024

Permanent Residence, Work in Canada / By

On August 16, 2024, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) released an update on the Updated LMIA Processing Times for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications across various streams. These updated timelines are crucial for employers seeking to hire foreign workers in Canada, as they reflect the current trends in processing efficiency for different streams. LMIA applications are a pivotal step for Canadian employers to prove the need for foreign workers when no Canadian or permanent resident is available to fill the position. Understanding these updated LMIA processing times allows businesses to plan ahead effectively. Overview of the Updated LMIA Processing Times ESDC’s latest update outlines the average processing times for LMIA applications across multiple streams. Derived from data collected at all processing centers, this update highlights fluctuations in processing times across different streams, indicating shifts in workload and operational efficiency at ESDC. Get a Free Assessment Breakdown of LMIA Processing Times: Here is a breakdown of the updated LMIA processing times as reported by ESDC, comparing the changes from the previous update: While most streams have seen an increase in processing times, the Permanent Residence Stream has shown a slight improvement by reducing its wait time by one business day. This data is valuable for employers as it highlights potential delays, particularly in the agricultural and low-wage streams. What Do These Processing Times Mean for Employers? These processing times underscore the importance of early application submissions, especially for industries reliant on seasonal workers or those operating under the Global Talent Stream. For example, businesses utilizing the Global Talent Stream, which caters to highly skilled foreign workers, now face a slightly longer wait time of 8 business days. Similarly, the Agricultural Stream and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program have also experienced increases in processing times, which could impact employers who are dependent on a timely arrival of their workforce during critical seasons. The Permanent Residence Stream‘s slight improvement may provide relief to those sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residence, but the overall time frame remains lengthy at 85 business days, emphasizing the need for employers to start the application process as early as possible. Why Is There an Increase in Processing Times? The increase in processing times across most streams is attributed to various factors, such as the rise in LMIA applications, government resource allocation, and administrative bottlenecks. For businesses, this means that the planning phase for hiring foreign workers should now accommodate these extended timelines to avoid operational disruption. Best Practices for Employers Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “ESDC Announces Updated LMIA Processing Times for 2024,” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

Skilled healthcare

Canadian provinces introduce incentives for skilled healthcare immigrants

Manitoba, Prince Edward Island / By

In response to growing healthcare shortages, Canadian provinces have launched various financial incentives aimed at attracting skilled healthcare immigrants. These initiatives are designed to fill critical gaps in medical staffing while providing new immigrants with a smooth and rewarding transition into Canada’s healthcare sector. Manitoba’s Health Human Resource Action Plan for Skilled Healthcare Professionals Manitoba has proactively addressed healthcare workforce shortages with its Health Human Resource Action Plan, specifically targeting skilled healthcare professionals. This comprehensive initiative provides a range of incentives designed to support and attract top talent, including: This plan is not only focused on recruiting skilled healthcare professionals but also on retaining them by making them feel valued and supported throughout their careers in Manitoba. Find Out! If you are eligible to migrate to Canada Newfoundland and Labrador’s Come Home Initiative  Newfoundland and Labrador have taken bold steps to draw skilled healthcare professionals to the province through their Come Home Initiative. This program offers substantial financial rewards, particularly to those who are willing to either return or newly settle in the region. Some of the highlights include: With its scenic landscapes and vibrant communities, Newfoundland and Labrador are quickly becoming attractive options for healthcare professionals looking for both career opportunities and quality of life. Prince Edward Island’s Allied Health Professional Recruitment Incentive  Prince Edward Island (PEI) has expanded its Allied Health Professional Recruitment Incentive, providing up to $10,000 to eligible healthcare professionals who commit to service agreements within the province. This financial boost aims to attract specialists in high-demand fields, such as radiology, physiotherapy, and nursing, among others. By offering this incentive, PEI hopes to create a sustainable healthcare workforce that can support its growing population. PEI’s healthcare strategy focuses on long-term retention, ensuring that healthcare professionals see the island as not just a place of work but as a community they can call home. Why These Incentives Matter The global shortage of healthcare workers, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has put immense pressure on healthcare systems worldwide. Canada is no exception, and provinces are responding with targeted programs aimed at attracting international talent. These initiatives provide skilled immigrants with: These incentives are not only beneficial for the immigrants themselves but are also crucial for maintaining the quality of care for Canadian residents. As these programs gain traction, more skilled healthcare professionals are likely to consider relocating to Canada, ensuring that the healthcare system can meet the demands of a growing and aging population. How to Take Advantage of These Incentives If you’re a skilled healthcare professional looking to move to Canada, it’s crucial to explore the specific incentive programs offered by different provinces. Each province, including Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island, has unique eligibility criteria and benefits tailored to attract healthcare workers. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “Canadian provinces introduce incentives for skilled healthcare immigrants,” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program invited 292 candidates under the Skilled Workers Overseas and International Education streams

Express Entry, Manitoba / By

On August 15, 2024, The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) made a significant move towards fortifying the province’s workforce by inviting 226 candidates under two strategic streams: the Skilled Workers Overseas (SWO) stream and the International Education Stream. As Manitoba continues to thrive as a hub for global talent, these targeted invitations reflect the province’s unwavering commitment to welcoming highly skilled professionals and international graduates. Breaking Down the Latest Invitation Round Skilled Workers Overseas (SWO) Stream:This round saw Manitoba focus on skilled workers abroad, issuing 40 LAAs to candidates under its Strategic Recruitment Initiative (SRI). The SWO stream targets skilled professionals who are positioned to make significant contributions to Manitoba’s labor market but who are located outside Canada at the time of their application. The minimum score required for this category in this round was 703 points, which suggests strong competition among candidates. By selecting high-scoring candidates, Manitoba ensures that only the most qualified applicants are invited to support the province’s long-term growth. International Education Stream (IES)In addition to recruiting overseas talent, Manitoba also supports international graduates through its International Education Stream. This stream encourages graduates who have completed their studies in Manitoba to remain and contribute to the local workforce. A total of 252 invitations were issued to candidates under this stream, highlighting the province’s commitment to retaining educated and skilled talent that has already established roots in Manitoba. Express Entry Candidates IncludedAmong the total 292 invitations, 37 candidates were from the Express Entry pool. Express Entry candidates are known for having strong profiles, often with advanced skills, education, and language proficiency. By inviting these candidates, Manitoba is enhancing its pool of potential new residents who can integrate quickly and make an immediate impact. About the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) offers a pathway for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and their families to immigrate to Manitoba, Canada. Through this program, the province selects individuals who demonstrate the potential to contribute positively to the local economy and community. Applicants must establish a connection to Manitoba, which could be through a job offer, education, or family ties within the province. The MPNP features multiple streams, catering to skilled workers, business investors, and international students. Once nominated by Manitoba, candidates are eligible to apply for permanent residency in Canada. This program aims to attract individuals who are likely to successfully integrate and thrive in the province, supporting economic growth and community development. At present, 80% of MPNP applications are processed within 8 to 10 months. Manitoba’s 2024 Progress So Far The MPNP has shown impressive results in 2024, having invited a total of 5,690 candidates to date. Out of these, 833 invitations were extended to Express Entry candidates, emphasizing Manitoba’s dedication to selecting highly skilled individuals. This steady intake of new talent ensures the province continues to address labor market needs, bolster economic growth, and strengthen local communities. A Pathway to Canada If you are considering immigrating to Manitoba through the MPNP, this recent draw is a reminder of the opportunities that await. Whether you are a skilled worker from overseas or an international student already contributing to the province, Manitoba offers multiple streams tailored to different applicant profiles. The province’s ongoing commitment to welcoming new residents underlines its role as one of Canada’s most immigrant-friendly regions. How to Take the Next Step Wondering how to boost your chances of receiving an invitation under the MPNP? It’s crucial to ensure your profile meets the eligibility requirements and that you score competitively within your chosen stream. For skilled workers overseas, participating in Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Initiatives can increase your chances, while international graduates should focus on gaining relevant work experience in the province. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) invited 292 candidates under the Skilled Workers Overseas and International Education streams,” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream

Ontario Holds Two Targeted Draws in Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream, Issuing 420 ITAs

Ontario / By

On August 13, 2024, the Government of Ontario conducted two significant draws under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream (EJO FW) of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). These draws, aimed at meeting the province’s critical labor needs, focused on healthcare workers and professionals in other priority occupations. Details of the Draws in the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream Ontario issued a total of 420 targeted Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to healthcare workers under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream. This draw was part of the province’s ongoing effort to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the healthcare sector. The minimum score required to receive an invitation in this draw was set at 50 points. In a second simultaneous draw, the OINP issued 958 ITAs to professionals working in other priority occupations through the employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream. These sectors are also essential to the province’s economic growth and development. The minimum score required for this draw was 54 points, reflecting the high demand for specialized skills in Ontario’s workforce. Eligibility and Profiles To be eligible for these targeted draws, candidates needed to have profiles created between August 13, 2023, and August 13, 2024. This ensures that the invited candidates are aligned with Ontario’s current labor market needs, especially in high-demand sectors 2024 Progress Under the OINP These two draws bring the total number of ITAs issued under the OINP in 2024 to 33,912, showcasing Ontario’s continued efforts to attract skilled talent to the province. The OINP remains one of the key pathways for international workers to secure permanent residency in Canada, particularly for those whose expertise aligns with the province’s economic priorities. The Importance of These Draws for Ontario Ontario’s focus on healthcare workers and professionals in key industries reflects the growing demand for specialized skills in the province. With an aging population and expanding industries, the need for qualified workers in these sectors has become more urgent than ever. By targeting specific groups, the OINP helps ensure that Ontario remains competitive on the global stage. For those who received an invitation, this presents a significant opportunity to build a career in one of Canada’s most dynamic provinces. With strong support for immigration, Ontario continues to welcome thousands of skilled workers each year, helping to drive economic growth and innovation How You Can Benefit If you’re a healthcare worker or a professional in a priority occupation and want to take advantage of Ontario’s targeted immigration streams, now is the time to act. Gunness & Associates can help you navigate the complex immigration process and increase your chances of success. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your goal of permanent residency in Canada. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “Ontario Holds Two Targeted Draws in Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream, Issuing 420 ITAs for Healthcare Workers,” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

IRCC Express Entry Draw

Canada Invites 763 PNP Candidates in the New IRCC Express Entry Draw

Permanent Residence / By

The sixth IRCC Express Entry draw of the year specifically targeted Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates conducted on August 13, 2024. This draw, known as round #308, saw the issuance of 763 Invitations to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. Key Highlights of the Draw In this recent PNP-targeted draw, the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required to receive an ITA was 690 points. This score represents a slight increase of four points from the previous PNP draw held on July 30, 2024. The tie-breaking rule applied for this draw was April 26, 2024, at 10:59:30 UTC, meaning that candidates with the lowest CRS scores who submitted their profiles before this date were prioritized. Current Status of IRCC Express Entry Draw As of August 13, 2024, there are 207,319 profiles registered in the IRCC Express Entry draw pool. This significant number underscores the competitive nature of the Canadian immigration process and highlights the importance of having a strong CRS score. For the year 2024, Canada has already issued 69,342 invitations through regular Express Entry draws, reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to welcoming skilled immigrants. What This Means for PNP Candidates The increase in the CRS cut-off score in this draw indicates a rising demand for skilled workers through the Provincial Nominee Program. Candidates with high scores or those who have received a provincial nomination are in a stronger position to secure an ITA. For those not yet invited, it’s crucial to stay updated on future draws and continuously work on improving their CRS score. Preparing for Future Draws For prospective applicants, keeping an eye on the trends of recent IRCC Express Entry draws can provide valuable insights into what might be required for future draws. Regularly updating your profile, improving language test scores, and gaining additional qualifications can enhance your chances of receiving an ITA. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “Canada Invites 763 PNP Candidates in the New IRCC Express Entry Draw,“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

permanent residents in 2024

Canada is expected to welcome more than 500 000 new permanent residents in 2024

Permanent Residence / By

Canada is on track to welcome over 500,000 new permanent residents in 2024, according to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This expected growth forms part of the continued plan and policy to enhance Canada’s economy, cope with shortages of human capital, and bring in a diverse pool of talent to society. Early 2024 Immigration Trends It began rather well, particularly in the early months of the year when the immigration statistics were quite encouraging. Nevertheless, there was a decline in June 2024 of 4 percent in total visitor arrivals to Nauru. 9 to amount to 44,540 new permanent residents for the month. However, compared to the peak numbers towards the end of 2023 , July’s trend represents a decrease in the number of new immigrants by about seventeen thousand; but so far this year, a total of two hundred and fifty-five thousand seven hundred new immigrants have arrived—an increase of about 2, 500 from the same period in 2023. Ontario: The Preferred Destination As for the provincial levels, newcomer preference remains focused on Ontario, with more than 41,000 citations. Six percent of new immigration since the 1990s. This trend is a reason to recognize the activities of the province to various types of vacancies and a stable economy. The large share of immigrants in the total population, important for continuing to attract a large share of immigrants to Ontario, is essential to preserve its economic potential and solve problems associated with regional labor markets. 2024 Projections: Year: A Record Breaking One If the trend of increase in the number of cases continues, Canada will easily pass 500,000 by the end of the year, an 8. 4% improvement in the number of new permanent residents compared to what is expected in 2023. This in itself has been made possible due to Canada being a haven for people who would wish to try their luck out in a new environment with better lifestyle standards. This Should Mean Something to Canada Analyzing the forecasted increase in the new immigrants, one can identify numerous favorable effects on the Canadian economy. Immigrants help create a pool of talent in the workforce, invent, and enhance the diversity and tradition of the country. In addition, as the country grows older, the shortages in the labor market persists and only through immigration does Canada gain a solution for this chronic problem of aging population. Canadian immigration seekers who wish to set Canada as their home country, should take advantage of the year 2024. The desire to open the country to immigration continues to be evident by the relative ease by which skilled workers, investors, students and families can seek an immigration into the country. Why move to Canada to become permanent residents in 2024? Make a decision in favor of Canada for permanent residency – that is a choice that is filled to the brim with opportunities and advantages. Here’s why: High Quality of Life: Canada enjoys a very high rank in the quality of life index; the environment it has is clean, and the geography is magnificent, more so, there is a good work-life balance enjoyed in this country. World-Class Education: Canada is one of the few countries in the world with excellent quality learning institutions ranging from elementary to post – secondary level for your children and to give them the best future you need to consider migrating to Canada. Excellent Healthcare: Canada has universal healthcare as the country’s government funds health care so that people have access to medical facilities without worrying about the outrageous cost. Safe Environment: Canada has a small rate of crime and resultant violence, politically stable, and the inhabitants of this country are warm and welcoming to other people making it suitable for families and individuals. Multicultural Society: There are numerous global cultures that are embraced in Canada that promote the diversity of cultures and the traveler feels at ease wherever they hail from. Economic Opportunities: Canada has a firm economy and thus boasts of employment in different sectors of the economy through which one can build his or her career and achieve a better future. Join our RSS Feed  If you want to know more details about “Canada is projected to surpass 500,000 new immigrants in 2024“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs. For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

Visitors in Canada

Visitors in Canada seek asylum through a special pathway

Visit Canada, Work in Canada / By

“Visitors in Canada: Amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada has seen a surge in asylum seekers entering the country through an expedited visa pathway. This unique phenomenon reflects the demand generated during the border closure and underscores the complexities of immigration policy during global crises.” As of February 29, 2024, approximately 152,400 visas have been issued under this program, with an additional 7,300 Super Visas specifically catering to parents and grandparents. An internal memo has unveiled that 19,400 visitor asylum claims have been filed under this program, constituting a significant 13% of visa holders. Comparatively, in 2023, 14% of the 137,947 refugee claimants originated from this program. The numbers are anticipated to rise further as many visa holders have yet to arrive in Canada. In response to the unprecedented circumstances, Canada has implemented temporary policy adjustments to facilitate the influx of asylum seekers. Notably, these adjustments waive the typical financial proof and future departure requirements, while still upholding stringent security, criminal, and medical clearances. The influx of asylum seekers through this special pathway presents both opportunities and challenges for Canada. On one hand, it underscores the country’s commitment to humanitarian principles and providing refuge to those in need. On the other hand, it places strains on resources and raises questions about long-term integration and support mechanisms. Canada’s special pathway for asylum seekers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the adaptability of immigration policies in response to evolving global circumstances. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of migration, it reaffirms its commitment to providing sanctuary to those fleeing persecution and hardship. Join our RSS Feed    If you want to know more details about “Visitors in Canada seek asylum through a special pathway“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

Changes in the Start-up Visa

Changes in the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons programs

Entrepreneur / By

From April 30, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement changes in the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons programs to reduce processing times and application backlog.  The Start-up Visa Program will cap the number of applications to ten start-ups per organization and prioritize those backed by Canadian capital or a member of Canada’s Tech Network.  Find Out! If you’re eligible for the start-up Visa or Self-Employed Program In addition, Minister Miller announced a complete halt on application intake for the Self-Employed Persons Program beginning April 30, 2024, to focus on processing applications from the inventory. The Self-Employed Persons Program offers a path to permanent residence for individuals with significant experience in art, culture, recreation, or sports who will contribute to Canada’s cultural vitality. Because of the large number of applications submitted for this program, processing times have exceeded four years.  While the pause is in place, IRCC will continue to finalize applications from the backlog while considering options for reforming the program and ensuring its integrity. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship stated: “Fast processing is critical to the success of entrepreneurs who come to Canada under our federal business programs. These necessary changes will put the Start-up Visa Program and Self-Employed Persons Program on track for faster processing times, while we look forward to future reforms to make these programs more sustainable and effective in the long run.” Join our RSS Feed    If you want to know more details about “Changes in the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons programs will help to reduce backlogs and accelerate processing times“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates