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IMMIGRATION TO CANADA: RECENT NEWS & UPDATES
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June 3, 2015
EE Applicants who score a minimum of 400 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System may be eligible to receive Ontario PNP Nomination AND receive a 600 points.
http://www.ontarioimmigration.ca/prodconsum/groups/csc/@oipp/documents/document/oi_en_hcps.pdf*****
There are rumors that Service Canada expects not only Job Bank but all the advertisements to be continuously running until the decision is made for LMIA application.
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Canadian would-be parents are facing severe red tape when trying to adopt from Muslim countries, according to adoption experts who are calling on the government to take action.
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Lack of federal resources fails international student strategy.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ottawas-resource-gap-leaves-international-students-waiting-for-visas/article24715563/*****
Regulations for ETA, electronic travel authorization come into force on August 1, 2015.
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Immigration Canada errors are causing a lot of misery. Newcomers to Canada are paying the price for bureaucratic bungles, including a new visa with an old expiry date and documents lost in the mail.
http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2015/05*****
As of May 30, 2015, all valid Canadian work experience will be
recognized under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) of Express Entry as CIC is removing the requirement that Canadian work experience be continuous. As a result, foreign nationals with Canadian work experience could see an increase in their CRS points.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/mi/express-entry.asp
May 29, 2015
16 applicants have been approved for permanent residency through Start-up Visa program so far!
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/starting-out/start-up-visa-program-starting-to-gain-traction/article24692163/
May 26, 2015
CIC is re-opening the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program from May 25 to December 30, 2015.
http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?mthd=tp&crtr.page=1&nid=978929&crtr.tp1D=1*****
The first draw of MPNP - Expression of Interest invited 76 Manitoba skilled workers and 75 oversea skilled workers!
http://www.immigratemanitoba.com/mpnp-for-skilled-workers/expression-of-interest/
May 25, 2015
9th Express Entry invited 1361 applicants who scored minimum 755 points.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/mi/index.asp?expand=mi-pr-express#mi-pr-express
May 20, 2015
Over 50,000 of the popular Parent and Grandparent Super Visas have been issued since its launch!
http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=976509*****
Advocates accuse Ottawa of secretly trying to kill the foreign caregiver program with new demands and costs and by dragging its heels on permanent residency.
http://www.thestar.com/news/immigration/2015/05/16/low-acceptance-and-backlog-stifles-foreign-nanny-program.html*****
There is an official immigration guide for detecting marriage fraud, which seems to be ‘racist and offensive’.
http://www.thestar.com/news/immigration/2015/05/19/immigration-guide-for-detecting-marriage-fraud-called-racist-and-offensive.html
May 11, 2015
Note the changes to Ontario Immigration Act as result of submissions made to Ontario Government. Marvin Moses was one of the two lawyers who made the submissions.
http://oba.org/CBAMediaLibrary/cba_on/pdf/Getting-Results-for-the-Bar-Bill-49-Excerpts-of-Amendments.pdf*****
It would be wise to keep your exit/entry record after landing. It will save you some time and legal fee in the future!
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Are you aware that persons with conditional Permanent Resident statues might be subjected to regular follow-ups? Speak to Moses Law Office to avoid potential problems.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/backgrounders/2012/2012-10-26a.asp
May 7, 2015
Express Entry tip #1: All family members must be included in the profile, including those who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Express Entry tip #2: full-time work experience requirement in the CEC can be met by the equivalent in part-time, paid work experience.
May 4, 2015
CIC to prioritize applications already in progress on request from those who are affected by the earthquake in Nepal.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/2015-04-27.asp?utm_source=owly-eng&utm_medium=twitter-citcanada&utm_campaign=generic*****
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program has re-opened its Skilled Worker Overseas stream. This is a great opportunity for all oversea skilled applicants. Speak to Moses Law Office to see if you are eligible.
See http://www.immigratemanitoba.com/mpnp-for-skilled-workers/next-steps/*****
As of April 30, 2015, new LMIA application guidelines have been implemented. It is important to double check all the details before submitting any application with an experienced lawyer to enhance your chances.
http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/jobs/foreign_workers/reform/highlights.shtml#new-streams
April 28, 2015
Eligible individuals whom Alberta intends to nominate for permanent residence can receive a 1-year work permit.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/tools/temp/work/prov/ainp.asp
April 24, 2015
New programs rolling out for Canadian immigrants to improve employment rates.
http://globalnews.ca/news/1944897/new-programs-rolling-out-for-canadian-immigrants-to-improve-employment-rates/
April 23, 2015
On April 30, 2015 the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program will reopen its Skilled Worker Overseas stream. No job offer required! Contact Moses Law Office to find out more about this great opportunity.
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Electronic Travel Authorization For Visa-Exempt Visitors will be introduced to Canadian immigration soon.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/foreigners-to-undergo-prescreening-measures-before-flying-to-canada/article24070994/
April 22, 2015
Beware of telephone/e-mail scams demanding money from so-called legitimate agencies like CIC. Consult with a lawyer. http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/immigration-scam-warning-issued-by-abbotsford-police-1.3042523
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Quebec is seeking a delay on the changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, but the federal government does not appear to be willing to agree, which would make it harder for Quebec businesses to fill an urgent labour shortage with temporary foreign workers.
http://montrealgazette.com/news/quebec/quebec-wants-delay-in-changes-to-temporary-foreign-worker-program*****
Economic Action Plan 2015 proposes to provide $15.7 million over five
years, starting in 2015–16, to expand eligibility for the Electronic
Travel Authorization to low-risk travellers from Brazil, Bulgaria,
Mexico and Romania to make it easier and faster for legitimate
travellers from these countries to come to Canada.
http://www.budget.gc.ca/2015/docs/plan/budget2015-eng.pdf
April 20, 2015
On April 17, 2015, 8th Express Entry draw invited 715 applicants with 453 points or more.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/mi/index.asp?expand=mi-pr-express#mi-pr-express
April 13, 2015
Misrepresentation in immigration is a serious crime. Seek appropriate guidance from a qualified lawyer to avoid such problems.
http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/immigration-consultant-facing-88-fraud-related-charges-1.2320992*****
Father’s death leaves would-be immigrant family out $120,000. http://metronews.ca/news/canada/1338279/fathers-death-leaves-egyptian-would-be-immigrant-family-out-120000/
April 10, 2015
7th Express Entry draw invited 925 applicants with 469 points or more.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/mi/index.asp?expand=mi-pr-express#mi-pr-express
April 9, 2015
There are numerous alleged cases for marriage fraud in immigration. Get a proper advise from an experienced counsel and prepare your case better.
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Federal+report+warns+marriages+convenience+threat+immigration+system/10953202/story.html
April 8, 2015
It seems that the promised quota for Express Entry might not be achieved.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ottawas-new-express-entry-immigration-system-slow-off-the-mark/article23801745/*****
For LMIA applications, you should be aware of the updated unemployment rate and median wage by province.
http://www.esdc.gc.ca/eng/jobs/foreign_workers/reform/tables.shtml
March 31, 2015
British Columbia PNP is temporarily pausing program intakes until July 2015 except few categories.
http://www.welcomebc.ca/Immigrate/About-the-BC-PNP/About-the-BC-PNP.aspx
March 30, 2015
6th Express Entry draw invited 1637 candidates who received at least 453 points on March 27, 2015. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/mi/index.asp?expand=mi-pr-express#mi-pr-express
March 27, 2015
Quebec Investors Category will re-open on August 31, 2015 for 6 months accepting 1750 applications. It is expected to be filled up quickly therefore it is recommended you start preparing early.
http://www.immigration-quebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/informations/rules-procedures.html
March 26, 2015
Your cell phones and laptops can be searched at border when found reasonable motives to believe something is amiss.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/editorials/your-phone-is-your-castle-even-on-the-border/article23620593/*****
Canadian citizenship application rates dropped from 79% to 26% between 2000 and 2008, new rules and fees lead to disengaged immigrants.
http://www.thestar.com/news/immigration/2015/03/24/canada-faces-dramatic-drop-in-citizenship-prompting-concerns-about-disengaged-immigrants.html*****
March 25, 2015
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Thinking of business immigration? Saskatchewan just re-opened their entrepreneur category.
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There will be no caps or quotas. Minimum $500,000 CAD in net business and personal assets. Invest a minimum of $300,000 (CAD) in Regina and Saskatoon or a minimum of $200,000 (CAD) in all other Saskatchewan communities. Minimum of 3 years of entrepreneurial experience within the 10 years. Language test is not mandatory.
March 23, 2015
Express Entry's draw #5 invited 1620 candidates who scored at least 481 on Mar 20, 2015. Get a proper legal advice to increase your chance!
March 20, 2015
We recommend you to start preparing your immigration early enough as soon as you think you are eligible. Rules change therefore act early!
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If you already have a work permit based on a LMIA, you are eligible for the additional 600 points without the need of a new LMIA. Confirm your skilled-worker immigration eligibility with our office!
March 19, 2015
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March 16, 2015
It seems that some FSW applications that were submitted before January 1, 2015 are being returned due to their cap being reached.
March 13, 2015
Individuals invited to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry will be eligible to apply for a bridging open work permit provided they are currently in Canada, have received an acknowledgment of receipt from CIC indicating that their application was complete and they have valid status on a work permit that is due to expire within four months.
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March 11, 2015
March 6, 2015
March 3, 2015Express Entry draw #4 invited 1187 applicants with minimum 735 points on February 27, 2015. Congratulations to the invited applicants! If you need any guidance or assistance with creating Express Entry profile, we are available to help.
February 25, 2015
February 24, 2015
Opportunities Ontario is developing a Provincial Nominee Program for Express Entry. We will provide an update as soon as it's available!
February 23, 2015
Express Entry's third draw invited 849 applicants with minimum 808 points. This draw only included those who were qualified under Canadian Experience Class according to Ministerial Instructions.
February 17, 2015
There are new form and fee required for International Mobility Program employers.
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The Immigrant Investor Venture Capital (IIVC) Pilot Program has reopened. CIC will accept applications from February 13 to April 15, 2015, or until a maximum of 500 applications are received.
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Ottawa to relax foreign worker rules at universities.
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February 12, 2015
Court overturns government policy of requiring removal of niqab by woman who refused to do so for the citizenship swearing ceremony. Government considering it's option to appeal.
February 11, 2015
If you submitted a CEC application between October 20 - December 31, 2014, you are most likely to have your application returned. We encourage you to contact our office for a potential class action.
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There are changes as of February 21, 2015 on International Mobility Program that both employers and applicants should be aware of.
February 9, 2015
Second draw for Express Entry invited 779 applicants with minimum 818 points on February 8, 2015.
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Migrant construction workers sue Ottawa for discrimination. Contact us if you fall within this category to increase your chances.
http://www.thestar.com/news/immigration/2015/02/07/migrant-construction-workers-sue-ottawa-for-discrimination.html*****
Pierre Poilievre is now the new ESDC Minister instead of Jason Kenney (who is now Defence Minister) and there is no change at CIC.
http://www.parl.gc.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/Pierre-Poilievre(25524)
February 6, 2015
TFW program has not yet used their power to inspect employers without warrants as not necessary yet.
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You can read about the updates on CIC's procedures on assessing Express Entry applications here.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/tools/updates/2015/2015-02-05.asp
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Check the completeness of your EE application with our office! Here is the policy, procedures and guidance by CIC. Many encounter multiple problems in entering data in new online PR application system under Express Entry. Contact us to reduce problems.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/tools/perm/express/intake-complete.asp
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Is there discrimination against parents/grandparents sponsorship? Read more about this case in this article.
February 2, 2015
The first draw for Express Entry invited 779 candidates with lowest score of 886. Speak to our office to maximize your chance.
January 30, 2015
Here is an updated Proof of funds required for Skilled Immigrants. Make sure you meet the minimum requirements!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/funds.asp
January 29, 2015
Submitted a CEC application between October to December? It seems that the quota had been filled in October. Consider Express Entry now to avoid delay!
January 26, 2015
CIC's new Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program launched in January 2015 aims to receive 500 applications from January 28, 2015 to February 11, 2015.
January 16, 2015
The application cap for Parents and Grandparents sponsorship has already been reached for 2015. You might want to prepare early enough to have a chance at the next quota. Consult with us to find out if you qualify for the sponsorship!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/2015-01-16.asp
January 14, 2015
You might want to learn more about this pilot program from Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program. Job Offer is not always required for this program. Learn more about it from our office if you qualify.
http://novascotiaimmigration.com/move-here/nova-scotia-demand-express-entry/
January 9, 2015
Ottawa plans to limit number of foreign youth working in Canada? Read more about it.
January 7, 2015
CIC plans to admit 30,000 permanent resident caregivers in 2015. Read about some improvements to Canada's Caregiver Program here!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/caregiver/improvements.asp
January 6, 2015
It seems that Startup Visa program has not been too easy to obtain. There has been only 5 visas since they launched this program. Read more about it!
December 30, 2014
As of December 22, 2014, Open work permits will be issued to certain spouses/common-law partners applying for PR within Canada, before the initial stage approval!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/2014-12-20.asp
December 5, 2014
Federal Investors Program will re-launch but with possible investment hike to $2.5-million or more. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/permanent-resident-visas-for-foreign-investors-should-cost-more-lawyer/article21837100/
December 3, 2014
Express Entry program will launch in January 2015 for skilled workers immigration. You can now check out the criteria from the following link!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/express-entry/grid-crs.asp
August 6, 2014
Although the new citizenship act (Bill C-24) became law in June 2014, it will not take effect until next summer. Contact us to see if you are still qualified and prepare your Canadian citizenship application now!
July 30, 2014
Learn more about Express Entry, launching January 2015 for the economic immigration programs (FSW, FST, CEC, PNP)!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/express/express-entry.asp
July 24, 2014
If you would like to invite your parents/grandparents, learn more about Supervisa which could be valid up to 10 years! It's an easier and quicker way to invite your parents to Canada :) Contact our office to talk about your eligibility!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/supervisa-who.asp
June 30, 2014
Parents & grandparents sponsorship program will be re-opening on January 2, 2015. Check on the new criteria!
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/2013-12-31.asp
June 25, 2014
'Live-in Caregiver' a Temporary Foreign Worker program targeted to reforms in near future.
http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=898719
June 24, 2014
Are you looking into Sponsorship of a child? Dependent child age will change to under 19 as of August 1, 2014. (Previously you could sponsor a child under 22 or full-time student over 22)
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/notices/2014-06-23.asp
June 20, 2014
Bill C-24 has passed the 3rd reading as of June 18, 2014. See if this will affect your Citizenship case.
http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?mthd=tp&crtr.page=2&nid=859509&crtr.tp1D=1