As the deadline of March 2024 approaches, a substantial influx of Ukrainian immigrants into Canada is expected. Tens of thousands seek refuge from the turmoil resulting from the Russian invasion, aiming to utilize temporary emergency visas provided by the Canadian government. Extensive Visa Issuance and Current Arrivals Since March 2022, Ottawa has granted 936,293 emergency...
Navigating the Impact of Proposed Study Permit Caps on Canadian Provinces and Educational Institutions
In recent updates to Canada’s immigration policies, provinces are expressing concerns about the potential consequences for their colleges and universities due to proposed study permit caps. These caps, enforced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, are set to significantly reduce the admission of international students, prompting worries about the economic and academic fallout. The proposed study...
Minimum Wage Upgrades in Atlantic Canada: A Step Towards Economic Equity
Two provinces in Atlantic Canada are set to witness a rise in their minimum wages, a development aimed at addressing economic disparities. New Brunswick Newfoundland and Labrador are adjusting their minimum wage rates, attempting to strike a balance between workers’ needs and businesses’ sustainability. New Brunswick’s Increment Effective April 1, New Brunswick’s minimum wage will...
IRCC Issues Update on Francophone Candidates in International Mobility Program
In a recent development, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has provided a clarification concerning Francophone Candidates in the International Mobility Program (IMP). The update, released on January 25, 2024, aims to offer clear guidance, particularly regarding exceptions for individuals involved in primary agriculture occupations. Scope of Exception: NOC Categories 4 and 5 The key...
Canada Welcomed Over 1 Million International Students in 2023: A Comprehensive Analysis
Canada has become a leading destination for international students, hosting an impressive 1,028,850 individuals with active study permits in 2023. This marks a substantial 27% increase from the previous year, as reported by Immigration, Citizenship and Refugees Canada (IRCC). The surge in enrolments highlights Canada’s allure as an educational hub and its growing significance in...
How to Make the Most of the First Canadian Winter: Festivals and Fun for Newcomers
As the winter frost blankets Canada, the prospect of frigid temperatures, snowstorms, and icy landscapes may seem intimidating to those new to the country. However, Canadians and newcomers alike have discovered amazing winter fun and festivals to not only endure but to make the best of their first Canadian winter in 2024. 1. Get Outside...
Expanding Work Opportunities for International Students in Canada
On January 23, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a significant policy shift that expands work opportunities for international students in Canada. The new policy, effective from January 1 to April 30, 2024, allows certain students to work off-campus for more than 20 hours weekly during regular academic sessions. This marks a departure...
Canada Introduces New Permanent Residence Pathway for Former Minors in Protective Care
Canadian government has introduced a new Permanent Residence pathway to address a critical situation faced by a small number of individuals who came to Canada as minors, and were under the custody of child protection services but never obtained permanent residence or citizenship. The absence of status for these vulnerable individuals puts them at risk...
Canada Declines to Contest Ruling on Citizenship Descent Limit
In a recent development, the Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced that Canada will not be appealing a significant ruling regarding citizenship by descent. This ruling pertains to the so-called “first generation limit,” a provision in the Citizenship Act that currently prevents automatic Canadian citizenship for children born abroad to...