British Columbia’s Acceptance Of New Pearson Language Test Delayed

Colin Singer
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British Columbia’s Acceptance Of New Pearson Language Test Delayed

The Pearson Test of English (PTE Core) is not currently being accepted by the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP), despite Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) having officially included it in its list of approved language proficiency tests.

On January 30, IRCC announced that the PTE Core is eligible for all Canada work and visa applications except for the Student Direct Stream (SDS).

The first of the PTE Core tests can be taken from February 12, joining the CELPIP and IELTS tests in the list of accredited English proficiency tests for economic immigration to Canada through the federal Express Entry-related programs.

However, the BC PNP has announced that it does not yet accept them.

The tests currently accepted by the BC PNP are:

  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) General Training
  • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP-General)
  • Test d’evaluation de francais (TEF)
  • Test de connaissance du francais (TCF)

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The WelcomeBC website did highlight, however, that the province will likely begin accepting the PTE Core in fall 2024.

What is the PTE Core?

PTE Core is a new addition to the umbrella of Pearson Test of English, highly mirroring PTE Academic in its structural framework and content inclusions.

Its two-hour duration is solely confined to the computer, taken at a test center that assesses four key English language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

It differentiates itself from its Academic counterpart by being relevant for the vocational test taker, designed with a real-life, non-academic focus.

“It was created to meet Canada’s specific migration needs and the IRCC’s language proficiency requirements but could be used to assess the English proficiency of vocational test takers in any country,” according to the Pearson website.

The test was instituted as a substitute for the previous PTE Essential, which had received IRCC approval last year.

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Why Was the PTE Core Created?

Pearson’s website reads that the Core was created in response to Canada’s economic migration needs in 2024 and beyond.

The country’s immigration levels plans, in combination with Canada’s support for family reunification and refugee protection, require a test like the PTE Core to be introduced.

The test, in fact, arrives at a “good time” for test takes, considering Canada’s high demand for professionals in nursing, engineering, and web development.

Canada’s Population Growth Sparks Calls For Balanced Immigration Policy

Colin Singer
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Canada’s Population Growth Sparks Calls For Balanced Immigration Policy

There is increased doubt about the sustainability of Canada’s immigration policy despite it being the source of much-needed fuel for various sectors across the economy.

According to the Northern Trust economic review, newcomers to Canada have significantly contributed to its record population growth in 2022. That year, Canada welcomed 437,180 immigrants and saw a net increase in the number of non-permanent residents estimated at 607,782.

This highlights the sheer force of the newcomer population in Canada, which contributes to industries such as healthcare, IT, construction and engineering, financial services, education, and energy.

However, many are questioning Ottawa’s current approach, according to BNN’s Sakchi Khandelwal. Not just policy and political gurus, but the government is also partaking in this conversation, as highlighted by the Trudeau administration’s recent study permit caps. Moreover, public opinion on immigration is shifting towards the negative, with some advocating for a reduction in numbers to alleviate immediate pressures on public services and housing.

There is another camp that disagrees with the skeptics, arguing instead for a much-bolstered immigration program to counter-balance Canada’s ageing population.

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A Desjardins report from last year analyzed how much population growth among working-age Canadians is necessary to maintain the old-age dependency ration, which is the difference between 15 to 64-year olds and those aged 65 and older.

This discussion is evolving, and Immigration Minister Marc Miller has emphasized the need for better planning and integration to fix the problems plaguing the Canada Immigration Program.

The new approach needs to play a careful balancing act, wherein not only does it ensure that the influx of talent aligns with Canada’s economic needs, but it also considers the social and infrastructural capacities to support this growth.

This was the approach being furthered by Immigration Canada through the 2024-2024 Immigration Levels Plan.

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“Immigration drives Canada’s economy and fuels its future growth,” read the news release from November of last year. “As we continue to face an aging population and critical labour shortages in key sectors like health care, transportation and home building, newcomers are critical to help spur innovation, grow the economy, and support local businesses and communities.”

“The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today tabled the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan. This plan is tailored to support economic growth while balancing with the pressures in areas like housing, healthcare and infrastructure. It charts a responsible course for sustainable and stable population growth.”

Through this plan, Ottawa maintained its target of 485,000 PRs for 2024 and furthered it to 500,000 for 2025. Starting in 2026, the government aimed to stabilize PR levels at 500,000, which will allow time for integration, while continuing to augment the Canadian labor market.

How To Find A School For Your Children As A New Immigrant To Canada

Colin Singer
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How To Find A School For Your Children As A New Immigrant To Canada

For new immigrants to Canada, understanding the education system and finding the right school for their children can be a significant concern.

Moving to a new country is an exciting yet challenging endeavor, especially when it comes to ensuring your children receive a quality education.

However, with proper guidance and knowledge, this process can be streamlined to ensure a smooth transition for the entire family.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore essential factors to consider when finding a school for your children as a new immigrant to Canada.

Before diving into the specifics of finding a school, it’s crucial to understand the Canadian education system.

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Unlike some countries, Canada offers a publicly funded education system that is accessible to all residents, including immigrants. Here’s an overview:

  1. Public Schools: Public schools in Canada are funded by the government and offer free education to all residents. These schools follow the curriculum set by the provincial or territorial government.
  2. Private Schools: Private schools are independently funded and may have religious affiliations or offer specialized curricula. Families usually pay tuition fees for their children to attend private schools.
  3. French Language Schools: In certain provinces, such as Quebec, French language schools are prevalent. These schools conduct classes primarily in French and cater to Francophone communities.
  4. Immersion Programs: Some schools offer immersion programs where students can learn in both English and French, providing an opportunity for language development.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing a School

As a new immigrant to Canada, several factors should influence your decision when Finding A School For Your Children. Consider the following:

  1. Location: Look for schools that are conveniently located near your residence or place of work. Accessibility to transportation and proximity to amenities are essential considerations.
  2. School Ratings and Reputation: Research the reputation and academic performance of schools in your area. Websites and forums often provide insights and reviews from other parents and students.
  3. Curriculum: Understand the curriculum followed by each school and determine if it aligns with your educational goals and values. Consider factors such as academic rigor, extracurricular activities, and support services.
  4. Diversity and Inclusion: Canada is known for its cultural diversity, and many schools embrace multiculturalism. Consider Finding A School For Your Children that fosters inclusivity and celebrates diversity.
  5. Language of Instruction: Depending on your language preference and proficiency, you may opt for schools that offer instruction in English, French, or other languages.
  6. Support for Newcomers: Look for schools that offer support services for immigrant families, such as language classes, cultural integration programs, and guidance counselors.
  7. Extracurricular Activities: Consider the availability of extracurricular activities, sports teams, and clubs that can enrich your children’s educational experience and help them make friends.

Navigating the Enrollment Process

Once you’ve identified potential schools, it’s time to navigate the enrollment process. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Contact Schools: Reach out to the schools you’re interested in and inquire about their enrollment procedures. Many schools have dedicated staff or enrollment coordinators who can assist you.
  2. Gather Documentation: Prepare the necessary documentation for enrollment, including proof of residency, birth certificates for your children, and immunization records.
  3. Schedule Visits: Whenever possible, schedule visits to the schools to tour the facilities, meet with administrators, and observe classes in session. This will help you get a feel for the school environment.
  4. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the enrollment process. Inquire about class sizes, teacher qualifications, disciplinary policies, and any other concerns you may have.
  5. Consider Transitional Support: If your children are transitioning from a different educational system, inquire about support services or transitional programs offered by the school to help them adjust.
  6. Review Enrollment Deadlines: Be mindful of enrollment deadlines, especially if you’re Finding A School For Your Children As A New Immigrant To Canada mid-year. Some schools may have specific enrollment periods or waiting lists.

Finding a school for your children as a new immigrant to Canada may seem daunting at first, but with proper guidance and research, you can ensure a smooth transition for your family.

By understanding the Canadian education system, considering essential factors, and navigating the enrollment process strategically, you can find a school that meets your children’s needs and sets them up for success in their new home.

Remember to take advantage of available resources and support services to facilitate the transition and make the most of this exciting opportunity for your family’s future.

Ontario Invites 2,583 Skilled Trades Candidates In New Express Entry Draw

Colin Singer
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Ontario Invites 2,583 Skilled Trades Candidates In New Express Entry Draw

Ontario has conducted a new draw through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), issuing 2,583 Canada immigration invitations to Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream candidates.

The March 1 draw saw invites issued to candidates in 40 occupations scoring between 350 and 424 Comprehensive Ranking System points.

The invitations were targeted at the following occupations:

  1. NOC 72010 – Contractors and supervisors, machining, metal forming, shaping and erecting trades and related occupations
  2. NOC 72011 – Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations
  3. NOC 72012 – Contractors and supervisors, pipefitting trades
  4. NOC 72013 – Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
  5. NOC 72020 – Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades
  6. NOC 72021 – Contractors and supervisors, heavy equipment operator crews
  7. NOC 72022 – Supervisors, printing and related occupations
  8. NOC 72100 – Machinists and machining and tooling inspectors
  9. NOC 72101 – Tool and die makers
  10. NOC 72102 – Sheet metal workers
  11. NOC 72103 – Boilermakers
  12. NOC 72104 – Structural metal and platework fabricators and fitters
  13. NOC 72105 Ironworkers
  14. NOC 72106 – Welders and related machine operators
  15. NOC 72200 – Electricians (except industrial and power system)
  16. NOC 72201 – Industrial electricians
  17. NOC 72203 – Electrical power line and cable workers
  18. NOC 72204 – Telecommunications line and cable installers and repairers
  19. NOC 72205 – Telecommunications equipment installation and cable television service technicians
  20. NOC 72300 – Plumbers
  21. NOC 72301 – Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers
  22. NOC 72302 – Gas fitters
  23. NOC 72310 – Carpenters
  24. NOC 72311 – Cabinetmakers
  25. NOC 72320 – Bricklayers
  26. NOC 72321 – Insulators
  27. NOC 72400 – Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
  28. NOC 72402 – Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics
  29. NOC 72403 – Railway carmen/women
  30. NOC 72404 – Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors
  31. NOC 72406 – Elevator constructors and mechanics
  32. NOC 72410 – Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
  33. NOC 72422 – Electrical mechanics
  34. NOC 72423 – Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle and other related mechanics
  35. NOC 72500 – Crane operators
  36. NOC 73100 – Concrete finishers
  37. NOC 73101 – Tilesetters
  38. NOC 73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers
  39. NOC 73110 – Roofers and shinglers
  40. NOC 73111 – Glaziers
  41. NOC 73113 – Floor covering installers
  42. NOC 73200 – Residential and commercial installers and servicers
  43. NOC 73201 – General building maintenance workers and building superintendents
  44. NOC 73202 – Pest controllers and fumigators
  45. NOC 73209 – Other repairers and servicers
  46. NOC 73400 – Heavy equipment operators
  47. NOC 73402 – Drillers and blasters – surface mining, quarrying and construction
  48. NOC 82031 – Contractors and supervisors, landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticulture services

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Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream Draw

Date NOIs  CRS Score Range Express Entry profile submission date
01-03-2024 2,583 350-424 March 1, 2023 – March 1, 2024

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Ontario Express Entry: Skilled Trades Stream

The Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream targets skilled trades workers in the construction and agricultural sectors but could be expanded in the future.

To qualify applicants must have:

  • Active profile under the Federal Express Entry system.
  • At least 12 months, cumulative or continuous, of full-time paid work experience in Ontario, within the last two years prior to the Notification of Interest, in NOC major groups 72 (excluding occupations under transportation officers), 73, 82, 83, 93 (excluding aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors) or minor group 6320 (excluding cooks).
  • Proof of Ontario license or certification if an occupational requirement.
  • A valid work permit and residing in Ontario at the time of application.
  • Minimum language CLB/NCLC level 5 or above in English or in French.
  • Proof of required settlement funds.

Prince Edward Island Issues 24 Canada Immigration Invitations Targeting Health and Construction Jobs

Colin Singer
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Prince Edward Island Issues 24 Canada Immigration Invitations Targeting Health and Construction Jobs

Prince Edward Island has conducted a new provincial draw, issuing invitations to apply to 24 skilled worker Canada immigration candidates.

The February 29 draw saw invitations issued through the Labour Impact and Express Entry Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) stream.

Invitations were issued to individuals working in the Healthcare and Construction sectors.

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PEI PNP Immigration Draw

Date Category Invites Issued Minimum Score
29-02-2023 Labour Impact/Express Entry 24 N/A

PEI launched its Expression of Interest system at the start of 2018, and has made monthly draws ever since, with some disruption due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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PEI issued 2,423 invites in 2023, up from 1,853 during 2022.

Of the 2023 invites, 2,359 went to Labour Impact and Express Entry candidates, with the remaining 64 going to Business Impact candidates.

Prince Edward Island Express Entry Stream

PEI’s Express Entry category operates by considering candidates already in the federal Express Entry Pool for a provincial nomination.

Such a nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and effectively guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian immigration.

The PEI Express Entry Category features two pathways to Canadian permanent residence, one for candidates with a job offer and one for those without.

Prince Edward Island Labour Impact Category

1) Skilled Worker Stream

This employer driven stream allows skilled workers with an employment offer in PEI to be nominated for Canadian Permanent residence if they meet the following criteria:

  • A full time employment offer from a Prince Edward Island business in an occupation classified as TEER category 0, 1, 2 or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC);
  • Completion of a post-secondary education, with a minimum of 14 years of formal education;
  • Between 21 and 55 years of age;
  • At least 2 years of full time work experience in the past 5 years;
  • Sufficient proficiency in English or French to occupy the employment offered;
  • Sufficient settlement funds;
  • Demonstrated intention to settle in Prince Edward Island.

2) Critical Worker Stream

This category is designed to resolve labour shortages and is open to foreign workers already in PEI with employment in specific critical demand occupations. The primary criteria for nomination are:

  • A full time offer of employment from a Prince Edward Island business in one of the following occupations:
    • Truck driver;
    • Customer service representative;
    • Labourer;
    • Food & beverage server;
    • Housekeeping attendant.
  • 6 months of work experience with the Prince Edward Island business offering employment;
  • Current valid Canadian work permit;
  • High school diploma and minimum of 12 years of formal education;
  • Between 21 and 55 years of age;
  • At least 2 years of full-time work experience in the past 5 years;
  • Demonstrate basic proficiency in English or French language;
  • Sufficient settlement funds;
  • Demonstrated intention to settle in Prince Edward Island.

Canada International Student Enrollment Increased Fastest By Public Colleges

Colin Singer
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Canada International Student Enrollment Increased Fastest By Public Colleges

A spike in international student enrollments that has contributed to rising housing costs and a strain on Canadian infrastructure in being blamed on a handful of publicly-funded colleges in Ontario.

According to a CBC News analysis of data, all but one of the 30 Canadian colleges and universities that granted the most study permits last year was a publicly-funded, post-secondary institution.

Ten Ontario colleges, all of them funded with taxpayer dollars, accounted for almost 30 per cent of study permits in the country over the past three years, reports the Canadian broadcaster.

And 12 publicly-funded colleges in Ontario more than tripled their annual study permit numbers in the five years that ended on Dec. 31, 2023.

Michael Sangster, chief executive officer of the National Association of Career Colleges, isn’t surprised by the results of the CBC News investigation.

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“Of the 599,355 international study permit applications approved or extended by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in 2023, just 4.4 per cent were for regulated career colleges who are members of the industry association I lead,” wrote Sangster in an op-ed in the Ottawa Citizen newspaper.

“This represents a proportional decrease over the past three years, as my member institutions clocked in at 5.2 per cent and 4.8 per cent of new and extended study permit approvals in 2021 and 2022 respectively.”

The findings of the national broadcaster’s investigation also fly in the face of statements made by Canadian politicians that private-sector colleges have been the primary drivers of the spike in the number of international students in Canada.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has reportedly gone so far as to call these private colleges bad actors that are the “equivalent of puppy mills that are just churning out diplomas.”

While still blaming some private colleges, the immigration minister has since admitted that at least some public colleges have also played their part.

“Some of the really, really bad actors are in the private sphere, and those need to be shut down, but there is responsibility across the board,” Miller has reportedly said. “We just need the provinces in question, in this case Ontario, to assume their responsibility.”

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Last month, the immigration minister capped study permit applications for this year at 606,250.

“The intent of these Instructions is to ensure the number of study permit applications accepted into processing by the Department of Citizenship and Immigration … within the scope of the instructions does not exceed 606,250 study permit applications for one year beginning on the date of signature,” the Canada Gazette reported on Feb. 3.

“As stipulated in these Instructions, certain categories of study permit applications are excluded from the conditions set out in these Instructions and the associated application cap established by these Instructions.”

The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE)’s president and CEO, Larissa Bezo, has called the study permit cap a “blunt instrument” and expressed concern it might have serious unintended consequences.

Study Permit Cap Will Slash Arrival Of New International Students By A Third

“This is not the way we would have chosen to go about addressing these issues of sustainability,” she said.

“But if we look at this from 50,000 feet, what these policy measures do is afford us an opportunity to be more strategic and intentional to ensure a sustainable approach for the long term.”

The CBIE website describes the study permit cap as a hasty one-size-fits-all solution that may jeopardize the benefits of international education that many communities across the country experience and rapidly unravel a strong global Canadian education brand that has taken years to build.

“A 35 per cent reduction in student visas is ultimately a signal to prospective international students around the world that Canada is closing its doors,” notes the CBIE website.

“These measures have the potential to cause irreparable harm to the EduCanada brand, and in a highly-globally competitive market, students may opt to choose other countries instead, well beyond the two-year duration of these measures.”

Exempt from this new cap on international study permits are those international students who already have study permits and are seeking to renew them and the family member of a temporary resident who already has either a work or study permit.

Also exempt from the cap on study permits are:

  • members of the armed forces of a country under the Visiting Forces Act, including a person who has been designated as a civilian component of those armed forces;
  • officers of a foreign governments sent, under exchange agreements between Canada and one or more countries, to take up duties with a federal or provincial agency;
  • participants in sports activities or events, in Canada, either as an individual participant or as a member of a foreign-based team or Canadian amateur team;
  • employees of foreign news companies reporting on events in Canada;
  • people responsible for assisting congregations or groups in the achievement of their spiritual goals and whose main duties are to preach doctrine, perform functions related to gatherings of their congregations or groups or provide spiritual counselling.

Better Jobs And More Pay For Recent Canada Immigrants

Colin Singer
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Better Jobs And More Pay For Recent Canada Immigrants

A Statistics Canada report says immigrants are increasingly likely to land jobs and better pay than they did in the past but still lag behind the rest of the Canadian population when it comes to employment and income.

“Since the early 2010s, recent immigrants in the 25 to 54 age group have seen a faster growth in employment rates, compared with their Canadian-born counterparts … (and) … recent immigrants have also experienced faster earnings growth compared with Canadian-born workers since the mid-2010s,” reports the statistical and demographic services agency.

In The Improvement In The Labour Market Outcomes Of Recent Immigrants Since The Mid-2010s, Statistics Canada’s Feng Hou notes there was a 10.7 percentage point jump in the employment rate of recent immigrants from 2010 to 2023.

During that period, the employment rate of the Canadian-born population rose by only 4.1 per cent.

“Consequently, the employment rate gap between the two groups narrowed from 13.1 percentage points in 2010 to 6.5 percentage points in 2023,” wrote Hou.

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“In line with the rise in employment rates, the unemployment rate also declined among recent immigrants in the 25 to 54 age group, from 12.1 per cent in 2010 to 6.2 per cent in 2022 and 6.6 per cent in 2023.”

With that drop in the unemployment rate for recent immigrants, the gap in the unemployment rate between recent immigrants and Canadian-born workers narrowed from 5.7 percentage points in 2010 to 2.6 percentage points in 2023.

Immigrants are now closer to  enjoying income parity with other Canadians.

“The gap in weekly earnings between recent immigrants and Canadian-born workers decreased from 19.9 per cent in 2015 to 13.4 per cent in 2020 among men and from 20.4 per cent to 15.5 per cent among women,” notes the report.

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Although recent immigrants still earn significantly less than Canadian-born workers, the recent trend marks a departure from the long-standing pattern of stagnation in the relative earnings of recent immigrant men and the worsening trend in the relative earnings of recent immigrant women from 2000 to 2015.

“With similar socioeconomic characteristics, recent immigrant men earned 16.7 per cent less than their Canadian-born counterparts in 2000 and 17.3 per cent less in 2015,” notes the report.

“Likewise, recent immigrant women earned 22.1 per cent less than Canadian-born women in 2000 and 25.4 per cent less in 2015. Thanks to the recent improvements, the earnings gap for recent immigrants in 2020 was the narrowest in the past two decades.”

In his report, Hou is less certain this trend will continue much longer as the rate of arrival of new workers through permanent and temporary immigration programs seems likely to outstrip job growth in the near future.

Trend Of Improving Outcomes For Immigrants May Change As Immigration Levels Climb

“The dynamics of labour supply and demand are poised to change,” Hou advises.

When Canada was welcoming an average of 276,000 new immigrants annually from 2010 to 2019, adding a minimum of 148,000 people to the labour supply each year, the number of employed temporary residents was also rising from 14,000 in 2011 to 108,000 by 2019.

All of those extra workers were more easily able to find jobs during that time because Canada was then also seeing annual employment increase by an average of 234,000 from 2010 to 2019.

“Hence, the annual rise in labour supply from new immigrants and temporary residents generally remained below the total employment growth in the economy throughout the 2010s. The residual growth was absorbed by the Canadian-born population and longer-term immigrants,” notes Hou.

That’s expected to change in the coming years.

“The planned level of immigration increases from 465,000 in 2023 to 500,000 in 2025, an increase of about 80 per cent compared with the average level in the 2010s,” notes Hou.

“Additionally, the admission of temporary foreign workers and international students has also increased considerably in recent years.”

In his report, Hou admits it is unclear whether the Canadian economy will generate sufficient employment opportunities to accommodate the expected increase in labour supply from new immigrants and temporary foreign workers.

“Another layer of uncertainty is how artificial intelligence will affect net job creation in the years to come,” he notes.

Quebec’s Temporary Workforce Almost Quadrupled In Eight Years

Colin Singer
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Quebec’s Temporary Workforce Almost Quadrupled In Eight Years

A Quebec think-tank has revealed in its latest report that Quebec’s temporary worker labour force roughly quadrupled in only eight years.

“The number of temporary work permits has gone from 43,770 in 2015 to 167,435 in 2023,” the Institut du Québec (IDQ) notes in its February report.

“These immigrants come to Quebec through two main programs: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) which allows employers to bring in workers to fill a vacant position or the International Mobility Program (IMP) which provides for several ways to welcome temporary immigrants, including for example, international graduates or the spouses of students or temporary workers.”

According to the IDQ report, the three industry sectors which employ the most temporary workers are: manufacturing at 16 per cent, wholesale and retail trade at 12 per cent, and the restaurant and hospitality sector at nine per cent.

Temporary foreign workers are, however, considered to be under-represented in Quebec’s construction and healthcare and social services sectors due to difficulties with recruitment abroad.

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“In 2023, temporary foreign workers constituted three per cent of the Quebec labour force but their representation in the construction sector was a third of that, a situation which is not found in Ontario,” notes the report.

IDQ director Emna Braham has reportedly credited temporary foreign workers with boosting the number of workers in the francophone province and helping resolve labour shortages.

“We see that this labor supply has really increased significantly over the last year, almost 100,000 more people,” she reportedly told Canadian Press. “This growth has been largely attributable to temporary immigration over the past year.”

According to Statistics Canada, the province of Quebec hit a new record for temporary residents in the fourth quarter of last year with the number of these residents spiking 42.3 per cent to hit 528,034.

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A year earlier, there were only 360,936 temporary residents in that province which has under the leadership of its premier, François Legault, repeatedly stated it will hold the line on immigration.

The Quebecois premier repeatedly insisted last year that Quebec would hold the line at 50,000 new permanent residents.

The latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows Legault’s immigration officials seem to have made good on that election promise with 52,790 new permanent residents to the province last year.

The provincial government in Quebec sees immigration, particularly that immigration from non-French-speaking countries, as a possible threat to the long-term viability of the Quebecois culture.

Premier Sees Immigration As Possible Threat To Quebecois Culture

Legault has made it clear his government is deeply-committed to ensuring the survival of the French language and has gone so far as to put forth proposals to limit all economic immigration to the province to French-speaking immigrants by 2026.

“As premier of Quebec, my first responsibility is to defend our language and our identity,” said Legault. “During the past few years, the French language has been in decline in Quebec. Since 2018, our government has acted to protect our language, more so than any previous government since the adoption of Bill 101 under the Levesque government.

“But, if we want to turn the tide, we must do more. By 2026, our goal is to have almost entirely francophone economic immigration. We have the duty, as Québécois, to speak French, to daily pass on our culture and to be proud of it.”

Temporary workers and international students in Quebec often later seek to immigrate to Canada through either the federal Express Entry system’s Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program, Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) of the provinces.

Nova Scotia’s Entrepreneur Streams For Canada Immigration Re-Launched

Colin Singer
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Nova Scotia’s Entrepreneur Streams For Canada Immigration Re-Launched

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program’s International Graduate Entrepreneur and Entrepreneur streams are being re-launched as permanent programs by provincial government.

For updating these streams, the Department of Labor, Skills, and Immigration met with partners and carried out an internal evaluation.

These collectively provided the provincial government with information and recommendations to make the streams more efficient and relevant to the opportunities in Nova Scotia.

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The following changes are in effect:

  • The threshold to qualify for businesses outside HRM is now lower:
    • Within HRM: $600,000 net worth, $150,000 investment
    • Outside HRM: $400,000 net worth, $100,000 investment;
  • The provincial government can now issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to those candidates who have been strategically chosen, and in support of key sectors;
  • The provincial government will proactively work with partners who are mandated to find potential buyers for existing businesses;
  • There is now a new and improved application process with the launch of a novel online application, and;
  • Real estate and construction businesses can now qualify under certain conditions, including the applicant’s ability to demonstrate that the business will provide a compelling benefit to Nova Scotia.

Entrepreneur Stream

This stream allows experienced business owners or senior business managers a chance to live in NS by starting a new business or buying an existing business. For that, they must actively participate in the day-to-day management of the business.

After running the business for a year, the entrepreneur in question may be nominated for PR status in Canada.

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Application to this stream is by invitation only.

To apply, applicants must:

  • Be 21 years or older;
  • Want to live permanently in Nova Scotia while owning and actively managing a NS business;
  • Have a net worth of at least $600,000 ($400,000 if their business is outside Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM));
  • Be able to invest at least $150,000 of their own money to establish a business in Nova Scotia ($100,000 if their business is outside HRM);
  • Have at least 3 years’ experience actively managing and owning a business (1/3 ownership minimum) OR more than 5 years’ experience in a senior business management role;
  • Have a score of at least 5 on the Canadian Language Benchmark in speaking, listening, reading and writing in English or French;
  • Complete an online Expression of Interest;
  • Receive an ITA from Labour, Skills and Immigration.

International Graduate Entrepreneur

The IGE stream caters to recent graduates of a NS university or Community College. They must have already started or bought an NS business and operated it for at least one year.

If they intend to settle in the province, they must be nominated for PR status.

Application to this stream is also by invitation only.

To apply, candidates must:

  • Want to live permanently in Nova Scotia while owning and actively managing a Nova Scotia business;
  • Have at least one year’s continuous experience actively managing and owning their current Nova Scotia business (33.33% ownership minimum);
  • Have completed a degree or diploma after at least 2 academic years of full-time, in-person study at a university in Nova Scotia or the Nova Scotia Community College;
  • Possess a valid post-graduation work permit (PGWP);
  • Have scored at least a 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) in speaking, listening, reading and writing in English or French;
  • Complete an online Expression of Interest;
  • Receive an Invitation to Apply from Labour, Skills and Immigration.

Canada Decides To Re-Impose Mexico Visa Requirements

Colin Singer
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Canada Decides To Re-Impose Mexico Visa Requirements

Canada is re-imposing visa requirements on Mexicans in its bid to curb the number of people coming to Canada who then try to illegally cross the border and enter the United States.

The new requirement went into effect Feb. 29 at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

U.S. Homeland Security, which oversees border security and the enforcement of American immigration laws, has under the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden, repeatedly asked  Canada to re-impose visa requirements for Mexican nationals to stem the flow of illegal immigrants across the Canada-U.S. border.

“We talk about this issue and many issues that impact the migration of people,” U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told CBC’s chief political correspondent Rosemary Barton in an interview early last year.

“I think that’s a decision that the Canadian officials are going to make.”

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Quebec Premier François Legault has also urged Ottawa to re-impose visa requirements on Mexican nationals in a letter sent in mid-January in which he called the federal government to stem the flow of refugees into Quebec and to compensate the province for its costs.

According to Legault, Quebec simply cannot handle anymore refugees.

“Mexican nationals represent a growing proportion of the asylum seekers arriving in Quebec, the possibility of entering Canada from Mexico without a visa certainly explains part of the flow of asylum seekers,” the premier wrote.

Under the new rules announced Thursday, Mexican citizens who do not hold a valid American, non-immigrant visa or who have not held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years now need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa.

Those who do hold a valid American, non-immigrant visa or who have not held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years and are travelling by air on a Mexican passport can apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA).

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“We will continue to welcome Mexican temporary workers, students, visitors and immigrants who bring diverse skills and important contributions to our economy and communities,” said Immigration Minister Marc Miller.

“We strive for balance between the movement of people between our two great countries and the need to relieve pressure on our immigration system so we can provide protection to those who need it the most.”

In the past few years, the number of asylum claims made by Mexican citizens that are refused, withdrawn or abandoned has spiked, reaching a record high last year. Roughly 60 per cent of all asylum claims made by Mexican nationals last year were either rejected by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada or withdrawn or abandoned by the applicant.

Former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper created a visa requirement for Mexicans coming to Canada in 2009. But current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government, which has been very bullish on immigration, relaxed that requirement in 2016.

In an apparent quid pro quo, the Trudeau government nixed the visa requirement on Mexican nationals in exchange for the opening up of Mexico to Canadian beef products.

“I’m also happy to announce that Mexico has agreed to open their domestic market to all Canadian beef products,” said Trudeau in making that announcement in 2016. “This is a move that will support Canadian farmers and Canadian families.”

The unintended consequence of lifting that visa requirement as an explosion in the number of asylum claimants from Mexico. Those rose from 260 claims in 2016 to 23,995 last year.

Mexicans Accounted For 17% Of All Asylum Claims Made Last Year In Canada

In 2023 alone, asylum claims from Mexican citizens accounted for 17 per cent of all claims made that year from all nationalities around the world.

Mexican citizens holding a valid work or study permit can still travel by air to Canada with their existing eTA as long as they remain valid and they can continue to study or work in Canada based on the validity and conditions of their permit.

Those already in Canada on an eTA can stay for as long as they are authorized – up to six months from the date they arrive in Canada – but must have the proper travel documents, a visa or new eTA, if they plan to leave and return to Canada.

“All eTAs issued to Mexican passports before 11:30 p.m. Eastern time on Feb. 29, 2024, will no longer be valid, except for eTAs linked to Mexican passports with a valid Canadian work or study permit,” notes Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Most approved visa applicants receive multiple-entry visas, which allow them to visit Canada as many times as they want, for up to 10 years, or until their passport expires.

The eTA is a digital travel document that most visa-exempt travellers need in order to travel to or transit through Canada by air. The IRCC first began expanding its eTA program to eligible citizens from visa-required countries in 2017. Mexico will now be among 15 countries whose citizens can to fly to Canada on an eTA, instead of a visa, if they meet certain requirements.

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