May 24, 2023

Citizenship Week is held annually by IRCC to celebrate Canadian identity and welcome new citizens. The event will be marked by citizenship ceremonies across Canada where individuals will take the Oath of Citizenship and become Canadian citizens.

Citizenship Week is an annual event that celebrates Canadian identity and welcomes new citizens into the country. This year, the event will take place from May 22nd to May 28th, 2023, and will be marked by citizenship ceremonies across Canada. The honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced that he will attend ceremonies in Halifax, Nova Scotia and Vancouver, British Columbia to welcome thousands of new Canadians as citizens.

Citizenship ceremonies are significant events that mark the final step in obtaining Canadian citizenship. After completing the citizenship test and interview, individuals will be invited to attend a ceremony where they will take the Oath of Citizenship. This oath symbolizes an individual’s acceptance of the rights and responsibilities that come with being a Canadian citizen. Typically, the citizenship judge conducts this process.

As part of Citizenship Week, nearly 100 ceremonies are planned, aiming to welcome approximately 13,000 new Canadians. In the previous year, Canada surpassed its target for citizenship acquisition by receiving around 364,000 new citizens. As of the first quarter of 2023, Canada has already granted citizenship to about 85,000 individuals. Indians remain the largest group of newly added citizens, occupying around 19% of the total number. However, citizens from the Philippines, Nigeria, Syria, Pakistan, Iran, China, the US, and the UK constitute up to 54% of this figure.

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To make the citizenship process more accessible, the IRCC has been implementing modernization measures such as online testing, virtual citizenship ceremonies, and online application trackers. These initiatives have enabled Canada to surpass pre-COVID-19 figures, with an average of nearly 30,000 individuals taking the Oath of Citizenship each month between April 1st, 2022 and March 31st, 2023.

Acquiring Canadian citizenship is highly beneficial since it relieves citizens of any residency obligations that come with being permanent residents. Furthermore, Canadian citizenship paves the way for obtaining Canadian passports and enables one to participate in municipal, provincial, and federal elections as a voter.

During Citizenship Week, everyone is encouraged to attend citizenship ceremonies taking place across Canada. In addition to physical attendance, Canadians may also join the livestream from Halifax on May 24th. This event provides an opportunity to celebrate Canadian identity and welcome new citizens into the country.

In conclusion, Citizenship Week is an important event that celebrates Canadian identity and welcomes new citizens into the country. The IRCC has been implementing modernization measures to make the citizenship process more accessible, resulting in a significant increase in citizenship acquisition in recent years. Acquiring Canadian citizenship is highly beneficial, providing relief from residency obligations and enabling participation in various elections. Everyone is encouraged to attend citizenship ceremonies taking place across Canada during this special week.

May 17, 2023

The Canadian province of Ontario recently pledged $768,000 to the Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) in late March. The funding is aimed at tackling employment barriers for women, with a focus on increasing recruitment, retention, and advancement in non-traditional and growing economic sectors through CCMW’s “Addressing Barriers to Employment for Muslim Women” initiative.

This investment highlights the importance of organizations working to eliminate gender inequalities in Canada, particularly for newcomer women who continue to face challenges in achieving fair representation in the Canadian workforce.

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This article will provide an overview of the efforts made by Canada, both at the federal level through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and at the provincial/territorial level, to assist newcomer women arriving in the country.

There are a number of federal programs and services offered by IRCC to women immigrating to Canada, such as the Urgent Protection Program’s Women at Risk (WAR) initiative and the Racialized Newcomer Women Pilot (RNWP) program.

The Women at Risk (WAR) program offered by IRCC extends assistance to women who require immediate protection or are susceptible, without the need to demonstrate their potential for settlement.

However, the women enrolled in this program and their dependents must successfully clear all mandatory Canadian entrance assessments, including medical and security evaluations, to qualify for aid under the Urgent Protection Program (UPP).

The Racialized Newcomer Women Pilot (RNWP) initiative aims to enhance the employment prospects and career progression of newcomer women in Canada by offering them settlement services and support. This program strives to promote equal and complete participation of racialized newcomer women in the Canadian economy.

Starting in January 2023, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will be providing extra financial support for the Racialized Newcomer Women Pilot Program.

In Canada, every province and territory provide assistance to newcomer women through various local organizations. These organizations offer support with settling into Canadian life, finding employment, preparing for citizenship tests, and even mentorship opportunities.

Below is a compilation of at least one organization that caters to newcomer women in each province/territory. For a comprehensive list of newcomer women’s services in each province/territory (excluding Quebec), please refer to this page from the Government of Canada.

British Columbia

The Women’s Economic Council, a Vancouver-based registered charity, is dedicated to promoting the involvement of all women in creating resilient and inclusive economies, particularly those who face multiple systemic obstacles.

Umoja Operation Compassion Society, located in Surrey, is a charitable organization that collaborates with recent immigrants and refugees of all backgrounds, providing tailored programs to assist immigrants with their daily lives and employment search. They also provide specialized services for women.

Alberta

The Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association is dedicated to offering a range of programs that assist immigrant women in managing their daily lives, securing employment, finding a mentor, and receiving language training that is relevant to their job or general needs.

The Making Changes Employment Association of Alberta, located in Calgary, is an organization that provides employment services to women. Their mission is to create a secure environment while empowering women in the community to advance their futures.

Saskatchewan

The International Women of Saskatoon – LEAD (Saskatoon) offers a range of programs and services tailored to support Canadian newcomer women. These include employment and job search assistance, specialized language testing, settlement resources, and community engagement aids.

Manitoba

Manitoba Start – Employment Solutions for Immigrants Inc. is an agency in Winnipeg that provides employment solutions for immigrants. They offer assistance with job search and integration into Canadian society, with specialized programs for women.

Ontario

Access Alliance Multicultural Health & Community Services in Toronto is a service provider for immigrants and refugees. Their goal is to enhance the health outcomes of individuals who have been made vulnerable by poverty and systemic barriers.

Immigrant Women Services Ottawa provides programs and services that focus on three main areas: crisis intervention and counselling, interpretation and translation, and settlement and integration. This information is available on their website.

Quebec

The Women’s Centre of Montreal is a non-profit organization that provides assistance to women who have recently immigrated to Canada. Their services aim to ease the settlement and integration process by offering individual support and group activities.

Newfoundland and Labrador

The Association for New Canadians in St. John’s is a non-profit organization that provides settlement and integration services to immigrants and refugees. Their programs cover a wide range of areas, including settlement information, language learning, skills development, and employment support, all aimed at facilitating the integration of newcomers into Canadian society.

Nova Scotia

The YWCA Halifax is among the 32 YWCA branches across Canada that offer specialized services to women, with a focus on promoting their leadership, health, and wellness. Additionally, they strive to advance women’s economic and housing security, provide accessible and high-quality early learning and childcare, and work towards ending violence against women and girls.

Prince Edward Island

The Immigrant & Refugee Services Association PEI Inc. located in Charlottetown is a comprehensive organization that offers a range of services to support Canadian newcomers, such as language programs and aid in securing employment.

New Brunswick

The Edmundston-based Northwest Resource Centre for Newcomers Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting newcomers in integrating socially, economically, educationally, and culturally into the region. Their services include access to resources, mentorship and learning opportunities, as well as networking and support services.

Nunavut

Carrefour Nunavut in Iqaluit is a French-language organization that provides a range of services to job seekers, new immigrants, current workers, and entrepreneurs.

Northwest Territories

The NWT Literacy Council, based in Yellowknife, is a registered charitable organization that operates on a not-for-profit basis. Its mission is to promote and facilitate literacy and essential skills development in all of the official languages of the Northwest Territories.

Yukon

The Association Franco-Yukonnaise, located in Whitehorse, is a French-speaking organization that offers tailored services to newcomer women. These services include assistance with daily life tasks and support in finding employment opportunities.

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May 15, 2023

In January 2023, the number of permanent residents who arrived in under the Parents and Grandparents (PGP) increased by almost 60% compared to January 2022, with 2,065 new permanent residents welcomed. Canada aims to bring in 28,500 permanent residents under the PGP in 2023, and in 2022, 27,255 permanent residents arrived through the program, which was a 132% increase from 2021.

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Canada’s Immigration Level Plans for 2023-2025 target 465,000 permanent residents, with 106,500 under the family sponsorship category, which includes spouses, common law partners, children, and parents and grandparents under the PGP. In January 2023, Canada welcomed 50,885 new permanent residents, a 44% increase from January 2022. Canada has already welcomed 13,000 newcomers under both spousal/children sponsorship and the PGP.

How the PGP works

Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents have the option to sponsor their parents and grandparents for immigration Canada. If approved, the sponsored family member will receive Canadian permanent residence and may eventually be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. To qualify for the PGP in the past, sponsors had to meet certain requirements.

  • Submission of an Interest to Sponsor form on IRCC’s website between October 13, 2020 (12:00 PM EDT) and November 3, 2020 (12:00 PM EST).
  • Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
  • Must be at least 18 years old and currently residing in Canada (proof of status required during the Interest to Sponsor phase).
  • Must meet the minimum income level required for the program, which includes the income of both the sponsor and their spouse if applicable. Proof of income must be provided to IRCC.
  • Must sign an undertaking to financially support the sponsored individual for 20 years, starting from the time they become permanent residents. The sponsor must also repay any social assistance benefits paid to the sponsored family members (if applicable) for a period of 20 years.
  • If the sponsor resides in Quebec, an additional undertaking must be signed with the province of Quebec.

Since 2020, all invitations to apply for the PGP have been given to applicants who expressed interest in sponsoring between October and November of that year. The most recent PGP lottery occurred in October 2022, and there are still around 155,000 potential sponsors in the pool.

Super Visa

The Super Visa is an alternative to the PGP that allows Parents and Grand Parents of Canadian citizens to visit Canada up to five consecutive years without having to renew their status. This visa is available all year round and is particularly useful for those who live in countries that require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for entry into Canada. With the Super Visa, they can travel between Canada and their country of residence without having to continuously reapply for the TRV.

Parents and grandparents who already have a Super Visa can apply for an extension that can allow them to remain in Canada as a visitor for up to seven years. They can also enter Canada multiple times for up to 10 years. This means that they can visit their loved ones in Canada for an extended period of time without having to worry about constantly renewing their visa.

The Super Visa is also beneficial for parents and grandparents from countries that are exempt from a TRV, such as the United States. US citizens can enter and remain in Canada for up to 6 months per entry. However, with the Super Visa, visitors can enter Canada and stay for up to 5 years per entry. This is particularly useful for those who want to spend an extended period of time with their family in Canada.

Overall, the Super Visa is a great option for parents and grandparents who want to visit their loved ones in Canada for an extended period of time without having to worry about constantly renewing their visa. It is available all year round and is particularly useful for those who live in countries that require a TRV for entry into Canada.

To apply for the parents and grandparents visa, you need to follow a process similar to the TRV process. However, you must provide additional documentation to demonstrate that you will be able to support your parents and grandparents during their stay in Canada. This documentation includes:

  • A letter of invitation from your child or grandchild who lives in Canada.
  • Evidence that your child or grandchild meets the minimum income requirement (Low-Income Cut-Off or LICO).
  • Proof of your parental relationship with your child or grandchild, such as a birth certificate that lists you as a parent.
  • Proof of medical insurance coverage for at least one year from a Canadian insurance company.
May 11, 2023

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently issued 589 invitations to apply (ITAs) in a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) specific draw. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 691 to be considered for the draw. In a PNP specific draw, candidates are already in the Express Entry pool but have also received a nomination from a Canadian province. This is the fourth PNP specific draw of 2023, with the last one occurring on March 1 and inviting 667 candidates. All draws since then have considered candidates from all Express Entry programs.

Proof of funds

On May 2, IRCC announced that the amount of money that Express Entry applicants must have access to in Canada has changed. All Express Entry candidates must show proof of funds to demonstrate that they have enough money to settle in Canada. Proof of funds is not required for candidates in the Canadian Experience Class or for Express Entry candidates who are authorized to work in Canada and have a valid job offer. This is true even for those who apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program. To stay eligible for Express Entry, candidates must now update their profiles to reflect that they still have the required amount of settlement funds. IRCC updates the amount yearly, based on 50% of the low-income cut-off totals, and varies depending on how many people a candidate must be able to support.

Number of family members Funds required (in Canadian dollars)
1 $13,757
2 $17,127
3 $21,055
4 $25,564
5 $28,994
6 $32,700
7 $36,407
If more than 7 people, for each additional family member $3,706

Express Entry

This draw follows the April 26 draw in which 3,500 candidates were invited with CRS scores of 483. IRCC also invited 3,500 candidates on April 12 with CRS scores of 486. This number of candidates per draw is half of what was seen over March when IRCC invited more than 21,000 candidates over four consecutive draws, three of which invited 7,000 candidates. The total number of candidates invited in March was the second highest in Express Entry history, only exceeded by a draw in February 2021 in which 27,332 CEC candidates received an ITA.

April also marks a tentative return to a normal draw schedule. Typically, until late 2022 and throughout March 2023, Express Entry draws occur every second week on Wednesdays. Draws occurred weekly throughout March. The March and April draws also showed a return to typical all-program draws. Throughout January and February this year, most draws were program specific for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). However, on February 2, IRCC held the first-ever program-specific draw for the Federal Skilled Workers Program.

The Express Entry application management system oversees three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Each program has unique eligibility criteria but are all similar in that candidates require skilled work experience. After a candidate self-evaluates if they are eligible for one of the programs, they must upload a profile on the IRCC website.

Express Entry uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to score and rank candidates according to a score they receive based on their profile. The system takes an individual’s work experience, occupation, language ability, education, age, and other human capital factors into consideration when assigning a score. The highest-scoring candidates are the most likely to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Once a candidate receives an ITA, they have 60 days to send in their completed application. Once IRCC receives it, an immigration officer will review the application and decide if the candidate is approved.

May 8, 2023

The Bank of Canada recently announced that it would be holding interest rates steady at 0.25%. While this news may not seem particularly exciting, it is actually quite significant, especially for newcomers to Canada who may be looking to purchase a home or start a business. Interest rates play a crucial role in the Canadian economy, affecting everything from the cost of borrowing money to the value of the Canadian dollar. When interest rates are low, borrowing money becomes cheaper, making it easier for individuals and businesses to invest in their futures.

For newcomers to Canada, low interest rates can be especially beneficial. Many newcomers may be starting from scratch when it comes to establishing credit and building financial stability. Low interest rates can make it easier for them to obtain loans or credit cards, allowing them to build a solid financial foundation for themselves and their families. Additionally, low interest rates can make it more affordable for newcomers to purchase a home. Owning a home is a key part of the Canadian dream for many newcomers, but the high cost of housing in some areas can make it difficult to achieve. Low interest rates can help reduce the cost of borrowing, making it more feasible for newcomers to purchase a home and build equity over time.

For those who are interested in starting a business, low interest rates can also be an advantage. Starting a business requires a significant amount of capital, and borrowing money can be a key part of that process. With lower interest rates, borrowing becomes more affordable, which can help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground and grow them over time. While low interest rates may be beneficial for newcomers, it is important to remember that they can also have downsides. For example, low interest rates can lead to inflation and make it more difficult for retirees who rely on fixed incomes to make ends meet. However, for those who are just starting out in Canada, the benefits of low interest rates are likely to outweigh the drawbacks.

The benefits of low interest rates for newcomers to Canada are numerous. Here are a few key benefits to consider:

  1. Access to credit: Low interest rates can make it easier for newcomers to obtain loans and credit cards. This is particularly important for those who are just starting to establish credit in Canada. By having access to credit, newcomers can begin building a solid financial foundation for themselves and their families.
  2. More affordable housing: In many parts of Canada, the cost of housing can be prohibitively high. Low interest rates can help make mortgages more affordable, making it easier for newcomers to purchase a home and build equity over time. This can provide stability and security for families who may be looking to put down roots in Canada.
  3. Easier to start a business: Starting a business requires capital, and borrowing money can be a key part of that process. With low interest rates, borrowing becomes more affordable, which can help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground and grow them over time. This can create job opportunities and contribute to the local economy.
  4. Lower debt payments: For those who have existing debt, low interest rates can help lower monthly payments, making it easier to manage debt and work towards paying it off. This can be particularly important for newcomers who may be facing a range of expenses as they settle into their new lives in Canada.
  5. Boost to the economy: Low interest rates can provide a boost to the overall economy, leading to more job opportunities and economic growth. This can be particularly important for newcomers who may be looking for work or starting a business.

By making credit more accessible, housing more affordable, and business opportunities more feasible, low interest rates can help newcomers establish themselves and thrive in their new home.

Conclusion

The Bank of Canada’s decision to hold interest rates steady is good news for newcomers to Canada. Low interest rates can make it easier for newcomers to establish credit, purchase a home, and start a business. While low interest rates can have downsides, for many newcomers, the benefits are likely to outweigh the drawbacks. As always, it is important to consult with a financial professional before making any significant financial decisions.

May 6, 2023
The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has recently released a report indicating that the average home price in Canada is expected to decrease by 4.8% by the end of 2023. This news may come as a surprise to many homeowners and real estate investors who have seen consistent increases in housing prices over the past several years. One of the factors contributing to this expected decline is the current state of the Canadian economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions in many sectors, including real estate. Many Canadians have been forced to adjust their spending habits, leading to decreased demand for housing in some areas. Additionally, the pandemic has resulted in a decrease in immigration, which has historically been a significant driver of housing demand in Canada. Another factor contributing to the expected decline in home prices is the recent tightening of mortgage regulations by the federal government. In an effort to curb rising levels of household debt, the government has introduced stricter mortgage stress tests and decreased the maximum amortization period for insured mortgages. These measures are likely to reduce the number of potential homebuyers in the market, thereby decreasing demand and putting downward pressure on prices. However, it is important to note that this expected decline in home prices is not necessarily a cause for alarm. While it may be disappointing for homeowners who were hoping to sell their properties in the near future, it may actually present opportunities for potential homebuyers who have been priced out of the market in the past. Lower home prices may also lead to increased affordability and a reduction in household debt levels.   It is also worth noting that the expected decline in home prices is not uniform across all regions of Canada. Some markets may experience more significant declines than others, depending on factors such as population growth, employment rates, and housing supply. It is always important to conduct thorough research before making any significant real estate investment decisions. While the news of a potential 4.8% drop in the average home price in Canada by the end of 2023 may present opportunities for potential homebuyers, there are also several things to be cautious of when considering purchasing a home in this market.  
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
  1. Timing: It can be difficult to predict when the housing market will bottom out, and attempting to time the market can be risky. If you are planning to purchase a home, it is important to have a long-term plan and to be prepared for potential fluctuations in the market.
  2. Location: As mentioned earlier, the expected decline in home prices is not uniform across all regions of Canada. Some areas may experience more significant declines than others. It is important to conduct thorough research on the local housing market and economic conditions before making a purchase.
  3. Affordability: While lower home prices may seem appealing, it is important to ensure that you can still afford the monthly mortgage payments, property taxes, and other expenses associated with homeownership. It is important to take a careful look at your financial situation before making a purchase.
  4. Mortgage rates: While the Bank of Canada has held interest rates steady for now, mortgage rates could still fluctuate in the future. If mortgage rates rise, it could make it more difficult to afford monthly mortgage payments, even if home prices have declined.
  5. Home condition: When purchasing a home, it is important to carefully assess its condition to avoid unexpected repair costs down the line. If a home is priced low due to significant repairs needed, it may not be worth the investment.
  In conclusion, the expected decline in the average home price in Canada by the end of 2023 may come as a surprise to many, but it is not necessarily a cause for alarm. While it may be disappointing for some homeowners, it may present opportunities for potential homebuyers and lead to increased affordability in the long run. As always, it is important to conduct thorough research and seek professional advice before making any significant real estate investment decisions.
May 2, 2023
On March 24, 2021, the Canadian government announced new immigration measures aimed at supporting Sudanese nationals. The measures are designed to help Sudanese nationals who have been affected by the recent political and economic challenges in their home country. In this blog, we will discuss the new immigration measures introduced by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) and what they mean for Sudanese nationals who wish to immigrate to Canada. Background Sudan has been facing political and economic challenges for several years, including conflict and instability, inflation, and high unemployment rates. The situation has led to a significant number of Sudanese nationals seeking refuge in other countries, including Canada. To address this issue, the Canadian government has introduced new immigration measures to support Sudanese nationals and help them immigrate to Canada. These measures will provide greater opportunities for Sudanese nationals to come to Canada and build a better life for themselves and their families. New Immigration Measures The new immigration measures announced by IRCC include the following:
  1. A new program for resettlement: IRCC will be launching a new program that will provide resettlement opportunities for Sudanese nationals who have been displaced or are at risk in their home country. This program will prioritize the most vulnerable individuals and families, including women, children, and individuals with medical needs.
  2. Special measures for family reunification: IRCC will be introducing special measures to facilitate family reunification for Sudanese nationals. These measures will include prioritizing the processing of family sponsorship applications and providing additional resources to support families during the immigration process.
  3. Temporary measures for students and workers: IRCC will be implementing temporary measures to support Sudanese nationals who are already in Canada as students or workers. These measures will include extending work and study permits, as well as providing additional support for those who wish to transition to permanent residency.
  4. Improved processing times: IRCC will be prioritizing the processing of immigration applications from Sudanese nationals to reduce wait times and provide faster access to Canadian residency.
Implications for Sudanese Nationals The new immigration measures introduced by IRCC are expected to have a significant impact on Sudanese nationals who are looking to immigrate to Canada. The measures will provide greater opportunities for Sudanese nationals to come to Canada and build a better life for themselves and their families. The new program for resettlement is particularly important as it will prioritize the most vulnerable individuals and families who are in need of immediate assistance. The special measures for family reunification will also help to reunite families who have been separated due to conflict or other challenges in Sudan. The temporary measures for students and workers will provide additional support for Sudanese nationals who are already in Canada and wish to transition to permanent residency. This will allow them to continue building their lives in Canada and contribute to the Canadian economy and society. The specific documents needed for immigration to Canada as a Sudanese national will depend on the type of immigration program, however generally speaking, the following documents may be required:
  1. Passport: You will need a valid passport from Sudan.
  2. Language test results: You may be required to take a language test to prove your proficiency in English or French, depending on the immigration program you are applying for. The most commonly accepted language tests are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) for English, and the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) for French.
  3. Educational documents: You may need to provide transcripts, degrees, diplomas or certificates from schools, colleges, or universities that you have attended. These documents should be in their original language and must be translated into English or French by a certified translator if they are not in one of these languages.
  4. Work experience documents: If you are applying for an immigration program that requires work experience, you may need to provide letters from your previous employers, detailing your job duties and work experience.
  5. Police certificates: You may be required to provide police certificates from Sudan and any other country where you have lived for more than six months.
  6. Medical examination: You will need to undergo a medical examination by a doctor approved by the Canadian government to ensure that you are in good health.
  7. Proof of funds: You may need to provide proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any family members accompanying you during your stay in Canada.
These are some of the most common documents required for immigration to Canada as a Sudanese national. However, the specific requirements may vary depending on the immigration program you are applying for. Conclusion The new immigration measures introduced by IRCC are a positive step towards supporting Sudanese nationals who wish to immigrate to Canada. The measures will provide greater opportunities for Sudanese nationals to come to Canada and build a better life for themselves and their families. It is hoped that these measures will help to alleviate the suffering of Sudanese nationals who have been affected by the recent political and economic challenges in their home country.