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Exclusive Express Entry Draw Invites PNP Candidates with Low CRS

Extending its previous PNP-specific draws from last week is another Express Entry draws by the Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), targeting 183 candidates with a prior provincial nomination. 

Canada Pnp-finder

The latest draw held on March 17 witnessed a significant decline in qualifying Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of upto 52 points. It was further accompanied by a decrease in overall nomination draw size. 

 

The ongoing travel restrictions in Canada could be the reason for favoring more program-specific candidates who are already in Canada as opposed to all-program draws which majorly included Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). Candidates qualifying for FSWP need not have a prior work experience inside Canada or even a job offer as compared to other programs under Express Entry to qualify for permanent residence. 

 

Further, the 178th Express Entry draws considered candidates who had a minimum qualifying CRS score of 682 and those who had submitted their profile before March 4, 2021, at 16:56:20 UTC. The specific timestamp is determined to implement the tie-break rule in case two or more candidates end up scoring the same above CRS score. 

 

Now is the Right Time To Immigrate to Canada

Canada remains to be committed to strengthening its immigration base for economic & social progress. Attorney David Cohen, Senior Partner of Campbell Cohen said, “This is a rare occasion of IRCC holding two consecutive PNP draws.” Accordingly, it suggests IRCC is committed to helping provinces and territories address their labor market needs through immigration as much as possible during the pandemic.

 

Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic, Canada ended up issuing 108,350 ITAs last year as against the target of 91,800 ITAs. Now, with the new Immigration Levels Plan in place, Canada will attempt to issue at least 110,000 ITAs for Canada PR in 2021 only through the Express Entry system.

 

Further, you may want to know more about how realistic is 401,000 immigration target set by Canada in 2021? 

 

So far, Canada seems right on track with its nominations for permanent residence in the months of January & February 2021. IRCC has already invited over 40,000 candidates to apply for Canada PR in these last two months. This is about three times greater than the number of ITAs that IRCC issued at the same time last year. 

 

If you think, you are eligible to qualify for permanent residence, take this free assessment online to determine your best chances of immigration to Canada. 

 

Qualify For Canada PR Through Express Entry 

Canada Express Entry is a long-drawn two-step process. As it manages the application database for three federal immigration programs – the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), the Federal Skills Trades (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – aspirants are first required to qualify for individual program requirements. Such eligible profiles are assessed and ranked on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). 

 

Core human factors such as age, education, language skills, and work experience are used to calculate a CRS profile score. 

 

The second step will involve the fortnightly nomination draws held by IRCC. The high-ranking candidates based on the CRS score get ITAs for permanent residence. 

 

Another way of apply for permanent residence in Canada is through Provincial Nominee Programs. Most Canadian provinces support the Express Entry application with an award that guarantees them an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

 

Ever since the launch of the Express Entry system in 2015, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) immigration streams have been aligned with the federal pool. Based on this, all PNP streams have been classified into: 

 

  • ‘Enhanced’ provincial nomination streams
  • ‘Base’ provincial nomination streams

 

Eligible candidates having a valid Express Entry profile may qualify for a provincial nomination through such ‘enhanced’ provincial streams. That is to say, specific PNPs can nominate desirable candidates to apply for provincial nomination directly from the federal Express Entry pool. For example, Alberta Express Entry stream, Express Entry British Columba (EEBC), Ontario Tech streams, etc. 

 

However, under ‘base’ nomination streams, candidates need to separately register with the desirable province to receive a provincial nomination outside the Express Entry system. For example, Saskatchewan In-demand stream, British Columbia Skills Immigration stream, Manitoba Skilled Worker & International Graduate Stream, etc.

 

The prospects of Business Immigration to Canada in 2021 look bright. Click here to read more & apply. 

 

Hypothetical Case Example For PR Nominations

Whatever be the mode of provincial nomination, all these candidates receive an additional 600 CRS points upon receiving a successful provincial nomination. This would effectively guarantee an ITA for Canada PR, as shown in the hypothetical example below. 

 

“Soorya has a work experience of 2 years or less as a software engineer outside Canada. She just holds a bachelor’s degree. She scored 7 in each category of language proficiency test- IELTS. With her top credentials, she entered the Express Entry pool with 162 points. 

 

Now upon receiving a provincial nomination from Ontario, her CRS score increased to 762, which effectively made her qualify for receiving an ITA in today’s Express Entry draw” 

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You must also know that non-disclosure of any information may lead to a permanent ban from applying for Canadian immigration. Therefore, Contact CanApprove to get genuine guidance on dynamic visa procedures, documentation. We also offer career counseling, education services, and overseas business formations. 

CRS Drops to 301 in the Latest Alberta PNP Draw

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) held an exclusive draw on March 02 which resulted in issuing a total of 200 invitations for a provincial nomination to eligible Express Entry candidates.

These candidates who got invitations under the Alberta Express Entry stream are just one step closer to obtaining permanent residence in Canada. 

The Express Entry system is the major application management system for Canadian immigration. It handles applications for three federal programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.

All eligible immigration candidates receive a score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Candidates get points for factors including their age, education, work experience, language ability in English or French, and others. The varying degree of scores will help the government determine a prospective immigrant to succeed in Canada’s labor market. 

There are two major advantages of receiving a provincial nomination under AlNP: 

  • Qualifying CRS score is as low as 301 for March 02 draw, and
  • Those who receive the provincial nomination will automatically get an additional 600 CRS points added to their overall score. 

It means that candidates are effectively guaranteed an invitation to apply for permanent residence in the upcoming federal Express Entry draw. In fact, the most recent invitation round held on March 8 invited 671 candidates who had previously received a provincial nomination.

All You Need To Know To Qualify For Alberta Express Entry Stream

Alberta Express Entry stream is classified as enhanced PNP under the AINP. It is exclusively for Express Entry candidates who had already submitted their Expression of Interest (EOI) to Alberta. 

Major requirements to receive provincial nominations under this stream include strong ties to Alberta. It includes family ties or graduation from any University or College in Alberta, or those who can support the government’s economic development and diversification priorities. 

Candidates are also required to have adequate work experience in an eligible occupation. The AINP only provides a list of occupations that are ineligible for the stream’s requirements. Contact our consultants to know more. 

Alberta was allowed to issue 6,250 nomination certificates in 2020 which got reduced to 4,000 nominations due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, Canada is keen on achieving its immigration target of 1.2 new immigrants by 2023. Further, over 60% of the said target is to be achieved through various economic-class programs including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, Business Immigration. 

Alberta has invited 709 Express Entry candidates to apply for a provincial nomination, so far in 2021.

Take this quick assessment online to determine your eligibility based on your profile.

So, why wait any further? Start planning your immigration process today. Get expert & genuine documentation, legal support from CanApprove. Click here to book your free appointment. 

What You Need To Know To Immigrate To New Brunswick

New Brunswick is one of four Atlantic provinces, while the others are Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island.

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Traditionally, there has not been a lot of immigration of foreign workers, entrepreneurs, international students in this region of Canada. However, in more recent times, New Brunswick is focused to work towards its immigration targets of around 7,500 newcomers per year by 2024. 

 

Despite the recent immigration challenges due to the pandemic, the province managed to issue nearly 2,020 nominations while the stats for 2019 read 2,022 issued nominations.

 

Further, as the number of provincial nominations did not drastically drop from the previous non-pandemic year, only 2,740 new permanent residents landed in New Brunswick as of November 31, 2020. This number was a record 6,000 in 2019. 

 

One of the official media releases from the province put the onus of this significant drop on current travel restrictions & subsequent processing delays from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

 

As the situation is getting better, New Brunswick is committed to welcome more new immigrants. It has aligned itself to that of the federal government’s plan to welcome over 1.2 million new immigrants by 2023. 

 

Ways To Qualify For Provincial Nomination From New Brunswick

A successful provincial nomination from New Brunswick can open the doors for receiving permanent residence in Canada and eventually Canadian citizenship in quick time. 

 

There’s equal opportunity for all including skilled & semi-skilled workers, entrepreneurs or self-employed, international students who are willing to immigrate for work and settle in New Brunswick along with their families. 

 

Under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), the province offers four immigration streams, namely: 

 

  • The Express Entry Labour Market Stream allows candidates already present in the federal Express Entry pool to receive provincial nominations for Canada PR. 

 

  • The Skilled Worker with Employer Support Stream is for workers who have received a full-time permanent job offer from an employer in the province. 

 

  • The Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream is for candidates who have graduated from a New Brunswick university or college who wish to start a business in the province. 

 

  • The Entrepreneurial Stream is for foreign nationals who wish to start and manage a business in New Brunswick. Candidates must provide a business plan for qualifying. Get in touch with our business consultants to help you further. 

 

Check out our blog on the best options for business immigration to Canada in 2021. 

 

Usual requirements such as age, language, education, work experience, and financial stability must be met before applying. You can also take this free assessment online to determine your eligibility on a case basis. 

 

Additionally, Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIP) provides an alternative pathway to work & settle in New Brunswick. Further, it was only recently reported that AIP has been successful in improving the short-term outcomes for immigrants. 

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Any new foreigner with adequate work experience and language proficiency can gain “Canadian experience” by qualifying for temporary visa options like AIP and qualify for Canada PR within 3 years. The “Canadian experience” would typically include work experience in any province, family ties in any province, or study/graduation from any provincial institution. 

 

Apart from such immigration options for New Brunswick, the province prioritizes more French-speaking immigrants, as it is Canada’s only province with both English and French as official languages. 

 

If you interested in immigration to New Brunswick or planning for Canadian immigration in near future, contact CanApprove. Our genuine guidance will help you secure your visa in a quick time! 

 

Just in: Canadian Universities Plans To Welcome International Students Back To Campus

Higher education institutions in Canada are keen on welcoming international students back to campus for new courses this fall. 

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Under the current travel restrictions in Canada, international students are permitted to come to Canada as long as they are going to an institution with a COVID-19 readiness plan. It is further expected that Canada will update its travel restriction guidelines by mid-April. 

Ultimately, the return to in-person learning activities and increased on-campus activities will depend partially on the public health authority, as well as each institution’s administration.

The immigration of international students is not only significant for the country’s global outreach but also creates a ready-made talent pool for companies in Canada to hire them with inherited Canadian experience. 

Such experience is of high great value it validates the integration of candidates into Canadian society. Further, such international students can stake their claim at permanent residence in Canada. 

A November 2020 Statistics Canada report shows that roughly two-thirds of new international student enrolments at Canadian post-secondaries in the 2018-19 school year were at universities. 

Here’s a look at some of the top Canadian universities province-wise and their plans to welcome students back to campus. 

Universities That Plan To Welcome Students By This Fall  

British Columbia’s health minister had already advised post-secondaries in the province to prepare for a full return to on-campus activities. This would also include immigration to international students from abroad. Following this, the University of British Columbia and the University of Victoria have confirmed their plans to return to in-person classes and increased in-person research after September. 

Other universities in British Columbia such as Vancouver Island University,  Thompson Rivers University, Simon Fraser University, the University of Northern British Columbia, Capilano University, and Trinity Western University have made announcements to begin in-person classes. 

Major institutions in Alberta such as the University of Lethbridge & the University of Alberta will rely on a blended model of in-person and remote learning.

Higher education institutions in Ontario such as the University of Toronto, Brock University, University of Ottawa, Western University, University of Windsor are aiming to allow in-person instruction and supports for international students in the fall. Some are also expected to adopt “hybrid formats” where simultaneous in-person and video conferencing teaching will be possible. 

Quebec is catching up to the trend with McGill University expecting to return to in-person classes in September. On the other hand, Concordia University is planning for an announcement about the fall term in May. 

Acadia University & Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia is all geared up for challenges to accommodate international students this fall. 

Take this free assessment to determine your eligibility and begin your study abroad! 

Universities That Plan To Make Announcement Soon

The University of Calgary in Alberta is planning for a significant return to in-person classes and increased on-campus activities, however, no particular announcements have been made yet in this regard. 

Peter Stoicheff, the President at the University of Saskatchewan is uncertain about the vaccine roll-out and so, he expects a full return to in-person classes for the winter 2022 semester.

Andrea McDaniel, the Registrar at the University of Brandon, in a media release expressed his intentions of announcing a course of action for Fall 2021. Other institutions in Manitoba such as the University of Winnipeg or the University of Manitoba are also yet to make an announcement. 

Memorial University in Newfoundland & Labrador had already resumed research work, however, is yet to make an announcement on the return of in-person classes for international students. 

British Columbia University of British Columbia
University of Victoria
Vancouver Island University,  Thompson Rivers University, Simon Fraser University, the University of Northern British Columbia, Capilano University, and Trinity Western University.
Alberta University of Alberta
University of Lethbridge
Saskatchewan University of Saskatchewan
Manitoba University of Brandon
Ontario University of Toronto
Brock University
University of Ottawa
Western University
University of Windsor
Quebec McGill University
Concordia University
New Brunswick St. Thomas University
Nova Scotia Acadia University
Dalhousie University
Prince Edward Island University of Prince Edward Island
Newfoundland & Labrador Memorial University

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If you are interested in studying abroad or immigration for better career opportunities, choose CanApprove. We provide genuine and hassle-free visa guidance, documentation support, and free counseling. 

Fresh Canada PNP Draws Invite Express Entry & Other Category Candidates

At present, everything that Canada is doing is in favor of increasing immigration

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The country has already set itself a huge target to welcome 1.2 million new immigrants in the next three years. With nominations for Canada PR in January 2021 & February 2021 inviting close to 40,000 new immigrants, Canada is becoming a haven for immigration in such difficult times.      

Adding to the list of provincial draws are two Canadian provinces of Manitoba & Saskatchewan that held their respective nomination draws on March 11. Together, they have already issued 3,500 invitations to eligible candidates to apply for a provincial nomination for Canada PR. 

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) Nominates 299 Candidates For Canada PR

In its fifth provincial draw of 2021, Manitoba invited 299 immigration candidates to apply for a provincial nomination on March 11. 

The provincial draw issued Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to eligible candidates under the following three streams: 

  • Skilled Workers in Manitoba- 261 invitations with a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 459;
  • International Education Stream- 3 invitations with a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 728; and
  • Skilled Workers Overseas- 35 invitations.

Another 35 LAAs went to Express Entry candidates. 

In order to benefit oneself from a provincial nomination from Manitoba, one has to register an Expression of Interest (EOI) with the MPNP. The registered profiles are ranked out of 1,000 points for their human capital factors as well as their connections to the province.  

Thereafter, the EOI score will determine the possibility of receiving an LAA through the Skilled Workers in Manitoba and Skilled Workers Overseas streams.

Interested candidates who are living overseas can qualify for a provincial nomination from MPNP if they can demonstrate connections to Manitoba through the likes of close family ties, previous experience in Manitoba, or an invitation through one of Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Initiatives. 

Further, International graduates who complete education in Manitoba can receive an LAA under the International Education Stream if they demonstrate that they have in-demand skills.

Saskatchewan Immigration Nominee Program (SINP) Issues 248 ITAs For Canada PR

Saskatchewan invited 248 principal applicants to apply for a provincial nomination on March 11. 

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) invited candidates from the  International Skilled Worker category. Of those invited, 72 may be eligible for the SINP’s Express Entry subcategory, and 176 may get the nomination through the Occupations In-Demand sub-category.

The SINP provincial draw nominated eligible candidates under the International Skilled Worker category. Of those invited, 

  • 72 may be eligible for the SINP’s Express Entry subcategory, and 
  • 176 may get the nomination through the Occupations In-Demand sub-category.

In order to take advantage to apply for permanent residence in Canada through SINP, foreign nationals can create an EOI profile online. 

Saskatchewan’s EOI system selects immigration candidates based on their work experience, education, language ability, age, and connections to the province to demonstrate their capacity to settle into life in Saskatchewan.

Further, they are evaluated on a score out of 100 based on the SINP’s International Skilled Worker Points Assessment Grid. Only the highest-scoring candidates are then issued an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination for Canadian permanent residence.

Additionally, immigration candidates registered in the federal Express Entry pool can also be nominated by SINP. 

All the eligible candidates were required to have an Expression of Interest (EOI) score of at least 71 in order to receive an invitation on March 11 draw. Further, the nominated 248 candidates needed work experience in one of the 70 in-demand occupations listed on the government webpage

Some of these eligible occupations include purchasing agents and officers, social and community service workers, as well as educational counsellors.

Take this free assessment online to determine your best chances of qualify for nomination draws.

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You can always contact our consultants to know more about your eligibility, probability of qualifying for any provincial draws in near future.

Ontario’s Northern Regions All Set To Attract New Immigrants

Ontario is one of the top-performing Canadian provinces, along with British Columbia and Quebec, in attracting foreign talents for permanent residence. 

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The provincial authorities in Ontario look to strengthen their communities in the Northern Regions so as to welcome more immigrants in near future. The Northern Region covers Nipissing, Parry Sound, Manitoulin, Timiskaming, Sudbury, Algoma, Cochrane, Thunder Bay, Rainy River, and Kenora.

With Northern Ontario facing labor shortages as well as aging demography, more than 300 people representing over 100 organizations met together for two conferences in pre-pandemic times around February 2020 to address these issues. 

In the two conferences held in Temiskaming Shores and Thunder Bay, the communities discussed various ways to attract more new immigrants to work & settle in their region. And as a result, these discussions favoring increased immigration to Canada were recently released under the “Come North” 10-point action plan in January 2021. 

The “Come North” initiative is planned to boost population growth through the new immigration of foreign workers, entrepreneurs, international students along with their families in Northern Ontario.

The action plan also comes at the backdrop of the newly unveiled immigration levels plan. It intends to welcome close to 1.2 million new immigrants to Canada in the next three years. 

Canada PR Through Ontario Regional Immigration

Ontario offers two pathways for regional immigration – the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) or the Rural and Northern Immigration Program (RNIP).

The OINP allows skilled workers, international students, and other foreign individuals to apply for a provincial nomination for permanent residence in Ontario. It also has a Regional Immigration Pilot that focuses on increasing immigration to rural communities in Ontario. The pilot works under the OINP’s Employer Job Offer streams.

The success of OINP in 2021 can be gauged by the recently concluded provincial nomination draws. So far, in 2021 alone, Ontario has invited close to 2,000 eligible candidates to apply for a provincial nomination for permanent residence.

In order to qualify for one of these streams, any interested candidate must have a full-time job offer from an employer in one of the eligible communities. Ask our consultants for more details. 

Click here to know why Canada PNP are keen on welcoming new immigrants even during the pandemic. 

Another great option for regional immigration to Canada is through the RNIP. It is a federal immigration program that works with small and remote communities across Canada. There are currently 11 communities participating in the RNIP, five of which are in Ontario:

  • North Bay
  • Sudbury
  • Timmins
  • Sault Ste. Marie
  • Thunder Bay

Interested candidates are required to receive a recommendation from one of the communities in order to qualify under the federal program. Otherwise, a graduation certificate from a post-secondary institution in the community or one year of continuous work experience in the past three years can also be produced in order to qualify. 

Additionally, you must have a job offer from an employer in the community, and mandatory language requirements in English or French, financial stability to support yourself and your family must be demonstrated before applying. 

For more details, get in touch with our expert advisors.

Take this free assessment online to determine your best chance of immigration to Canada.

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The current pandemic and prevailing slow population growth have only warranted the increase in immigration to Canada in recent times. You should consult a reputed immigration consultant to get started with planning your immigration to Canada. 

CanApprove is a regional leader in providing genuine immigration consultancy, visa documentation services, career counselling, overseas education admissions as well as business formations abroad. Book your free appointment with us today! 

British Columbia holds a New Tech Draw

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued a new Tech Pilot draw inviting candidates under the Express Entry BC and Skills immigration categories.

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The province issued 95 invitations to apply (ITA) for a provincial nomination on March 9. Further, such candidates are eligible to apply with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence (PR) in Canada. 

 

British Columbia has held 12 draws so far in January & February, bringing the total number of invitations issued to date to 1,926 in 2021.

 

Take this free assessment online to determine your eligibility for immigration to Canada. 

Apply For Canada PR Through BC PNP Tech Pilot

Since the launch of the BC PNP Tech Pilot in 2017, thousands of in-demand tech workers and international students have benefited from provincial nominations for Canada PR. 

 

In order to qualify for Tech Pilot, interested candidates need to be registered in one of B.C.’s existing provincial immigration streams and have a valid job offer of at least 12 months in one of the Tech Pilot’s 29 eligible occupations.

 

One may apply under the Skills Immigration or Express Entry BC (EEBC) categories in order to fulfill the existing provincial stream condition. 

 

A prior registration under the province’s Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) is mandatory to initiate the nomination process. All the applicants are invited to apply for provincial nomination based on a pre-determined score which evaluated the level of education, years of direct work experience, and validity of a B.C. employment offer.

 

This qualifying provincial score in March 09 BC PNP Tech Pilot draw was 80 points. 

 

Tech Pilot For Express Entry 

The major difference between SI & EEBC categories is the way eligible immigration candidates are nominated. EEBC category makes use of the federal Express Entry pool. It consists of applicants qualifying for either one of the three federal programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skills Trades Program (FSTP), and Canada Experience Class (CEC). Additionally, such candidates are willing to obtain permanent residence through a provincial nominee program. 

 

Further, those who had received provincial nominations receive an additional 600 points towards their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This is more than enough to guarantee them an invitation to apply for Canada PR in the subsequent federal Express Entry draw

 

Here is a comprehensive list of 29 eligible Tech occupations: 

  • Telecommunication carriers managers- NOC 0131
  • Computer and information systems managers- NOC 0213
  • Managers – publishing, motion pictures, broadcasting, and performing arts- NOC 0512
  • Civil engineers- NOC 2131
  • Mechanical engineers- NOC 2132
  • Electrical and electronics engineers- NOC 2133
  • Chemical engineers- NOC 2134
  • Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)- NOC 2147
  • Information systems analysts and consultants- NOC 2171
  • Database analysts and data administrators- NOC 2172
  • Software engineers and designers- NOC 2173
  • Computer programmers and interactive media developers- NOC 2174
  • Web designers and developers- NOC 2175
  • Biological technologists and technicians- NOC 2221
  • Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians- NOC 2241
  • Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)- NOC 2242
  • Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics- NOC 2243
  • Computer network technicians- NOC 2281
  • User support technicians- NOC 2282
  • Information systems testing technicians- NOC 2283
  • Authors and writers- NOC 5121
  • Editors- NOC 5122
  • Translators, terminologists, and interpreters- NOC 5125
  • Broadcast technicians- NOC 5224
  • Audio and video recording technicians- NOC 5225
  • Other technical and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, and the performing arts- NOC 5226
  • Support occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, photography, and the performing arts- NOC 5227
  • Graphic designers and illustrators- NOC 5241
  • Technical sales specialists – wholesale trade- NOC 6221

 

Upon receiving invitations, Tech Pilot candidates have 30 calendar days to apply for the nomination. 

 

If you are looking for better career prospects, immigration as a skilled worker, or entrepreneur, or international student in an advanced economy like Canada is now open!

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Further, new studies have shown increased retention rates of immigrants in Canadian provinces. Talk to our immigration experts to know your best chances of settling in Canada. Book your appointment today! 

 

Study Outlines Increased Immigration To Smaller Cities In Canada

Canadian cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver are popularly known for their significant immigrant population base. However, a recent study by Ryerson University outlines the prospects for immigration in small and mid-sized Canadian cities. 

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In the previous decade, Canada’s small to mid-sized cities attracted more immigrants from abroad. According to the Ryerson University paper authored by David Campbell, the number of immigrants settling in smaller urban centers between 2013 and 2019 went up by 45 percent compared to a 9 percent rise in four major Canadian cities. 

 

Further, the number of new immigrants increased by 40 percent in the rest of Canada’s Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs). These are areas of multiple municipalities around a major urban population center. For example, the Toronto CMA consists of the city of Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, and Pickering.

 

Many smaller & mid-sized cities in Canada have a declining natural population. That is to say, smaller urban centers see an influx of immigrants as a direct response to the challenges faced due to an aging population and workforce.

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The paper identified a total of 14 smaller urban centers with immigration rates of over 100 per 10,000 residents. They are regions of Regina and Saskatoon in Saskatchewan, Halifax, Charlottetown, Fredericton, Moncton, Swift Current, Winkler, Steinbach, Brandon, Thompson, Brooks, High River, and Wood Buffalo. 

 

Take this free assessment online or talk to our advisor to identify your best immigration plan.

Increased Dependence On Immigration For Post-Pandemic Economic Recovery

Many of Canada’s export industries including agriculture and fish processing regularly hire international workers for short-term or longer period. There’s also a prominently growing tech sector in the country that demands skilled talent in the field of engineering, software/IT, finance & business management. 

 

Further, Canada is also seeking more foreign individuals to start a new business or run an existing business in any region of choice, preferably regional areas, for the growth of the economy.  Check out our blog on the best options for business immigration to Canada in 2021

 

Canada has revealed its dependence on immigration in the new Immigration Levels Plan for 2021-23. The country is expected to welcome around 401,000 new immigrants in 2021.  

 

It is fascinating to note that Canadian workforce increased by 1.95 million between 2009 and 2019- almost all came from immigrants. The table below illustrates this well. 

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It shows the growth rate of the workforce by landed immigrants and by those who were born in Canada.

Campbell concluded the paper by noting that the above-average unemployment rates and the increasing number of COVID-19 cases could lessen some people’s support for immigration. However, in the long term, immigration will play a crucial role in the economic growth of major urban centers as well as small to mid-sized urban centers all over Canada.

 

Programs For Regional Canadian Immigration

Regional immigration programs in Canada are designed to mutually benefit the immigrants and the local economy. 

 

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces to nominate desirable immigration candidates based on In-Demand jobs in regional areas of Canada.

 

The province of Manitoba, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador were among the first few provinces to start a separate nomination program for immigration to Canada. 

 

However, since the launch of the Express Entry system in 2015, Provincial government could search the Express Entry pool of candidates to nominate desirable foreign talent.

 

The number of immigrants admitted through the PNPs rose from about 47,600 in 2014 to 68,600 in 2019.

 

The most popular province for new immigrants was New Brunswick, followed by Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Prince Edward Island. A recent government review found that the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) was helping to improve retention in the region.

 

Despite the ongoing pandemic and travel restrictions, Canada remains committed to welcoming more than 1.2 million immigrants over the next three years. Of these, the PNP is expected to bring in about 80,000 per year, and the AIP is expected to welcome about 6,000.

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If you are interested in immigration to Canada anytime soon, get in touch with CanApprove for genuine visa guidance and documentation support. 

 

Express Entry Draws: 671 PNP Candidates To Apply For Canada PR

In continuity with its trend of alternative PNP and CEC Express Entry draws, the Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 671 candidates with prior provincial nominations. Such candidates had a valid Express Entry profiles pool and a qualifying Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 739. 

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March 08 PNP-specific draw saw an increase in draw size and a decline in the CRS cut-off score compared with the last PNP-only draw. The ongoing travel restrictions in Canada could be the reason for favoring more program-specific candidates who are already in Canada as opposed to all-program draws which majorly included Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).

 

Candidates qualifying for FSWP need not have a prior work experience inside Canada or even a job offer as compared to other programs under Express Entry to qualify for permanent residence.

 

Further, the 177th Express Entry draws considered candidates who had submitted their Express Entry profile before February 16, 2021, at 19:10:25 UTC, as per the tie-break rule. The Tie-break rule is applied by IRCC in case of two or more candidates having the same CRS score. 

 

Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic, Canada ended up issuing 108,350 ITAs last year as against the target of 91,800 ITAs. Now, with the new Immigration Levels Plan in place, Canada will attempt to issue at least 110,000 ITAs for Canada PR in 2021. 

 

So far, Canada seems right on track with its nominations for permanent residence in the months of January & February 2021. IRCC has already invited over 40,000 candidates to apply for Canada PR in these last two months. We could soon anticipate a further increase in total ITAs and a decrease in CRS requirements with a CEC-only draw or all-program soon this week.

 

If you think, you are eligible to qualify for permanent residence, take this free assessment online to determine your best chances of immigration to Canada. 

 

Qualify For Canada PR Through Express Entry 

Canada Express Entry is a long-drawn two-step process. As it manages the application database for three federal immigration programs – the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), the Federal Skills Trades (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – aspirants are first required to qualify for individual program requirements. Such eligible profiles are assessed and ranked on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). 

 

Core human factors such as age, education, language skills, and work experience are used to calculate a CRS profile score. 

 

The second step will involve the fortnightly nomination draws held by IRCC. The high-ranking candidates based on the CRS score get ITAs for permanent residence. 

 

Another way of apply for permanent residence in Canada is through Provincial Nominee Programs. “Provincial nominees have demonstrated that they will benefit provincial labor markets,” said Attorney David Cohen, Senior Partner of Campbell Cohen. “In turn, provinces support their Express Entry application with an award that guarantees they will be invited to apply for permanent residence.”

 

Ever since the launch of the Express Entry system in 2015, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) immigration streams have been aligned with the federal pool. Based on this, all PNP streams have been classified into: 

 

  • ‘Enhanced’ provincial nomination streams
  • ‘Base’ provincial nomination streams

 

Eligible candidates having a valid Express Entry profile may qualify for a provincial nomination through such ‘enhanced’ provincial streams. That is to say, specific PNPs can nominate desirable candidates to apply for provincial nomination directly from the federal Express Entry pool. For example, Alberta Express Entry stream, Express Entry British Columba (EEBC), Ontario Tech streams, etc.

 

However, under ‘base’ nomination streams, candidates need to separately register with the desirable province to receive a provincial nomination outside the Express Entry system. For example, Saskatchewan In-demand stream, British Columbia Skills Immigration stream, Manitoba Skilled Worker & International Graduate Stream, etc.

 

The prospects of Business Immigration to Canada in 2021 look bright. Click here to read more & apply. 

Hypothetical Case Example For PR Nominations

Whatever be the mode of provincial nomination, all these candidates receive an additional 600 CRS points upon receiving a successful provincial nomination. This would effectively guarantee an ITA for Canada PR, as shown in the hypothetical example below. 

 

“Brian has rich work experience as a registered psychiatric nurse and has been recently offered full-time employment with a hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia. He got nominated by BC through its ‘enhanced’ Health Care Professional stream for his job offer. He has a total work experience of 5 years and more. He is just 32 years old and his language proficiency stands at CLB 7 in all four categories. He has no dependents. 

 

Based on the above factors, Brain scored a CRS score of 320. But after receiving a provincial nomination from BC, his overall CRS score jumped to 920. Now, he is eligible to receive an ITA for Canada PR in this 177th Express Entry draw.”

 

Canada remains to be committed to strengthening its immigration base for economic & social progress. A press release issued along with the draw read, “IRCC will continue to accept and process Express Entry applications and looks forward to welcoming skilled workers from abroad when travel resumes.”

 

Further, you may want to know more about how realistic is 401,000 immigration target set by Canada in 2021? 

CRS Calculator

If you are interested in immigrating to Canada any time sooner, consider visiting a genuine immigration consultant. You must also know that non-disclosure of any information may lead to a permanent ban from applying for Canadian immigration.  

 

Contact CanApprove to get genuine guidance on dynamic visa procedures, documentation. We also offer career counseling, education services, and overseas business formations. 

 

Business Leaders Call For Enhanced Canada Immigration System

In a lead up to Canada’s federal budget for the upcoming financial year, top business leaders in Canada have sent a list of pre-budget recommendations to the federal government on how to support economic recovery. 

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In an open letter by the Business Council of Canada to Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, the author, Goldy Hyder, outlined seven key recommendations to promote economic recovery. They call for a focus on long-term growth and job creation by facilitating easy immigration for skilled foreign workers.

 

The letter reads: “We need to cultivate and enhance our human capital by developing a more agile and adaptable workforce, doing more to help young Canadians build rewarding careers, and enhancing our immigration system to make our country an even more powerful magnet for international talent.”

 

Businesses want the federal government to remove barriers to labor market integration. The letter draws attention to foreign credential recognition, which prevents some skilled workers from working in their fields. 

 

Higher-order sources from the federal government responded positively to the open letter by citing positive contributions to the immigration system in recent times by the federal government. 

 

The present Liberal government has already committed to invest $15 million in 2021 and 2022 to scale up and expand existing supports for the labor market integration of skilled newcomers. In-demand sectors, such as health, IT, and skilled trades will be in focus for immigration in the coming years. 

 

In a move to improve the present immigration system, Canada recently allotted $72.1 million to the federal immigration department to modernize their processing system away from paper-based applications. This would mean quicker, faster, and efficient nomination and processing of applications. 

 

Additionally, the nomination draws in the month of January 2021, and February 2021 remained in line with the record target of 401,000 new immigrants in 2021. 

 

Attracting talented workers from around the world is an essential part of growing our economy and supporting Canada’s recovery from the COVID-19 recession,” a spokesperson of Deputy PM told CIC News. “Canada will continue to welcome newcomers with skills to help grow our economy.”

 

Here is the predicted list of top demanding jobs in Canada in 2021. 

CRS Calculator

Take this free assessment online to determine your eligibility for immigration. 

 

IT Giant Expands Presence in Canada: More Opportunities For Immigrants

In a parallel development, Indian IT company Infosys is strongly looking to expand its tech consulting & digital services presence in Canada. 

 

The company is keen on adding 500 more jobs in Calgary and double its Canadian workforce to 4,000 by 2023. In a run-up to its target, about 2,000 jobs have been already created across Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal. 

 

Further, international students have a tremendous advantage as the company is set to hire talented tech individuals from 14 Canadian education institutions. These would include the University of Calgary, University of Alberta, and Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. 

 

If you are interested in working or studying in Canada or setting up your business, contact CanApprove to know your best chances based on your profile. 

Canada PNP: Express Entry Candidates Get Lucky With Nominations For Canada PR

Just four days have passed in the month of March 2021 and already about 1,500 eligible Express Entry candidates have received invitations to apply for provincial nominations. 

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Selected Canada Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) have targeted desirable candidates who had already sent their Expression of Interest (EOI) / Notification of Interest (NOI) to Alberta, British Columbia & Ontario.  

Such Express Entry candidates are now one step closer to applying for permanent residence (PR). This is predominantly based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) which includes candidates’ age, education qualification, work experience, language proficiency in English & French among others. 

Alberta Invites Candidates With Low CRS 352 

Alberta has recently released the details of its February 16 PNP draw. 

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) invited a total of 159 Express Entry candidates to apply for provincial nominations under its Alberta Express Entry stream.

All the invited candidates only needed a CRS score of as low as 352.

In order to be eligible to be nominated under this enhanced PNP, Express Entry candidates should demonstrate strong ties to Alberta, or who can support the government’s economic development and diversification priorities. 

Candidates also need to have work experience in an eligible occupation. On the corollary, here is a list of occupations that AINP will not consider.

British Columbia Issues 444 Invitations For Provincial Nominations

The details of the recent provincial draw held on March 02, by British Columbia have been realized. 

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued 418 invitations in a single draw to candidates through the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry BC (EEBC) streams. Further, invitations were received by skilled workers, international graduates as well as entry-level and semi-skilled workers. 

In order to receive invitations for a provincial nomination, from BC PNP under the above streams, one will have to register with Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). Even here, the candidates will be assigned a score based on factors such as education, work experience, and language skills.

The qualifying scores for this draw ranged between 83 and 97 points. 

Additionally, a separate draw was conducted simultaneously for retail and wholesale trade managers (NOC 0621) and restaurant and foodservice managers (NOC 0631). About 26 invitations were issued to these candidates and with qualifying scores of at least 118.

B.C. has already invited nearly 2,000 immigration candidates to apply for a provincial nomination so far in 2021. You could be featured soon. Get in touch with our consultants to know more. 

Ontario Targets Express Entry candidates in 10 selected occupations

Results from March 02 provincial nomination draws from Ontario have been released. 

The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP) invited 754 candidates who have profiles in the Express Entry system with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores between 463 and 467.

Further, only those Express Entry candidates with at least one year of work experience in the following 10 occupations were invited: 

  • Banking, credit, and other investment managers (NOC 0122);
  • Advertising, marketing, and public relations managers (NOC 0124);
  • Other business services managers (NOC 0125);
  • Corporate sales managers (NOC 0601);
  • Financial auditors and accountants (NOC 1111);
  • Financial and investment analysts (NOC 1112);
  • Human resources professionals (NOC 1121);
  • Professional occupations in business management consulting (NOC 1122);
  • Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses (NOC 3012); and
  • Business development officers and marketing researchers and consultants (NOC 4163).

Express Entry is more sort of an application management system for Canada’s Federal High Skilled immigration pathways: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Take this free assessment online to know your best chances of immigration to Canada.

CRS Calculator

Those registering in the pool with a prior provincial nomination will automatically get an additional 600 CRS points added to their overall score. This would effectively guarantee them an invitation from IRCC to apply for permanent residence in the upcoming fortnightly Express Entry draw.

If you are looking to immigrate to Canada soon, consider applying through Express Entry & ‘enhanced’ PNP streams. Get in touch with our immigration lawyers to kick-start your immigration process. 

Express Entry Candidates Receive Provincial Nominations From Saskatchewan

The Saskatchewan Immigration Nominee Program (SINP) held its nomination draw on February 25, inviting candidates to apply for a provincial nomination for Canadian permanent residence.

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All the 299 invited candidates were nominated from the federal Express Entry pool. Such candidates are evaluated based on their age, education qualification, work experience, language proficiency. 

Since the launch of Express Entry draws in 2015, all Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) are classified into ‘base’ provincial streams and ‘enhanced’ provincial streams. 

February 25 SINP draw used its ‘enhanced’ stream – Express Entry sub category to select eligible candidates. Candidates needed an Expression of Interest (EOI) score of at least 70 in order to be invited. They also needed work experience in one of the in-demand occupations listed on the government webpage.

Such invited candidates included medical administrative assistants, retail and wholesale buyers, and geological engineers among others.

Qualify For Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program  

Interesting Read>> How To Qualify For Canada PR Under Canada PNP? 

In order to be considered for nominations under the upcoming Saskatchewan Immigration Nominee Program (SINP) draws, candidates must register their Expression of Interest (EOI) profile with the provincial authority. 

Candidates need to demonstrate their commitment to meaningfully settle in Saskatchewan by demonstrating their work experience, education, language ability, age, and connections to the province.

Saskatchewan gives candidates a score out of 100 according to the International Skilled Worker Points Assessment Grid. The province favors candidates with bilingual capability in both English and French. The highest-scoring candidates are then issued an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination from Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan started giving more EOI points to people who are proficient in both English and French.

Regardless of the provincial category, all invited candidates need an EOI score of at least 70 in order to be invited in the February 25 draw. It is also to be noted that the points requirement is that all the invited candidates must have valid Educational Credential Assessments.

Additionally, candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool need to register another EOI and choose Saskatchewan. 

On successfully receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) for a provincial nomination, candidates are awarded an additional 600 points toward their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. It will effectively guarantee an ITA for Canada PR in the subsequent Express Entry draw conducted by IRCC.  

CRS Calculator

We could see Canada inviting over 80,000 new permanent residents through various PNP streams. This would include business entrepreneurs, international students graduates in that province, foreign skilled workers, specifically skilled tech workers, critical workers, etc.  

Take the first step towards securing Canada PR by booking a free consultation session with us!