Fall is officially here in Canada and that means summer has come to an end!
Over the summer, we received so much incredible immigration news so let’s take a moment to recap some of the highlights
In May,
Honourable Sean Fraser announced changes coming to the Express Entry system. By the end of this year, we can expect to see the NOC system switch to the TEER system (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities)
With this change, 16 new occupations will become eligible for express entry while 3 occupations will become ineligible.
There was also talk that candidates may start receiving invitations based on economic needs across Canada.
In June,
IRCC announced enhancements to the Super Visa program! The length of stay was increased to 7 years. 5 years per entry and up to 2 additional years if the visa holder applies for an extension while in Canada.
Also announced in June was a new public policy for Open Work Permit applicants through the TR to PR pathway. These work permits will be issued until December 31st, 2024.
Now, this TR to PR pathway had been opened during covid and it has since closed but Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser has hinted at the possibility of a new one opening up in the future but only time will tell.
In July,
Express Entry all program draws FINALLY came back! When IRCC said gradually, they really meant it. The first draw was held on July 6th and invited 1,500 applicants with a CRS score of 557 and above. Compare this with the most recent draw, which was two weeks ago, the CRS score was 510 and 3,250 applicants were invited to apply. The numbers are improving, slowly, but they are improving!
Sean Fraser also announced that targetted draws are set to begin in the first quarter of 2023. These draws will be based on occupation, language, and educational attainment. Combined with
the switch to the TEER system, we may see a very different express entry system next year.
In August,
A PGWP extension for all permit holders with an expiration date post-September 20th, 2021 was implemented! Starting on August 8th, Eligible applicants had to apply online and they had to apply through the new portal.
IRCC also approved a new language test. This test is still a mystery but they plan on rolling out this test by mid-2023.
Two Canadian Provincial Premiers also starred in their own respective video Ads in the month of August. Alberta Premier, Jason Kenny starred in an Ad for his “Alberta is Calling” campaign to compel those living in Ontario and BC to move to Alberta, and Saskatchewan premier, Scott Moe announced a $500 affordability cheque for all Saskatchewan residents ages 18 and up for this fall.
It was also announced that International Students studying online from abroad OR who submitted a study permit application no later than August 31st, 2022 will be able to complete up to 100% of their program online without affecting their PGWP eligibility. This measure is only for those students starting programs between September 1st, 2022, and August 31st, 2023.
Last, but certainly not least, announced on the last day of august - IRCC shifted its focus from work permit applications to study permits to tackle the demand from students waiting on their decision.
Goodbye, Summer!
As sad as we are to be saying goodbye to summer, we look forward to what news fall will bring us!
Will we receive more information on the changes coming to Express Entry? We hope so!
In the meantime, we would suggest getting into the pool! If you aren't sure where to begin, book our Permanent Residence Consultation with one of our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants who can assess your eligibility and discuss your options.