Team Sayal, Author at Immigration Consultant in Brampton Canada - Sayal Immigration

March 9, 2024

Seven Red Flags to Watch Out for When Choosing an Immigration Representative

Choosing the right immigration representative is crucial for a smooth and successful immigration process. Whether you’re applying for a visa, permanent residency, or citizenship, having a knowledgeable and trustworthy consultant by your side can make all the difference. However, not all immigration representatives are created equal, and there are several red flags to be aware of when making your selection. Here are seven warning signs to watch out for:

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1. Lack of Credentials: One of the most critical red flags is the absence of proper credentials. A legitimate immigration consultant should be registered and in good standing with the appropriate regulatory body. In Canada, this means being a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) authorized by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). Always verify the consultant’s credentials before proceeding.

2. Unrealistic Promises: Beware of consultants who make unrealistic promises or guarantees regarding your immigration outcome. While an experienced consultant can assess your eligibility and provide insights into your chances of success, they cannot guarantee a specific result. Immigration processes involve various factors beyond the consultant’s control, such as changes in immigration laws or individual circumstances.

3. High Pressure Tactics: Be cautious of consultants who employ high-pressure tactics to persuade you to hire their services. Genuine immigration representatives should provide you with information and guidance to make an informed decision at your own pace. If you feel rushed or pressured into signing a contract, it’s a red flag.

4. Lack of Transparency: Transparency is key in any professional relationship, especially when it comes to immigration matters. If a consultant is vague or evasive when answering your questions or fails to provide clear information about their fees, services, or processes, it could be a sign of trouble. A reputable consultant will be transparent and upfront about all aspects of their services.

5. Poor Communication: Effective communication is essential throughout the immigration process. If you encounter difficulties reaching your consultant or receive delayed or incomplete responses to your inquiries, it could indicate a lack of professionalism or organization. Clear and timely communication is crucial for a successful partnership with your immigration representative.

6. Negative Reviews or Complaints: Before engaging an immigration consultant, take the time to research their reputation. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients, and check if there are any complaints or disciplinary actions against them. A history of negative feedback or unresolved issues should raise concerns about their reliability and competence.

7. Lack of Experience or Expertise: Immigration laws and procedures are complex and constantly evolving. It’s essential to choose a consultant with sufficient experience and expertise in Canadian immigration matters. Look for consultants who specialize in the type of immigration application you’re pursuing and have a track record of successful outcomes.

In light of these red flags, it’s crucial to choose a reputable and trustworthy immigration consultancy firm. Sayal Immigration is recognized as one of the top Canada immigration consultation firms, known for its professionalism, integrity, and commitment to client satisfaction. Led by RCIC Sahil Sayal, a highly skilled and experienced immigration consultant, Sayal Immigration offers comprehensive immigration services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients.

Sahil Sayal, an esteemed RCIC, brings extensive knowledge and expertise to every case he handles. With a deep understanding of Canadian immigration laws and procedures, Sahil is dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of the immigration process with clarity and confidence. His personalized approach and attention to detail ensure that each client receives the highest level of service and support from start to finish.

Whether you’re seeking assistance with skilled worker immigration, family sponsorship, student visas, or any other immigration matter, Sayal Immigration is committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals. By choosing Sayal Immigration as your trusted immigration representative, you can rest assured that you’re in capable hands every step of the way.

In conclusion, selecting the right immigration representative is paramount for a successful immigration journey. By being vigilant for red flags and choosing a reputable firm like Sayal Immigration, you can navigate the immigration process with confidence and peace of mind. With the guidance of experienced professionals like RCIC Sahil Sayal, your Canadian immigration dreams can become a reality.

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February 24, 2024

Is my social media activity monitored by IRCC?

By Team Sayal Canada Immigration

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) do review the information provided in an applicant’s submission and cross-reference it with their social media and public profiles. Any disparities between the details furnished in the application and those found online may serve as grounds for refusal.

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In a recent case in Canadian federal court, an individual applied for permanent residency as a skilled worker. The reviewing visa officer noted that the applicant omitted mentioning his association with a specific company in the application. However, the company’s website identified him as its Executive Chairman. Upon checking the applicant’s LinkedIn profile, it was indicated that he served on the company’s board.

Despite offering the applicant an opportunity to clarify the inconsistency, the officer determined the individual as inadmissible to Canada for material misrepresentation. The explanation provided by the applicant regarding the online information about his involvement with the company was deemed inadequate.

For Canadian immigration applicants, their online presence, or lack thereof, can serve as evidence of the accuracy or inaccuracy of their application.

The Significance of Avoiding Misrepresentation

A finding of misrepresentation is grave and challenging to overcome. Immigration officials rigorously address misrepresentation, which could lead to application rejection.

Misrepresentation on immigration applications can lead to severe repercussions beyond application refusal. According to IRCC, in response to falsified documents or information, IRCC may:

Bar entry into Canada for a minimum of 5 years;
Maintain a permanent record of fraud;
Revoke permanent resident status or Canadian citizenship;
Initiate criminal charges; or
Deport from Canada.

Immigration forms and applications often pose complexity and confusion. Despite an applicant’s cautiousness, innocent misrepresentations may occur. Unfortunately, innocence typically does not serve as a defense against misrepresentation.

Applicants must ensure the submission of entirely accurate and comprehensive information. It’s advisable to thoroughly review all details provided to ensure accuracy and consistency throughout the application.

The key to averting misrepresentation is disclosing all pertinent information, even if it may negatively impact the approval prospects. Addressing potential issues directly in the application and providing supporting documentation to explain them is preferable.

Furthermore, it’s crucial for applicants to promptly inform IRCC of any changes while their application is under processing. This includes personal updates such as marital status changes or alterations in employment or education. Failure to notify IRCC could lead to assumptions of misrepresentation.

Avoiding misrepresentation in immigration applications is vital for a successful process. Seeking professional assistance, such as consulting an immigration lawyer, is recommended as they can ensure the accuracy of the application and compliance with all legal requirements.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

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February 15, 2024

Master’s Degree Students are now entitled to a three-year Work Permit

By Team Sayal Education Visa, Study Visa

Effective immediately, international students enrolled in master’s programs lasting less than two years now qualify for a three-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

Previously, PGWP duration was tied to the length of the study program. However, recognizing the potential of master’s students in Canada’s job market, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has expanded eligibility for these students to receive extended work permits.

While PGWP durations for students in programs other than master’s level will still align with program lengths, up to a maximum of three years, students enrolled in PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions (DLIs) – the only institutions authorized to accept international students in Canada – for programs lasting at least two years are also entitled to the extended three-year PGWP.

In the coming weeks, IRCC will also adjust rules for spousal work permits for international students at the undergraduate level. This change will restrict spousal work permit eligibility to only spouses of master’s and doctoral level students, with no impact on spousal open work permits for spouses or conjugal partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

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What are the PGWP eligibility criteria?

To qualify for a PGWP, international students must:

Have completed a program of study lasting at least eight months at an eligible DLI;
Have pursued a degree, diploma, or certificate program;
Maintained full-time student status throughout each academic session, as evidenced on the PGWP application (with certain exceptions);
Obtained a transcript and official confirmation from the DLI of meeting program requirements, both of which must accompany the PGWP application;
Graduated from a public post-secondary institution, including colleges, trade schools, universities, and others as listed, or from a private institution authorized to award degrees under provincial law, provided the student was enrolled in a qualifying degree program as authorized by the province.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

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Note: Starting September 2024, students enrolled in programs using a curriculum licensing framework will no longer be eligible for PGWP applications.

February 3, 2024

2024 Study Permit Applications: IRCC Announces Set Cap for Consideration

By Team Sayal Education Visa, Study Visa

Following the announcement by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on January 22nd, the department has now established a cap on the total number of study permit applications it will consider throughout 2024.

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As outlined in ministerial instructions from IRCC, a maximum of 606,250 study permit applications will be taken into consideration in 2024. This cap is distinct from the one previously mentioned on January 22nd, which specifically pertained to approved study permit applications (set at 360,000).

These new instructions focus on the total number of applications that IRCC will review in 2024. Over the next 11 months, the department will process up to 606,250 applications, irrespective of the final decision on each application.

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Additionally, the instructions note that this cap on study permits may be subject to amendment in line with subsequent instructions from the minister. This suggests that if the 360,000 approved application cap is not met within the processing limit of 606,250 applicants, the minister may adjust the latter number accordingly.

Comparison with 2023: In 2023, Canada approved 579,075 study permit applications out of a total of 814,317 processed applications between January and November. This yielded an approval rate of 71%. The limits set for 2024 represent significant reductions in both processing and approvals for study permit applications.

Implementation of the New Study Permit Cap: The cap on study permit approvals (360,000) will be distributed among Canada’s provinces, weighted by their respective populations. Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, being the three most populous provinces, are expected to receive the highest study permit allocations.

This policy will be executed through attestation letters, requiring applicants to have a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from their designated learning institution (DLI) and an attestation letter from the province where the DLI is located. Attestation letters, according to ministerial instructions, must be provided by the provincial/territorial government and include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, and address.

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January 27, 2024

Provincial Nomination Updates: British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba Announce Nominations

By Team Sayal Canada Immigration

This week, three Canadian provinces nominated immigration candidates through their respective Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs). These programs, excluding Quebec and Nunavut, provide a route for economic class immigrants to settle and work in the nominating region.

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It’s important to note that each province administers its own scoring system for evaluating PNP candidates independently, leading to the observed variations in results presented below.

Provincial Nomination Results – January 19th to 26th

British Columbia

On January 23rd, British Columbia (B.C.) extended invitations to immigration candidates through six streams of the B.C Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP), totaling at least 216 Invitations to Apply (ITAs).

General draws were conducted in the Skilled Worker, Skilled Worker—Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC), International Graduate, and International Graduate EEBC streams, all requiring candidates with a minimum score of 120. Another general draw occurred in the Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled stream, inviting candidates with a minimum score of 98. These draws collectively resulted in 79 ITAs.

Furthermore, B.C. organized targeted draws under its Skilled Worker, International graduate (including EEBC option) stream, focusing on candidates with work experience in four professional categories: Childcare (66 ITAs), Construction (34 ITAs), Healthcare (36 ITAs), and Veterinary care (<5 ITAs). The minimum score for these draws was 60, with the Construction category requiring a higher score of 75.

Manitoba

On January 25th, Manitoba issued Notifications of Interest (NOIs) across three streams. In the Skilled Worker in Manitoba stream, 156 NOIs were issued to candidates with a minimum score of 772, who indicated completing post-secondary education in Manitoba. The International Education Stream invited 78 candidates without specifying a cut-off score, while the Skilled Worker Overseas stream issued 41 NOIs with a minimum score of 713.

Out of the total 275 NOIs, 29 were given to candidates with an Express Entry profile.

Ontario

This week, the Ontario PNP (OINP) conducted two draws. On January 19th, 1,654 candidates were invited through the Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker stream, requiring a minimum score of 50. On January 24th, 12 targeted invitations were issued under the same stream for candidates eligible for the federal Economic Mobility Pathways Project.

On the same day, Ontario invited candidates through two additional draws in the Masters Graduate and PhD Graduate streams, without specifying the number of ITAs. The Master’s Graduate stream required a score of 50 or above, while the PhD Graduate stream required a minimum score of 45.

On January 19th, OINP announced reaching its nomination allocation for 2023, having issued 16,500 nominations (ITAs) across all streams.

Growing Importance of the PNP

While currently holding a lower allocation in the immigration levels plan (2024-2026), the PNP is poised to become Canada’s primary economic pathway for immigrants starting in 2025. With an annual allocation exceeding 110,000, PNPs collectively constitute over a fifth of all annual immigrant allocations across Canada.

These programs aim to distribute the benefits of immigration throughout Canada, focusing on areas where smaller provincial labor markets and demographics can benefit from the presence of newcomers. For more information about Canada’s PNPs, visit our dedicated webpage.

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January 18, 2024

High-Demand Jobs in Canada’s Express Entry System

By Team Sayal Canada Immigration, Work Permit

Explore the key to successful immigration in Canada through the Express Entry system. Discover the high-demand jobs in healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, and agriculture, as identified by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Uncover the strategic category-based selection draws targeting professionals crucial to the Canadian workforce. From nurses and engineers to skilled trades and transport specialists, this comprehensive guide provides insights into not only the sought-after occupations but also the eligibility criteria for a seamless transition to permanent residence. Stay informed, plan your employment journey, and pave the way for a successful settlement in the True North.

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Attaining employment marks a crucial milestone for many temporary residents, including those on work, study, or visitor visas, not only for economic stability but also for enhancing eligibility for permanent residence (PR) through various economic pathways.

Given this, newcomers are keen to explore the high-demand jobs in Canada, seeking information that can guide their job search and streamline their immigration journey.

In an effort to align immigration with labor market needs, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced Express Entry category-based selection draws. These draws target candidates in the Express Entry pool with expertise in professions that Canada urgently requires workers for. The categories encompass in-demand jobs across five key fields:

1. Healthcare 2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) 3. Trade 4. Transport 5. Agriculture and Agri-food

Examining the list of targeted professions provides insight not only into the current labor market demand but also into the occupations that IRCC deems essential for supporting the Canadian workforce through immigration. Aligning these professions identified by IRCC with those recognized by human resource consulting firms and popular job boards reveals a notable overlap.

Note: The following lists for Healthcare and STEM occupations feature the most common job titles according to IRCC’s list. Other categories will encompass complete lists of in-demand professions. For a comprehensive list of job titles and access to the “category-based selection” draw eligibility tool, please refer to our dedicated webpage here. National Occupation Classification (NOC) 2021 codes for professions are also provided for reference.

Healthcare Occupations Covering various positions such as physicians, physiologists, and psychologists, common titles include:

Nurses: – Licensed practical nurses (NOC 32101) – Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates (NOC 33102) – Nurse practitioners (NOC 31302) – Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health professionals (NOC 31303) – Nursing coordinators and supervisors (NOC 31300) – Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses (NOC 31301)

Lab/Medical Assistants and Technical Medical Staff: – Medical laboratory assistants and related technical options (NOC 33101) – Medical laboratory technologists (NOC 32120) – Medical radiation technologists (NOC 32121) – Medical sonographers (NOC 32122) – Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants (NOC 33103) – Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health professionals (NOC 31303)

STEM Occupations Encompassing professions from various fields, such as architects and data scientists, common titles include:

Engineers: – Civil engineers (NOC 21300) – Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) (NOC 21311) – Electrical and electronics engineers (NOC 21310) – Engineering managers (NOC 20010) – Industrial and manufacturing engineers (NOC 21321) – Metallurgic and materials engineers (NOC 21322) – Software engineers and designers (NOC 21231)

Business and Computer Systems Specialists: – Computer and information systems managers (NOC 20012) – Computer systems developers and programmers (NOC 21230) – Cybersecurity specialists (NOC 21220) – Database analysts and data administrators (NOC 21223) – Information systems specialists (NOC 21222)

Trades Occupations Focusing on skilled trades needed for manufacturing, construction, and repairs, professions include:

– Residential and Commercial Installers and Servicers (NOC 73200) – Elevator Constructors and Mechanics (NOC 72406) – Machine Fitters (NOC 72405) – Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Mechanics (NOC 72402) – Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics (NOC 72400) – Carpenters (NOC 72310) – Plumbers (NOC 72300) – Electricians (except industrial and power system) (NOC 72200) – Welders and Related Machine Operators (NOC 72106) – Contractors and Supervisors, Other Construction Trades, Installers, Repairers, and Servicers (NOC 72014)

Transport Occupations Encompassing professions supporting the commercial transport of people and goods, these occupations include:

– Aircraft Assemblers and Aircraft Assembly Inspectors (NOC 93200) – Transport Truck Drivers (NOC 73300) – Railway Traffic Controllers and Marine Traffic Regulators (NOC 72604) – Engineer Officers, Water Transport (NOC 72603) – Deck Officers, Water Transport (NOC 72602) – Air Traffic Controllers and Related Occupations (NOC 72601) – Air Pilots, Flight Engineers, and Flying Instructors (NOC 72600) – Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors (NOC 72404) – Railway Carmen/Women (NOC 72403) – Managers in Transportation (NOC 70020)

Agriculture and Agri-food Occupations Covering professions related to farming, landscaping, and food production, these occupations include:

– Contractors and Supervisors, Landscaping, Grounds Maintenance, and Horticulture Services (NOC 82031) – Agriculture Service Contractors and Farm Supervisors (NOC 82030) – Butchers—Retail and Wholesale (NOC 63201)

Am I Eligible for Category-Based Selection? To qualify for these categories, candidates must have at least six months of continuous work experience in the last three years, either in Canada or abroad, and already have a profile in the Express Entry application pool.

After submitting a profile under one of the three Express Entry managed programs—the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)—candidates must await a relevant Express Entry draw that issues an invitation to apply (ITA) for PR, based on their inclusion in one of the above professional categories or their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. CRS scores are IRCC’s standard method of ranking immigration candidates based on their human capital factors.

Once an ITA is received, candidates (now applicants) have up to 60 days to submit a full PR application. Upon approval, applicants attain PR status and receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), allowing them to settle permanently in Canada.

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November 22, 2023

Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister Announces Plans for Increased Rental Home Construction in Toronto

By Team Sayal Education Visa, Study Visa

Addressing Canada’s Housing Crisis: A $1.2 Billion Investment in Toronto’s Rental Homes

Last week marked a significant stride in Canada’s commitment to alleviating its housing crisis, with the Department of Finance announcing a federal investment of $1.2 billion specifically designated for the construction of new rental homes in Toronto. This financial injection is set to be disbursed as fully repayable low-interest loans through the Rental Construction Financing Initiative (RCFI) and is earmarked for seven new projects in the city.

According to the press release on November 14, the allocated funds aim to facilitate the construction of 2,644 new rental homes, a move celebrated jointly by Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland, and Attorney General/Minister of Justice, Arif Virani. This initiative aligns with Canada’s broader strategy to address the housing crisis, which has been a persistent challenge across the country.

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Impact on Newcomers to Canada:

Notably, Ontario, the province housing Toronto, holds the status of Canada’s largest immigrant destination. Toronto, being Ontario’s largest city, underscores the profound impact this announcement carries for newcomers to Canada. The infusion of funds into rental home construction not only addresses the housing shortage but also enhances the accessibility of accommodation for individuals making a new start in the country.

As stated in the press release, the government recognizes the significance of providing rental housing options, with the RCFI anticipated to create over 71,000 new rental housing units nationwide by 2027-28. This commitment aligns with the broader objective of creating vibrant communities that Canadians are proud to call home.

Government’s Holistic Approach to Housing Crisis:

The recent investment in Toronto is the latest in a series of initiatives undertaken by various levels of the Canadian government to rectify the housing availability and affordability challenges prevalent nationwide. Notably, on November 1, the Ontario government announced the removal of the full provincial amount of Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on new purpose-built rental housing. This significant step aims to incentivize the construction of rental properties, including apartment buildings, student housing, and senior residences, fostering long-term rental accommodation.

Additionally, the federal government’s commitment, as outlined in the press release, extends beyond Toronto. Initiatives include the Affordable Housing and Groceries Act, the $4 billion Housing Accelerator Fund, a two-year ban on non-resident, non-Canadians purchasing residential property, and the doubling of the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit.

The broader federal initiatives also feature the launch of the third round of the Rapid Housing Initiative, a top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit, and the delivery of the Affordable Housing and Groceries Act, which eliminates the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on new rental housing.

Implications for Newcomers:

For newcomers to Canada, especially those choosing Ontario as their destination, these developments are crucial steps toward ensuring a smooth integration into Canadian society. Access to affordable housing is paramount for individuals and families embarking on their journey in a new country. The recent initiatives, such as the one announced in Ontario, exemplify a commitment to prioritizing the needs of new Canadians.

Given that renting is a common practice among newcomers, announcements like the removal of HST and the substantial investment in rental homes underscore a dedication to providing accessible and affordable housing options. These measures contribute significantly to the well-being and successful integration of newcomers into Canadian communities.

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In conclusion, Canada’s multifaceted approach to addressing the housing crisis demonstrates a commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive living environment. The recent investment in Toronto, coupled with broader federal and provincial initiatives, is a positive step toward ensuring that newcomers have the necessary support and resources to thrive in their new home. For more information on renting or buying a home as a newcomer to Canada, additional resources are available to guide individuals through this important aspect of settlement.

October 27, 2023

Breaking News: Canada Takes Bold Steps to Bolster International Student Integrity

By Team Sayal Education Visa, Study Visa

Canada’s Immigration Minister Unveils Plan to Strengthen International Student Program Integrity

Canada’s immigration minister, Marc Miller, has made a significant announcement regarding the reinforcement of the international student program’s integrity. In this statement, Miller emphasized that while he opposes imposing a cap on new international student arrivals, the government is taking measures to combat fraud targeting international students. The key initiative involves implementing a new scheme to authenticate Letters of Acceptance (LOA), a vital requirement for prospective international students when applying for a study permit.

Furthermore, the government is progressing with the introduction of a “Recognized Institutions Framework” for Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) by the fall semester of 2024. DLIs encompass colleges, universities, and other educational institutions authorized by provincial and territorial governments to admit international students. This framework is intended to elevate the standards for services, support, and outcomes for international students. DLIs meeting specific integrity criteria set by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) would be eligible for benefits, including priority processing of study permit applications.

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Details about how institutions can attain recognition and the associated benefits will be disclosed in the near future.

Additionally, Minister Miller disclosed that the IRCC will conduct the first review of the popular Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in a decade, with forthcoming reforms aimed at addressing labor shortages in sectors of higher demand and regional and Francophone immigration objectives.

Canada: A Premier Destination for International Students

Canada has solidified its status as a preferred destination for international students. In 2022, it welcomed a record-breaking 551,405 international students from 184 different countries. By the end of 2022, a historic high of 807,750 international students held valid Canadian study permits, demonstrating a quadruple increase in Canada’s international student population over the past 15 years. This surge can be attributed to a growing global middle class seeking educational opportunities abroad and Canada’s appeal to international students due to its high-quality education, employment prospects, and immigration pathways.

In 2022, the top source countries for new international students included India (226,450 students), China (52,165 students), and the Philippines (23,280 students), with Ontario (411,000 students) and British Columbia (164,000 students) being the leading destinations.

Minister Miller revealed that Canada is on track to host approximately 900,000 international students in 2023.

The Canadian government continues to issue a significant number of study permits, with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) granting more than 280,000 new study permits between January and June 2023, marking a 77% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

Addressing International Student Challenges

Today’s announcement comes in the wake of a situation where over 700 Indian students in Canada faced deportation earlier this year after their fraudulent Letter of Acceptance (LOAs) was uncovered by the Canadian government. Many of these students had arrived in Canada to study between 2018 and 2019, and the fraud was only detected after they had completed their studies and were seeking permanent residency. Reports indicated that the fraudulent LOAs were fabricated by an unscrupulous immigration consultant in India who has since disappeared.

At the time, the IRCC stated that international students who were unaware or uninvolved in the fraud would not face deportation, bringing attention to the issue of international student fraud in Canada.

Senate Report Highlights International Student Integrity Concerns

The topic of international student integrity gained prominence with the release of a report by four members of Canada’s Senate on September 20. While recognizing the economic, social, and cultural benefits of international students to Canada, the report also underscored challenges in the integrity of Canada’s international student system. It highlighted the significant role played by education agents, who act as intermediaries on behalf of international student applicants in foreign countries, in compromising the system’s integrity.

The report revealed that many education agents direct international students to Canadian post-secondary programs that do not make graduates eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Completing such programs can result in a waste of time and money, as graduates may not be eligible to work and obtain permanent residence following graduation.

Minister Miller’s Commitment to Integrity

Minister Miller has consistently addressed the issue of international student integrity since assuming the role of Canada’s immigration minister in the summer. In various interviews, he has highlighted the “integrity challenges” within the current visa process for international students in Canada. Aligning with the points made in the Senate report, Miller emphasized that international students often fall victim to “false hope” provided by individuals seeking to exploit them, an issue that the IRCC acknowledges and is determined to tackle head-on.

During a recent hearing before the Canadian Parliamentary Committee for Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM), Miller reiterated the need to address integrity concerns in the international student program.

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October 18, 2023

IRCC introduces new guiding principles for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

By Team Sayal Canada Immigration

An Access to Information Request (ATIP) made to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has uncovered a set of exciting new guiding principles that will influence how the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is allocated nationwide!

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Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are essential for provinces to select candidates who possess the necessary skills, connections, and attributes required to bolster their workforce and economic growth. The federal government annually designates a specific number of nominations for each province and territory, thus enabling them to invite skilled immigrants to contribute to their local communities.

It’s important to note that immigration in Canada is a shared responsibility between the provinces and the federal government, with each province having its own PNP except for Nunavut, which does not have a PNP, and Quebec, which operates under a separate agreement with the federal government.

Candidates who receive a provincial nomination can then submit their permanent residence application to IRCC. For example, Express Entry candidates who receive an enhanced nomination gain an additional 600 points under the Comprehensive Ranking System, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply in an Express Entry draw.

Candidates can also apply directly to a provincial government for nomination, referred to as a base nomination.

These Guiding Principles for PNP allocations are based on various factors, aiming to create a more predictable, evidence-based framework for the allocation process:

Establishing a systematic framework to determine PNP allocations annually.
Enhancing operational predictability by considering past usage and trends.
Promoting transparency by informing provinces and territories about the factors influencing allocation recommendations.

These guiding principles are further categorized into qualitative and quantitative factors, with the goal of improving predictability and processing times for base PNP applications.

By creating a more predictable system, IRCC seeks to reduce the number of requests for changes received from provinces, streamlining the allocation process. Quantitative considerations take into account factors like the share of economic immigrants in each province, retention rates, and population share. These considerations help IRCC determine the number of nominations for each province.

Qualitative considerations allow for adjustments based on feedback from provinces and other stakeholders through consultations. These adjustments may account for allocations supporting regional needs, such as the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) or the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.

The ATIP report also highlights the Atlantic Immigration Program, which initially used a population-based model for its first year. This model is still applied for the first 2,000 allocations, after which allocations are determined based on factors like past usage, provincial immigration growth strategies, and the share of economic immigration spaces.

The newly endorsed multi-year plan for the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program incorporates these guiding principles. This multi-year plan provides allocations for three years in advance, offering greater stability and facilitating long-term planning for provinces.

Previously, allocations were assigned on an annual basis, posing challenges for provinces in terms of infrastructure planning, healthcare, and settlement services. Furthermore, it was announced that PNP allocations were increased by 44% for the year 2023.

Looking ahead, a new Immigration Levels Plan for 2024-2026 is set to be released by November 1st this year. This plan will outline permanent resident admission targets for the next three years, shaping Canada’s immigration strategy. In the 2023-2025 Plan, the PNP accounted for the highest number of planned permanent resident admissions, starting at 105,500 in 2023 and increasing to 117,500 PNP admissions annually by 2025.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has indicated that targets are not expected to decrease in the upcoming plan. Given the current high targets and the pressure from provincial governments to increase allocations, it is likely that any revisions to the existing PNP admissions targets will involve an increase.

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Author Archives: Team Sayal

Canada’s Immigration Minister Unveils Plan to Strengthen International Student Program Integrity