Latest Canadian Immigration News & Insights
Never miss important immigration updates and information on immigration processing and requirements. From Express Entry to Spousal Sponsorship to Study Permits, NextGen has you covered for all things Canadian immigration.
Why Canadian Visitor Visas (TRV) Are Getting Harder to Obtain: What You Need to Know About IRCC’s new Guidelines.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently updated its guidelines for immigration officers on issuing single vs. multiple-entry visas to Canada. These updates introduce stricter criteria, particularly for applicants seeking a multiple-entry visa. Along with many other changes we’ve seen in 2024, this is due to several factors aimed at improving the integrity and security of Canada's immigration system.
Canada’s Immigration Target Levels: A Shift in Approach
In recent years, Canada has built a reputation as a welcoming destination for immigrants from around the world. Known for its diverse culture and inclusive policies, the country has attracted millions seeking a better life. However, recent changes to immigration target levels suggest a notable shift in this long-standing narrative.
Historically, Canada has positioned itself as a leader in immigration, with targets set to address labor shortages, population decline, and economic growth. In 2021, the country set ambitious immigration targets, aiming to welcome 500,000 new permanent residents annually by 2025. These targets were part of a broader strategy to rebuild the economy post-pandemic and support community growth.
Embracing the Good News
Canada’s shift in immigration target levels reflects a complex balancing act between economic stability and its long-standing tradition of openness. As discussions around immigration evolve, it is essential for policymakers to strike a balance that supports both current residents and the new arrivals who enrich the country’s diverse tapestry…
Spousal Open Work Permit for International Students in Canada: Eligibility and Application Guide
As of April 30, 2024, the Canadian government has updated the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) for spouses and common-law partners of full-time international students. Immigration Minister Marc Miller aims to reduce the proportion of temporary residents in Canada from 6.5% to 5% over the next three years.
This guide outlines the key eligibility categories, required documentation, and the application process to help you navigate this important aspect of studying in Canada.
Who is Eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit?
Common Reasons for Study Permit Refusals: What You Need to Know for Immigration to Canada
Immigration officers will question whether the applicant genuinely intends to study in Canada. Applicants need to clearly communicate their intentions through their study permit application, in the Statement of Purpose or Letter of Intent. This document is your opportunity to explain why you want to study in Canada and how the program aligns with your academic and professional goals.
When writing a strong Statement of Purpose, it's essential to be specific and avoid vague statements. Clearly outline how the program you’ve chosen will impact your career path and provide concrete examples of its relevance to your goals. Honesty is crucial, as immigration officers can identify inconsistencies, so it's important to be truthful about your intentions. Additionally, make sure to tailor your statement to your application, focusing on the specific program, institution, and your unique circumstances, rather than relying on a generic statement. This personalized approach will strengthen your case and show genuine intent.
Misrepresentation in Canadian Immigration: Understanding the Consequences and How to Avoid It
Misrepresentation is one of the most serious offenses in the Canadian immigration process. It refers to the act of providing false or misleading information, withholding material facts, or failing to disclose relevant information to immigration authorities. The consequences can be severe, often leading to the refusal of applications, a five-year ban, and even loss of permanent residency or citizenship in extreme cases.
Tips for Success: Strengthening Your Canadian Visitor Visa Application
Tips for Success: Strengthening Your Canadian Visitor Visa Application
By focusing on these tips and presenting a well-organized, consistent, and thorough application, you increase your chances of a successful outcome. The goal is to provide a clear and compelling case that demonstrates your financial stability, strong ties to your home country, and a legitimate purpose for visiting Canada, leaving no room for doubt in the mind of the visa officer.
Understanding Temporary Resident Status and Maintained Status in Canada
What is Maintained Status?
Maintained status means that if you apply to extend your stay in Canada before your current status expires, you can legally remain in Canada while waiting for a decision. This is crucial because it ensures you don’t become out of status, which could lead to complications like losing your ability to work or study.
Afghan Resettlement Programs and Support
As much of the world watches in disbelief, we too are deeply concerned by the heartbreaking news coming out of Afghanistan.
The Government of Canada continues to offer support to vulnerable Afghans. Canada’s special immigration programs have already brought so many Afghans to Canada, and Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship have further announced the resettlement of 20,000 more vulnerable Afghans threatened by the Taliban and forced to flee the country.
Efforts are expected to continue, but the following is available to those impacted by the deteriorating situation.
Implied status and work without a work permit clarified and redefined
On April 8, 2021, IRCC extensively updated the instructions to clarify this period of extended status (formally, 'implied status') under the law as well as provide transparency around authorization to work without a work permit during the processing period of a work permit extension.
New Policy on fee refunds when IRCC service standards are not met for Canadian Citizenship, IEC and some passport or travel document services
The Service Fees Act is Canadian legislation that increases accountability and predictability regarding service fees that the Government of Canada charges to Canadians. Under this new policy, the department involved is required to return a portion of the fee for some applications. As of April 1, 2021, partial refunds will be issued to complete applications received on or after April 1, 2021
Public policy extended & modified: visitors may apply for a work permit inside Canada until August 31, 2021
On March 29, 2021, the Canadian government extended and modified the temporary public policy initially introduced in August 2020. Since the policy was introduced, more than 1,000 people with visitor status in Canada have applied for a work permit.
Previously, the requirement to use this public policy was that applicants had valid status as a visitor as of August 24, 2020. This meant that any foreign national who arrived in Canada after August 24, 2020, would not qualify for this public policy. This requirement has been removed.
Criminal Inadmissibility – Driving Under the Influence
With the legalization of Marijuana in Canada, the laws for Impaired Driving were adapted to encompass all the appearances of what “driving under the influence” means in Canada.
Up until December 2018, these charges were considered to be a “hybrid,” meaning that the Crown (otherwise known as the “prosecutor”) can choose whether to charge with an “indictment” or a “summary,” and the maximum punishment possible was 5 years in prison.
Special measures to support Hong Kong residents immigrating to Canada
Canada has rolled out new measures to support the people of Hong Kong in response to the Chinese government’s implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020.
The changes range from expediting documents for Canadians and permanent residents, speeding up processing for permanent residence applications, and encouraging Hong Kong youth to study and work in Canada.
With the Owner/Operator LMIAs No More, what are the alternatives for business owners to immigrate to Canada?
With the Owner/Operator LMIAs No More, what are the alternatives for business owners to immigrate to Canada?
Biggest express entry draw to date! CRS Score, 75!
On February 13, 2021, Canada invited over 27,000 skilled workers in Canada to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry- Canadian Experience Class category.
In order to receive an invitation to apply, candidates who are eligible for CEC must score higher than the government cut-off. The previous CEC draw on January 21, 2021, was 454, with 4626 invitations sent. Today that very same score dropped to 75!
Temporary public policy – current or former PGWP holders can now apply for a new open work permit!
In most circumstances, unauthorized work or study would result in the refusal of an application. This public policy also waives the regulatory prohibition of work permit issuance where there has been unauthorized work or study unless the applicant engaged in unauthorized work for an employer who offers ‘striptease, erotic dance, escort services or erotic massages, or other ineligible employers.