News
Find the latest news articles related to Canada’s immigration programs, advocacy work, immigrant culture, employment trends, and much more!
Award-winning author to host virtual storytelling event at Burnaby library
April 21st, 2024
Burnaby Public Library will feature an award-winning, internationally renowned storyteller at a virtual event this month.
Prolific Tlicho Dene author Richard Van Camp will read from his work Scariest. Story. Ever. from Never Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction Anthology on April 27.
After the reading, he will discuss the practice of traditional Indigenous storytelling and there will be time for a Q+A session.
The workshop, presented as part of Connect Fest Burnaby, is geared to teens aged 13 to 19; adults are also welcome.
ASL interpretation will be provided.
From Fort Smith, N.W.T., Van Camp is the author of 28 books in "just about every genre," according to the event description.
Youth add voice to Burnaby museum's South Asian Canadian exhibit
April 21st, 2024
Burnaby Village Museum is adding a new, youthful voice to its exhibit on South Asian Canadians in Burnaby.
Starting in May, the museum's Truths Not Often Told exhibit will feature the perspectives of local high school students talking about what it means to be South Asian Canadian in Burnaby today.
The culmination of three years of research guided by the museum's South Asian advisory committee, Truths Not Often Told first opened last May.
The exhibit uses family photos, cultural belongings, poetry, plays and more to showcase the stories of South Asian communities as they migrated to Burnaby in the early 1900s.
Curator Jane Lemke said the museum always makes changes to its two-year exhibits after the first year to keep them "fresh" and add anything that may have been missed.
Nearly 40 new $10-a-day child care spaces at this Burnaby facility
April 21st, 2024
An east Burnaby child care centre is now the 13th local facility to offer $10-a-day spaces.
Variety Cariboo Children's Centre, and its 37 new child care spaces, is the latest to join the B.C. government's initiative to relieve parents of financial constraints and reduce fees to a maximum of $200 a month per child.
Located at 1200 Cariboo Rd., Variety is hosted by the Burnaby Association for Community Inclusion.
According to its website, the licensed group child care site aims to provide an environment "that strives for healthy and optimal growth and development for all children."
Of the 37 new spaces, the province stated, 12 will be reserved for infants and toddlers, and 25 will be for kids 2.5 years to kindergarten age.
12K homes, 15 towers planned to kick off massive Metrotown mall redevelopment
April 21st, 2024
The future of Burnaby’s Metrotown is on display in a new public engagement website by developers seeking feedback on one of the most important master plans in the city.
Developer and owner Ivanhoé Cambridge plans to transform B.C.’s biggest mall at 4700 Kingsway into a vibrant and walkable downtown core – and keep part of the mall, according to the engagement website.
The proposal for the 35-acre Metropolis at Metrotown site, right across the street from Metrotown SkyTrain station, includes a new city park, enhanced streetscapes and new shops.
With seven parcels of land, the developer plans to build in phases, beginning with 15 new buildings in Phase 1 from 2025 through 2054.
Phase 1 of the development, over the next 30 years, proposes around 10,000 market units and 2,000 affordable rental units, the developer told the Burnaby NOW.
Apprenticeship programs target women, newcomers in B.C. construction
April 15th, 2024
Modernizing B.C.’s skilled trades training and apprenticeship programs may be able to help broaden and diversify the construction industry’s talent pool.
Doing so is critical for the industry, which is being squeezed by a labour shortage that is expected to intensify.
While programs exist to connect new workers with employers, there remain barriers to the fuller participation of women and underrepresented groups, according to those who spoke to BIV.
“Employers have to be looking at women, Indigenous Peoples and new Canadians; and even by welcoming those [groups into] the skilled trades workforce, it still not may be enough,” said Tamara Pongracz, head of British Columbia Institute of Technology’s (BCIT) trades access department, and a Red Seal plumber.
The danger of not engaging these groups is the depletion of a workforce with the skills and certifications needed to mentor the next generation, said British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) president Chris Atchison.
B.C. introduces anti-racism legislation, promises to hold public bodies accountable
April 15th, 2024
The B.C. government introduced legislation Thursday that’s designed to hold public bodies accountable for addressing systemic racism in policy and programs, the province’s attorney general said.
Niki Sharma said the proposed law would cover provincial ministries, agencies, health-care and social service providers, and require the development of a public action plan using data the government has collected on systemic racism.
She said it would give her ministry the power to issue compliance orders if it finds a lack of response to the action items in the plan.
Before tabling the bill, Sharma said she sometimes thinks of the politicians who have come before her in the legislature, who passed laws designed to hurt people based on the colour of their skin.
Essential Canadian tax terminology: Brush up on your lingo!
April 12th, 2024
Only 14 per cent of Canadians are very confident in their understanding of tax-related terminology finds a poll conducted by TurboTax Canada. According to the survey findings, 27 per cent of Canadians have never heard of the term NETFILE.
This lack of clarity can lead to confusion and increased stress during filing season. More so for those who are new to Canada or with English as a secondary language.
Here is a list some of the key Canadian terms compiled by TurboTax Canada to help navigate the complexities of the tax season.
Balance Owing: The remainder when your payable amounts are higher than your credits and deductions. It means that you need to pay an additional amount of tax and can happen if your taxes weren’t properly deducted or accounted for throughout the year.
Carry Forward: When you have certain credits available during filing, but you don’t use them, you might be able to keep these credits and have them available on your account to claim in a later year. Tuition tax credits are a good example of this.
CRA: The Canada Revenue Agency, which is responsible for collecting taxes and providing different credits and benefits to Canadian citizens. They receive your tax claims, calculate your return, and send you a Notice of Assessment.
Eleventh Annual Immigrant Women of Inspiration features passionate filmmakers
April 12th, 2024
There was nary a dry eye in the audience as the closing credits rolled for Scarborough, Shasha Nakhai and Rich Williamson’s debut narrative feature film, at its premiere at the 2021 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Based on the award-winning novel by Catherine Hernandez, depicting the lives of the predominantly immigrant neighbourhood of Scarborough, located in the east end of Toronto, the film captivated the hearts of filmgoers and critics in equal measure.
It won the Shawn Mendes Foundation Changemaker Award at the festival, was first runner up for the People’s Choice award and received 11 Canadian Screen Award nominations. It also opened up doors for the Filipina-Iranian filmmaker and her film and television production company, Compy Films, that she had co-founded with her partner Williamson.
Engagement launched for Canadians of South Asian Heritages museum
April 12th, 2024
People in British Columbia now have multiple new ways to contribute to the vision for the first-of-its-kind cultural museum celebrating Canadians of South Asian heritages and their contributions to the success of the province.
Building on the first phase of engagement, public engagement opportunities will be expanded starting Tuesday, April 2, 2024, through an updated website, enabling people to provide written or video input and participate in an online survey. Community-led conversations will also begin this month.
“People’s input matters and it’s important to provide multiple, accessible ways for people to express themselves so their voice can be heard,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “This community-led engagement encourages everyone to comfortably voice their opinions and contribute to the vision of this cultural initiative.”
10 mistakes to avoid as a newcomer to Canada
April 12th, 2024
Starting a new life in Canada can be both exciting and daunting.
On one hand, newcomers are coming to Canada with the opportunity to start fresh after leaving their home country, a move that gives them a chance to build a prosperous life for themselves and their families in a country that has ranked in the top three of U.S. News’ Best Countries ranking for three consecutive years.
On the other hand, moving to Canada can be nerve-wracking for newcomers because they are arriving in unfamiliar territory. This can leave newcomers to Canada prone to making mistakes when they first arrive.
From cultural misunderstandings to financial missteps, the following will provide essential tips that will hopefully set you on the path to success in your new home.
Changes to Canada’s permanent residence fees starting April 30, 2024
April 8th, 2024
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that, as of 9:00:00 AM Eastern Time on April 30, 2024, the department will be increasing certain permanent residence (PR) fees.
IRCC notes that this fee increase is being introduced according to Canada’s Immigrant and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), calculated “in accordance with the cumulative percentage increase to the Consumer Price Index for Canada, published by Statistics Canada.”
IRCC notes that, in addition to dependent children and protected persons (including principal applicants and all accompanying family members), the following groups of applicants are exempt from paying the department’s Right of Permanent Residence (RPR) Fee:
Sponsored child (of a principal applicant under the family reunification class) – the child must be under 22 years old and not have a spouse/partner
Principal applicants under the humanitarian and compassionate consideration and public policy classes
People doing anti-racism work given more resources to fight hate
April 8th, 2024
More than 60 organizations have received funding to support projects designed to counter racism and promote inclusivity throughout the province.
The B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants program is providing $310,000 to support community-led initiatives such as anti-racism education and awareness, cross-cultural engagement and promoting social change through the arts.
Since launching in 2015, the grant program has provided more than $2 million to nearly 450 anti-racism and multiculturalism initiatives.
“Racism is not something that any one person or group can fight alone,“ said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “We need to all stand together as a community to stand against racial discrimination. I look forward to seeing the outcomes of the work being done by these inspiring people.”
Three more Burnaby rental housing projects granted B.C. funding
April 5th, 2024
Three affordable housing projects in Burnaby were recently approved by the province to build more rental options for local seniors, as well as Indigenous and low-income families.
The B.C. government listed 17 projects involved in its third intake of the Building BC: Community Housing Fund (CHF) that'll create almost 2,000 new rentals.
Burnaby's trio of green-lit applications included a combined 232 rental units, broken down in partnership with the following nonprofit organizations:
The New Vista Society
118 homes for individuals, families and seniors
4170 James St.
M'akola Housing Society
66 homes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous families and seniors
7000 Lougheed Hwy.
Action Line Housing Society
48 homes for seniors
3755 McGill St.
Korean food supplier plans to turn auto garage into Burnaby grocery store
April 5th, 2024
Korean food supplier T-Brothers Food & Trading Ltd. is planning to turn an auto garage into a grocery store in Burnaby’s Royal Oak neighbourhood.
The company successfully applied for a temporary use permit from the city to allow a 596-metre-square (6,415-square-foot) retail grocery store for up to three years at 5609 Imperial St., previously home to a Craftsman Collision.
Currently on the site is a one-storey commercial building and mezzanine that previously housed the auto repair garage and office space with surface parking, according to a city staff report.
Free family-friendly event Burnaby Blooms to burst into colour next month
April 5th, 2024
Flowers are springing up all over Burnaby which means it's almost time for the beloved Burnaby Blooms festival to return.
The family-friendly event hosted by the city will kick off on Sunday, May 5 at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts and Deer Lake Park.
Guests can experience eco-art installations, educational and cultural walking tours, kids' yoga, a labyrinth and plant sales, according to a city press release.
An expert speaker series will feature talks "The Birds of Deer Lake," "Bees and Blooms," "Mushroom Walk," "The Indigenous Natural History of Deer Lake," and more.
Expanding multi-language support, services for newcomers
April 4th, 2024
Newcomers to British Columbia will have more help getting started in their new communities with expanded services and a new online multi-language information hub.
“As an immigrant myself, I can relate to the unique challenges that newcomers face when they are starting out in a new community,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “My ministry is listening and we understand the need for more supportive services. We took action and quadrupled the annual funding to $25.6 million, the largest investment in newcomer services in our province’s history, so more people can get more comprehensive support when they come to British Columbia.”
Starting Monday, April 1, 2024, a new and expanded newcomer-services program will increase support for people to settle into their new communities, practise their English and find work. The new Safe Haven program will offer refugee claimants and others in vulnerable situations specialized services, such as trauma counselling, help finding housing and English-language instruction.
More B.C. families benefit from $10-a-day child care
April 4th, 2024
More families in British Columbia will save thousands of dollars every year as more than 930 child care spaces move into the $10 a Day ChildCareBC program in March and April.
This brings the total number of $10-a-day spaces in B.C. to more than 15,000.
“Affordable, $10-a-day child care that’ll help families save thousands of dollars, help parents balance work with family and help kids get the best start to life. That’s what today’s announcement with B.C. is all about,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “Together, we’re making sure families across the province get the quality child care they need without worrying about the cost.”
5 ways to better build community with international students in Canada
April 4th, 2024
It’s no exaggeration to say every academic and professional involved in recruiting, teaching or supporting international students in Canada is now concerned about institutions’ plans following the federal government’s two-year cap on international student permits.
Beyond financial consequences, many believe this cap will potentially jeopardize the diversity of university life. This is of concern in a country that has been known for multicultural and multilingual learning and working environments.
“Internationalization” policies or strategic priorities of governments and universities alike have had stated goals of integrating international dimensions into higher education teaching, research, services and goals.
Canada Aims To Help Internationally-Educated Nurses Get Jobs Through Mentorships
April 4th, 2024
Canada injected another $388,000 this week into a national association’s program to help internationally-educated nurses more quickly integrate into the country’s healthcare system with a mentorship pilot program.
“We need a healthy workforce to get Canadians the care they need. That starts with making sure health workers are supported so they can do what they do best: care for Canadians,” said Health Minister Mark Holland.
“This investment will help more internationally-educated nurses (IEN) join the workforce in Canada to help our current workforce and get more nurses into our health care system even faster.”
Canadian research firm releases survey results highlighting newcomer challenges
April 4th, 2024
A new study is highlighting some of the challenges newcomers continue to face when immigrating to Canada.
The study, “Cracking the Newcomer Code,” was released Tuesday by Leger, a Canadian market research company.
It found 38 per cent of employed newcomers were not able to find a job in their field, and 60 per cent of employed newcomers said they had difficulty finding a job due to challenges with credentials and needing local experience.
Updates coming to the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
March 31st, 2024
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs will be updating the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) in January 2025 to create clearer pathways and better outcomes for international workers coming to B.C. A detailed summary of the updates will be available in late 2024, and the criteria will be published in the BC PNP Skills Immigration Program Guide in January 2025.
These updates will lead to better outcomes for nominees, ensuring people identified by the BC PNP to help strengthen B.C.’s economy will be set up for career success. They also ensure that prospective applicants are less susceptible to bad actors in the immigration system.
The Ministry will continue to issue targeted invitations to apply for workers with a job offer in a priority occupation, such as healthcare, construction and early childhood education.
Faster employment growth for new immigrants
March 31st, 2024
Statistics Canada’s economic and social report has revealed that, after years of disparity, new immigrants in Canada are now seeing faster employment rate growth than their Canadian-born peers.
In addition to this employment growth, new immigrants (aged 25-54) in Canada are now shrinking the employment gap between themselves and their Canadian peers and contributing disproportionately to Canadian innovation and business ownership.
Continued improvement in labour market outcomes for immigrants in Canada
Since the early 2010s, immigrants in Canada have seen an upward trajectory in their labour market outcomes.
Recent immigrants aged 25-54 years old saw a growth of 10.7% in their employment rate between 2010 and 2023. Within the same time frame, the employment growth rate among Canadian-born workers was 4.1%.
Canada announces changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to better address labour market needs
March 31st, 2024
Immigration Minister Marc Miller and Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault have announced changes to Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
During the pandemic, Canada unleashed a series of temporary measures to help ease labour market conditions. Now, however, Canada has begun to undo these temporary measures.
“We are now in a different economic picture. With the gap between unemployment and job vacancies closing, a tightening labour market… some of these measures are no longer needed” said Minister Boissonault.
The TFWP was designed to issue work permits to foreign nationals who can help fill labour market gaps in Canada. Businesses in Canada that wish to hire foreign nationals through the TFWP must support their application with a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) that demonstrates there were no qualified Canadians or permanent residents to fill the role.
Canadian govt invites 975 Express Entry candidates in first transport occupation draw of 2024
March 31st, 2024
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has sent out invitations to candidates in the second Express Entry draw of the week, says CIC news.
The department issued 975 invitations to apply (ITAs) in a category-based draw for transport occupations.
Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 430.
Candidates required a minimum CRS of 525, a decrease of nine CRS points from the previous general draw on February 28 and the lowest minimum CRS for a general draw so far this year.
Fewer recent immigrants are seeking Canadian citizenship
March 31st, 2024
A recent study by Statistics Canada has revealed that fewer recent immigrants in Canada are pursuing Canadian citizenship compared to 20+ years ago.
The study, which looks longitudinally at data from 1996 to 2021, revealed that there was a nearly 30% drop-in citizenship rates among recent immigrants, with most of this reduction occurring in the last 10 years.
Note: The term “immigrants” is used by Statistics Canada to denote those who have received Canadian permanent residence (PR).
What were the findings of this study?
The study found that the rate of citizenship uptake among recent immigrants (those in Canada for 5, 10, or 15 years) had been declining since 1996 (where 75.4% of immigrants pursued citizenship). In 2021, this rate had declined to 45.7% of immigrants—with the greatest reduction in this rate happening between 2016 and 2021.
Eight ways to show proof of financial sufficiency as an international student in Canada
March 29th, 2024
As an international student pursuing post-secondary education in Canada, there are multiple ways Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows you to prove you have enough money to come to Canada.
As part of the Canadian study permit process, applicants must prove they have enough money to support themselves, as well as any family members who come to Canada with them.
Note: As of January 1 this year, the cost-of-living requirement has increased for students in all provinces and territories other than Quebec (see more below).
Providing IRCC with proof of financial support/sufficiency
According to IRCC, the department’s cost-of-living requirement is expressed in “base amounts” that include “all requirements related to transportation and other expenses, including the cost of books, equipment, and supplies.” These amounts prove that Canadian study permit applicants have sufficient funds to cover the following costs:
The first year of tuition fees, as indicated on the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) issued by their Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Travel expenses to get to and from Canada
The minimum cost of living in Canada for one year
IRCC updates eligibility requirements for Spousal Open Work Permits
March 19th, 2024
Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released more details surrounding changes to eligibility for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP).
On January 22, 2024, the department introduced several changes to Canada’s international student program. Among them, IRCC said that the spouses of international students in undergraduate and college programs will no longer be eligible for SOWPs.
As of March 19, partners and spouses of international students are eligible for a SOWP only if their sponsor is enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program at a university or polytechnic institution in Canada.
There are some exceptions for the spouses or partners of undergraduate students. Spouses of undergraduate students in one of the following professional degree programs at a university are also eligible to apply for a SOWP:
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.)
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng., BE, BASc)
More than 7,000 people shared thoughts on upcoming anti-racism legislation
March 19th, 2024
Feedback from people in British Columbia about how upcoming anti-racism legislation should address systemic racism is available online in the form of “what we heard” reports.
The feedback was collected in 2023 through an extensive engagement process. It included an online questionnaire, discussions with racialized people led by community organizations, and targeted consultation and co-development with the First Nations Leadership Council, the Alliance of BC Modern Treaty Nations, BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres and Métis Nation British Columbia. The aim of this engagement was to hear from people how government should address systemic racism in its programs and services, and remove existing barriers.
Achieving dream careers: Overcoming challenges for skilled immigrants
March 19th, 2024
The pursuit of a dream job is often an exciting journey, marked by the quest for fulfillment and the opportunity to work with passion. For many, it’s the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, a role they’ve earned and eagerly anticipate. However, for skilled immigrants seeking to establish themselves in Canada and re-enter their chosen professions, the process can be daunting. It entails navigating through a whirlwind of emotions, workload, and uncertainty.
Skilled immigrants invest years in rigorous study, pouring their hearts and finances into obtaining credentials and accumulating invaluable experience in their fields. Yet, upon arriving in Canada, they often find themselves in positions where their expertise is underutilized, dampening their confidence and sense of belonging. Depending on their profession, it can take years for skilled immigrants to reclaim their dream careers, involving numerous assessments, exams, and the acquisition of Canadian work experience.
How long will it take to become a permanent resident of Canada in 2024?
March 19th, 2024
Foreign nationals seeking permanent residence (PR) in Canada often look for the fastest pathway to achieving their goal and starting a new life in this country.
On a basic level, Canada has four primary immigration classes: economic immigration, family-class sponsorship, humanitarian/compassionate immigration and immigration for refugees/protected persons.
However, within those four general classifications, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides foreign nationals with more than 100 ways to immigrate to Canada.
No matter which Canadian PR program an individual pursues, all foreign nationals will consider how quickly they can land and settle in Canada through their chosen pathway.
IRCC publishes its service standards for processing applications so that potential applicants can have a better idea of the time it will take.
5 challenges newcomers face in Canada and how to deal with them
March 10th, 2024
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025 aims to welcome over 460,000 new immigrants each year, which is the highest level in Canadian history.
Upon arrival, newcomers must settle into their new homes and may experience some challenges adjusting to Canada and their new lives in the country.
This article will outline common challenges many newcomers face when settling in Canada and provide some information and advice on how to overcome these challenges.
These top 5 challenges for newcomers include: language barrier, finding affordable housing, isolation, finding employment, and adapting to the cold, snow and ice.
Language Barrier
English and French are the official languages in Canada. Many newcomers may have trouble communicating in one of these languages. Further, many jobs in Canada require English or French and either of these languages can be one of the primary requirements in a job description.
To improve language ability in English or French, newcomers should take advantage of the language training services available to them. These services aim to address all newcomer’s types of language needs, include general language training, study assistance for language assessments (like those needed for immigration purposes), job-specific language training and more.
Inspiring Inclusion for International Women’s Day: messages from local women leaders
March 8th, 2024
It’s International Women’s Day, Friday, March 8, a day to come together for important conversations around women’s equality, inclusion and leadership.
This dialogue is often framed by the barriers women face in the workplace and communities due to disproportionate family obligations, low representation in certain fields, gender discrimination or simply the devaluing of women and the skills they bring to the table. BIPOC and newcomer women face even more challenges.
Throughout this week, in advance of International Women’s Day and our own Women’s Leadership Forum on March 8, DIVERSEcity has been sharing messages from women leaders that raise questions, present ideas to advance women’s equity and — reflecting the 2024 #IWD theme — #InspireInclusion.
Kicking off the campaign was Lenya Wilks, Director, Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement at DIVERSEcity, who leads a high-performing and innovative team made up mostly of women who are making a difference in our community for newcomers, refugees and migrant workers.
B.C. implements federal changes for new international students
March 8th, 2024
The Province will begin issuing provincial attestation letters to eligible post-secondary institutions to allow international applicants to apply to study in B.C. as required by the federal department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The new provincial attestation letter system will be effective as of March 4, 2024. Provincial attestation letters are now required for new study permit applications. The IRCC announced the new requirements on Jan. 22, 2024.
“Our ministry is moving quickly to ensure that we mitigate negative impacts to our post-secondary institutions and that international students have every opportunity to succeed in their education in B.C.,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “While we’ve all agreed that the status quo wasn’t working for anyone – not for students, and not for our communities – the federal cap doesn’t take British Columbia’s unique environment into account. We will continue to work with the federal government to ensure any subsequent changes take British Columbia’s needs into consideration so that we can have a made-in-B.C. solution that properly responds to our shared goals.”
Additional information about International Student Program reform
February 27th, 2024
Further information is being provided to clarify the announcement of an intake cap on new international study permit applications and other changes. International students make important contributions to Canada’s campuses, communities and economy; however, we have seen unsustainable growth in the International Student Program in recent years. These recently announced reforms will support sustainable population growth in Canada and improve system integrity, while helping to ensure that international students have a positive experience in Canada.
Cap and provincial attestation letter
As of 8:30 a.m. ET on January 22, 2024, most new post-secondary international students at the college or undergraduate level must provide a provincial attestation letter (PAL) from a province or territory with their study permit application. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will return any application received that does not include a PAL, unless otherwise exempt.
This attestation will serve as proof that the student has been accounted for under a provincial or territorial allocation within the national cap. Provinces and territories have been asked to have a plan in place for issuing PALs by March 31, 2024. The Government of Canada is working with the Government of Quebec to determine how the certificat d’acceptation du Québec pour études could serve as a PAL.
International students whose applications were received by IRCC before 8:30 a.m. on January 22, 2024, as well as those who have already been approved for a study permit and intend to travel to Canada for an upcoming program, do not need to take further action as a result of the cap.
The four types of Canadian citizenship ceremonies
February 26th, 2024
For many newcomers arriving to Canada, their vision of the future includes one important experience: the day of their citizenship ceremony. Roughly 80% of eligible Canadian permanent residents chose to pursue citizenship in 2021; and attended a citizenship ceremony to formalise their new status.
Citizenship ceremonies are momentous occasions that happen every day in Canada—an important ritual that commemorates an individual’s commitment to their new home nation, and the nation’s commitment to them in-turn.
Due to the constant occurrence of citizenship ceremonies, and the introduction of online provisions, there are now multiple kinds of citizenship ceremonies that new Canadians can participate in. More specifically these are:
Standard ceremonies;
Enhanced ceremonies;
Private ceremonies; and
Reaffirmation ceremonies.
Canada welcomed 471,550 new permanent residents in 2023
February 26th, 2024
Recent data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that Canada exceeded its target for the number of permanent residents it planned to welcome in 2023.
According to the most recently available IRCC backlog data, the department welcomed 471,550 new permanent residents in 2023. This is an increase of 33,950 over 2022’s 437,600.
The number exceeds the target for 2023 in the Immigration Levels Plan 2023-2025, which planned to welcome 465,000 permanent residents. The department considered candidates from Express Entry programs, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and their spouses, partners and children.
IRCC also posted the figures for the number of temporary residence applications it finalized. Note that these numbers represent the number of final decisions made on candidate applications and some among them are rejections.
The lesser-known benefits of being a Canadian permanent resident
February 26th, 2024
For many newcomers the ability to become a permanent resident (PR) of Canada is one of the most attractive aspects of moving to the country. Permanent residence status gives individuals the ability to reside in Canada, and to study, work, and live as they wish (within the bounds of the law).
However, there are also several benefits to attaining PR that many newcomers may not be aware of, including easier access to all kinds of education, employment, and support opportunities. While these are often not the sole reasons that one immigrates to Canada, they can be hugely beneficial to new immigrants looking to start a new life in the country.
Huge reduction in education costs
A huge advantage that new PRs can look forward to is a significant reduction in educational costs. As a PR, immigrants can access Canadian higher education at the same rates as Canadian citizens. In comparing domestic and international student fees, this can yield huge reductions in tuition—sometimes as much as 6X—at both the graduate and undergraduate level.
In addition to a huge reduction in fees, new PRs (who are formally considered domestic students under Canadian law), are able to access far more financial aid options, including federal and provincial loans, scholarships and bursaries.
Reversal of fortune: A self-advocacy primer
February 15th, 2024
There can be little doubt that making your voice heard takes courage, especially when adapting to life in a new land. There are ways to make your voice heard, and skills to cultivate that can aid in doing so.
A Reuters article from 2023 stated the dream of living in Canada had ended for 42,000 immigrants during the first half of 2023, as they were unable to make ends meet and chose to abandon their adopted homeland.
That figure added to the 93,818 people who departed in 2022 and the 85,927 who left in 2021. While those numbers represent a mere drop in the bucket compared to the 485,000 arrivals last year, the departures are significant enough to look a little deeper at why this phenomenon is occurring in the first place.
Among the most commonly cited reasons are the high cost of living, being unable to find work in one’s chosen field, not fitting in, an absence of support networks and the impact of any racial discrimination. While all of these are valid and unfortunate, there is also a startling number of immigrants who, for various reasons, have no idea what their rights are. While this is sad, language barriers, limitations caused by cultural roles and rank in society intersect with and only compound the issues people experience trying to make their voices heard while adjusting to the norms and values of a new country.
Facilitating integration of newcomer youth
February 14th, 2024
Canada has far to go in providing adequate support to newcomer youth to ensure their success in the country.
Ethiopian-born Abbas Kidane was mindful of the linguistic constraints and cultural challenges he would face when he landed in Canadas a refugee three years ago. The 26-year-old focused on the improved quality of life that awaited him, and diligently sought opportunities to pursue post-secondary education in business administration.
“I had some concerns before making the move, especially regarding language barriers. However, I was cognizant of Canada’s reputation as an immigrant-friendly nation with a commitment to addressing the needs of newcomers,” Kidane says.
Obtaining permanent residence status in Canada was a journey that spanned more than a year for him. Currently enrolled as a business administration student at the University of Toronto, Kidane credits the assistance and guidance he received from friends within his community for leading him to settlement agencies.
“I learned that settlement agencies offer language classes and leadership training, so I enrolled in one,” he says. “Not only did that give me confidence, but I also gained a clear understanding of the cultural aspects of Canadian society. It was under their guidance that I embarked on my pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in business administration.”
Path to permanent residence: How to boost your express entry score in 2024
February 13th, 2024
The path to obtain permanent residence is often filled with obstacles. Today perhaps the biggest obstacle is getting an opportunity to apply in the first place. And it’s all thanks to the continued trend of high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores for Express Entry draws.
Since resuming regular Express Entry in 2023 after COVID-19, CRS scores of the lowest-ranked candidate to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) have been trending at historically high levels. For all general draws within the past year, CRS scores were concentrated in the 481-561 range. Compare that with 2018 to 2020, where the CRS scores were concentrated in the 350-449 range.
While the exact reason behind this trend is difficult to pinpoint, it’s likely at least in part due to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)’s COVID-19 backlog. Another likely culprit is the introduction of category-based express entry ITAs in 2023, which allows IRCC to make targeted draws inviting only candidates who have a specific occupation, skillset or education. To make space for these category-based rounds of ITAs, fewer invitations will be issued to candidates in all categories, necessarily making CRS scores more competitive.
Although difficult to predict, a major decrease in the scores is unlikely as 2024 unfolds as immigration levels are projected to remain flat and building political pressure to reduce immigration continues to mount. Indeed, the first general draw of 2024 suggests this continued pattern, with the CRS score of the lowest candidate invited being 546.
Newcomers who came to Canada in second year of COVID-19 pandemic had better median entry wages than pre-pandemic: Statistics Canada
February 12th, 2024
In a new report updating findings from 2022, a Statistics Canada (StatsCan) report released on January 22 reveals that there are many ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect how new immigrants are integrating when they arrive in Canada.
From the number of new immigrants* who filed taxes in 2021 to the median entry wages of newcomers who arrived in 2020, the recent StatsCan report outlines several key findings related to the economic outcomes of recent immigrants to Canada in 2021 – the second year of the pandemic.
Record low number of new immigrant tax filers in 2021
According to the 2021 tax filing records of immigrants who came to Canada in 2020, 2021 had the lowest number of new immigrants who filed taxes in Canada among any admission cohort spanning the previous 10 years.
StatsCan reasons that this outcome was “in response to the pandemic’s border restrictions.”
Therefore, for the first time in Canadian history, the majority of tax-filing immigrants among the 2020 admission cohort were individuals who had already lived in Canada (55.5%)*. The remaining 44.5% of tax-filing new immigrants did not have pre-admission experience.
New permanent residence pathway for former minors in protective care
February 12th, 2024
A small number of individuals who came to Canada as minors never obtained permanent residence or citizenship while they were in the custody of child protection services. As a result, some of these vulnerable people who never had status—or lost it—are now at risk of being deported to their country of birth. After living in Canada for years, many have little or no connection to their country of birth, and often do not speak the language.
Canada is committed to addressing the situation and providing fair and equal access to Canada’s immigration system. That’s why Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada introduced a public policy to provide a permanent residence pathway for individuals who came to Canada as minors, were placed in protective care, and never obtained permanent residence or citizenship status as a result. This public policy is in force until January 21, 2027.
Halal food industry growing to meet demand as Muslim population continues rising
February 12th, 2024
Eleven years ago, the recipe for the McCain Deep’n Delicious cake — a decades-old Canadian classic — changed.
To many Canadians, the removal of beef gelatin from the cake’s components may have gone unnoticed. But for Muslim shoppers used to checking the ingredients of food products, it was cause for celebration.
“It went kind of viral within the Muslim community, like, ‘Oh my God, we can eat this,’” said Salima Jivraj, account director and multicultural lead at Nourish Food Marketing.
It’s easier than ever to find halal meat, snacks and desserts in grocery stores as the industry expands in response to Canada’s growing Muslim population, and Jivraj said she doesn’t expect that growth to slow anytime soon.
“The demand just keeps growing. So it’s a really good business to be in,” she said.
Nearly five per cent of Canadians are Muslim, according to the 2021 census, a proportion that has more than doubled since 2001, with immigration as a key driver.
Tech Horizons for Newcomers to Canada
February 8th, 2024
There is an increasing demand for skilled tech talent as the world evolves into a digital-first economy. The tech sector can offer creative and rewarding career prospects for newcomers looking to relaunch their career in Canada. From developers and cyber security professionals to data professionals and data analysts, quality coding career opportunities are within reach for international trained professionals ready to re-skill or up-skill for the tech jobs of today.
The Tech Horizons for Newcomers to Canada Guide, presented by Lighthouse Labs in partnership with Canadian Immigrant magazine, is an informative guide on launching your technology career in Canada.
Over the next several months, they will share helpful articles and videos that will accelerate your journey to a tech career. From information on labour market needs to skills training to the job search process, consider this guide the launchpad to your success as a professional coder in Canada!
How to immigrate to Canada as a healthcare worker
February 8th, 2024
Amidst an alarming shortage of healthcare workers across Canada, this article will provide an overview of how to immigrate to this country as a healthcare worker and acquire accreditation to find employment.
In September this year, CTV News released a story about three teens who were unable to find treatment at their local hospital, in Clinton, Ontario, due to an early closure of the facility’s emergency room. Specifically, the story notes that their local emergency department closed at 6 p.m. that night, forcing them to drive to another hospital 20 kilometres further away for medical care.
As the story continues, it points out that emergency room closures across Canada are expected to continue “because finding people to work there is a key problem.”
Immigrating to Canada as a healthcare worker
Although the above story is just one example, it serves as a potent signal of a growing issue in this country: Canada needs more healthcare workers. Appropriately, the following will provide an overview of some immigration pathways available to foreign nationals looking to work in the healthcare industry across Canada.
Landed immigrants from Africa and Asia see highest employment rates in Canada
February 8th, 2024
A recent study by Statistics Canada revealed that landed immigrants from Africa and Asia had the highest employment rates on average, compared to landed immigrants from other regions around the world.
Note: “Landed immigrants” (or simply “immigrants”) are technical terms used by Statistics Canada to denote a permanent resident of Canada. Individuals with a temporary status (i.e.: workers on work permit and/or international students) and natural-born or naturalised citizens of Canada do not fit into this category.
The study looked at the employment rate of immigrants from various regions of the world in Canada, who were over 15 years of age. Overall, these newcomer groups had the following employment rates in 2023:
• Africa: 67.7% employment;
• Asia: 66.3% employment;
• Latin America: 66%;
• North America: 56.6%; and
• Europe: 56.6%.
Note that for this cohort the national average employment rate was: 62.7%.
These results were also consistent across sexes, with data including just males seeing the same order of regions as overall immigrants above the age of 15. When correcting for just females, Latin America advanced to second place in terms of employment rating, with Asia coming in third—with this exception the rest of the results for females mirrored the previous two cohorts.
The Power of Mentorship
January 27th, 2024
January marks Mentoring Month. In a diverse country like Canada, mentorship becomes a crucial bridge for newcomers seeking assistance in carving out their career paths or settling into their new educational endeavors. A mentor can be a source of insight and feedback, aiding you in navigating the challenges of your journey. Mentors not only encourage mentees to seek out experiences that push their boundaries but also provide guidance, support and consistency.
Finding a Mentor
If formal mentorship programs are not accessible, various avenues can still lead to valuable mentorship connections. Local libraries often provide resources on mentorship, including books and information about volunteer opportunities. Being open about your story and aspirations can also lead to unexpected mentorship opportunities within your community.
Mentoring Resources
For women seeking mentors in science, technology, or entrepreneurship, there are specialized resources available, including the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SWIST). Additionally, Employment Services at WorkBC centers offer a range of programs, including job coaching, customized employment support, unpaid work experience opportunities, and entrepreneurial coaching.
Over 300,000 people became Canadian citizens in 2023
January 27th, 2024
According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in 2023, more than 354,000 people became Canadian citizens in more than 3,000 citizenship ceremonies across the country.
In 2022, 375,413 people became citizens of Canada, marking a notable surge in the nation’s naturalization trend over the preceding two years.
To put it in perspective, the number of new Canadian citizens in 2019 was 250,513, 110,989 new citizens in 2020 and 137,133 in 2021.
How is IRCC reducing citizenship backlog?
IRCC has been working towards their goal to process 80% of citizenship applications within service standards. In January 2022, the percentage of backlog of citizenship applications was about 46%. As of November 2023, IRCC reduced the application backlog to 20%, which represents IRCC’s target number.
IRCC has reduced the backlog by:
Launching a new platform for applicants to complete the citizenship test online
Introducing virtual citizenship ceremonies
Launching online application processes for most clients looking to apply for citizenship, get straightforward proof of citizenship or search citizenship records
Creating an online citizenship application tracker to help clients stay up to date on the status of their application and any required next steps
Hiring more employees to speed up processing across our business lines
Statistics Canada: PNP candidates in Ontario, Alberta and BC have highest earnings
January 24th, 2024
According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, newcomers who arrive in Canada through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) may earn more if they settle in Canada’s three most populous provinces.
The report found that there were “significant differences among provinces in the average earnings of provincial nominees” throughout Canada.
As of 2020, the highest annual earnings for PNP candidates within one or two years after landing were noted in Ontario ($59,600), Alberta ($54,200), and British Columbia ($58,100).
The lowest earnings for PNP candidates were recorded in Atlantic Canada, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. The report attributes the gap to the local unemployment rate and the background characteristics of PNP principal applicants.
This was consistent regardless of the amount of time that had passed since landing, be it one year or five years. It concluded that this was in part caused by different economic conditions, unique to each province, as well as the background characteristics of each PNP candidate.
Background characteristics could include lower levels of education or little to no pre-landing Canadian work experience or education. Candidate’s official language skills also play a role.
New laws and regulations that will significantly impact Canadian newcomers in 2024
January 17th, 2024
Throughout this year, Canadian newcomers can expect to see several new regulations and laws implemented at both the federal and provincial/territorial levels.
These changes, ranging from employment and taxes to international student tuition, are likely to impact international students, temporary foreign workers and permanent residents across this country.
The following will provide an overview of these changes, beginning with a discussion of federal regulations set to effect the entire country before addressing province/territory-specific amendments newcomers can expect in 2024.
New tax rules taking effect across Canada
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is altering several tax rules this year, all of which will impact Canadian permanent residents.
Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)
On January 1, the CRA increased the annual contribution limit for TFSAs by $500 – from $6,500 to $7,000 per year. This type of savings account is important for all residents of Canada, including permanent residents, as it allows account holders who contribute money into the account to avoid being taxed on capital gains and withdrawals.
New immigrants' incomes 'improved considerably' in recent years in Canada: report
January 14th, 2024
New permanent residents' incomes compared to the general population have "improved considerably" over four years in Canada, according to Parliamentary Budget Officer Yves Giroux.
The Office of the Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) released its independent report Friday on how the median income of new immigrants changed and some of the underlying factors behind it. The PBO provides independent economic and financial analysis to Parliament aimed at budget transparency and accountability.
"The closing of the income gap corresponds with an increase in the number of temporary residents and better Canadian experience … that these recent immigrants have gained, either in the workplace in the labour market or through studying in Canada," said Giroux in a phone interview with CTVNews.ca on Friday. "So there seems to be a strong correlation there."
The report comes as Canada has increased its immigration targets substantially to 500,000 people yearly for 2025 and 2026, which is expected to boost its labour supply and economy over the long term.
New Immigration Measures Boost British Columbia Construction Industry
January 7th, 2024
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has begun initiating a variety of changes that will affect all newcomers to Canada in 2024.
As announced in the Immigration Levels Plan for 2024-2026, Canada aims to welcome a total of 485,000 permanent residents (PRs) in 2024. Alongside this increased level of immigration, Canada is expected to launch updates across various programs and leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to streamline the client experience.
Updates to the Express Entry System
In 2023, IRCC began conducting category-based Express Entry draws. These draws were implemented to help Canada find foreign nationals best suited to address the country’s most pressing labour gaps and demographic needs.
In the first year of category-based draws, IRCC chose to prioritize the following categories of immigration candidates.
Those with French language proficiency
Those with recent work experience in any of the following five industries: Healthcare; Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics (STEM); Trades, Transport and Agri-Food/Agriculture
In 2024, IRCC is expected to continue with category-based draws. However, the department has made it clear that they will reassess the focus categories chosen for 2023 and potentially alter them based on the changing needs of Canada’s labour market. This means that new sectors and proficiencies may be chosen as areas of focus by IRCC, potentially enabling new groups of newcomers to be eligible for category-based Express Entry draws this coming year.