Last Updated On 14 December 2022, 7:11 PM EST (Toronto Time)
IRCC updated their online processing tool, to offer accurate information on average processing times in the beginning of 2022. Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced this update on March 31, 2022, to improve Canadian immigration system. This article enlists the latest processing times from the IRCC as of December 6, 2022.
The immigration backlog in Canada has decreased from 1.49 million on September 30, 2022 to 1.2 million as of October 31, 2022. IRCC updated this data on November 16, 2022. Furthermore, 1.04 million applications were still being processed within IRCC service standards. So, in total, IRCC had approximately 2.2 million applications under processing as of October 31.
What Updates Does the Processing Time Include
The processing period begins when the application is received by IRCC and concludes when the immigration officer makes a decision on the application. IRCC bases processing time on the time they take to process prior similar applications. Furthermore, the processing time may differ depending on whether the application was filed on paper or online.
These processing times are designed to offer new weekly timelines from the last 6 months’ data. Furthermore, it correlates the application volume with operational issues to assist future immigrants in better planning their journey.
Processing Times for Citizenship & PR cards
| Application Type | Current Processing Time | Change From Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship grant | 24 months | No Change |
| Citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship) | 16 months | No Change |
| Resumption of citizenship | 34 months | No Change |
| Renunciation of Citizenship | 16 months | – 1 month |
| Search of citizenship records | 16 months | + 1 month |
| New PR card | 92 days | + 1 Day |
| PR card renewals | 87 days | – 2 Days |
Processing Time for Family Sponsorship
| Application Type | Current Processing Time | Change From Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse or common-law partner living outside Canada | 18 months | – 2 months |
| Spouse or common-law partner living inside Canada | 14 months | No Change |
| Parents or Grandparents PR | 38 months | + 1 month |
- Click here for November 30 processing update!
- Canada Immigration Backlog At 1.2 Million – Latest IRCC Data
Processing time for Canadian Passport
| Application Type | Current Processing Time | Change From Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| In-Canada New Passport (Regular application submitted in person at Service Canada Centre – Passport services) | 10 business days | No Change |
| In-Canada New Passport (Regular application submitted by mail to Service Canada Centre) | 20 business days | No Change |
| In-Canda Urgent pick-up | By the end of next business day | No Change |
| In-Canada Express pick-up | 2-9 business days | No Change |
| Regular passport application mailed from outside Canada | 20 business days | No Change |
Processing time for Economic Class
| Application Type | Current Processing Time | Change From Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 20 months | + 1 month |
| Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) | 29 months | + 2 months |
| Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) | 62 months | + 12 months |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) via Express Entry | 13 months | – 1 month |
| Non-Express Entry PNP | 22 months | No Change |
| Quebec Skilled Worker | 21 months | – 1 month |
| Quebec Business Class | 65 months | No Change |
| Federal Self-Employed | 42 months | No Change |
| Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) | 12 months | – 2 months |
| Start-Up Visa | 32 months | + 1 month |
- You may also like:
- New Canada Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025
- Here Is IRCC Minister Response On The Future Of TR2PR
- Canada Immigration Backlog At 1.2 Million – Latest IRCC Data
- Click here for November 30 processing update!
Processing Time for Temporary Residence Application
| Application Type | Current Processing Time | Change From Last Week |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa outside Canada | Varies by country India: 160 days Nigeria: 179 Days United States: 49 Days Pakistan: 257 Days Philippines: 115 Days UAE: 217 Days Bangladesh: 215 Days Sri Lanka: 212 Days United Kingdom: 133 Days | + 2 Days for India – 5 Days for Nigeria – 7 Days for United States + 30 Days for Pakistan – 3 Days for Philippines + 19 Days for UAE + 66 Days for Bangladesh – 3 Days for Sri Lanka – 2 Days for UK |
| Visitor visa inside Canada | Online: 24 days Paper-Based: 46 days | + 2 Days for online + 1 Day for paper-based |
| Parents or Grandparents Supervisa | Varies by country India: 163 Days Nigeria: 236 Days United States: 462 Days Pakistan: 240 Days Philippines: 181 Days UAE: 179 Days Bangladesh: 172 Days Sri Lanka: 277 Days United Kingdom: 179 Days | – 8 Days for India – 4 Days for Nigeria – 137 Days for United States – 2 Days for Pakistan + 1 Days for Philippines – 6 Days for UAE + 7 Days for Bangladesh + 7 Days for Sri Lanka – 6 Days for UK |
| Visitor Extension (Visitor Record) | Online: 198 days Paper-Based: 163 days | – 6 Days (Online) – 2 Days (Paper-Based) |
| Study Permit Outside Canada | 9 Weeks | – 2 Weeks |
| Study Permit Inside Canada | 3 Weeks | – 1 Week |
| Study Permit Extension | Online: 75 Days Paper-Based: 104 Days | + 5 Day (Online) + 3 Days (Paper-Based) |
| Work Permit Outside Canada* | Varies by country India: 8 Weeks Nigeria: 27 Weeks United States: 18 Weeks Pakistan: 56 Weeks Philippines: 11 Weeks UAE: 32 Weeks Bangladesh: 38 Weeks Sri Lanka: 35 Weeks United Kingdom: 9 Weeks | – 5 Weeks for India – 4 Weeks for Nigeria + 4 Weeks for United States + 9 Weeks for Pakistan No Change for Philippines + 5 Weeks for UAE No Change for Bangladesh No Change for Sri Lanka – 1 Week for UK |
| Work Permit Inside Canada | Online: 168 Days Paper-Based: 81 Days | + 2 Days (Online) – 3 for paper-based |
| International Experience Canada (Current Season)** | 5 Weeks | No Change |
| Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) | 5 minutes | No Change |
*Applications for critical occupations are being prioritized. If you are not applying for a job in a critical occupation, your processing time may be longer than shown above.
Source: IRCC
- Canada To Ease IELTS Score For SDS Study Visa W.E.F. Aug 10
As per official IDP IELTS website, Canada study visa applicants via SDS will no longer need IELTS Score (Academic) of 6 bands in each module.
Instead, only an overall score of 6 will be required in IELTS Academic starting August 10, 2023.
For example, if you have a score of 5.5 in Reading and Writing, and 6.5 in Speaking and Listening, your overall score would be 6 and you will be eligible to apply Canada study visa under Student Direct Stream (SDS).
However, IRCC will require a band score of 6.0 in each module (Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking) for IELTS Score under General Training (GT).
There is no official update from IRCC confirming this, but we (INC News) reached out to IDP IELTS to confirm this information and they responded with information mentioned in snippet below.
This is really a good news for a lot of students who were ineligible for SDS study visa because their IELTS Score was less than 6 only in 1 or 2 modules, but otherwise had overall high score than 6 bands.
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The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently approved 4 new English language examinations for Canada Study Visa via Student Direct Stream (SDS).
English Language Test Minimum Score Needed for SDS IELTS Academic Overall 6.0 IELTS General Training 6.0 in each module PTE Academic Overall 60 CAEL Overall 60 CELPIP General 7.0 in each module TOEFL iBT Overall 83 English Test Requirements – Canada Study Visa via SDS What is IELTS Score requirement for Canada Study Visa via SDS?
Applicants need to score 6 bands in each module of IELTS to apply for Canada study visa via Student Direct Stream (SDS).
However, IDP IELTS claim that applicants will no longer need IELTS score (only Academic) of 6 bands in each module beginning August 10, 2023.Which countries are eligible for Canada Study Visa under SDS?
1. Antigua and Barbuda
2. Brazil
3. China
4. Colombia
5. Costa Rica
6. India
7. Morocco
8. Pakistan
9. Peru
10. Philippines
11. Senegal
12. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
13. Trinidad and Tobago
14. Vietnam
- Spousal Open Work Permit Extension ‘Opt-In’ Is Now Open
Spousal Open Work Permit Extension: “Opt-In” option to get an open work permit extension for up to 18 months is now available to eligible candidates until June 28, 2023.
As per this new measure, eligible spousal open work permit holders can apply for additional 18-month extension of their open work permit.
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Who Is Eligible For Spousal Open Work Permit Extension Opt-In
You are eligible for 18-month spousal open work permit extension if you meet below listed criteria:
You currently hold a valid open work permit and it will expire prior to December 31, 2023.
- You are one of the following:
- An applicant who has currently applied for Canada permanent residence, but awaiting decision on your application.
- Permanent residence applicants awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application and their spouses.
- Spouse or dependent child/children of a work permit holder.
- Spouses of study permit holders.
- Your biometrics will remain valid for the full 18-month extension (unless exempt from biometric requirement).
- You have a Canadian mailing address.
- Your passport is valid for at least 18 months past the expiry of your current spousal open work permit.
- You are admissible to Canada (meaning you don’t have any major legal proceeding or a medical condition).
How to apply for 18-month Spousal Open Work Permit Extension
Remember to get an 18-month spousal open work permit extension, you will have to apply before your current work permit expires.
So there are 2 options as originally announced by immigration minister and listed below:
1. Opt-In: “Opt-In” is free facilitative measure that is now available in the secure GCKey account through which you initially applied.
This is the easiest way to get 18-month spousal open work permit extension by simply updating your address and passport details, and selecting “Opt-In” in your secure IRCC account.
This option is only available until June 28, 2023. Individuals using “Opt-In” option will receive their new extension of open work permit by mail to their newly updated address.
“OR”
2. Apply for open work permit: If you are unable to “Opt-In” before June 28, 2023 or due to any reason this option is unavailable in your GCKey, then you can still get 18-month extension.
You will need to apply for open work permit by submitting normal work permit application by citing this public policy in your application and following the IRCC special instructions.
Click here for IRCC special instructions to apply for spousal open work permit extension.
How much Spousal Open Work Permit extension will I get?
You will get an 18-month extension of your spousal open work permit from the date of your current work permit expiry.Should I “Opt-In” for spousal open work permit extension if my permit is going to expire after July 2023?
Yes, you can “opt-in” for spousal open work permit extension before the expiry of your current work permit. This is only available until June 18, 2023.
As per IRCC instructions, you will get 18-month extension from the date of expiry of your current work permit.
Please note that there is no guarantee that IRCC will not back down from these instructions as they did in 18-month PGWP extension instructions.
So if your work permit is expiring in September or October 2023, try to use the work permit application method to take the maximum benefit of this extension or to avoid any last minute IRCC changes.How can I “Opt-In” for Spousal Open Work Permit extension as I initially applied through a consultant?
You can either link GCKey to your application or ask your consultant to provide the details of your account.
If you are unable to do either of these, then you can simply apply for extension using special IRCC instructions.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.comspousal open work permit extension - You are one of the following:
- International Students Protesting Deportations From Canada
International students have joined hands to protest in front of CBSA office in Mississauga to stop the deportations in fake offer letter case.
Since May 29, 2023 students have been demonstrating near 6900 Airport Road day and night without any break.
International students facing deportations met with CBSA officers and presented their demands on June 2, 2023.
On June 7, 2023 all-party committee on immigration voted unanimously calling on CBSA to waive inadmissibility in fake offer letter case.
Furthermore, they voted to provide an alternate permanent residence pathway through regularization program or on humanitarian basis.
In a press conference held on June 6, 2023, the Canadian Minister of Immigration stated that a procedure will be in place to enable students to demonstrate that they were innocently exploited.
He also stated that the issue of mistreatment of international pupils in Canada is “extraordinarily important.”
In addition, he stated, “In the acute phase, we must evaluate this process in order to provide a pathway for the innocent victims of fraud to remain in Canada. At the same time, we ensure that those who have been complicit in fraud cannot cannot take advantage.”
The students are continuing to protest 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until Lovepreet’s deportation order is lifted.
Lovepreet has been ordered to leave Canada by June 13, 2023 in fake offer letter case, wherein he was not aware that his agent used a fraudulent document to get his study permit to Canada.
Lovepreet Singh Predominant business owners, social media influencers, and immigration consultants are also joining the protest to support international students and stop deportation of Lovepreet Singh.
Amardeep Singh of Sky Immigration among the beginners of protest, urged the community to get together to support Lovepreet Singh and join the protest.
Bob Dosanjh Singh who ran for the office of Brampton Mayor says international students facing deportations are not at fault, rather Canadian system under Liberals is flawed.
He says that none of the international student should be deported in the fake offer letter case and calls on Canadians to come out in support of these international students.
“Some of these international students have been working and filing taxes since last 5-6 years and now receiving removal order letters is totally wrong.” he added.
Kanwar Sierah of Sierah Immigration raises that Canadian colleges are also at fault in these cases as they tie up and pay commission to the “ghost consultants” overseas who operate without any regulatory authority.
Furthermore, these colleges send their delegates overseas in education seminars of these unauthorized consultants to recruit international students. When such a Canadian delegate endorses such “ghost consultants” students trust the process and do not question the authenticity of college offer letters.
He suggests that deportation should be stopped and these students should get open work permit until an agreement is reached. Additionally, Canadian government should form a legal panel to include all the students in fake offer letter case, rather than working on individual cases.
Mani Boparai of 22G Auto Sales, Mintu Smagh of Pendu Canadian, and Govind Sandhu of RET Canada are among the leading faces in the protest.
Mintu Smagh feeling positive about this protest calls on everyone to use the hashtags #stopdeportation and #uniteforjustice on Twitter so that protest reaches Salma Zahid, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration studies as well as other members.
In similar case of Karamjeet Kaur who was ordered to leave Canada on May 29 got her order stayed at the last moment based on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds.
Overall Canadian immigration system seems unfair in such cases given that such individuals have contributed to Canadian economy filing taxes for last 5-6 years.
Either CBSA should have caught them at entry 5-6 years ago by spotting the fake offer letter, but those documents seemed so genuine that even they believed in them.
If an IRCC visa officer or CBSA officer who are trained to catch fraudulent documents were unable to identify the fake offer letters, then how could a student would have known it.
We (INC – Immigration News Canada) have been raising the concerns of these international students since these cases were made public through our platform and would continue to stand in support of international students.
Deportation of all the international students in fake offer letter case should immediately be stayed and an exception should be made to allow them continue their life in Canada, given that these international students didn’t know about the fake offer letter and they are victims of conspiracy by their ghost consultants.
- IRCC Adds 13 New Nations To List Of Visa-Free Countries
Today, Minister of IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) Sean Fraser announced addition of 13 new nations to the list of eligible countries for visa-free travel to Canada.
As per one of the expectations posted by INC – Immigration News Canada, IRCC adds 13 nations to the list of visa-free countries.
New countries eligible for visa-free travel to Canada: Panama, Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kits and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and Philippines.
Effective today, travellers from these countries who have held a Canadian visa within the past 10 years or who currently possess a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) instead of a visa while coming to Canada.
You can watch the announcement here 👇
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The announcement was made at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport – Departure Terminal, 2000 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3H 1C2.
Immigration minister was joined by Kevin Lamoureux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Rechie Valdez, MP for Mississauga—Streetsville, Ontario.
After media availability, IRCC Minister Sean Fraser will be attending a roundtable discussion with local stakeholders and community members at the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM).
As per official press release, on the following day (June 7, 2023), Minister Fraser will also be welcoming 20 new Canadian citizens at a special ceremony hosted by VIA Rail.
INC News Expectations Prior to the announcement
There was no confirmation from IRCC or immigration department regarding what the new announcement was supposed to be.
However, INC – Immigration News Canada posted the possibility that immigration minister announces addition of new visa-free country or countries for Canada or Canadian citizens, but there was no official update to confirm it.
With immigration minister’s schedule to have a roundtable with community members at the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM) indicates that there was an expectation that there could be some good news coming for filipinos community, but it was just based on the speculation.
Full list of Visa-Free countries for Canada
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belgium
- British citizen
- British National (Overseas)
- British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
- British overseas territory citizen with citizenship through birth, descent, naturalization or registration in one of the British overseas territories of:Anguilla
- Bermuda
- British Virgin Islands
- Cayman Islands
- Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
- Gibraltar
- Montserrat
- Pitcairn Island
- Saint Helena
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom
- Brunei Darussalam
- Bulgaria
- Caribbean island states of
- Antigua and Barbados
- St. Kits and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR.
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel, must have a national Israeli passport
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Morocco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania (electronic passport holders only)
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan, must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number
- Thailand
- United Arab Emirates
- Uruguay
- Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican.
What are the new countries eligible for Visa-Free (eTA) travel?
New countries eligible for visa-free travel to Canada: Panama, the Caribbean island states of Antigua and Barbados, St. Kits and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Argentina, Morocco, Seychelles, Thailand, and Philippines.What is electronic travel authorization or eTA for Canada?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada. An eTA is connected to a traveler’s passport electronically.
It is valid for up to five years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first. If you obtain a new passport, you must obtain a new eTA.How much is the cost of eTA for Canada?
$7 Canadian dollars is cost of an eTA per individual.
- New OINP Draw Invites 417 Francophone Express Entry Profiles
Today, first Ontario-OINP draw of June 2023 invites 417 Express Entry profiles targeting only francophone candidates with 98 NOC codes as their primary occupation.
Express Entry profiles created between June 5, 2022 – June 5, 2023 with CLB level 7 or higher in French as well as CLB level 6 or higher in English are eligible for today’s OINP draw.
Profiles having a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score between 312 – 487 are considered for OINP draw today.
If you are serious about your Canadian permanent residency and want to achieve it asap, learn French.
Having French proficiency will also lead to your selection in new Express Entry targeted draws announced by IRCC on May 31, 2023.
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Below is the summary of OINP Draw today:
Number Invitations CRS score range Description 278 312-487 Targeted draw for 39 Health, Education and Finance occupations 139 348-487 Targeted draw for 59 Tech, Trades and Other Priority occupations OINP Draw – June 5 Full List of Invited Occupations In OINP Draw Today
Health, Education and Finance occupations | CRS Cut Off 312 – 487
- NOC 10010 – Financial managers
- NOC 10011 – Human resources managers
- NOC 12101 – Human resources and recruitment officers
- NOC 12102 – Procurement and purchasing agents and officers
- NOC 13100 – Administrative officers
- NOC 13110 – Administrative assistants
- NOC 31100 – Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
- NOC 31101 – Specialists in surgery
- NOC 31102 – General practitioners and family physicians
- NOC 31112 – Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists
- NOC 31120 – Pharmacists
- NOC 31200 – Psychologists
- NOC 31202 – Physiotherapists
- NOC 31203 – Occupational Therapists
- NOC 31204 – Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
- NOC 31301 – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
- NOC 31302 – Nurse practitioners
- NOC 31303 – Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals
- NOC 32101 – Licensed practical nurses
- NOC 32103 – Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists
- NOC 32109 – Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
- NOC 32120 – Medical laboratory technologists
- NOC 32121 – Medical radiation technologists
- NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
- NOC 33103 – Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
- NOC 33109 – Other assisting occupations in support of health services
- NOC 40021 – School principals and administrators of elementary and secondary education
- NOC 41200 – University professors and lecturers
- NOC 41210 – College and other vocational instructors
- NOC 41220 – Secondary school teachers
- NOC 41221 – Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
- NOC 41300 – Social Workers
- NOC 41301 – Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies
- NOC 41310 – Police investigators and other investigative occupations
- NOC 41321 – Career development practitioners and career counsellors (except education)
- NOC 42201 – Social and community service workers
- NOC 42202 – Early childhood educators and assistants
- NOC 42203 – Instructors of Persons with Disabilities
- NOC 43100 – Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants
Tech, Trades and Other Priority occupations | CRS Cutoff 348 – 487
- NOC 20010 – Engineering managers
- NOC 20012 – Computer and Information Systems Managers
- NOC 21111 – Forestry professionals
- NOC 21112 – Agricultural representatives, consultants and specialists
- NOC 21120 – Public and environmental health and safety professionals
- NOC 21211 – Data Scientists
- NOC 21223 – Database Analysts and Data Administrators
- NOC 21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
- NOC 21231 – Software engineers and designers
- NOC 21232 – Software developers and programmers
- NOC 21233 – Web designers
- NOC 21234 – Web Developers and Programmers
- NOC 21300 – Civil engineers
- NOC 21301 – Mechanical engineers
- NOC 21310 – Electrical and electronic engineers
- NOC 21311 – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
- NOC 21320 – Chemical engineers
- NOC 21321 – Industrial and manufacturing engineers
- NOC 21322 – Metallurgical and materials engineers
- NOC 21330 – Mining engineers
- NOC 21331 – Geological engineers
- NOC 22101 – Geological and mineral technologists and technicians
- NOC 22301 – Mechanical engineering technologies and technicians
- NOC 22302 – Industrial engineers and manufacturing technologists and technicians
- NOC 22313 – Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians, and inspectors
- NOC 62020 – Food service supervisors
- NOC 63201 – Butchers – retail and wholesale
- NOC 63202 – Bakers
- NOC 72011 – Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations
- NOC 72014 – Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers
- NOC 72020 – Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
- NOC 72024 – Supervisors, motor transport and other ground transit operators
- NOC 72100 – Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
- NOC 72101 – Tool and die makers
- NOC 72104 – Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters
- NOC 72106 – Welders and related machine operators
- NOC 72200 – Electricians (except industrial and power system)
- NOC 72201 – Industrial electricians
- NOC 72204 – Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers
- NOC 72205 – Telecommunications equipment installation and cable television service technicians
- NOC 72300 – Plumbers
- NOC 72302 – Gas fitters
- NOC 72310 – Carpenters
- NOC 72311 – Cabinetmakers
- NOC 72320 – Bricklayers
- NOC 72400 – Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
- NOC 72401 – Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
- NOC 72404 – Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
- NOC 72410 – Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
- NOC 72421 – Appliance servicers and repairers
- NOC 73100 – Concrete finishers
- NOC 73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers
- NOC 73110 – Roofers and shinglers
- NOC 73111 – Glaziers
- NOC 73112 – Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
- NOC 73402 – Drillers and blasters – surface mining, quarrying and construction
- NOC 82020 – Supervisors, mining and quarrying
- NOC 82030 – Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors
- NOC 93200 – Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors
OINP Draw, OINP Draw today, OINP News, OINP update, new OINP draw, Ontario PNP Draw, latest OINP Draw
Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com - Canadian-Afghans Sue Feds For Discrimination In Immigration
2 of the Afghan Canadians who worked for the Canadian military in Afghanistan filed a lawsuit alleging the Federal Government of discriminatory immigration policies.
In an application with the Federal Court, these two Canadian Afghans alleged that the Canadian government offered “superior immigration benefits” to Ukrainians as compared to those offered to Afghans.
“Ukrainians are predominantly white and European. Afghans are predominantly dark-skinned and Muslim. Thus, the CUAET has the effect of distinguishing based on race, colour, ethnic origin and religion, which are prohibited grounds under s. 15 of the Charter,” as per their lawsuit application obtained by Toronto Star.
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“We are proud Canadians, we are proud of what we did for Canada and now we are being treated like trash,” said one of lawsuit filing Afghan-Canadian.
As per the policy for Afghan language and culture advisers (LCAs), their immediate family member such as sister is eligible to come to Canada, but her adult children is ineligible.
“We want Ukrainian policy to be extended to anyone who needs it.” “Not just Ukrainians, but anyone in a similar situation of wartime persecution or grave human-rights violations,” said Nicholas Pope, one of the attorneys representing the advisors.
What is the Canadian Afghans’ Case all about?
During Canada’s engagement in the conflict, language and culture advisers (LCAs), were recruited and sent alongside soldiers to help them traverse the new cultural landscape.
Unlike interpreters, who were hired on a contract basis by the military through international businesses, LCAs were treated as serving members of the military, wearing uniforms and receiving high-level security clearances to carry out their duties.
Over the duration of the operation, around 45 of them worked with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
One of the 2 lawsuit filing Afghans was among the last deployments to Kandahar before Canada’s combat role concluded in 2011.
When the Taliban seized over Afghanistan in 2021, Canada committed to relocate 40,000 Afghans by the end of the year, including former translators, human rights advocates, and members of religious minority organizations.
However, LCAs were advised that they would have to use on regular economic or family sponsorship methods to bring family members from Afghanistan to Canada.
Furthermore, one of the human rights case pushed Canadian government to broaden its current Afghan settlement program to include families of LCAs as well.
Now the 2 complainants claim that the program is too restricted in scope in comparison to the one implemented by Canada for Ukrainians.
The CUAET was one of the Canadian government’s policy to provide safe harbour for Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion.
It grants Ukrainians and their family members, even if they are not Ukrainian, prolonged temporary immigration status in Canada, allowing them to work and study here.
Additionally, there is no limit on the amount of applications accepted under the program without paying any processing fee and priority processing.
LCA candidates must have been in Afghanistan on or after July 22, 2021 and fulfill a specified definition of family member, according to the rules.
Moreover, only 380 applications quota is assigned for LCAs, whereas there is no cap for Ukrainians fleeing the war.
According to the lawsuit, if the LCAs were Ukrainian, they would have no trouble bringing their family members to Canada, who are ineligible as per the policy for Afghans.
Canadian Immigration Response
As per Toronto Star, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that the Afghans had no grounds to allege national origin discrimination.
People who are not Ukrainian do not have access to the Ukrainian program, according to IRCC, and not all programs can be offered to everyone.
“If that were the case, IRCC would be unable to respond to any humanitarian crisis in a targeted facilitative manner without responding equally and simultaneously to all humanitarian crises,” IRCC
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser back in December 2022 said they don’t have plans to increase the allocation for Afghans because it will “eat away allocations that are already committed to other groups who working to sponsor people.”
- New IEC 2023 Round of Invitations | June 3
This article provides information regarding the new IEC 2023 round of invitations for the week ending June 3, 2023.
Canada has set a quota of 90,000 work permits across three categories for the IEC 2023 season, to be filled by individuals from over 35 eligible countries.
This week, 1,364 individuals have been invited to apply for open work permits under the Working Holiday visa category of the IEC.
So far IEC 2023 has sent out 79,328 invitations under the Working Holiday visa category.
Always keep in mind that the number of invitations does not equal the number of individuals approved, as some individuals may decline an invitation and some applications may be denied by IRCC for failing to satisfy the requirements.
Click here to view the country-specific IEC 2023 quota.
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129 invitations were extended to candidates in the Young Professional category, while around 43 invitations were extended to candidates from major countries in the International Co-op (internship) category.
The tables below list, by category, the most recent invitations granted, available spots, candidates already in the pool, and the likelihood of receiving an invitation next week for each country.
IEC Working Holiday Visa Invitations – June 3
Country Invitations Issued Week Ending June 3 Total Invitations Issued In 2023 Candidates In Pool Available Spots
Chances of Receiving An Invitation Next WeekAndorra 4 21 0 17 Excellent Australia 224 6,456 158 unlimited Excellent Austria 0 154 74 63 Very Good Belgium 26 1,070 33 52 Excellent Chile 0 2,292 7,205 0 Very Low Costa Rica 30 642 1,132 14 Very Low Croatia 5 116 1 201 Excellent Czech Republic 20 850 11 462 Excellent Denmark 8 314 5 113 Excellent Estonia 0 110 1 48 Excellent France 0 16,885 8,589 0 Very Low Germany 104 3,965 76 1,739 Excellent Greece 4 315 3 162 Excellent Hong Kong 8 316 6 63 Excellent Ireland 91 6,496 88 6,660 Excellent Italy 53 1,994 42 715 Excellent Japan 151 5,368 148 2,263 Excellent Korea Republic 89 10,592 767 40 Very Low Latvia 0 72 23 0 Very Low Lithuania 2 362 49 10 Very Low Luxembourg 1 31 2 57 Excellent Netherlands 15 944 12 210 Excellent New Zealand 76 2,001 54 1,104 Excellent Norway 6 81 2 83 Excellent Poland 13 751 22 216 Excellent Portugal 27 861 18 1,176 Excellent San Marino 0 4 0 22 Excellent Slovakia 6 458 2 51 Excellent Slovenia 1 47 2 62 Excellent Spain 55 1,787 39 808 Excellent Sweden 9 351 9 388 Excellent Taiwan 69 4,451 977 83 Very Low United Kingdom 267 9,171 220 4,719 Excellent Total 1,364 79,328 19,770 21,601 IEC Working Holiday Visa – June 3 IEC Young Professionals Invitations – June 3
Country Invitations Issued Week Ending June 3 Total Invitations Issued In 2023 Candidates
In PoolAvailable Spots Chances of Receiving An Invitation Next Week Australia 5 121 5 unlimited Excellent Austria 0 10 0 9 Excellent Chile 0 391 32 0 Very low Costa Rica 3 175 2 19 Excellent Croatia 0 7 0 16 Excellent Czech Republic 4 204 3 20 Excellent Estonia 0 7 1 7 Excellent France 71 2,485 58 757 Excellent France via Volontariat international en entreprise (VIE) 8 282 68 294 Excellent Germany 11 353 14 167 Excellent Greece 0 120 1 54 Excellent Ireland 2 116 3 130 Excellent Italy 1 165 2 65 Excellent Latvia 0 6 0 7 Excellent Lithuania 1 18 0 4 Excellent Luxembourg 0 1 0 10 Excellent Netherlands 5 131 3 45 Excellent Norway 2 9 0 9 Excellent Poland 2 70 5 85 Excellent Portugal 0 32 1 187 Excellent Slovakia 1 42 0 6 Excellent Slovenia 0 7 0 11 Excellent Spain 5 161 5 83 Excellent Spain via ICEX Vives Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 46 Excellent Sweden 1 28 0 89 Excellent Switzerland 4 222 6 43 Excellent Taiwan 3 125 3 26 Excellent Total 129 5,288 212 2,189 IEC 2023 Young Professionals Invitations – June 3 IEC 2023 International Co-op invitations – June 3
Country Invitations Issued Week Ending June 3 Total Invitations Issued In 2023 Candidates
In PoolAvailable
SpotsChances of Receiving An Invitation Next Week France 41 3,548 30 1,847 Excellent Ireland 0 15 1 39 Excellent Germany 0 93 4 108 Excellent Luxembourg 0 3 0 9 Excellent Switzerland 1 35 2 27 Excellent Taiwan 1 19 0 1 Excellent Total 43 3,713 37 2,031 IEC 2023 International Co-op invitations – June 3 What countries are eligible for International Experience Canada?
Andorra
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Chile
Costa Rica
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark (Danish citizens who reside in Greenland and the Faroe Islands are also eligible)
Estonia
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Mexico
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Ukraine
United Kingdom
- International Students Deportation Case: NDP Calls For PR Pathway
NDP’s Jenny Kwan wrote to immigration minister Sean Fraser last week to stay the international students deportation affected in the fake offer letter case.
Jenny Kwan is the Member of Parliament for Vancouver East and NDP’s critic for IRCC.
She also wrote to Minister of Public Safety Marco Mendicino to work on resolving the situation as soon as possible.
Jenny said that the IRCC should immediately stay the deportations of international students affected in fake offer letter case, waive the inadmissibility on the basis of misrepresentation, and offer them a pathway to permanent residency.
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She urged the affected students to contact her office for assistance at jenny.kwan@parl.gc.ca.
International Students Handout Demand Letter To CBSA – June 2, 2023
Today on June 2, these international students presented their demands to CBSA with a rally march holding placards.
This move from international students has gathered support from other international students, business community, singers, and licensed immigration consultants of Punjabi community.
International students handing over demands to the CBSA personnels – June 2, 2023 June 2, 2023
Respected, Madam/Sir Member, Panel member and the Minister
We, International Students came from different states of India years ago to pursue higher education in Canada for better future prospects as Canadian education system, policies and the opportunities available graduation are unmatchable, which is why we chose Canada for higher education because of our belief in the Canadian education system.
Maiority of international students from South Asia are represented by immigration agents as are privy with the admissions and the visa application process. Similarly, we also obtained help for admission and visa application process.However, we have been the victims of their fraudulent acts, we have been charged hefty fees, while we all were unaware of their wrong doing including fake offer letters and our fraudulent signatures, which made us the principal applications.
We are wiling to provide the identification information for these agents, one of them who belongs of Jalandhar, Punjab is now absconding. Our parents have invested their lifetime earnings on our dreams of pursuing higher education.
But deporting us from Canada due to fraud of the agents will endanger our economic condition and ours and our family’s future. We completed our studies with hard work by paying international tuition fees.
During the period of Covid and inflation, along with studies, we played an essential is ensuring that the work force was available in the Canadian economy and earned the fees and other necessary expenses by working hard.
Even on the work permit, we contributed to the economic development of Canada with full effort and honesty and paid the due tax on time.
We are not criminals or a threat to national security, but we are being treated as such. We are already victims of fraud by the agents and the deportation order is unbearable for us.We request our Canadian government, immigration department and other related authorities to solve this matter on priority basis and give relief to the international students and their parents.
Request- That our deportation order be overturned and that the accused immigration agents and the colleges and other individuals who involved with them in Canada be investigated for defrauding students.
- That we request an issuance of temporary work permit(s) while the final decision on the cases are been made so that we can a) continue to contribute in the Canadian economy b) continue to earn for our livelihood as currently we had burning through our savings.
- We should be given an opportunity to move forward in the future by dismissing the case of
fraud in the documents.
Concerns Raised on Jenny’s Demand
Kubeir Kamal of Ask Kubeir Immigration acknowledging that the affected international students could be victims and could be given a chance, but raised concerns on the demand of asking for direct PR (permanent residency) by Jenny Kwan.
He believes this may send a different message to international students working hard to get PR who came to Canada via genuine premise.
What is international students deportation case?
We have been posting news related to deportation of international students for quite a while, but still there are lot of people who are still unaware of the situation.
Here is the summary of what happened in the fake offer letter deportation case of international students.
Many of the international students from Punjab region of India came to Canada on study permit in 2017-2018 by allegedly using fake offer letter from the Canadian colleges.
International students were not aware whether the offer letter was fake or not because letters were forged by their immigration consultant in India.
IRCC approved the study permit application of these students without noticing that the forgery.
CBSA cleared these students at Canadian airports without even noticing these forged documents.
Fraud consultant from India immediately informed these students that he had some disagreement with the Canadian colleges, so he will arrange admission in some other college or students are free make study choices on their own.
Without knowing, these international students took admission into different colleges based on the advise of their fraud consultant.
They completed their study and applied for work permit, and after qualifying for Canadian PR, applied under the various category.
Then, these students received removal order from Canada due to misrepresentation after 4-6 years of their original date of entry.
IRCC’s Response
“We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country & remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case.” he tweeted.
While the immigration department is taking slow approach in finding the culprits, one of the affected student is scheduled to be deported on June 13, 2023.
Lovepreet Singh As a result, Lovepreet Singh and other international students took to peaceful protest in front of CBSA building at 6900 Airport Road Mississauga.
Why Isn’t Government Lifting The Deportation?
Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) section 40 (1)(a) defines misrepresentation as we quote “directly or indirectly misrepresenting or withholding material facts relating to a relevant matter that induces or could induce an error in the administration of this Act.”
So decision makers are going by the exact definition set in their law books.
If a decision is made in the favour of these students, then it will set a precedent and reference for similar cases in future.
However, it is also to be noted that 90% of the international students deportation cases are connected to 1 fraudulent lawyer in India who is also facing criminal charges for the same.
So, we (INC – Immigration News Canada) believe government should also factor in this fact which openly indicates that international students are also victims of the fraudulent consultant and exception should be made on compassionate grounds.
Otherwise, immigration minister can introduce a temporary public policy waiving the inadmissibility requirement for the affected student to apply for permanent residency (PR) given that bulk number of students have been affected.
- Top 10 Tourist Attractions In Canada You Must Visit
Tourists and Visitors come from all over the world to experience the abundance of unique tourist attractions in Canada.
If you are planning to apply for tourist visa, then you can include one or more of these marvels in your itinerary.
The following are the top 10 tourist attractions that are the most talked about and represent Canada across the Globe:
Niagara Falls
The Niagara Falls is widely considered to be one of the most well-known natural marvels in the whole world.
Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls are the three distinct waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls, which are located on the Niagara River on the boundary between Ontario and New York.
The falls are also known as the Niagara Gorge. Visitors have the option of taking a boat excursion to get up close to the falls or a helicopter tour to get a bird’s eye perspective of the spectacle.
CN Tower
The CN Tower in Toronto is a tower that stands at a height of 553 meters and provides visitors with breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
Built in 1976 it held the record of world’s tallest free-standing structure for 32 years until 2007.
It is a well-known landmark that can be seen in the heart of downtown Toronto. Visitors have the option of riding a glass elevator to the observation deck for stunning views of the city and Lake Ontario, dining at the restaurant that revolves 360 degrees around the tower, or even participating in the EdgeWalk activity, which allows them to walk along the edge of the tower.
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is a gorgeous wilderness region that is located in Alberta and is a part of the Canadian Rockies.
It is known for its snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and rich wildlife. Activities like as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding, as well as relaxing in the hot springs, are quite popular here.
Lake Louise and Lake Moraine are the most visited sites in Banff National Park.
There are no words that can describe the beauty of this heaven in Canada and can only be experienced by visiting here.
Old Quebec
The historic neighbourhood of Quebec City known as Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features winding lanes lined with quaint shops and stunning architecture.
Visitors have the option of seeing the Citadel, going for a trip in a horse-drawn carriage, or sampling regional cuisine at one of the numerous restaurants and cafés in the area.
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a park in the city of Vancouver that spans an area of 1,000 acres and features forested areas, beaches, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and city.
To its southeast, the park is bounded by the suburbs of West End and Coal Harbour, and the Lions Gate Bridge provides access to the North Shore.
The easternmost point of the park is denoted by the historic lighthouse that is located on Brockton Point.
Visitors have the option of biking or walking along the seawall, checking out the Vancouver Aquarium, or going to Brockton Point to see the iconic totem poles.
The Canadian Museum of History
The Canadian Museum of History is a national museum that exhibits the diverse history and culture of Canada, from the time of the First Peoples to the present day.
It is located in Gatineau, in the province of Quebec. The Canadian Children’s Museum, the Canadian Stamp Collection, and the Grand Hall, which has a totem pole and a full-sized reproduction of a canoe, are all part of the museum’s extensive collection of exhibits.
Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens is a stunning garden that can be found in Victoria, British Columbia.
It is home to hundreds of different kinds of plants, including flowers, trees, and shrubs.
Visitors have the option of taking a boat ride around the bay, going for a stroll in the gardens, or attending one of the numerous concerts or other events that are conducted on the grounds.
Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, including jagged mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped glaciers.
It comprises of Jasper National Park, the most extensive protected area of wilderness in the Canadian Rockies established in 1907 as the sixth national park in Canada.
Jasper is integral part of the UNESCO Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site and one of the core part of the biggest national park system in the world.
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Icefields Parkway, which is a magnificent drive that stretches from Banff to Jasper, are three of the most popular locations in the area.
Parliament Hill
Situated in the heart of Ottawa, this Parliament Hill is home to the federal government of Canada as well as the renowned Peace Tower, which provides breathtaking vistas over the surrounding area.
Visitors have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while they are on the grounds of the Parliament Buildings, including taking a guided tour of the buildings, seeing the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard, or attending one of the various festivals or events that are hosted there.
Whistler
Whistler is a well-known ski resort town that can be found in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia.
Whistler is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, in addition to other exciting outdoor activities.
Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and taking a ride atop the mountain in a picturesque gondola are among activities that are available to tourists throughout the summer months.
These are just a handful of the many great places to visit in Canada that the country has to offer tourists.
This magnificent nation has something to offer everyone, whether they are searching for natural beauty, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventure.
What are the top 10 Tourist Attractions in Canada?
Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com - New Minimum Wage In British Columbia Effective June 1
New minimum wage in British Columbia will increase from $15.65 to $16.75 per hour effective June 1, 2023.
This $1.10 raise in British Columbia’s new minimum wage is just near to our expectation posted last week.
British Columbia official press release confirms the raise in the minimum legal hourly wage even $0.25 cents higher than our expectation.
New minimum wage in British Columbia effective June 1, 2023 will be the second highest minimum wage in Canada and even higher than Ontario’s minimum wage that is scheduled to go up in October 2023.
Year Lowest Hourly Wage Effective June 1, 2023 $16.75 2022 $15.65 2021 $15.20 2020 $14.60 2019 $13.85 2018 $12.65 2017 $11.35 2016 $10.85 2015 $10.45 B.C. Minimum Wage Raises Since 2015 Live-in camp leaders are paid a daily rate for each day or part day worked.
- June 1, 2023 – $133.69
- June 1, 2022 – $125.06
Live-in home support workers are paid a daily rate.
- As of June 1, 2023, the daily rate will be $124.73 per day or part day worked
- The current daily rate is $116.68 per day or part day worked
Resident caretakers for a building with nine to 60 residential suites:
- June 1, 2023 – $1,002.53 per month plus $40.17 for each suite
- June 1, 2022 – $937.82 per month plus $37.58 for each suite
Resident caretakers for a building with 61 or more residential suites:
- June 1, 2023 – $3,414.85 per month
- June 1, 2022 – $3,194.43 per month
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The increase in the wage is based on the 6.9% average inflation rate in British Columbia in 2022. This equates to $1.08 per hour, or 6.9% of the current minimum wage.
The increase in wage will be $1.10 per hour, rounded to the closest nickel, as is customary in British Columbia and other jurisdictions, from $15.65 to $16.75.
The raise will benefit around 150,000 workers earning less than $16.75.
Many include food service employees, grocery store workers, retail workers, and other workers who were critical throughout the epidemic.
Overall, the wages in British Columbia has risen from one of the lowest in the country to one of the highest. In 2015, this wage was just $10.45 per hour.
Furthermore, 5 Canadian provinces also increased their minimum wages on April 1, 2023.
Now all the Canadian provinces have increased or announced increase in their wages this year except for Alberta and Nunavut.
Once Alberta used to have the highest minimum hourly wage in Canada, but the province did not increase it since 2018.
We are expecting that Wild Rose Country will also be increasing their wage in 2023.
Official Minimum Wages In Canada and Next Raise Schedule
Geography Minimum Wage Per Hour Next Raise Date Minimum Wage
after Next RaiseCanada (Federally regulated private sectors) $16.65 April 1, 2024 $17.75 (estimated) Ontario $15.50 October 1, 2023 $16.55 Manitoba $14.15 October 1, 2023 $15.30 New Brunswick $14.75 April 1, 2024 (Expected) $15.50 (estimated) Nova Scotia $14.50 October 1, 2023 $15 Saskatchewan $13.00 October 1, 2023 $15 Newfoundland & Labrador $14.50 October 1, 2023 $15 Alberta $15.00 To Be Decided (TBD) TBD British Columbia $15.65 $16.75 June 1, 2023 Quebec $14.25 May 1, 2023 $15.25 Nunavut $16.00 To Be Decided (TBD) TBD Prince Edward Island $14.50 October 1, 2023 $15 Northwest Territories $15.20 September 1, 2023 $16 (estimated) Yukon $16.77 April 1, 2024 $17.50(estimated) Real Living Wage in British Columbia
The living wage is defined as what someone must earn in order to cover the true expenses of living in their community, and it is based on community-specific information.
B.C. Community Living Wage Haida Gwaii $25.87 Golden $25.56 Salt Spring Island $24.36 Sunshine Coast $24.30 Greater Victoria $24.29 Metro-Vancouver $24.08 Revelstoke $23.60 Fernie $23.58 Cowichan Valley $23.53 Powell River $23.33 Kelowna $22.88 Prince Rupert $22.69 Cranbrook $21.90 Columbia Valley $21.85 Prince George $21.19 Trail $21.13 Nelson $20.83 Castlegar $20.54 Dawson Creek $20.53 Nanaimo $20.49 Comox Valley $20.26 Grand Forks $20.05 Kamloops $19.14 Fraser Valley $18.98 Is B.C. minimum wage going up in 2023?
The general minimum wage in British Columbia will increase from $15.65 to $16.75 per hour on June 1, 2023, benefiting the province’s lowest-paid workers.What is the living wage in BC?
$24.08 is the living wage for Metro Vancouver and $24.29 for Greater Victoria. - New Targeted Express Entry Draws 2023 Selection Criteria
Today, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced new targeted Express Entry draws in 2023 implementation with category-based selection for Canada permanent residency (PR).
This effort by IRCC is to address labor shortages and strengthen its communities within its flagship economic immigration management system, Express Entry.
By inviting prospective permanent residents with specific skills, training, or language proficiency, Canada aims to empower businesses, meet labor demands, and support French-speaking communities.
This article explores the details of the new selection process, highlights the focus on French language proficiency and in-demand occupations, and discusses the potential impact on Canada’s economy and society.
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Occupation-Based Selection in New Express Entry Draws
Express Entry, Canada’s primary application management system for economic immigration, is now implementing category-based selection.
By targeting candidates with work experience in key fields, such as healthcare, STEM professions, trades, transport, and agriculture, Canada can invite skilled workers who are in high demand.
New occupation based Express Entry draws will focus on candidates who have at least 6 months of work experience in last 3 years in one of the following sector:
- healthcare
- science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors
- transport
- agriculture and agri-food
You can click on above links to get full list of occupations with their NOC codes under each sector.
Do I just need 6 months of experience to be eligible for new Express Entry targeted draws?
No, you need at least 1 year (30 x 52 weeks = 1560 hours) of work experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations to meet general eligibility for any program of the Express Entry system.
Out of this 1 year, if you worked in any of the above listed sectors for at least 6 months in last 3 years, then you will be considered for the targeted Express Entry draws.This selection method will allow Canada to issue invitations to apply for permanent residency to individuals with specific skills, training, or language ability.
Focus on French Language Proficiency
Another category apart from occupation-specific draws is strong French language proficiency category to support French-speaking communities across Canada.
Eligible Express Entry profiles with French-language test results that show a minimum score of 7 in all 4 language abilities on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens will be eligible for such draws.
By encouraging skilled individuals with a strong French language proficiency to immigrate, Canada ensures that French communities can thrive and maintain their vibrant cultural identities.
This commitment reflects Canada’s dedication to promoting bilingualism and language diversity.
“By placing a special focus on Francophone immigration, the Government of Canada is ensuring that French communities can continue to live their life in Canada in the official language of their choice.” – The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
The Importance of Immigration in Solving Labor Shortages
In recent years, employers across Canada have faced significant challenges in filling vacant positions due to chronic labor shortages.
Recognizing the crucial role of immigration in meeting these demands, the Government of Canada has developed an immigration system that acts as a catalyst for growth.
By attracting skilled workers and addressing labor market needs, Canada aims to ensure economic and social prosperity for years to come.
Enhancing the Express Entry System
Category-based selection not only addresses labor market needs but also enhances the responsiveness of the Express Entry system.
This new approach aligns with Canada’s high human capital approach, which has been a cornerstone of its successful economic immigration system.
By selecting candidates with the potential to integrate and contribute to Canada’s future, the government ensures that the country continues to attract skilled workers who will make meaningful contributions to society.
“Canada’s immigration system has never been more responsive to the country’s social or economic needs.” – The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Anticipated Impact and Future Invitations
The first category-based invitations to apply are expected to be sent out this summer, marking a significant milestone in Canada’s immigration system.
By attracting skilled professionals in high-demand fields and prioritizing French language proficiency, Canada aims to address labor shortages, foster economic growth, and support the vitality of French-speaking communities.
With immigration accounting for nearly 100% of Canada’s labor force growth, the country recognizes the invaluable contributions immigrants make to key sectors.
Quebec’s Unique Immigration Arrangement
Under the Quebec-Canada Accord, Quebec maintains its autonomy in establishing its immigration levels.
While the category-based selection primarily focuses on non-Quebec regions, the Federal High-Skilled program has contributed significantly to French-speaking admissions outside Quebec.
From 2018 to 2022, these admissions accounted for 34% to 40% of overall French-speaking admissions.
Conclusion:
Category-based selection in Canada’s Express Entry system represents a crucial step toward addressing labor shortages, supporting economic growth, and empowering French-speaking communities.
By inviting skilled workers with specific skills, training, and language proficiency, Canada ensures that businesses have access to the talent they need while fostering the vitality of its diverse communities.
This proactive approach reflects Canada’s commitment to building an inclusive and prosperous future for all.
When will new targeted Express Entry draws start?
More information on the date of new targeted Express Entry draws for various categories, as well as how to apply, will be released in the coming weeks.What will happen to occupations not included in targeted Express Entry draws?
IRCC has repeatedly confirmed that normal Express Entry draws will continue as targeted Express Entry draws will be just part of the quota allocated for overall Express Entry.
Express Entry profiles with occupations NOT in the targeted draws can expect higher CRS Cutoff score.
- New Targeted Express Entry Draws: List Of Eligible NOC Codes
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced full list of occupations eligible for new targeted Express Entry draws for 2023.
To be eligible for one of the targeted Express Entry draws, candidates must have at least 6 months of continuous work experience (in Canada or abroad) during the last 3 years, in any of the occupation listed below.
New Targeted Express Entry Draws List Of Eligible NOC Codes
These targeted occupations are much in line with expectations posted by INC – Immigration News Canada.
Do I just need 6 months of experience to be eligible for the new Express Entry targeted draws?
No, you must have at least one year (30 x 52 weeks = 1560 hours) of work experience in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations to be eligible for any Express Entry program.
If you worked in any of the 82 targeted occupations for at least 6 months in the last three years, then you would qualify to be considered in one of the targeted Express Entry round of invitations.Healthcare Occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC code Audiologists and speech language pathologists 31112 Chiropractors 31201 Dentists 31110 Dieticians and nutritionists 31121 Education counsellors 41320 General practitioners and family physicians 31102 Instructors of persons with disabilities 42203 Kinesiologists and other professional occupation in therapy and assessment 31204 Licensed practical nurses 32101 Massage therapists 32201 Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations 33101 Medical laboratory technologists 32120 Medical radiation technologists 32121 Medical sonographers 32122 Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates 33102 Nurse practitioners 31302 Nursing co-ordinators and supervisors 31300 Occupational therapists 31203 Optometrists 31111 Other assisting occupations in support of health services 33109 Other practitioners of natural healing 32209 Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating 31209 Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment 32109 Paramedical occupations 32102 Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants 33103 Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals 31303 Physiotherapists 31202 Psychologists 31200 Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301 Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists 32103 Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100 Specialists in surgery 31101 Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies 41301 Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists 32200 Veterinarians 31103 Healthcare occupations Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC Code Architects 21200 Architecture and science managers 20011 Business systems specialists 21221 Civil Engineers 21300 Computer and information systems managers 20012 Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) 21311 Computer systems developers and programmers 21230 Cybersecurity specialists 21220 Data scientists 21211 Database analysts and data administrators 21223 Electrical and electronics engineers 21310 Engineering managers 20010 Industrial and manufacturing engineers 21321 Information systems specialists 21222 Land surveyors 21203 Landscape Architects 21201 Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries 21210 Metallurgical and materials engineers 21322 Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers 41400 Software developers and programmers 21232 Software engineers and designers 21231 Urban and land use planners 21202 Web designers 21233 Web developers and programmers 21234 STEM Occupations List Trade occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC code Residential and commercial installers and servicers 73200 Elevator constructors and mechanics 72406 Machine fitters 72405 Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics 72402 Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics 72400 Carpenters 72310 Plumbers 72300 Electricians (except industrial and power system) 72200 Welders and related machine operators 72106 Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers 72014 Trade occupations Transport occupations
Occupation 2021 NOC code Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors 93200 Transport truck drivers 73300 Railway traffic controllers and marine traffic regulators 72604 Engineer officers, water transport 72603 Deck officers, water transport 72602 Air traffic controllers and related occupations 72601 Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors 72600 Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors 72404 Railway carmen/women 72403 Managers in transportation 70020 Transport occupations Agriculture and agri-food occupations
Occupations 2021 NOC Code Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services 82031 Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors 82030 Butchers- retail and wholesale 63201 Agriculture and agri-food occupations How would CRS score be affected by targeted Express Entry draws?
It is expected that CRS cutoff score will drop for the Express Entry profiles having experience in one of the targeted occupations/NOC codes.
However, CRS cutoff score will increase for profiles not included in targeted occupations/NOC codes.
