Navigating New Horizons: Understanding the Addition of the Pearson Language Test to Canadian Immigration Requirements In the ever-evolving landscape of Canadian immigration, staying informed about the latest program updates is crucial for applicants dreaming of a new life in Canada. A significant development has unfolded with the introduction of the Pearson Language Test, a new approved language assessment tool for those looking to apply for permanent residence, work, or study permits in Canada. This addition marks a pivotal moment, joining the ranks of the already established Canadian English ..read more

Study Permit Changes Canada has long been a favored destination for international students seeking quality education. However, recent changes announced by the Canadian government are set to reshape the landscape of international education in the country. The government has introduced significant alterations to the international student program and study permits. Introducing the Intake Cap A major change is the introduction of an intake cap on international student permit applications. For the year 2024, the cap is set to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits. This figure repre ..read more

This is the 100th year since the implementation of the Chinese Immigration Act, or better named, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1923.  It is not a milestone to be celebrated, but one to be remembered to ensure that it never occurs again.  This Federal legislation of Canada was brought into effect on Canada Day, July 1st, 1923 and was the law of the land until its repeal in 1947.  During the 24 years of its existence, the Act essentially prevented all persons of Chinese origin or descent, with very limited exceptions, from immigrating or even entering Canada.  The legisla ..read more

Immigration officers consider a range of factors when assessing visitor visas, including: Purpose of the visit: The immigration officer will want to know the reason for the visit, such as whether the visitor is coming for tourism, business, or to visit family. The officer may also consider whether the visitor has an invitation from someone in Canada. Duration of stay: Immigration officers will look at how long the visitor plans to stay in Canada. If the visitor is staying for a longer period of time, they may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of employment or financia ..read more

Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) is an opportunity to resolve an appeal before the Immigration Appeal Division ("IAD") early and informally, without needing to have a full hearing. Not all appeals are well suited to ADRs and the Minister’s Representative must be willing to participate in the process for it to succeed. Some information about the IAD is useful to know to understand when ADR might be a good option on a file. The IAD has jurisdiction to hear appeals in the following types of cases: Sponsorship appeals spousal sponsorships, which are usually refused on grounds of genuineness ..read more

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their parents and grandparents to Canada under the Family Class. The program is currently lotter-based, which means a sponsor must be selected before they can file the sponsorship application. The requirements this type of sponsorship are fairly straightforward: establishing the parent (or grandparent) to child relationship between the sponsor and applicant(s); and the sponsor meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the program The MNI required for a particular application depends on the family size. This is calculated by inclu ..read more

IRCC’s announced today that it is launching the CUAET as the new accelerated pathway for temporary residence for Ukrainians fleeing war. Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members (regardless of nationality) can apply to enter Canada as temporary residents for up to 3 years. Here are some key takeaways from this latest announcement: 3-year open Work Permits will be granted to any Ukrainian applicants who makes the application, whether in Canada or abroad; Note: we strongly recommend applying for a Work Permit or Study Permit as it provides access to healthcare Study Permits can ..read more

This Facebook Live from Friday, March 11, 2022 provides an update on current measures that IRCC has in place for the Ukrainians fleeing war ..read more

Following the invasion and occupation of Ukrainian territory by the Russian Armed Forces, a humanitarian crisis has emerged in the European nation. In the face of Russian aggression, the world has collaborated to offer the government of Ukraine and its citizens assistance of both a military and non-military nature. In February and March 2022, the Government of Canada announced immigration measures relating to Ukraine to assist those individuals affected by the war. To date, IRCC has put a number of measures in place. These measures include the following: Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emerge ..read more

The Canadian government has committed to doubling to 40,000 the numbers of Afghans that it plans to welcome. As part of this, the Government of Canada announced a special humanitarian program to resettle vulnerable Afghan nationals – the “Humanitarian program for Afghan nationals in need of resettlement.” Those that qualify must be part of a women leaders group,  human rights advocates, a persecuted religious or ethnic minority, the LGBTI community, the journalist community, or must have assisted Canadian journalists. Until a few days ago, this program was available to both those inside a ..read more