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Permanent Residency in Canada is readily open to All

Canada is the most sought after destination for several foreign nationals. Even during the travel restrictions imposed on the account of corona pandemic, Canada actively processed and nominated foreign nationals for permanent residency. Recent ministerial teleconference of immigration ministers from all provinces of Canada called for a stronger immigration system and revealed the possibility of inviting more number of immigrants to Canada in the coming years. In view of such positive development, let us look at various options for obtaining permanent residency in Canada.

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Canada PR for Skilled Workers & International Students 

Perhaps the most popular among economic-class immigrants are skilled workers and recent student graduates applying for permanent residency in Canada. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) manage federal programs like the Federal Skilled Workers Program, Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skills Trades under the Express Entry system. There are other Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) which issues provincial nominations to eligible candidates fulfilling the eligibility criteria for provinces’ in-demand occupations. 

The overwhelming response can be gauged by immigration levels set by IRCC for the year 2020; about 90,000 are expected to arrive through the Express Entry programs and another 65,000 through PNPs. Fill-in this free assessment to check your eligibility. 

Canada PR for Entrepreneurs & Business Investors

The favourable investment climate in Canada attracts foreign investors and entrepreneurs to reap its maximum benefits. IRCC encourages immigrant entrepreneurs to grow their companies in Canada by making them eligible to apply for permanent residence. Through the Entrepreneurial Start-Up Visa program, eligible foreign national entrepreneurs are invited to settle in Canada and apply for permanent residency. 

Apart from demonstrating a minimum net worth, an individual in focus must also come good in English/French proficiency and a financially sound business plan with adequate clearances and ownership requirements.

Several Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Yukon have dedicated business immigration streams to invite eligible entrepreneurs/investors to apply for provincial nominations.

Permanent residence in Canada for Self-employed Workers

Based on one’s intention to continue working for themselves and relevant work experience of at least two years, self-employed individuals can apply for permanent residence in Canada

IRCC run a dedicated Federal Self-Employed Persons Program for eligible individuals to apply for permanent residency. Applications from interested individuals are received and evaluated on a points system which is based on work experience, age, education, language ability in English/French and other adaptability factors. A candidate requires a minimum of 35 points out of 100 points in order to be considered. 

Unlike business investors, there is no regulated minimum net worth requirement. However, such candidates are required to demonstrate their financial independence to settle in Canada. With a waiting time greatly reduced to 23 months, eligible foreign nationals working in the fields of arts and sports such as freelance journalists, painters, illustrators, filmmakers, music teachers, or athletes can apply for permanent residence in Canada. It may also include such professionals like choreographers, set designers, coaches and trainers

Family-sponsorship programs are also famous for nominating dependent family members banking on the credibility of primary permanent residence holders. To know the operational details of the Family Sponsorship program, click here

Canada is targeting 200,000 immigrants in 2020 through 100+ economic immigration streams. This figure will only increase despite the disruptions caused by the corona pandemic. Talk to our qualified representative to start planning your Canada immigration.

August Week-in-Review: Canada Immigration between 7 August – 14 August

The world seems to have adjusted itself to live alongside the pandemic. Although the Canadian border remains closed until August 31, Canada has not shied away from improvising its immigration system. Nor it stopped issuing permanent residency. In fact, over 45000 invitations to apply for Canada PR got issued since March 18; the highest in the same period as compared to last year.

Here are some highlights on preceding week’s activities concerning Canada immigration and by its virtue, aspiring and future immigrants to Canada:

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Provincial Nominee Program Draws continue with full flair

Several Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) were seen active even during the pandemic induced lockdown. Canadian provinces like British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario remained in the forefront in issuing provincial nominations to select economic-class immigrants. Economic-class immigrants like Skilled Workers, International Student Graduates can benefit from such provincial draws. Further, a successful provincial nomination shall also guarantee a permanent residence in Canada.

British Columbia conducted yet another draws on August 7 nominating 437 candidates for permanent residency. Such candidates were issued invitations to apply for provincial nominations under Express Entry and Skills Immigration category. In order to be eligible for such draws, one must register under Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). All profiles are evaluated and issued a score out of 200 points based on factors such as education, work experience, proven proficiency in English.

Another pathway under BC PNP is Tech Pilot that focuses on in-demand tech workers and international students. Eligible applicants require a valid job offer in one of the 29 in-demand Tech occupations. One such draw was held August 11. With this, over 5500 ITAs have been issued under Tech pilot category in 2020.

Manitoba issued 253 Letters of Advice to Apply under three immigration streams: Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Skilled Workers Overseas and International Education streams. Such candidates are ranked out of 1,000 points for human capital factors like English or French language skills, education, work experience, Manitoba connections, etc. A small percentage of LAAs also went to candidates in the Express Entry pool. August 13 draw had a category-specific cut-off score ranging between 485-672.

Saskatchewan conducted its largest PNP draw since February 2020. A total of 553 candidates is hopeful of receiving provincial nominations. August 14 draws choose International Skilled Workers including candidates from Express Entry and Occupations in-demand streams.

Like Manitoba, Saskatchewan also uses the EOI system to register interested candidates. The profiles are evaluated with a score out of 100 on the International Skilled Worker Points Assessment Grid. August 14 invitation round required a minimum qualifying score of 69 points.

More options to take the compulsory English proficiency test

One essentiality test to qualify for permanent residency in Canada is language proficiency. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognise English testing exams such as the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). 

Exam centres which remained closed due to lockdowns are now reported to be active. Currently, testing centres for IELTS are active in countries like the United Arab Emirates, India, the Philippines including 86 other major countries. The exam centres for CELPIP is limited to 6 countries including the United Arab Emirates, India, the Philippines, Canada, the US, and China. It is best to take up English skill assessment now to avoid last-minute delay when Canadian borders open for new immigrants. 

CanApprove offers specialized and focussed training modules to ace the IELTS exam. 

The need to build a stronger immigration system echoed in the recently held all-Immigration Ministerial teleconference. Ministers also emphasised to welcome more immigrants in reviving the economy as well as supporting Canada’s population growth viz. ageing demography. Talk to our consultants to know your eligibility and ask for suitable pathways for your immigration to Canada.

Immigration playing a major role in Canada becoming the next Tech Supergiant

It goes without saying that the United States of America is still the Tech superpower. But with the recent restrictions on the immigration of skilled professionals, more tech immigrants are seen choosing Canada over the US. 

The economic success of Canada is built on the regular influx of economic-class immigrants including international students. A state-sponsored report took stock of the situation and found Tech workers constituting a staggering 40% of the recent immigrants. Overall, nearly 25% of Canada’s workforce are immigrants. 

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Not only workers but even companies are preferring to shift their bases to North of the US, Canada. You can fill-in this free assessment to know your eligibility and various options for Canada immigration

Canada PR for Tech Immigration

Coming to Canada and gaining work experience to apply for permanent residency is a simple and easy process. With major tech companies concentrated in the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario, these provinces have dedicated immigration streams under its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Apart from provincial programs, federal programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) selects eligible candidates under Express Entry pool. All such programs provide a suitable pathway for permanent residence in Canada. 

Express Entry pool consists of registered profiles that are assessed and ranked following a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Based on human capital factors including age, work experience, education and proficiency in English or French, the candidates are scored out of 600 points. Those with a provincial nomination can get upto an additional 600 points.

 

Ontario identifies eligible candidates from the Express Entry pool based on their Expression of Interest (EOI) which is already filed while registering the profile. Ontario has successfully conducted three Tech draws in 2020 inviting candidates over and above the minimum CRS score determined in each draw. Such candidates need not have a job offer but must have enough work experience in one of the six In-demand Tech occupations

A candidate qualifying under the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) Tech Pilot requires to have a job offer in one of 29 eligible occupations. In addition, they are required to register their profiles through the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). SIRS evaluates the registered candidates based on economic and human capital factors. Later a provincial score out of 200 points is awarded. 

Based on the cut-off provincial score in each draw, the province issues invitations to apply for provincial nomination. So far, the province has conducted 15 tech draws, the latest held July 21. This year alone, over 1,500 have been nominated to apply for provincial nominations, practically guaranteeing a permanent residence in Canada. 

Many entrepreneurs, skilled workers are considering moving to Canada, thanks to its easy permanent residency options. Contact CanApprove to know your suitable pathway for immigration to Canada.

Canada immigration: IELTS & CELPIP resume operations

The Immigration, Refugee, and the Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognize the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to evaluate the candidates’ language proficiency in English.

Any candidate who wishes to submit an Express Entry profile or apply for permanent residence under one of the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) must mandatorily come good in human capital factors like age, education, work experience as well as language proficiency in English or French. A job offer in Canada is not a mandatory requirement and will depend on the program basis.

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But the recent lockdowns imposed by various governments across the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted almost everything including the language proficiency tests. This resulted in difficulty for immigration candidates in fulfiling their English proficiency requirements. It was also coupled with a temporary absence of all-program Express Entry draws which typically invite candidates qualifying for Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

The resumption of IELTS & CELPIP operations along with regular all-program Express Entry draws have reignited the spirits of Canadian immigration. 

As of today, IELTS testing centres are active across 89 countries including the United Arab Emirates, India, the Philippines among many other prominent nations. CELPIP is available across 6 countries – the United Arab Emirates, India, the Philippines, Canada, the US, and China. CanApprove offers specialized and focussed training modules to ace IELTS exams. 

You can further fill in this free assessment to know the other requirements for your successful immigration to Canada. 

Now is the best time for the candidates to complete their English proficiency testing requirements and submit their application for immigration. Registering a profile in the Express Entry pool will open up their candidature to various federal immigration programs and eventually Canada PR. Based on their Expression of Interest (EOI), candidates can also be nominated under any Express Entry-linked stream to a Provincial Nominee Program.

This is a certain path to obtain permanent residency for any economic-class immigrant including Skilled Worker and recent International student graduates. Entrepreneurs and Business Investors have dedicated federal and provincial immigration streams to get permanent residency.

Contact one of our immigration consultants to help you understand the current Canadian immigration process in more detail. 

Canada Ministerial virtual conference calls for economic recovery through immigration

On July 24, Minister Mendicino tweeted about the Federal-Provincial-Territorial Immigration teleconference which was chaired by him. Immigration Ministers across the provinces and territories attended the virtual conference to discuss the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the Canadian immigration system. One of the positive outcomes of the teleconference was amidst the border closures, the ministers agreed to build a stronger immigration system.

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Economic-class including International students to benefit

The Ministerial virtual conference took due cognizance of the disruption in the immigration scenario caused by the imposition of travel ban due to COVID-19 pandemic. It further discussed the need for governments at various levels to work together to attract, welcome and retain more number of economic-class and family-sponsored immigrants. 

Even before the pandemic, Canada used to openly welcome economic-class immigrants including Skilled Workers, Business investors/entrepreneurs to settle permanently and actively contribute to the growth of Canada. The country would also allow their family members to easily obtain the status of permanent residency. Immigration Ministers at the virtual conference were of the opinion of increasing the levels of economic-class immigration to meet the problem of declining population growth as well as support the economy. 

 International students were identified as key drivers in economic and demographic growth. Canada is one of the top three study destinations in the world and over 70% of international graduates apply for permanent residence after a minimum one work experience in the country. 

Federal Minister Mendicino has often highlighted the commitment of government in welcoming global talent even during the pandemic. It holds to be true as regular Express Entry draws, PNP draws (in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia) remained active even during the present travel restrictions.  

Immigration ministers are likely to meet again in the fall to re-evaluate the immigration levels plan for 2021-2023 yet one thing remains clear – The pandemic has not had a negative impact on the desire of the federal and provincial governments to maintain an open and welcoming immigration system in Canada. Meanwhile, a Federal-Provincial-Territorial Strategic Plan for Immigration 2020-2023 is expected to be finalised soon to outline the governments’ priorities for immigration.  

Trevor Holder, the co-chair of the Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration and also the Minister for Immigration in New Brunswick, in a separate press release said: “Together, we can grow into an even more prosperous country where newcomers and their families can settle, succeed and contribute to our communities.” 

Newcomers to Canada are those who have applied for permanent residence status in the country. CanApprove offers an extensive range of immigration services based on your profile. We also provide skill assessment training for your successful entry into Canada. Talk to our consultants today to start planning your immigration to Canada!

Canada boasts of higher percentages of immigrants who obtain citizenship

Major western countries and popular immigration destinations are increasingly suffering from ethnonationalism and xenophobic tendencies. But Canada remains to be one of the rare destinations where immigrants are openly welcomed on the basis of their merit. Its major success in economic-class immigration programs including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs as well as family sponsorship programs is the epitome of its success. 

Canada, thereby, boasts of higher percentages of immigrants who obtain citizenship. Fill-in this free assessment to show your interest in Canadian immigration.  

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Benefits of becoming a Canadian citizen

Securing the citizenship rights is the final step towards complete integration into Canadian society. Immigrants can avail wider job opportunities including jobs at the federal level. Various studies and reports in the past have shown the increase in immigrants’ earnings as well as labour market outcomes after obtaining citizenship. 

Having a Canadian passport allows its holders to travel to most developed countries without visa Canada also allows dual citizenship meaning the immigrants can still retain their citizenship of other countries, if applicable. Furthermore, children born to the holders of Canadian citizenship will automatically be eligible for citizenship.

 

Eligibility for citizenship in Canada

The citizenship in Canada can be obtained either by birth or naturalisation. Obtaining citizenship by naturalization is increasingly popular among the growing number of immigrants in the country. Here are the major requirements to fulfil in order to qualify for Canadian citizenship through naturalisation: 

  • Must have obtained the status of Permanent Residency in Canada. Express Entry or other Provincial Nominee Programs are some of the easiest pathways for Canada PR.  
  • Must have lived in Canada for at least three years in the last five years before applying for citizenship
  • Must have good proficiency, both written and spoken, in English or French. 
  • And most importantly, the candidate must be free from any criminal past.

 

There is also a written test that assesses the candidates’ awareness of the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens. The test also focuses on them having basic knowledge about the country’s geography, political system and history.

The government even offers settlement services to the immigrants which are unlike other major immigration destinations. Get more such updates about immigrating to Canada and obtaining its citizenship. Contact our expert immigration consultants to know your eligibility and options of qualifying for Permanent residency and later Canadian citizenship. 

August Week-in-Review: Canada Immigration between 1 August – 7 August

The beginning of a new month brought new hopes to aspirants looking to settle permanently in Canada. The prospects of economic-class immigrants including Skilled workers, entrepreneurs as well as investors got even brighter with regular nomination draws. Even the Canadian economy is reviving with the recent positive trends in employment. Having said that, let us now look deeper into the top highlights of Canadian immigration for the preceding week. 

Back-to-back Express Entry draws

No doubt, Express Entry draws are the most awaited and popular nomination systems among the economic-class immigrants to obtain permanent residence. Each profile registered in the Express Entry pool is assessed and scored on a 1,200 points Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). It is based on human capital factors such as age, education, work experience, proficiency in English or French. The most eye-catching feature is that candidates need not require any job offer in Canada to apply for Canada PR under the Express Entry system. 

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Immigration, Refugees and the Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted back-to-back Express Entry draws issuing over 4,150 invitations to apply (ITAs) to eligible candidates for permanent residency. Such candidates qualified for one of the three federal immigration programs- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skills Trades Program (FSTP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

First draw was an all-program Express Entry nominating 3,900 candidates having a minimum CRS score of 476 points. It was followed by an exclusive Express Entry draw the next day, issuing 250 ITAs only under the Federal Skills Trades Program and having a cut-off CRS score of 415. 

Such consecutive Express Entry draws indicate the liberal intention of welcoming more and more economic-class immigrants who are outside Canada to apply for permanent residency. This also shows that Canadian immigration is swiftly recovering from the backlashes of travel restrictions imposed due to COVID-19 pandemic. 

New PNP draws

Canadian provinces have held the spirits of Canadian immigration high throughout the lock time period. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) from several provinces remained active, thereby, issuing provincial nominations to select economic-class immigrants. This week, Manitoba and British Columbia PNPs remained active. A successful provincial nomination shall also guarantee a permanent residence in Canada. 

Manitoba nominated 199 candidates who qualified under its three provincial streams- Skilled Worker Overseas, Skilled Workers in Manitoba and the International Graduates Stream, apart from the federally-managed Express Entry pool. Economic-class immigrants outside Canada are required to demonstrate their connection to the province in order to receive a provincial nomination. Meanwhile, a job offer in Manitoba is necessarily required before applying under the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream. Recent International students who graduated from any institution in Manitoba are eligible for provincial nominations. 

British Columbia targeted 437 skilled immigrants for nominations to apply for permanent residency in Canada. The nominated candidates qualified for the provincial Skills Immigration category and Express Entry-linked category. They are required to have a prior job offer and are required to register under the provincially managed Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS).  

 

Employment recovery in Canada

The labour force survey by Statistics Canada shows the easing of travel restrictions in May and June reflected well in the recovery of employment to 9.2%, like that of February’s levels. Sectors like Construction, Retail experienced a rise in employment. Experts suggest that the situation is only going to be better in the upcoming months. 

All these only points us to conclude that Canada is in need of immigrants and the government is doing its best to make it happen. Talk to immigration consultants at CanApprove to plan your future in Canada. Follow this page to get more latest updates on Canadian Immigration.  August Week-in-Review: Canada Immigration between 1 August – 7 August

British Columbia conducts yet another PNP draws for Skill Immigrants

If one Canadian province stands out in nominating eligible candidates to apply for permanent residence, it will have to be British Columbia. The province has acted as a flag-bearer for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) since the imposed travel restrictions by regularly nominating skilled workers and international student graduates for permanent residency. 

The present travel restrictions in the view of COVID-19 pandemic did not deter the spirits of Canadian immigration as British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) nominates 437 eligible candidates under its Skills category and Express Entry-linked category. 

August 7 BC PNP draws extended provincial nominations to skilled workers, international student graduates and candidates with their Expression of Interest (EOIs) registered in the federal Express Entry pool. Such candidates were required to qualify a minimum provincial score that ranged from 76 and 98. 

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BC PNP Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS)

British Columbia follows its unique scoring system to select desirable candidates to fulfil the labour demand of the province. SIRS is a dedicated system designed for registrations under BC PNP. It assesses and scores candidates out of a total 200 points. The points are allocated on the basis of Economic factors including job offer and Human factors such as language proficiency, work experience and education. 

Candidates with prior job offer in British Columbia & proficiency in English or French are awarded the maximum points. In addition, interested Express Entry candidates can meet minimum provincial eligibility criteria in order to be considered for a provincial nomination from BC PNP in one of the following streams: 

 

 

But first, such candidates will have to qualify for one of the three federal economic immigration programs to enter the Express Entry pool- the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). 

An inherent advantage for Express Entry nominees is that an additional of 600 points get added to their overall Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. It will guarantee a permanent residence in the subsequent Express Entry draws. 

 

 

The category-wise breakdown of required qualifying score for August 7 BC PNP draws: 

 

BC PNP Category Immigration streams Qualifying Provincial score
Express Entry B.C.  Skilled Worker  97
International Graduate 98
Skills Immigration  Skilled Worker  97
International Graduate 98
Entry-level and Semi-skilled 76

Catch our President Ms Veronica Moye in a live interaction session discussing the future of Canadian Immigration and your prospects of obtaining a permanent residence in Canada. You can also talk to our consultants for more such updates.

Exclusive Canada Express Entry draws held for Federal Skilled Trades Program

In a rare occasion, the Immigration, Refugees and the Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a nomination draw for candidates who qualify under the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). The previous draw was held last year in October. 

In the second Express Entry draws in two days, a total of 250 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence in Canada were issued to eligible FSTP candidates registered in the Express Entry pool. Yesterday’s all-program Express Entry had an exuberate draw size and covered more categories of skilled workers abroad. 

Any candidate registered in the Express Entry pool is assessed and ranked against one another using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). It scores registered candidates on a total of 1200 points that is based on factors such as age, education, work experience and language proficiency. August 6 draw required the FSTP candidates to have a CRS cut-off score of at least 415 in order to be considered for an ITA. 

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Express Entry system and the Federal Skilled Trades Program 

Since its introduction in 2015, the Express Entry system has remained the number one immigration pathway for economic-class immigrants to obtain permanent residence in Canada. It is a federally-managed system for a pool of candidates under three programs- the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skills Trade Program, and the Canada Experience Class. Apart from these, every Canadian province has at least one dedicated stream under its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) which is linked to Express Entry pool. 

The FSTP is an exclusive pathway for permanent residence that caters to skilled workers in specific skilled trade. Such candidates would require at least two years of work experience in one of the following trades and occupations:

  • maintenance, equipment operation;
  • industrial, electrical and construction;
  • Control operators in processing, manufacturing, utilities;
  • technical and supervisor jobs in primary sectors like agriculture, mining etc.;
  • chefs; butchers or bakers.

 

Thanks to FSTP, interested candidates even with low CRS can now obtain permanent residence in Canada. Fill-up this free assessment to know your chances. 

 

Canada Express Entry draws in 2020

A total of 18 program-specific Express Entry draws were conducted in 2020 in addition to 7 all-program draws. Candidates with provincial nominations are separately selected through PNP-specific draws whereas those with prior work experience in Canada are eligible to receive ITAs in the CEC-specific draws. 

 

August 6 is only the 7th FSTP draw since 2015. 

 

Draw Number Date Number of ITAs issues Minimum CRS
159 August 6 250 415 (FSTP- specific)
158 August 5 3900 476
157 July 24 3343 445 (CEC-specific)
156 July 22 557 687 (PNP-specific)
155 July 8 3900 478
154 June 25 3508 431 (CEC-specific)
153 June 24 392 696 (PNP-specific)
152 June 11 3551 437 (CEC-specific)
151 June 10 341 743 (PNP-specific)
150 May 28 3515 440 (CEC-specific)
149 May 27 385 757 (PNP-specific)
148 May 15 3371 447 (CEC-specific)
147 May 13 529 718 (PNP-specific)
146 May 1 3311 452 (CEC-specific)
145 April 29 589 692 (PNP-specific)
144 April 16 3782 455 (CEC-specific)
143 April 15 118 808 (PNP-specific)
142 April 9 3294 464 (CEC-specific)
141 April 9 606 698 (PNP-specific)
140 March 23 3232 467 (CEC-specific)
139 March 18 668 720 (PNP-specific)
138 March 4 3900 471
137 February 19 4500 470
136 February 5 3500 472
135 January 22 3400 471
134 January 8 3400 473

 

 

Prior to the current travel restrictions, IRCC regularly conducted fortnightly Express Entry. It was modified to program-specific draws to meet the demands imposed due to travel restrictions. Irrespective of all-program draws resuming from July 8, Canada has already issued 61,850 ITAs in 2020. It is the most invitations issued on this day compared to every other year. 

Going forward, CanApprove advises all the aspiring permanent residents to continue planning their immigration as the prospects of settling in Canada is bright in the near future. Talk to our consultants to know your eligibility and various other options such as Business Investors or Entrepreneurs program in Canada. 

Canada conducts all-program Express Entry draw targeting Skilled Workers Overseas

August 5 draw issued a staggering 3,900 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency in Canada. All the selected candidates were required to have a qualifying Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 476 and above. The cut-off CRS score is two points lesser than the minimum CRS score of 478 in July 8 draw

Ever since Canada imposed travel restrictions in the view of COVID-19 pandemic, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) modified the conduct of regular Express Entry draws between March 18 and July 8. Canada now focussed on nominating candidates for permanent residency only under two specific programs- the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), simply because most of these candidates were present in Canada. July 8 marked the resumption of all-program Express Entry draws and about a month later, IRCC held its second all-program Express Entry draws. 

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The second all-program Express Entry draw since March 18 and 158th Express Entry draw overall considered applications from a pool of candidates who could qualify under any one of the federal programs – Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skills Trade Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This is of the indication that Canada is preferring to welcome more economic-class immigrants outside the country to apply for Canada PR. 

You can fill in this free assessment to know your eligibility for Canada immigration

Record-breaking ITAs in 2020 despite the travel restrictions

In its vision document, Canada envisages welcoming over 1 million permanent residents by 2022. The target for the year 2020 was set to a healthy 85,800 ITAs through Express Entry. Despite the current travel restrictions, IRCC is on its path to recovery with the present tally of 61,600 ITAs. 

Candidates registered in the Express Entry pool are assessed and ranked based on their Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS). It is majorly dependent on human capital factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency in English or French. 

Also, a candidate need not have a job offer to register their profile in the pool, however, those having one can fetch additional points under CRS.  

Eventually, some candidates end up having the same CRS score. Hence, a Tie-break rule is applied to resolve it. IRCC uses timestamp recording Jully 27, at 01:02:47 UTC. It means only who had registered their profile in the Express Entry pool before the selected date and time and having CRS score above 476 were eligible to receive an ITA. 

 

Draw Number Date Number of ITAs issues Minimum CRS
158 August 5 3900 476
155 July 8 3900 478
138 March 4 3900 471
137 February 19 4500 470
136 February 5 3500 472
135 January 22 3400 471
134 January 8 3400 473

 

Program-specific Express Entry draws in 2020

A total of 17 program-specific Express Entry draws were conducted in 2020. Candidates were selected from an Express Entry pool to be considered for programs such as Provincial Nominee Programs or Canadian Experience Class. Candidates to qualify for the CEC-specific draw must have at least one year of full-time work experience in Canada. Based on current provincial nominations, eligible candidates are issued ITAs under PNP-specific draws. 

 

 

Draw Number Date Number of ITAs issues Minimum CRS
156 July 22 557 687 (PNP-specific)
154 June 25 3508 431 (CEC-specific)
153 June 24 392 696 (PNP-specific)
152 June 11 3551 437 (CEC-specific)
151 June 10 341 743 (PNP-specific)
150 May 28 3515 440 (CEC-specific)
149 May 27 385 757 (PNP-specific)
148 May 15 3371 447 (CEC-specific)
147 May 13 529 718 (PNP-specific)
146 May 1 3311 452 (CEC-specific)
145 April 29 589 692 (PNP-specific)
144 April 16 3782 455 (CEC-specific)
143 April 15 118 808 (PNP-specific)
142 April 9 3294 464 (CEC-specific)
141 April 9 606 698 (PNP-specific)
140 March 23 3232 467 (CEC-specific)
139 March 18 668 720 (PNP-specific)

 

Canada has the most versatile and flexible immigration policies compare to other developed, western countries. If you are looking for better career opportunities, or want to study abroad, or become a successful entrepreneur, Canada is your perfect destination! Get in touch with our consultants to plan a detailed prospect for your Immigration to Canada. 

July‌ ‌31‌ ‌Manitoba‌ ‌PNP‌ ‌draw‌ ‌nominates‌ ‌199‌ ‌Skilled‌ ‌ candidates‌

In its 95th Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, the Canadian province of Manitoba issued a total of 199 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) under three provincial streams in addition to federally-managed Express Entry stream. 

LAAs are simply an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination that effectively guarantees permanent residence in Canada. The category-wise break-up of 199 LAAs are: 

With the latest draw held July 31, Manitoba is on its path to meet its annual target. Nearly 2,833 invitations have been issued in 2020 so far. 

Fill our free assessment form and get to know your eligibility and qualifications required for various Canada PNP

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Apply for Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program

In order to receive an LAA under the Skilled Workers in Manitoba and Skilled Workers Overseas categories, interested candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) with the MPNP. An LAA will allow them to apply for provincial nomination. Canada permanent residency is just a step away. 

Manitoba EOI system assesses and scores registered candidates out of 1,000 points which are based on human capital characteristics such as their proficiency in English or French, education, relevant work experience, Manitoba connections including familial ties, study or work in Manitoba etc., among other factors.

July 31 PNP draws required successful candidates to obtain a minimum cut-off score of 475 points under the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream whereas a minimum qualifying score under the Skilled Workers Overseas candidates was 764 points.  

One of the best options to get provincial nominations for Canada PR is applying through the Skilled Workers Overseas Category and Skilled Workers in Manitoba categories. Such categories cater the skilled workers already present in Manitoba or outside the country and looking to obtain Canada PR. 

Overseas candidates wanting to get a provincial nomination from Manitoba are required to demonstrate their connection to the province. Usually, familial ties, previous experience of work or study in the province, etc. A job offer in Manitoba is required before applying under the Skilled Workers in Manitoba category. Otherwise too, recent International students who graduated from any institution in Manitoba may receive an LAA. 

Express Entry is the most popular pathway for Canada PR and it is federally managed by Immigration, Refugees, and the Citizenship Canada (IRCC) since 2015. In addition, every Canada PNP has dedicated stream linked to Express Entry pool. It simplifies the nomination of eligible candidates based on a specific their EOI. 

To qualify for Express Entry selection, a candidates’ profile is assessed and ranked based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) which is out of 1200 points and depends on humans capital factors. These may be candidates’ age, education, work experience and language proficiency.

15 Express Entry candidates received LAAs from MPNP in the latest draws. It also means an additional 600 points will be added up to their overall CRS score. This shall effectively guarantee an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in Canada in the subsequent Express Entry draws. 

Canada immigration is a short and certain process. It would merely take anywhere between six-nine months to qualify for Canada PR under Express Entry or other similar pathways. Get in touch with our consultants to begin planning and suggest suitable programs to migrate to Canada. 

Canada’s Immigration Policies Fare Better Among Developed Countries

Industry 4.0 is the future of work. More and more professionals with Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Information Technology (IT) will be in demand. Those with enough work experience in these fields will look for better work opportunities and what better place to migrate than Canada. 

Canada is offering dedicated permanent residency pathways to attract and retain the best international AI talent. Anyone with work experience in artificial intelligence and information technology can easily apply for permanent residency in Canada. A recent study by the Center for Security and Emerging Technology conducted a country-wise comparison of immigration policies including Canada, the United States of America, Australia, the United Kingdom and France, along with its impact on the competitiveness of the Tech sector jobs in such countries.  

Surprisingly not, Canada yet again proves to be the most versatile and flexible in attracting foreign skilled workers and international students. It is best suited to attract more and more talent specialised in the field of artificial intelligence.  

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The Canada Advantage

More than anything else, Canada boasts of having 100+ immigration programs and streams for economic-class migrants including skilled workers, business entrepreneurs, international students for permanent residency. 

There are obvious advantages for Tech sector jobs as Canadian policies do not limit the length of stay of temporary foreign workers, unlike all other developed countries. Even the processing time for work permits may take several months, whereas, in Canada, the process is time-bound to two-eight weeks. Unlike the annual lottery system, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issues work permits throughout the year. 

Following a two-step immigration process, these workers can apply for permanent residency in Canada right away. The average time in other countries is about three-five years. 

Perhaps the biggest reason why Canada immigration is so popular is that Canada is the only country to allow foreign workers with enough work experience among other human capital factors to apply for permanent residence right away. 

Take this free assessment to know your eligibility for Canada immigration. 

 

Permanent Residency options in Canada 

Canada Express Entry is the most popular immigration pathway for foreign skilled workers. It offers permanent residence to candidates registered under the system. IRCC nominates eligible candidates suiting the qualifying criteria for federal programs like the Federal Skilled Workers Program, the Federal Skills Trade Program and the Canadian Experience Class. In addition to it, several Provincial Nominee Programs have a dedicated stream linked to Express Entry pool of candidates. In our experience, the entire process takes anywhere between six to nine months. 

 

 

Canadian provinces like Ontario, British Columbia have dedicated streams for Tech sector jobs offering permanent residency. In fact, the latest Tech draw by Ontario extended provincial nominations to nearly 1,288 candidates having work experience in one of the six in-demand occupations. Similarly, British Columbia welcomes Tech candidates specializing in one of 29 occupations. 

Canada is home to specialised companies in AI and operating across the country from Montreal to Vancouver. Almost all the major Canadian universities/colleges offer specialised study programs in AI and related fields. Get in touch with our immigration and education consultants to know more about your options and chances of getting a permanent residence in Canada.