In a bid to fortify Canada’s immigration framework, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has initiated enhancements to the online processing times tool, aiming to assist new clients in forecasting the duration required to process a complete application. These improvements signify a pivotal step towards providing applicants with more precise and timely information, fostering transparency and predictability within the immigration process.

Forward-Looking Processing Times: A New Frontier

The introduction of forward-looking processing times marks a significant departure from the conventional approach, offering applicants a proactive perspective on their application journey. By estimating the duration prospective clients applying today should anticipate before a final decision is rendered on their application, or before taking the oath of citizenship for citizenship grant applicants, IRCC aims to empower individuals to plan their travel and life arrangements more effectively. These estimates, updated monthly, are designed to furnish realistic and up-to-date insights, ensuring that applicants can make informed decisions based on an accurate timeline. For select applications, including the

• Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry),
• Provincial Nominees Program (Express Entry and non-Express Entry),
• Federal Skilled Workers (Express Entry),
• Quebec Skilled Workers,
• Citizenship grants,
• Citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship),
• Spouse or common-law partner living inside Canada, spouse, common-law or conjugal partner living outside Canada and parents or grandparents, forward-looking processing times are now readily accessible.

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Navigating the Application Landscape

While forward-looking processing times offer enhanced clarity for specific applications, it’s crucial to note that for other application types not covered under this framework, backward-looking, historical processing times will continue to be employed. These times are calculated based on IRCC’s past processing performance, providing applicants with a reference point for their application timelines.

For individuals who have already submitted their applications, the new forward-looking times may display estimates that differ from their current wait duration. This disparity arises due to the dynamic nature of processing timelines influenced by various factors throughout the year. However, applicants are assured that their applications will be processed in the order received, and in most instances, will not exceed the new forward-looking processing time for a final decision.

Embracing Innovation for a Seamless Experience

IRCC remains committed to refining its online tools through rigorous testing and research endeavours, with the overarching objective of delivering a more transparent, predictable, and welcoming immigration experience for all stakeholders. While this shift towards forward-looking processing times represents a substantial stride in enhancing transparency, it’s imperative to recognize that these changes do not imply expedited processing of applications but rather a refinement in the accuracy of the timelines provided by IRCC.

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Understanding Backward-Looking Processing Times

Backward-looking processing times serve as a retrospective measure, calculated based on the duration taken by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process 80% of all applications within a specified timeframe. For permanent residence programs, this timeframe typically spans six months, while temporary residence programs operate on timelines of 8 or 16 weeks.

However, it’s essential to recognize the inherent limitations of backward-looking processing times. These timelines lack the real-time insights provided by forward-looking processing times, as they do not account for recent changes within IRCC’s operational landscape. Factors such as staffing adjustments, fluctuations in application volumes, and other dynamic variables are not factored into these timelines, resulting in reduced accuracy compared to their forward-looking counterparts.

Assessing the Accuracy of Forward-Looking Processing Times

In contrast to backward-looking processing times, forward-looking processing times offer a more dynamic and proactive approach to estimating application processing durations. Updated monthly by IRCC, these timelines provide applicants with a general guideline for anticipating the duration until a final decision on their application.

While forward-looking processing times strive to offer a reasonably accurate projection, it’s essential to maintain realistic expectations. These estimates are based on several factors, including the current inventory of applications within IRCC, staffing levels, and forecasts regarding future application volumes.

Navigating Variability in Application Processing

Despite the efforts to provide accurate processing timelines, it’s crucial for applicants to understand that their individual circumstances may deviate from these projections. Several factors can influence the processing time of an application, including:

The completeness of the application: Incomplete applications may be returned or delayed until all necessary information is provided.

Complexity of the application: Applications with intricate or contentious elements may require additional scrutiny and investigation, leading to potential delays.

Responsiveness to requests: Timely responses to inquiries or requests for additional information from IRCC can expedite the processing of an application.

Verification of information: The ease with which IRCC can verify the information provided in the application can impact processing times.

Unforeseen factors: External variables beyond IRCC’s control may affect processing times, highlighting the inherent variability in the immigration process.

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Key Takeaways

• Applicants from select programs, including spousal sponsorship, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker, and PNPs (Express Entry and non-Express Entry), stand to benefit from more precise processing times on their applications.
• Other programs will continue to feature backward-looking processing times, albeit less accurate, via the online application processing tool.
• The possibility of IRCC extending forward-looking processing times to additional applications remains open, underscoring the ongoing commitment to transparency and efficiency.
• Importantly, while this transition introduces improved transparency, it does not imply accelerated processing of applications but rather ensures greater accuracy in the timelines provided by IRCC.

As IRCC endeavors to refine and innovate its processes, these advancements herald a new era of transparency and efficiency within Canada’s immigration landscape, empowering applicants to navigate their immigration journey with confidence and clarity.

The Canadian Temporary Foreign Worker Program has been shifted significantly in relation to labour shortages. In line with changing dynamics in the labour market and dwindling job vacancies, the Government is refining its program to ensure that it matches the need for availability of domestic workers for the roles.

Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages announced that some time specific provisions outlined in TFW Program Workforce Solutions Road Map will end ahead of schedule starting from this spring.

What does TFWP mean?

TFWP, meaning Temporary Foreign Worker Program is a Canadian initiative that allows employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in the case of inadequate local man power. By doing this, it will help reduce temporary labour shortages in particular industries or regions. In order to employ foreign workers using TFWP, employers must meet specific requirements such as obtaining an LMIA which stands for Labor Market Impact Assessment, which shows that there will be no negative effects on the market of jobs for Canadians. It is run by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) which has oversight over it.

Do you know what is an LMIA?

The acronym for LMIA is Labor Market Impact Assessment. It plays an important role in the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) of Canada. This is an evaluation done by the authorities regarding employers’ attempt to employ foreign workers on a temporary basis as a result of unavailability of local labourers for filling up job vacancies. What the LMIA does, therefore, is prove that bringing in foreign employees will not affect Canadian employment situation. Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are responsible for overseeing TFWP, which encompasses LMIA issuance.

Beginning from May 1st, 2024:

Shortened Validity: The new six-month validity period of Labor Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) will ensure real-time alignment with labour market needs.

Workforce Quotas: Employers listed on the Workforce Solutions Road Map for 2022 will have a reduction in the percentage of their total workforce eligible for recruitment through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program that is reduced from thirty percent to twenty percent under the low-wage stream, except for the construction and healthcare sectors.

Exhaustive Recruitment: An LMIA application must be a last resort after all other possibilities have been exhausted, including considering asylum seekers with valid work permits who are already in Canada.

Wage Review Requirement: Employers must review wages for temporary foreign workers annually since January 1st, 2024 following which it should match prevailing wage rates for the relevant occupation and region. This measure is meant to create wage parity throughout the period of employment. Usually this leads to increases; no decreases are allowed after they have been reviewed.

The Government of Canada still continues to be committed to monitoring labour market conditions, prioritizing Canadians for job opportunities, and safeguarding the rights of temporary foreign workers.

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Quick Facts:

The Workforce Solutions Road Map of 2022 aimed at seven sectors, namely Food Manufacturing, Wood Product Manufacturing, Furniture and Related Product Manufacturing, Accommodation and Food Services, Construction, Hospitals, and Nursing and Residential Care Facilities.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program is a response to the labour market fluctuations that fill in short term labour and skill gaps when local workforce options are limited.

Budget 2022 promised to establish another agriculture and fish processing foreign worker program which would ensure stable supply of labour thus strengthening workers’ protection.

Budget 2021 provided $49.5 million over three years for a new Migrant Worker Support Program aimed at improving support mechanisms for temporary foreign workers, mitigating employer-worker power imbalances.

How Can We Assist You?

At VisaAffix, our success hinges on adhering to rigorous processes, embracing industry best practices, maintaining transparency, fostering mutual trust, and fostering intense collaboration between our clients and our team.

With our specialized knowledge in navigating the intricate procedures of obtaining an LMIA, we can simplify the application process and enhance the chances of success. We offer thorough guidance, starting from evaluating eligibility to compiling essential documentation. Our experienced team ensures precise and efficient fulfilment of all requirements, saving applicants time and easing the burden associated with the LMIA process.

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In recent times, Canada has been actively reforming its International Student Program, recognizing the invaluable contribution that international students make to the country’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. Spearheaded by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, these reforms aim to ensure the program’s integrity while safeguarding students from fraud and financial instability.

One significant policy change announced by Minister Miller is the conclusion of the temporary policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus, effective April 30, 2024, with no extension planned. Instead, starting from the fall, the maximum weekly off-campus work limit for students will be adjusted to 24 hours. This adjustment underscores the primary purpose of students coming to Canada—to study—while still allowing them the flexibility to work if necessary. This balance is crucial, as research indicates that excessive work can negatively impact academic performance.

As Canada prepares for the upcoming summer session, it’s worth noting that students with scheduled academic breaks can continue to work unlimited hours, ensuring they can manage their finances effectively during these periods.

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This change in policy was not made lightly. It was informed by considerations of student needs, comparative policies in other countries, and research findings on the relationship between work hours and academic outcomes. The goal is to strike a balance where students have the option to work without compromising their studies.

Furthermore, Canada is actively developing the Recognized Institutions Framework to recognize and reward post-secondary institutions that uphold high standards in selecting, supporting, and retaining international students. This initiative aims to provide additional support and protection to international students, ensuring they are not financially vulnerable and that the integrity of the International Student Program is maintained.

In light of global trends, it’s evident that many countries imposing restrictions on international students’ work hours while studying. For instance, Australia recently revised its policy to allow students to work up to 48 hours every two weeks, while the US has stringent criteria for off-campus work eligibility.

Moreover, to ensure that students are financially prepared for their stay in Canada, the government increased the minimum cost-of-living standard required for study permit approval in December 2023, reducing the reliance on employment for financial sustenance.

Finally, it’s essential to note the recent eligibility changes for post-graduation work permits. International students enrolled in certain college programs after May 15, 2024, will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits. However, those already enrolled in such programs before this date will retain their eligibility, provided they meet all other criteria.

Canada’s commitment to enhancing its International Student Program demonstrates its dedication to providing a supportive and enriching environment for students from around the world. These policy changes, coupled with ongoing initiatives, aim to ensure that international students thrive academically, culturally, and economically during their time in Canada.

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The highly anticipated reopening of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is just around the corner, set to kick off this month. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced its plans to extend invitations to potential sponsors, aiming to facilitate family reunification through permanent residence in Canada.

Eligibility for the Next Round of the PGP

IRCC has confirmed its focus on candidates from the 2020 intake of the PGP. This means that individuals who submitted their profiles in 2020 will be the primary recipients of invitations in this upcoming round. Notably, this marks the fourth consecutive year that the program will exclusively consider profiles submitted in 2020.

Sponsor your Parents and Grandparents to come to Canada

Invitation Process and Permanent Residence Application

Under the PGP system, invitations are randomly selected through a lottery system. Invitations will be sent to sponsors via the email provided on their interest to sponsor form. Sponsors are advised to keep a close eye on their emails, as invitations will start rolling out from May 21st onwards, with all invitations expected to be delivered within approximately two weeks.

To secure permanent residence through the PGP, applicants must ensure they meet all relevant eligibility criteria, complete the interest to sponsor form on IRCC’s website, and await an invitation to apply (ITA). Once received, sponsors must promptly submit their application through the designated portals within the specified deadline.

About the PGP

The Parents and Grandparents Program enables Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for Canadian permanent residence. This initiative is a crucial component of IRCC’s family reunification efforts, aiming to unite families and foster integration into Canadian society.

Sponsors must commit to providing financial support for their sponsored family members for a specified duration. While sponsors outside Quebec must commit to 20 years of support, those in Quebec are required to provide support for 10 years.

Alternatives: The Super-Visa Pathway

For those not selected under the PGP, IRCC offers the Super-Visa pathway, allowing sponsors to facilitate extended visits for their parents and grandparents to Canada. Unlike the PGP, the Super Visa program operates throughout the year, providing flexibility for sponsors to apply at any time.

Who Can Sponsor?

Sponsors must meet specific criteria, including being invited to apply, residing in Canada, and demonstrating financial capability to support the sponsored individuals. Additionally, sponsors must fulfil all requirements outlined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations.

Who Can Sponsor?

To sponsor parents or grandparents, you must:

– Be invited to apply

– Be at least 18 years old

– Reside in Canada

– Have sufficient funds to support the sponsored individuals

– Meet all other IRCC requirements

The reopening of the PGP brings hope and anticipation for families separated by borders.

Sponsor your Parents and Grandparents to come to Canada

In the ever-evolving tapestry of Canada’s immigration system, efficiency and adaptability are paramount. The recent announcement by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, heralds a new chapter in the nation’s approach to facilitating entrepreneurial immigration. Let’s delve into the intricacies of the reforms unveiled on April 30, 2024, and their implications for aspiring immigrant entrepreneurs and the Canadian economy.

Elevating the Start-up Visa Program:

The stands as a beacon for immigrant entrepreneurs seeking to establish innovative ventures on Canadian soil. In a bid to optimize this pathway, the following nuanced adjustments have been introduced:

Canada’s Start-up Visa Program enables foreign nationals who own or co-own a startup business to immigrate and settle permanently in Canada. To qualify, they must have a qualifying business, obtain a letter of support from a designated organization, meet language requirements, and have sufficient funds to settle in Canada.

The Start-Up Visa Program serves as a beacon for immigrant entrepreneurs aspiring to establish innovative ventures in Canada. To enhance this pathway, the following nuanced adjustments have been implemented:

1. Capping the number of permanent residence applications we will accept for processing each year to those associated with no more than 10 start-ups per designated organization
2. Emphasis on Quality: Recognizing the significance of quality over quantity, the program now sets limits on the number of permanent residence applications processed annually per designated organization. This shift prioritizes nurturing high-potential ventures aligned with Canada’s economic goals and entrepreneurial ethos.
3. Accelerating Progress: Entrepreneurs with Canadian capital backing or affiliation with reputable business incubators, including those within Canada’s esteemed Tech Network, qualify for expedited processing. This proactive approach underscores Canada’s dedication to fostering innovation and attracting visionary entrepreneurs capable of fuelling economic growth.

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Navigating the Self-Employed Persons Program:

The Self-Employed Persons Program offers a pathway to permanent residence (PR) for self-employed foreign individuals with significant experience in art, culture, recreation, or sports, contributing to Canada’s cultural vitality. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements must satisfy the following criteria::

1. Possess relevant experience in their field.
2. Be prepared to operate as self-employed individuals in Canada.
3. Meet the program’s selection criteria.
4. Satisfy medical, security, and other prerequisites.

Given the mounting processing times due to a surge in applications, the Self-Employed Persons Program is currently on hold. This temporary pause aims to address these challenges by refining processes, ensuring program integrity, and exploring opportunities for improvement.

Navigating the Road Ahead:

The strategic decision to restrict application intake until 2026, coupled with planned increases in admissions for the federal business category, sets the stage for a transformative journey. By recalibrating immigration pathways, the government aims to mitigate backlogs, reduce wait times, and foster an environment conducive to entrepreneurial innovation.

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Unveiling Quick Facts:

– Immigrant entrepreneurs constitute a significant proportion of Canada’s business owners, underlining their indispensable contribution to the nation’s economic landscape.

– Canada’s allure as a preferred destination for start-up founders was validated by its top ranking in the 2023 report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Factors such as access to capital, favourable tax rates, and robust immigration policies contribute to its appeal.

– Since its inception in 2013, the Start-up Visa Program has catalyzed the immigration of nearly 900 entrepreneurs, laying the groundwork for the establishment of over 300 start-ups that contribute to Canada’s economic vibrancy.

-Priority processing will be given to all applications in the venture capital and angel investor streams, as well as to those business incubator-supported applications that report an investment of at least $75,000.

As Canada charts a course towards economic recovery and prosperity, its immigration policies play a pivotal role in shaping its future trajectory. The recent reforms to federal business programs underscore a commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Minister Marc Miller’s unwavering focus on expediting processing times reflects a steadfast dedication to innovation and responsiveness. As immigrant entrepreneurs continue to enrich Canada’s cultural fabric and drive economic growth, the nation reaffirms its status as a global leader in fostering entrepreneurial talent and nurturing innovation.

Canada’s immigration landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as the country shifts its focus to prioritize candidates already living within its borders. This strategic adjustment aims to tap into the potential of individuals who are already contributing to Canadian society and the economy. In this blog post, we’ll explore the details of this revamped approach and its implications for Canada’s immigration policies.

Understanding “Draws” in Immigration Context:

In immigration terminology, “draws” refer to selection rounds for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry. During these draws, candidates are chosen from a pool based on factors such as their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, work experience, or language proficiency. This mechanism enables the issuance of invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency to eligible candidates.

Facilitating Transition to Permanent Residency:

Minister Marc Miller’s announcement signals a proactive stance by the federal government to ease the transition of temporary residents to permanent residency status. By increasing domestic draws, the government aims to offer opportunities for eligible individuals already residing in Canada to secure permanent residency, thereby contributing to the country’s long-term workforce and societal development.

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Collaborative Efforts with Provinces and Territories:

In addition to federal initiatives, collaboration with provinces and territories participating in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is crucial. Minister Miller has urged these jurisdictions to conduct domestic draws and allocate resources to facilitate the transition of temporary residents to permanent residency within their respective regions.

Addressing Pressure on Critical Sectors:

Prioritizing the transition of temporary residents to permanent residency aligns with broader efforts to address pressures on critical support sectors such as housing and healthcare. By retaining skilled individuals already contributing to these sectors, the government aims to ensure the continuity and stability of essential services for Canadian residents.

Looking Forward:

As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies, the focus on candidates already residing within the country is expected to evolve. Continuous evaluation and adaptation will be essential to optimize the benefits of this approach while addressing emerging challenges and ensuring fairness and equal opportunity for all residents.

Language Proficiency and Work Experience Requirements for CEC:

In order to qualify for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) immigration program, applicants must meet specific language proficiency and work experience criteria. Full-time work is defined as 30 hours per week, and part-time work is considered on a proportional basis. Candidates can utilize multiple part-time jobs concurrently to fulfil the experience requirement. However, certain types of work experience, such as self-employment or unauthorized work, are not considered. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, with required levels varying based on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of their occupation.

Why Choose Us

Choose Visa Affix for your immigration needs because we guarantee a near 100% success rate through strict adherence to well-defined processes and industry best practices. With transparent flat fees and no hidden costs, we provide two years of continuous support, ensuring a fast, easy, and secure online process. Rest assured, our services include guaranteed 100% accurate filing and comprehensive interview preparation information. Trust VisaAffix for a seamless immigration experience.

Canada’s decision to prioritize candidates already residing within its borders represents a significant shift in its immigration strategy. By leveraging the talents and contributions of individuals already integrated into Canadian society, the country aims to build stronger communities and foster long-term economic growth and prosperity.

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