Last Updated On 9 December 2022, 3:37 PM EST (Toronto Time)
A Vancouver consultant is accused of defrauding “dozens of people” with a false immigration scheme. While having her license suspended and facing a class action lawsuit from former clients, Liza Lucion denies any misconduct.
Numerous immigrants allegedly fell victim to fraud committed by a Vancouver woman who promised them a way to obtain permanent residency in Canada through a nonexistent immigration program.
Due to multiple complaints from previous clients who say they were defrauded, Liza Lucion’s registration as a certified immigration consultant was suspended this summer. Additionally, a proposed class action lawsuit against her is being considered.
However, Liza Lucion refutes every accusation of wrongdoing.
The immigration program fraud
Lucion and her business, Canadian Global Immigration Consulting Services, charged “exorbitant fees” and advertised services to file immigration applications through a program that did not exist. Andres Barrios Medellin, a representative plaintiff, explained these claims in an amended notice of claim filed in October in the B.C. Supreme Court.
According to the claims, “dozens of victims paid Lucion business fees of around $5,000 or more” for a COVID-related program. She allegedly promised this program would provide them with two-year open work permits to bring their families to Canada and provide a path to permanent residency. In addition, Lucion allegedly misrepresented herself by claiming to be a lawyer.
After finding these victims were in Canada without legal status or with expired status and had no legitimate application in progress to seek, renew, or extend their status, the claim continued; they were in extreme emotional suffering.
Mexican native Barrios told CBC that after learning he wouldn’t get the expected work permit, he felt “confused, frustrated, and desperate.”
It’s about wasting time, says Barrios, time that could have been spent with aging parents at home or going through legal immigration routes. “I’m always in touch with people that hired Liza,” he said.
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Lucion’s response to the case allegations
The lawsuit also names Jose Guadalupe Garcia Hernandez, Lucion’s husband, and the contracting business he runs as defendants.
In their replies to the proposed class action, the couple refutes every charge of fraud, negligence, or conspiracy.
Ms. Lucion denies that she exploited any workers, according to an email from Melanie Samuels, her attorney, to CBC.
Lucion’s attorney, Melanie Samuels, explains this group of complainants is unfairly defaming her because there is no proof of the claimed fraud. Most likely, they misinterpreted what she said to them and were encouraged by others to start this vicious attack on her brand and character.
Samuels claimed that despite Lucion’s “best efforts” to assist him, Barrios broke the terms of his retainer agreement with her by not cooperating with the immigration procedure.
According to Lucion’s response to the allegation, she always “operated honestly and in good faith,” depending on legitimate immigration processes and COVID-19 pandemic-related laws. However, further allegations state that she frequently paid for her clients’ immigration statuses out of her own money.
Additionally, Lucion denies telling her clients that she is a lawyer. However, the Law Society of British Columbia has certified that she has agreed to an undertaking to abide by the Legal Professions Act with respect to those claims.
In response to the allegation, her husband Garcia denied involvement in advising on or promoting immigration programs. Although he occasionally translated documents into Spanish for his wife, the document claims that he only facilitated communications between parties and was not himself a party to the discussions.
Clients who complained allegedly received threats from Lucion
The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants issued an interim order in July suspending Lucion’s right to practice as an immigration consultant and ordering her to pay $10,000 in fees.
Susan Heakes, the head of the college’s discipline committee, reported that the college looked into 11 complaints that former clients had made in the last 25 months. If the accusations against Lucion are confirmed, according to Heakes, her license will probably be cancelled or, at the very least, suspended for a “lengthy” period.
According to Heakes, this alleged misconduct would be among the most serious violations that an immigration consultant might commit as it has severe repercussions for the victims and negatively reflects the profession.
The complaints in her ruling are similar to those in Barrios’ statement of claim.
According to the two documents, Lucion allegedly held group information sessions where she asserted that foreign nationals in Canada might contact her to apply to a brand-new government program. If the clients used her services, she allegedly promised open work permits.
Heakes’ ruling states that when this did not occur, and some of these former clients complained to Ms. Lucion and requested repayment of their money, Ms. Lucion allegedly threatened them and filed baseless civil cases against them.
The decision claims that among the alleged threats was informing a former customer that she would either accuse them of tax evasion or have them deported.
However, there is no evidence to support the claims made in the college’s decision or the court documents in the proposed class action lawsuit.
Source: CBC News
- IEC 2023 New Round of Invitations | May 27
This article provides information about IEC 2023 new round of invitations which is officially updated by the IRCC every Friday.
For the IEC 2023 season, Canada has set a quota of 90,000 work permits across three categories to be filled by individuals from more than 35 eligible countries.
Last week, we (INC – Immigration News Canada) reported discrepancy in number of invitations for Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Taiwan. Good news, IRCC has now corrected the numbers.
This week, around 2,500 individuals have been extended an invitation to submit an application for open work permits under the IEC Working Holiday visa category.
Please click here for the IEC 2023 quotas for each country.
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Candidates who applied to be in the Young Professional category were extended 267 invitations, whilst candidates from major nations who applied to be in the International Co-op (internship) category were only extended 116 invitations.
The following tables provide category-wise lists of the most recent invites granted, available places, candidates already in the pool, and the likelihood of earning an invite in the following week for each nation.
Working Holiday Category Invitations
Country Invitations Issued Week Ending May 26 Total Invitations
Issued In 2023Candidates
In PoolAvailable
SpotsAndorra 0 17 1 20 Australia 318 6,232 170 unlimited Austria 0 154 73 0 Belgium 47 1,044 13 67 Chile 0 2,292 7,125 0 Costa Rica 40 612 1,103 44 Croatia 5 111 5 204 Czech Republic 18 830 20 470 Denmark 13 306 8 123 Estonia 0 110 0 49 France 0 16,885 8,261 0 Germany 140 3,861 82 1,820 Greece 9 311 2 107 Hong Kong 8 308 6 67 Ireland 119 6,405 70 6,706 Italy 76 1,941 37 635 Japan 225 5,217 118 2,404 Korea Republic 100 10,503 671 108 Latvia 0 72 22 0 Lithuania 4 360 48 2 Luxembourg 0 30 0 59 Netherlands 143 929 11 167 New Zealand 71 1,925 45 1,149 Norway 4 75 3 87 Poland 22 738 12 224 Portugal 28 834 18 1,191 San Marino 0 4 0 22 Slovakia 14 452 5 47 Slovenia 8 46 1 62 Spain 116 1,732 47 790 Sweden 33 342 5 395 Taiwan 269 4,382 923 84 United Kingdom 665 8,904 208 4,879 Total 2,495 77,964 19,113 21,982 IEC 2023 Working Holiday Invitations Young Professionals Invitations
Country Invitations Issued Week Ending May 26 Total Invitations
Issued In 2023Candidates In Pool Available
SpotsChances of Receiving An Invitation Next Week Australia 6 116 2 unlimited Excellent Austria 0 10 0 59 Excellent Chile 0 391 30 0 Very low Costa Rica 6 172 1 18 Excellent Croatia 0 7 0 16 Excellent Czech Republic 6 200 4 24 Excellent Estonia 0 7 0 7 Excellent France 147 2,414 51 804 Excellent France via Volontariat international en entreprise (VIE) 1 274 66 300 Excellent Germany 16 342 10 171 Excellent Greece 4 120 0 104 Excellent Ireland 3 114 1 129 Excellent Italy 5 164 0 135 Excellent Latvia 0 6 0 7 Excellent Lithuania 0 17 0 11 Excellent Luxembourg 1 1 0 9 Excellent Netherlands 24 126 4 98 Excellent Norway 0 7 0 10 Excellent Poland 2 68 2 86 Excellent Portugal 2 32 0 187 Excellent Slovakia 2 41 1 12 Excellent Slovenia 0 7 0 12 Excellent Spain 19 156 3 85 Excellent Spain via ICEX Vives Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 46 Excellent Sweden 2 27 0 89 Excellent Switzerland 14 218 3 44 Excellent Taiwan 7 122 2 70 Excellent Total 267 5,159 180 2,533 IEC 2023 Young Professionals invitations IEC 2023 International Co-op (internship) Invitations
Country Invitations Issued Week Ending May 26 Total Invitations
Issued In 2023Candidates In Pool Available Spots Chances of Receiving An Invitation Next Week France 106 3,507 44 1,862 Excellent Ireland 0 15 0 39 Excellent Germany 7 93 0 104 Excellent Luxembourg 0 3 0 9 Excellent Switzerland 2 34 1 28 Excellent Taiwan 1 18 1 19 Excellent Total 116 3,670 46 2,061 IEC 2023 International Coop invitations How many invitations to apply have been issued in IEC 2023 season?
So far 77,964 invitations to apply for open work permits have been issued under the working holiday visa category, 5,159 under Young Professionals category, and more than 3,670 under International Co-op category.
Always remember number of invitations doesn’t mean that the same number of individuals will be admitted because some individuals may decline an invite while some of the applications may be refused by IEC 2023 for not meeting the requirements.
International Experience Canada - 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.
INC – Immigration News Canada posted expectation of increase in minimum wage to $16.50 per hour on April 1, 2023.
Post that British Columbia official press release confirmed 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 Open Work Permit Eligibility For Spousal & Family class Applicants
Today, immigration minister Sean Fraser announced a new temporary public policy offering an open work permit for spousal and family class applicants.
INC – Immigration News Canada provided live updates and extensive coverage of new announcement by immigration minister on family reunification.
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Eligibility Criteria For Open Work Permit For Spousal & Family Class Applicants
The new public policy signed by Sean Fraser facilitates the issuance of an open work permit to foreign nationals applying under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class or the Family Class.
This also includes family members, who have a valid temporary resident status, have maintained their status, or are eligible for and have applied to restore their status, and have the same residential address as their sponsor in Canada when they apply for an open work permit.
You are eligible to apply for an open work permit (less than 2 years), if either 1 of the following applies to you:
- The foreign national is
- a principal applicant who has submitted an application for permanent residence under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class or as a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner under the Family Class that has been accepted for processing by IRCC after meeting the requirements for a complete application.
- the subject of a sponsorship application that was submitted by their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
- having the same place of residence in Canada as their sponsor at the time that the application is submitted;
- possesses either a current and active status as a temporary resident in Canada or the ability to apply for restoration of status and has done so.
“OR”
- The foreign national is:
- a dependent child and has been included as an accompanying family member in the application for permanent residence
- meet all the requirements mentioned in first part
How To Apply
After receiving Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) for permanent residence application under spousal or family class, eligible spouses and dependent children will need to apply online for an open work permit.
Applicants will need to sign in to their GCKey or create a new one (if they don’t have it).
After signing in, applicants will have to answer certain questions to get a personalized documents checklist.
Furthermore, answer “Yes” to the following question in the work permit application form.
Also select “open work permit” in the section where it asks “What type of work permit are you applying for?”
Additionally make sure that you enter below code for job title and description of duties.
- Job Title: Enter “SCLPC – FC OWP”
- Brief Description of duties: Enter “SCLPC – FC applicant in Canada public policy.”
What about 18-month spousal open work permit extension?
Please don’t confuse above information with 18-month spousal open work permit extension announced today.
As of now our sources reveal as immigration minister said, spousal open work permit holders eligible for a 18-month extension are expected to get an automatic extension option in their online IRCC secure account.
Furthermore, they may need to apply for an open work permit citing this new temporary public policy.
More clarity is expected to come along as we approach June 7 implementation of new 18-month open work permit extension.
Who is considered as dependent child for Canada family sponsorship applications?
A dependent child for matter of Canada family sponsorship include:
A person who is less than 22 years old and do not have a spouse or common-law partner
Or
A person who is older than 22 years old, but has relied significantly on the financial assistance of the parent since before the age of 22, as well as being unable to maintain oneself financially owing to a physical or mental ailment.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com - The foreign national is
- 4 New English Tests For Canada Study Visa Under SDS
IRCC will start accepting 4 new English tests for Canada study visa under Student Direct Stream (SDS) beginning August 10, 2023.
Previously, only IELTS general or academic were acceptable English proficiency test for Canada study visa under SDS.
Remember, in-person testing is required for all the tests. SDS candidates cannot take remote-proctored examinations online.
List of new English tests eligible for Canada Study Permit under Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Resident of 14 countries are eligible for faster processing under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) study permit.
CELPIP General
CELPIP general exams must meet the Canadian Language Benchmark of 7 in each of the 4 modules of this test.
CELPIP score ranges from 0-12 and 7 bands each in listening, reading, speaking, and writing will be acceptable for SDS.
Cost of CELPIP general is $280 + taxes.
Best thing about CELPIP General, it is also acceptable for permanent residency program such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
So an international student with CELPIP general having a study permit will be again able to use the same test for their permanent residency.
CAEL
The Canadian Academic English Language exam is a Canadian English proficiency test. Cost of CAEL is same as CELPIP at $280 + taxes.
The CAEL score runs from 10 to 90. A score of 60 will be acceptable for Canada study visa under SDS.
It is offered at over 40 CAEL test locations in Canada, the United States, India, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, and China.
CAEL takes roughly three and a half hours to complete in order to evaluate the four domains of language competency.
Pearson PTE Academic
In a two-hour exam, PTE Academic assesses the four components of English language ability.
Cost of PTE Academic is $330 plus taxes.
Your performance in writing, speaking, listening, and reading is scored between 10 and 90. A score of 60 will be acceptable to apply for study visa under SDS.
Speaking and writing are combined, with reading and listening as independent components.
TOEFL iBT Test
For Canada study visa under SDS a score of 83 or above will be required in ETS TOEFL iBT Test.
Each of the four iBT parts is worth 30 points, ranging from 0 to 120. Total duration of the exam is three hours.
This test is priced at $240 USD which will be equivalent to $330 CAD or may cost more due to forex exchange.
Good thing to see in this test is, will IRCC accept overall total score? if yes, then this will be best option for someone who is just losing 0.5-2 bands in one of the IELTS module, but able to score more in rest of the modules.
How many countries are eligible for Canada Study Permit under SDS (Student Direct Stream)?
14 countries are eligible for Canada study permit under SDS as listed below:
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. VietnamWhat are the requirements for Canada Study Visa under SDS (Student Direct Stream)?
1. A valid English or French proficiency test with CLB level 7 or higher.
2. Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
3. Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 CAD
4. Proof of Advance payment of 1-year tuition fee to the DLI
5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) – recommended
IRCC aims to process all the study permit applications under SDS within 20 working days.How much is IRCC processing fee for Canada study visa under SDS?
$150 IRCC processing fee for Canada study permit under SDS + $85 for biometric.
- New Announcement For Family Reunification By IRCC Minister
Last Updated On 9 December 2022, 3:37 PM EST (Toronto Time)Canadian immigration minister, Sean Fraser announces new measures to strengthen the family reunification in Canada.
As per the official update, minister is revealing measures to fulfill the commitment of improving family reunification as per the Trudeau’s mandate letter sent in December 2021.
You can read this article below in your own preferred language for better understanding:
Immigration minister said that IRCC has successfully eliminated backlog of applications for TRVs of family members who already have a permanent resident application under processing.
Immigration minister announces new approach using advanced analytics and Tech to process TRV applications of family members of permanent residents and citizens within 30 days.
He said new approach has approved well in advance 98% of the TRV applications of spouses and their kids.
As a result, these family members can visit Canada to meet their family while awaiting for permanent residency application decision.
Additionally, he announced a new initiative that will issue open work permits to spousal applicants and their dependent children regardless of whether they applied under Family class as an overseas applicant or spousal/common-law partner in Canada applicant.
Beginning June 7, 2023 open work permit holders whose current status expires between August 1, 2023 and at the end of 2023 will be able to extend their work permit for additional 18 months using free facilitative approach similar to PGWP extension.
This includes spousal open work permit holders of international students, work permit holders, permanent residents, and Canada citizens who are awaiting for their permanent residency applications to be finalized.
Furthermore, he said that new spousal sponsorship applications are being processed within 12 months since July 2022.
What could be today’s announcement?
IRCC official YouTube video stream has a headline of “spousal TRV.”
Trudeau’s mandate letter clearly stated as we quote:
“Work to promote family reunification by establishing electronic family reunification applications and developing a mechanism to grant temporary resident status to spouses and children abroad while their permanent residence application is being processed.“
So it seems that immigration minister will announce today new policy offering temporary resident visa to spouses and children of permanent residents and citizens, while they await decision on their PR applications under processing.
What is family reunification?
Family class sponsorship permits Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, common-law and conjugal partners, children, parents, and grandparents to become permanent residents of Canada.
As per new Canada immigration levels plan 2023-2025, family class immigration is the second biggest category.
In 2023, Canada is aiming to welcome 106,500 permanent residents under the family class category, including 78,000 spouses, partners, and children and 28,500 parents and grandparents.
Canada hopes to welcome 118,000 new permanent residents annually through family class immigration by 2025.
What is current processing time for spousal sponsorship?
16 months for Spouse or common-law partner living outside Canada, 14 months for
Spouse or common-law partner living inside Canada, and 25 months for Parents or Grandparents PR as per latest IRCC official update.
Normally, IRCC has a service standard of processing 80% of the spousal sponsorship applications within 12 months.When will Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship 2023 open?
Parents and grandparents sponsorship 2022 opened in October 2022, so we can expect 2023 sponsorships to open around that September-October 2023.
#Canada #immigration #news #spousalsponsorship #parentsandgrandparents
- IRCC Focus Is Not To Penalize Victim Students In Fake Offer Letter Case
Today, immigration minister Sean Fraser said IRCC is actively looking into the recent reports of fraudulent offer letter becoming basis of deportation for international students.
INC – Immigration News Canada posted in March 2023, “Victim Of Fraud; International Students In Canada Facing Removal Orders”
Finally today Sean Fraser inclined and acknowledged that their focus is not on penalizing “victims” rather they are working on identifying culprits.
He via his official Twitter handle said as we quote, “Victims of fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate their situation & present evidence to support their case.”
This is quite a positive commentary by the Canadian immigration minister and seems to be in favour of international students facing misrepresentation charges.
“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.
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What are these cases all about?
This matter opened everyone’s eyes after Karamjeet Kaur Canada Immigration Case was made public. She lost her appeal with scheduled removal date of May 29, 2023.
Affected international students have been protesting for quite a some time now in opposition to removal order issued by Canadian immigration for allegedly using fraudulent/fake offer letter to enter Canada.
Some of the consultants in India, without the knowledge of their clients, used fake/fraudulent offer letters and get study permit for them.
These forged documents were so perfect that not even Canadian immigration department in India were able to detect them. As a result, they issued study visa to these international students based on the fake documents.
These students came to Canada and passed immigration check at airport, and not even CBSA officers were able to detect the fake documents. As a result, they issued them study permit.
The consultants proactively lied to them as soon as students landed in Canada, stating that college has cancelled their admission due to consultant’s disagreement with the college.
They further advised the international student to take admission in any other college since they have study permit.
During this whole process, students claim that they didn’t know that their offer letter was fake and based on consultants’ advise they took admission in other colleges of Canada.
After completing their 1-2 year of study, they got post graduation work permit (PGWP) of 1-3 years.
Furthermore, they applied for Canadian permanent residency after gaining valuable Canadian experience of 1-3 years on PGWP.
At this stage after 2-3 years of completing their study, the immigration department sent them removal order citing that they misrepresented by using fake/fraudulent documents.
International students facing removal order claims that if immigration officers who are trained and skilled in detecting falsified papers in an application were not able to catch the fake documents, then how would they have identified these.
They were, in fact, the victims of this fraudulent scheme themselves all along.
Now that these scams came into light, new students will unquestionably verify the authenticity of all documents. However, nobody knew about these forgeries at that time.
The vast majority of these students are being issued removal orders after having been in Canada for 3-4 years at the time that they submitted their applications for permanent residence (PR).
What is the latest development in these cases?
International students facing the allegations of misrepresentation are now appealing the removal orders and presenting side of the story.
In a similar case of Amritraj Singh Batth, Canada allowed to summon his fraudulent consultant to testify.
However, Batth’s lawyer in May 25 hearing stated that despite enlisting the assistance of the police and a detective agency in India, he was unable to serve a summons on Mishra, the education agent. This was despite the fact that he attempted to do so many times.
Many of other students facing the removal order were also Mishra’s clients.
“The applicant is responsible for the content of an application for which they sign. It is too easy to later claim innocence and blame a third party. The jurisprudence on this is quite clear. The intent is not a requirement under the legislation” Nathan Reid, lawyer for Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) said in May 25 hearing.
Today’s positive comments from immigration minister Sean Fraser has definitely provided some relief and a ray of hope of these international students fighting removal orders.
- New Immigrants To Quebec Must Know French Before Arriving
Today, the premier of Quebec Francois Legault said that they are considering raising the number of immigrants who come in the province from 50,000 to 60,000 a year.
He previously stated that accepting more than 50,000 immigrants a year would be “suicidal” for Quebec.
According to the Premier of the province, Francois Legault, this will be feasible following an immigration reform that was published today.
As per this reform, the great majority of persons (around 90%) who enter the province under the economic immigration system would be required to speak French before they arrive.
“From the moment we are able to say that the increase is only francophones, or people who can speak French, that completely changes the situation. Because there’s real openness on the part of the federal government, the increase is only people who have mastered French.” he told reporters today in Quebec City.
Legault stated that the only way a potential increase in immigration might occur would be through an increase in the number of persons admitted into the economic immigration stream that is regulated by Quebec.
Sixty-five percent of immigrants to Quebec enter the country through the economic stream, which is managed by the provincial government.
The remaining immigrants enter the country through the family reunification and refugee programs, which are run by the federal government.
According to Legault, he felt that the federal government would impose increases in those two categories if Quebec allowed more economic immigrants.
Last year, when he called more immigration as “suicidal”, he was under the impression that the federal government would force such increases.
He stated, “At the time, I thought that the federal government wouldn’t permit us to increase only the percentage of economic immigrants, but so far, with the discussion we’ve had with the federal government, they are more than open to accept that, so it’s changing the picture completely.”
“I thought that the federal government wouldn’t permit us to increase only the percentage of economic immigrants because they would not permit us to increase only the percentage of economic immigrants,” he said.
He stated that the rise is one of two options that the province is exploring, and that the second scenario would keep immigration at 50,000 individuals a year. He said that the government is considering both eventualities.
Legault predicted that the number of immigrants will gradually climb to reach 60,000 per year by the year 2027 if the proposal to raise the barrier was approved.
According to him, the true number of immigrants that the province welcomes might be much greater than that given figure since it does not take into account the people who arrive through a fast-track program that is reserved for graduates of colleges in Quebec.
Nevertheless, this program — which at the moment calls for applicants to have a higher level of French than many workers who would be accepted under the province’s new plan and which is open to graduates of all Quebec post-secondary institutions — will only be available to students who have graduated from programs taught in French or who attended high school in French.
Legault has stated that the major obligation of his position as Premier of Quebec is to preserve the French identity of the province.
Because the number of individuals who speak French has been on the decline over the past ten, fifteen, and twenty years, it is imperative that we take action, and I believe it is essential that we make it a prerequisite for acceptance that applicants demonstrate proficiency in French.
Quebec’s Minister of Immigration, Christine Fréchette, stated that the reform, which will go ahead regardless of whether the province decides to increase its immigration threshold or not, will change the way Quebec selects immigrants, moving away from a point system that rewards, but does not require, knowledge of the French language. This change will take place regardless of whether the province decides to increase its immigration threshold or not.
The point system will be replaced by a system that requires the fulfillment of particular requirements, such as an understanding of the French language.
According to Fréchette, graduates of English-language programs at Quebec institutions will no longer be eligible for the fast track, which is known as the Quebec Experience Program. However, graduates of these schools who do speak French will still be able to apply as skilled employees.
She stated, “So it’s not like the door is closed, it’s just that there’s another path that will have to be taken,” implying that the door was not actually closed.
She stated that according to the new plan, those who wish to come to Quebec through the economic stream will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in the French language.
If this increase is implemented, the percentage of all immigrants to Quebec who are fluent in French would rise from 68 percent in 2022 to 72 percent by 2027; however, if the number of immigrants is maintained at 50,000 individuals a year, the percentage would fall to 70 percent by 2027.
Legault has stated that he will first seek the advice of industry professionals before deciding whether or not to commit to the raise.
The change was met with largely positive reception from business organizations, and there is optimism that the province would increase immigration numbers.
According to the Conseil du patronat du Québec, a significant employers’ association in Quebec, the proposed change looks to strike a compromise between fostering the use of the French language and assisting businesses in the recruitment of qualified employees.
However, opposition parties have voiced their disapproval of the change on the grounds that it does not solve the problem of temporary foreign employees.
There are around 346,000 people in the province who are only there temporarily. This number includes foreign students, those working in temporary jobs, and asylum seekers.
According to Monsef Derraji, who is the immigration critic for the Liberal opposition party, the government need to make French-language programs accessible to temporary employees.
According to Guillaume Cliche-Rivard, an immigration critic for Québec Solidaire, the government needs a plan to encourage immigrants to settle outside of large cities. One way to accomplish this goal would be to provide temporary employees with a road to permanent residency.
Quebec Wants To Expedite PR For Francophone Immigrants - New Express Entry Exemptions For Doctors Seeking Canada PR
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser signed temporary public policy to ease the requirement for permanent residency under Express Entry Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Worker Program.
New exemptions came in effect on April 25, 2023 and will be in effect indefinitely until revoked by immigration minister.
These exemptions are to ease permanent residency pathway for foreign national physicians who provides publicly-funded medical services in Canada.
There are now exemptions for certain job offer and work experience criteria to facilitate the eligibility of self-employed foreign national physicians (such as those working in a fee-for-service model) for the Express Entry system.
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New exemptions applies to both Canadian Experience Class and the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
These exemptions will allow more foreign national physicians to qualify for Express Entry and earn them more CRS points.
Why These Exemptions For Physicians?
To qualify for arranged employment points for Express Entry, an offer of employment must normally be for continuous work in Canada for at least one year following the date on which a permanent residence visa is issued.
Some physicians, however, may not obtain these points because they do not match this condition. This is because the nature of the work arrangements is such that the offer of employment does not require that the job be continuous or for at least a year.
In certain situations, this implies they may be disqualified for the program and hence unable to satisfy the minimal requirements to enter the Express Entry pool.
Furthermore, many physicians in Canada work as independent contractors, providing publicly financed medical services such as those reimbursed by provincial/territorial public health authorities under a fee-for-service or other contractual service arrangement.
As a result, these physicians’ work is deemed self-employed and self-employment is ineligible for Express Entry system.
With new exemptions, qualified physicians will have a better chance of meeting the FSWP and CEC eligibility standards and entering the Express Entry pool.
Furthermore, by making pertinent and complementary revisions to the Express Entry Ministerial Instructions, foreign national physicians will have a better chance of securing an Invitation to Apply for Permanent Residence.
This temporary policy is aimed at increasing the number of permanent physicians in Canada because of ongoing shortage in healthcare.
What are the new exemptions for physicians for Express Entry?
The 5 occupations (listed below) of physicians are exempted from job offer requirement and ineligibility of self-employed applicants for Express Entry.
They will no longer need to demonstrate that the agreed arranged job offer must be ongoing and last for at least a year after the date a permanent residence visa is issued.
However, this job offer must be made by a province or territorial government, a government entity, a government-appointed body, or a healthcare provider organization delivering publicly financed medical services.
Furthermore, they can claim points for work experience as a self-employed (independent contractor) for any work done under the below listed occupations.
Normally, self-employed experience is not eligible for Express Entry.
List of Occupations/NOCs Eligible For Exemption
NOC 2021 NOC 2016 counterparts Specialist in clinical and laboratory medicine – NOC 31100
Specialist in surgery – NOC 31101
General practitioner and family physician – NOC 31102Specialist physician – NOC 3111
General practitioner – NOC 3112What are the Physician occupations/NOCs Eligible For Exemption in Express Entry?
NOC 2021
Specialist in clinical and laboratory medicine – NOC 31100
Specialist in surgery – NOC 31101
General practitioner and family physician – NOC 31102
NOC 2016
Specialist physician – NOC 3111
General practitioner – NOC 3112What are new exemptions for physicians under Canada Express Entry?
Foreign trained physicians are now eligible to claim CRS points for work experience earned as a self-employed or independent contractors in Canada.
Physicians in Canada will no longer need to prove that the agreed-upon employment must be ongoing and last for at least a year after the date a permanent residence visa is issued.
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com - Ontario Eliminating Work Barriers for Skilled Immigrants
Ontario is leading the charge in creating a more inclusive and equitable workforce by removing unfair work barriers for internationally-trained immigrants.
With the introduction of groundbreaking legislation that prohibits regulated professions from requiring Canadian work experience in over 30 occupations, the province is empowering skilled newcomers to pursue their chosen fields.
These 30 occupations include certain regulated professions and trades such as law, accounting, architecture, engineering, electrical and plumbing.
Following provincial legislation, Professional Engineers Ontario(PEO) became the first regulated profession to eliminate the requirement for Canadian experience.
This significant development has the potential to unlock countless opportunities for qualified professionals while upholding Ontario‘s high standards for licensing and examination requirements.
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A Struggle for Skilled Newcomers
The difficulties faced by internationally-trained immigrants in Ontario are all too common.
Many highly skilled individuals, such as engineers, doctors, and accountants, work in low-wage jobs unrelated to their profession.
This situation not only underutilizes their expertise but also poses a significant loss to Ontario’s economy.
It is estimated that approximately 300,000 jobs remain unfilled across the province each day, with thousands of vacancies in engineering alone, leading to billions of dollars in lost productivity.
Shockingly, studies have revealed that only a quarter of internationally trained immigrants in Ontario currently work in the regulated professions they were trained for.
Removing Canadian Work Experience Requirements
In recognition of the pressing need to address this issue, the Ontario government has taken decisive action to level the playing field for skilled newcomers.
The historic legislation introduced in the form of the Working for Workers Act, 2021, has banned the use of discriminatory Canadian work experience requirements in occupations covered by the Fair Access to Regulated Professions and Compulsory Trades Act, 2006 (FARPACTA).
This groundbreaking move has paved the way for change, giving internationally-trained professionals an equal opportunity to pursue their chosen careers in Ontario.
Professional Engineers Ontario Leads the Way
Among the regulated professions in Ontario, Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) has become the trailblazer by removing the Canadian experience requirement from their application criteria.
Each year, PEO receives up to 60% of engineering license applications from internationally-trained engineers.
By eliminating the need for proof of Canadian experience when applying for an engineering license, PEO can ensure that qualified international applicants are licensed more quickly, allowing them to contribute to Ontario’s economy as engineers actively.
It is important to note that PEO remains committed to upholding rigorous qualifications for licensing and maintaining a competency-based assessment model to ensure only properly qualified individuals practice engineering.
Ontario Sets the Bar for Inclusivity
Ontario’s initiative to ban unfair or discriminatory Canadian work experience requirements is a pioneering step in Canada.
As of December 2023, all unfair requirements for Canadian experience will be automatically voided, unless exemptions are granted by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development for reasons of public health and safety.
This move signifies the government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce that recognizes the talent and potential of newcomers.
The Impact on the Economy and Job Market
The removal of Canadian work experience requirements holds significant promise for Ontario’s economy.
With a large pool of highly skilled professionals now able to pursue their intended careers, the province stands to benefit from their expertise, innovation, and contributions.
By bridging the gap between skills and employment, Ontario can address the widespread issue of unfilled job vacancies and boost productivity across various sectors.
The impact is not only economic but also social, as skilled newcomers gain the opportunity to fulfill their professional aspirations, achieve economic self-reliance, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the province.
Support and Recognition for Ontario’s Initiative
The province’s bold step in removing unfair work barriers for skilled newcomers has garnered widespread support and recognition.
Tonie Chaltas, CEO of Achēv, lauds the move as a win-win-win, benefitting employers, skilled newcomers, and Ontario’s economy as a whole. Sara Asalya, Executive Director of Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto, commends the government’s efforts to support the economic integration and well-being of newcomers.
Teresa M. Torralba, Executive Director of the Philippine Legacy and Cultural Alliance (PLACA), hails the leadership displayed by Minister McNaughton in spearheading legislation that promotes equal opportunities for all.
Elise Herzig, Executive Director of JIAS Toronto, expresses gratitude for the removal of Canadian work experience requirements, enabling newcomers to work in their chosen fields and achieve economic self-reliance.
Conclusion
Ontario’s commitment to removing unfair work barriers for skilled newcomers marks a significant milestone in creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
By eliminating discriminatory Canadian work experience requirements, the province has taken a giant leap forward in harnessing the talents of internationally-trained professionals.
PEO’s groundbreaking decision to remove the Canadian experience requirement sets a powerful example for other regulated professions to follow.
As Ontario leads the way in fostering a welcoming environment for skilled immigrants, it opens doors to countless opportunities, enhances economic growth, and strengthens the province’s position as a global leader.
With this progressive approach, the province is building a stronger and more prosperous future for all.
What has the Ontario government done to remove work barriers for internationally-trained immigrants?
The government has introduced groundbreaking legislation that prohibits regulated professions from requiring Canadian work experience in over 30 occupations.
This move aims to empower skilled newcomers to pursue their chosen fields without facing unfair work barriers.Which professional association in Ontario has become the first to eliminate the Canadian experience requirement?
Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) has emerged as the frontrunner by removing the Canadian experience requirement from their application criteria.
This decision allows qualified international applicants to be licensed more quickly, enabling them to contribute to the province’s economy as engineers.What is the significance of Ontario’s initiative in the context of inclusivity?
Ontario is setting a pioneering example in Canada by banning unfair or discriminatory Canadian work experience requirements.
This demonstrates the government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce that recognizes the talent and potential of skilled newcomers.
By removing these barriers, the province is paving the way for equal opportunities and a more equitable society.How will the removal of Canadian work experience requirements impact Ontario’s economy and job market?
The removal of these requirements holds significant promise for Ontario‘s economy.
By allowing a larger pool of highly skilled professionals to pursue their intended careers, the province can benefit from their expertise, innovation, and contributions.
This will help address the issue of unfilled job vacancies, boost productivity across sectors, and contribute to overall economic growth.
Additionally, skilled newcomers will have the opportunity to fulfill their professional aspirations, achieve economic self-reliance, and contribute to the prosperity of Ontario.
Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com - Canada Immigration Backlog Drops To 809,000 | New IRCC Data
The Canada immigration backlog falls close to 800,000 despite the IRCC strike, according to newly updated IRCC data today on May 23, 2023.
The IRCC backlog stood at 809,000 as of April 30, 2023 as compared to 896,000 at end of the March 2023 .
Additionally, 1,197,000 immigration applications were still being processed within IRCC service standards.
These numbers are surprising given that IRCC employees were on strike between April 19, 2023 to April 30, 2023.
Overall, there were around 2 million applications under processing as of April 30.
Date Backlog Total Applications
Under ProcessingApril 30, 2023 809,000 2,006,000 March 31, 2023 896,300 2,017,700 February 28, 2023 910,400 1,962,600 January 31, 2023 974,600 1,944,500 December 31, 2022 918,300 1,973,800 November 30, 2022 1,086,200 2,111,400 October 31, 2022 1,202,790 2,239,700 September 30, 2022 1,322,500 2,610,700 Canada immigration backlog It is important to understand what IRCC explains about difference between backlog and service standards data.
For instance, service standard for processing a spousal sponsorship application is 12 months. If an application is under processing and has not surpassed the 12 months timeframe, then it is “NOT” considered a backlog. Instead, it will be considered normal processing.
It will become backlog only if processing of that spousal sponsorship application exceeds beyond the 12-month service standard.
The IRCC intends to process 80% of applications based on these service standards. Learn more about the service standards of IRCC.
Application Type Overall Processing Inventory Backlog Within Service Standards Citizenship 294,000 73,000 221,000 Permanent Residence 632,000 322,000 310,000 Temporary Residence 1,080,000 414,000 666,000 Total 1,962,600 809,000 1,197,000 Canada immigration backlog data Canada immigration backlog projections 2023
Federal High Skilled Including Express Entry
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 68% 72% Oct 22 45% 59% Nov 22 31% 46% Dec 22 22% 20% Jan 23 20% 20% Feb 23 20% 20% Mar 23 18% 20% Apr 23 17% 20% May 23 – 20% Jun 23 – 20% July 23 – 20% Express Entry Provincial Nominee Program
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 40% 35% Oct 22 42% 31% Nov 22 42% 28% Dec 22 41% 20% Jan 23 38% 40% Feb 23 32% 39% Mar 23 30% 32% Apr 23 28% 30% May 23 – 28% Jun 23 – 24% Jul 23 – 22% Spouses, Partners and children applications
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 25% 23% Oct 22 24% 22% Nov 22 24% 20% Dec 22 24% 19% Jan 23 24% 24% Feb 23 23% 24% Mar 23 24% 24% Apr 23 – 24% May 23 – 24% Jun 23 – 24% July 23 – 24% Citizenship Backlog Projections
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 30% 30% Oct 22 28% 28% Nov 22 29% 27% Dec 22 28% 26% Jan 23 27% 26% Feb 23 26% 25% Mar 23 25% 24% Apr 23 25% 24% May 23 – 24% Jun 23 – 24% July 23 – 24% Study Permit Applications
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 31% 42% Oct 22 26% 33% Nov 22 28% 31% Dec 22 32% 33% Jan 23 35% 36% Feb 23 29% 34% Mar 23 23 % 25% Apr 23 18% 22% May 23 – 15% Jun 23 – 15% July 23 – 15% Work Permit Applications
Approximately 69% of the work permits applications are from the CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel).
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 27% 35% Oct 22 23% 49% Nov 22 24% 55% Dec 22 25% 60% Jan 23 26% 26% Feb 23 23% 28% Mar 23 18 % 28% Apr 23 – 26% May 23 – 24% Jun 23 – 22% July 23 – 22% Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Visitor Visa
Around 20% of visitor visa or temporary resident visa applications are from the CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel).
Month Actual Backlog Backlog Projections Sep 22 74% 71% Oct 22 74% 70% Nov 22 70% 67% Dec 22 70% 77% Jan 23 68% 68% Feb 23 64% 68% Mar 23 61% 65% Apr 23 50% 56% May 23 – 42% Jun 23 – 42% Jul 23 – 42% What is the latest update on IRCC backlog?
The IRCC backlog was at 809,000 as of April 30, 2023, down from 896,000 at the end of March 2023.
Furthermore, 1,197,000 immigration applications were still being handled in accordance with IRCC service standards.
As of April 30, there were around 2 million applications being processed.
#newcanadaimmigrationbacklogdata #canadaimmigrationnews #irccbacklog
- Know About New Verified Traveller Program At Canada Airports
Today, Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra announced new verified traveler program for airpots in Canada to ease the congestion and wait times.
The new verified traveler program will come into effect on June 21, 2023 at select domestic and international security screening checkpoints.
The new Verified Traveller program lines will provide certain perks to eligible travellers at security screening checkpoints, such as keeping the laptops, big electronic devices, and compatible liquids and gels in their carry-on bags, as well as keeping their shoes, belt, and light jacket on.
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Eligibility for new Verified Traveller program
Below are travellers eligible for the new Verified Traveller program.
- NEXUS and Global Entry Members;
- Canadian Armed Forces and US military, including reservists, with valid ID;
- Canadian aircrew and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards;
- International aircrew (in uniform) with valid airline ID;
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers, Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their respective organizations.
Benefits of new Verified Traveller Program
There are 3 benefit categories depending on passengers travel under Verified Traveller program.
Verified Traveller – Benefits
- Allowable liquids, aerosols, and gels should be kept in your carry-on.
- Laptops and devices should be kept in your carry-on.
- Wear your shoes, belts, light coats, and headwear.
- Small objects should be kept in your pockets.
- Co-travelers must be 17 years old or younger and 75 years old or older.
These Verified Traveller benefits will be available on below listed airports.
- Calgary International Airport – Domestic C
- Edmonton International Airport – Domestic /Int’l
- Montréal-Trudeau International Airport – Domestic/Int’l
- Toronto Pearson International Airport – T1 Domestic Level 3
- Toronto Pearson International Airport – T3 Domestic
- Vancouver International Airport – Domestic North
- Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport – Domestic/Int’l
Verified Traveller Transborder (U.S. Flights) Benefits
- Allowable liquids, aerosols, and gels are allowed to be kept in your carry-on.
- Keep on your shoes, belts, light jackets, and hats.
- Put minuscule objects in your pockets.
- Travel companions can accompany you.
These will be available to below listed airports:
- Montréal-Trudeau International Airport – T1 transborder
- Toronto Pearson International Airport – T1 transborder
- Vancouver International Airport – transborder
Verified Traveller Front-of-the-line Benefits
- Receive service at the Front-of-the-line.
- Travel companions can accompany you.
Available at below listed airports:
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – Domestic
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – transborder
- Calgary International Airport – Concourse A
- Calgary International Airport – Concourse B
- Calgary International Airport – Concourse D
- Calgary International Airport – Concourse E
- Edmonton International Airport – transborder
- Greater Moncton Roméo Leblanc International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/transborder
- Halifax Stanfield International Airport – Domestic/Int’l
- Halifax Stanfield International Airport – transborder
- Kelowna International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/Transborder
- Ottawa International Airport – Domestic/Int’l
- Ottawa International Airport – transborder
- Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/transborder
- Regina International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/transborder
- Saskatoon International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/transborder
- St. John’s International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/transborder
- Toronto Pearson International airport – T1 Int’l
- Toronto Pearson International airport – T3 Int’l
- Vancouver International Airport – Int’l
- Victoria International Airport – Domestic/Int’l/transborder
- Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport – transborder
Who is eligible to join NEXUS program?
To qualify for membership in NEXUS, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Or a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or a national of Mexico.How to apply for NEXUS?
To become a member of the NEXUS program, follow the steps below:
1. Visit the Trusted Travelers Programs (TTP) website;
2. Apply and complete the registration process
3. Pay the non-refundable USD 50 processing fee.
4. Fulfill the qualifying requirements
5. Be admissible to both Canada and the United States; and
6. Pass both countries’ risk assessments.
Each family member must submit a distinct application to join the NEXUS program if applying together. Applicants under the age of 18 are exempt from paying the processing fees.
In addition, applicants under 18 must have their parents or legal guardians complete the application process.
- Top 8 Reasons Why People Move Away From Toronto
People migrate to Toronto, Canada’s biggest and most populous diversified metropolis for a variety of reasons including better job opportunities, education, and quality of life.
However, there are also a lot of different reasons why some people might prefer to move away from Toronto.
From 2016 to 2021, the Toronto’s overall population grew by only 2.3%.
Below listed are 8 major reasons why people are preferring to move away from Toronto.
High Cost of Living
With high housing expenses, tax rates, and transit fees, Toronto is one of the most costly cities in Canada.
In the month of May 2023, the typical monthly rent for an apartment in Toronto, Ontario, with one bedroom was $2,400. When compared to the prior year, this is a 17% increase.
According to statistics from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, the average price of a home in the Greater Toronto Area rose 4% from March to April, reaching $1.153 million.
Traffic Congestion
The city’s population has risen at a rapid rate over the past several years, which has led to an increase in the amount of traffic congestion and longer commute times.
In a recent study, it was ranked third in North America and seventh out of more than 1,000 cities of world for traffic congestion.
Last year, people in Toronto lost 118 hours stuck in traffic. That was a jump of almost 60% from 2021, when the city was ranked 22nd in the world for having the longest traffic times.
People often joke by saying “Toronto is 1 hour from Toronto” because of longer drive times from one end of city to another.
Air Pollution
The large number of traffic and industrial activity in the city both contribute to poor air quality, which can have a severe influence on one’s health.
The Toronto Public Health says that all types of air pollution in Toronto cause 1,300 early deaths and 3,550 hospitalizations each year.
As per City of Toronto, the amounts of the five most common air pollutants have been going down recently, which shows that the air quality in Toronto is getting better.
Harsh Winters
Winters in Toronto are typically quite cold and snowy, making the city’s terrain more challenging to travel for certain people.
The usual temperature in Toronto in January is -5.5 °C (22 °F), which is pretty cold for winter.
There are blizzards and cold waves in Toronto in the winter, but the weather is usually uncertain.
But there are also waves of extreme cold in the winter, when the temperature drops to around -20/-25 °C.
Limited Green Space
Toronto has total area of 63,406 ha and 13% of total city land is parkland as per the 2022 report.
There are many parks and green spaces in Toronto; yet, these sites might get busy at times and may not give the same amount of access to nature as other regions do.
Due to high population and one of international tourist spots, these parks can get overcrowded.
Safety Concerns
Worries regarding safety even though Toronto is, on the whole, a very secure metropolis, certain areas of the city have higher crime rates and raise safety concerns.
The Annex, which is next to the University of Toronto, has been known to have the most property crimes in all of Toronto.
In 2022, there were 14.1% more crimes in The Annex (462 cases), 144.4% more car thefts (44 cases), 38.1% more sexual assaults (29 cases), and a 31.6% rise in thefts over $5,000.
Similarly, the total number of crimes in the Beaches went up by 35%, to 185 in 2022.
The number of assaults went up by 29.4%, to 88, the number of car thefts went up by 70%, to 34, and the number of breaking and entering went up by 33.3%, to 32.
Employment prospects
Despite the fact that Toronto has a robust economy and job market, some people may discover that there are few employment prospects in their chosen sector or that their pay does not keep pace with the city’s high cost of living.
In 2022, there were 33,080 more jobs in Toronto than there were in 2021. This was only 2.3% increase in employment as opposed to increase in job seekers during the same period.
With multiple professionals applying for the same job, competition is huge and it could be difficult to find a job in your field.
Overcrowding
As the population continues to rise, it is possible that some areas could become less attractive places to live as a result of increased population density.
From 2016 to 2021, the city’s population grew by only 2.3%, and for the first time, the Toronto census metropolitan area had more than six million people.
But the number of people living in the centre downtown area grew by a whopping 16.1% during that time period.
Over the past five years, Liberty Village and the Fashion District, St. Lawrence and the Distillery District, the heart of Old Toronto, St. Lawrence and the Distillery District, and parts of South Etobicoke have seen the most growth in population.
Toronto, Ontario CN Tower