News
Find the latest news articles related to Canada’s immigration programs, advocacy work, immigrant culture, employment trends, and much more!
Canada Has Welcomed Nearly 17,000 Parents And Grandparent Immigrants In 2024
September 24th, 2024
New permanent residents of Canada through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) slowed in July compared to June, the latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveals.
In June, PGP immigration had eased off 7.1 per cent to only 3,015 new permanent residents compared to May’s strong performance.
Then, in July, PGP immigration dipped by another 9.3 per cent with only 2,735 new permanent residents to Canada under that program that month.
Immigration of parents to grandparents to Canada was markedly down in the first seven months of this year compared to the same period last year, dropping 10.3 per cent.
How accent bias can impact a person’s job prospects
September 24th, 2024
As anyone who has looked for a job can tell you, finding one isn’t the easiest process. This experience can be even more challenging if you’re new to a country and speak with what is perceived to be a “foreign” accent.
An accent can often impact how we are viewed and judged by others. Despite being proficient in a second language, having an accent considered “foreign” can still feel like a barrier.
At a time when more newcomers are coming to Canada and looking for jobs, it’s important to gain a deeper understanding of accent bias.
In our research, we have focused on how second language accents are associated with listener bias, broadly understood as negative responses to a speaker whose pronunciation is influenced by their previously known languages.
We conducted studies on what human resources (HR) instructors, students and professionals know about accent bias, how they understand it and how they enact it in making decisions about a person’s employability.
Non-profit buys Burnaby affordable rental building with Rental Protection Fund support
September 15th, 2024
The Editor:
Tenants of Parkwood Gardens in Burnaby's Edmonds neighbourhood can breathe easier knowing their rental homes won't be sold for redevelopment any time soon.
Non-profit developer and housing provider Catalyst Community Developments Society acquired the property at 8357 10th Ave., 8350 and 8353 11th Ave. in May with about $15.9 million in capital contributions from the Rental Protection Fund and more than $18,000 per home in grants for building renewal.
B.C.'s Rental Protection Fund and the province announced the building's acquisition Friday.
The Rental Protection Fund said the acquisition will help with the "severe shortage" of childcare in Burnaby and the lack of affordable housing.
"The city has the second highest rental prices in Canada, and, in the southeast Highgate/Edmonds neighborhood, the fewest childcare spaces per capita in Burnaby," said a press release from the Rental Protection Fund.
AI will help with scheduling needs at Burnaby Hospital, Fraser Health says
September 15th, 2024
The Editor:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing many industries, but Fraser Health says the digital tool will improve patient care at Burnaby Hospital.
The regional health authority said, in a news release, it recently partnered with Deloitte Canada to make scheduling tools that leverage AI and machine-learning solutions to accurately forecast waves in demand through a $1.5-million Scalre AI award.
Two of three models will leverage patient analytics from different electronic medical records to forecast volume demands that come to emergency rooms and medicine departments at Burnaby Hospital, as well as Eagle Ridge Hospital in Port Moody, and help leadership in pre-determining staffing requirements.
The other will take forecasted patient data and match it with business rules like patient-physical ratios and make a baseline schedule with advanced analytic capabilities to create numerous scheduling scenarios.
Letter: Is your child struggling socially? Play ball, this Burnaby parent says
September 15th, 2024
The Editor:
I must admit that when I attended my first baseball game with my baseball-loving husband about 17 years ago, I was more interested in scoping out the food stands.
Fast forward to today, I find myself in a position I never imagined: a mom to two baseball-loving sons, with my husband as a baseball coach and a vice president of the Burnaby Baseball Association.
Initially, I questioned whether their involvement in baseball would take away from their studies. But as I watched them grow and develop through the sport, my perspective underwent a dramatic shift.
What I've witnessed goes far beyond improved hand-eye coordination or physical fitness.
Further expansion of $10-a-day child care will benefit B.C. families
September 12th, 2024
Starting on Oct. 1, 2024, applications will be accepted from child care providers to join the $10 a Day ChildCareBC program, which will create more low-cost child care options for families throughout B.C.
“We will be delivering even more $10-a-day spaces to B.C. families because we know what a difference these spaces make,” said Rachna Singh, B.C. Minister of Education and Child Care. “By making child care more affordable, families are able to pursue more opportunities, which will benefit everyone. I want to thank the child care providers who are partnering with us to deliver these life-changing savings to families.”
The $10-a-day program is helping B.C families by reducing the average cost of child care for full-time, centre-based care, from $1,120 a month to $200 a month. On average, families save approximately $920 a month per child with a $10-a-day space.
“We are excited to welcome more child care providers to join the amazing $10 a Day ChildCareBC program so more families across B.C. can benefit from it,” said Jenna Sudds, federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. “By making $10-a-day child care a reality for more families, we’re helping parents save thousands of dollars each year, while ensuring children have the best possible start in life.”
All licensed child care providers are encouraged to apply for this program. Priority will be given to larger non-profit, publicly delivered and Indigenous-led providers, which primarily offer care to children five and younger, and in communities that have no spaces or a low number of $10-a-day spaces compared to their region’s population density. Additionally, this year’s changes to acceptance criteria will help ensure families with low incomes have better access to $10-a-day spaces.
Nearly 1,200 rental homes coming to Langley, Burnaby through BC Builds
September 10th, 2024
Nearly 1,200 rental homes are coming soon for individuals, seniors and families with middle incomes in the Township of Langley and Burnaby, through new BC Builds projects.
“Too many people are having a hard time finding a place to live they can afford – through BC Builds we’re taking action to fix that,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “We’re delivering more middle-class homes so the people who keep our communities working, like teachers, nurses and construction workers, can find a place to live they can afford in the communities they love.”
By leveraging underused land and repayable loans for builders at rates better than banks, which are all paid back to government with interest, BC Builds is designed to overcome challenging market conditions and deliver lower-cost rental homes for people in communities throughout B.C. The program also provides grants to ensure greater affordability and works with municipalities, landowners, residential builders and housing operators to move projects from concept to construction within 12 to 18 months, compared to the current of average three to five years.
“We’re delivering homes middle-income people can afford, in our community,” said Megan Dykeman, MLA for Langley East. “Through programs like BC Builds, we’ll be welcoming over 700 homes to Langley, and over 400 in Burnaby, so that the people who support our communities can afford to live in them. This will make a profound difference for families in these communities.”
Increasing number of newcomers are considering franchising as a career option
September 2nd, 2024
The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) has shared compelling insights about the growing trend of newcomers in Canada exploring franchising as a career option. The association, a national, not-for-profit representing over 40,000 franchise business owners, finds that franchising has emerged as a vital sector in Canada, providing robust opportunities for immigrants seeking to establish themselves and contribute to their new communities.
Franchising is a business model where a company (the franchisor) allows individuals or other businesses (franchisees) to operate their own businesses using the franchisor’s brand, trademarks, system and methods. In exchange for this, franchisees typically pay an initial franchise fee and ongoing royalties based on their sales.
One in four businesses owned by immigrants
Canada’s welcoming environment and strong economic framework make it an ideal destination for immigrants, with about one in four businesses (23.7 per cent) owned by newcomers to Canada, showcasing their entrepreneurial inclination.
Canada ends temporary public policy allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within the country
September 2nd, 2024
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has ended a temporary public policy that allowed visitors to apply for a work permit from within Canada, effective immediately.
IRCC introduced the policy in August 2020 to help visitors who were unable to leave the country due to COVID-19 pandemic–related travel restrictions. Under the policy, visitors in Canada could apply for a work permit without having to leave the country. In addition, foreign nationals who had held a work permit in the previous 12 months but who changed their status in Canada to “visitor” could apply to work legally in Canada while waiting for a decision on their new work permit application.
Annual rent increase for 2025 will be tied to inflation
September 2nd, 2024
The Province is tying the annual allowable rent increase in 2025 to inflation at 3%, down from this year’s allowable increase of 3.5%.
“Tying the allowable increase to inflation saves renters hundreds of dollars, over the previous government’s policy of inflation plus 2%,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “At a time when we know renters are struggling, our rent cap protects renters against unfair rent hikes, while allowing landlords to meet rising costs so that rental homes can stay in B.C.’s housing market.”
The maximum annual allowable rent increase for 2025 cannot take effect prior to Jan. 1, 2025. Government policy prior to 2018 allowed for an additional 2% rent increase on top of inflation, costing the average B.C. family hundreds of dollars in additional rent.
Since 2017, the Province has taken steps to better protect renters, including banning illegal renovictions, strengthening the financial penalties for landlords who evict tenants in bad faith, protecting growing families by restricting rent increases if a tenant adds a child under 19 to their household, and improving wait times at the Residential Tenancy Branch by 64% since November 2022.
More certified teachers coming to B.C. schools
September 2nd, 2024
Recruitment and training initiatives are underway for the coming school year to get more certified teachers into B.C. classrooms and build B.C.’s K-12 workforce.
“We know that the record numbers of newcomers moving to B.C each year means we need more teaching staff in schools,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. “We’re actively working with our education partners on K-12 workforce initiatives to support the recruitment and retention of more certified teachers and build a sustainable education workforce for years to come.”
Through the Province’s StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, $12.5 million over three years is supporting provincewide recruitment and training initiatives for teachers. This year, almost $4 million is going toward recruitment and training programs, with a focus on supporting teacher retention in the sector, improving flexibility in teacher education programs, and recruiting more teachers in rural and remote communities.
“Training the next generation of certified teachers is an important part of our Future Ready Action Plan,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “Building flexibility in education programs supports more people in choosing teaching as a career and helps to fill in-demand positions, providing good-paying jobs for British Columbians.”
Canada steps up efforts to welcome French-speaking international students
August 25th, 2024
Canada is redoubling its efforts to welcome French-speaking newcomers to enrich the linguistic, social, cultural and economic fabric of Francophone minority communities (FMCs). Last week, immigration minister Marc Miller announced that the new Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP) program will be launched on August 26, 2024, in partnership with designated French-language and bilingual post-secondary learning institutions (DLIs).
The new pilot program plans to make access to Canada’s International Student Program fairer for a wide range of international students in Africa, the Middle East and the Americas, regions where that the study permit approval rate has been low in the past.
The pilot program, a flagship measure of the Policy on Francophone Immigration, and will benefit FMCs by helping them attract and retain international students. To improve the approval rate, students and their families will be exempted from having to demonstrate that they will leave Canada at the end of their temporary stay. In addition, the required financial threshold will be adjusted to reflect 75 per cent of the low-income cut-off associated with the municipality where the institution’s main campus is located.
Extended work and study permit measures for Ukrainians in Canada
August 25th, 2024
As Russia continues its illegal and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine, Canada is continuing to adapt its response to support those who have found a temporary safe haven here.
Ukrainians and their family members who were approved under the Canada–Ukraine authorization for emergency travel, and who arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024, can now apply for an open work permit until March 31, 2025.
Under these extended measures, they can apply to get a new open work permit that’s valid for up to 3 years, apply to extend a current open work permit or apply for a new study permit, subject to standard fees.
This giant festival will celebrate Japanese culture in Burnaby at the end of August
August 19th, 2024
Are you ready to celebrate Japanese culture at the 12th annual Nikkei Matsuri?
The matsuri – which means “festival” in Japanese – will host a wide variety of entertainment, including a Mikoshi procession and Bon Odori dance, food trucks with delicious Japanese festival foods, games for kids, a marketplace, tearoom and much more.
The event will feature performances and martial arts demonstrations by:
Appare Yosakoi Vancouver: Lively dance with wooden instruments called naruko
Chibi Taiko: Canada’s first children’s taiko ensemble
Hitotose: Japanese sword fighting performances by actors Haruno Niiyama and Yuki Kedoin
Kotononekai: Koto players led by koto master Yuriko Nariya
Non Sweet: Local Japanese pop music group
Ishikawa Family Judo Club
Shorinji Kempo
Aikido Vancouver Shomonkai
and more.
Taste your way through Burnaby with this farmers market 'tasting passport'
August 19th, 2024
You can now take a self-guided tour of local farmers markets in Burnaby thanks to a free "tasting passport" app by the BC Association of Farmers Markets.
The tasting passport is a fun way to discover local flavours and exciting experiences and earn points that can be redeemed for prizes, according to a press release.
Tourism Burnaby and Destination BC helped curate of the Burnaby-specific itinerary.
The featured markets on the tour include:
Brentwood Artisan Farmers Market
Burnaby City Hall Farmers Market
Nikkei Garden Farmers Market
All the markets incorporate fresh produce, entertainment and interesting local vendors.
The passport also showcases fun things to do and places to eat around town including Hart House Restaurant, Mintara atop Burnaby Mountain, Burnaby Village Museum and Carousel and Deer Lake Boat Rentals.
BBB: Seven scams for post-secondary students to avoid
August 19th, 2024
College and university students must spend money on tuition payments and school supplies to prepare for the new year.
However, scammers are taking this opportunity to try to steal some of that money through various schemes and scams.
One tactic used to get student's personal information is a phishing email that claims to be from the school’s “Financial Department.”
Messages via text or email may appear, instructing the student to click on a link provided in the email and log in with a student username and password. Don’t do it; doing so could give the user name, password, or other personal information to scammers while possibly downloading malware onto the device.
Whether you are starting school away from home or have young students who may be vulnerable to such scams, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends watching out for these financial scams before heading into the new semester.
How Douglas College and SFU hope to mitigate B.C.'s diverse learning educator shortage
August 19th, 2024
"This agreement is just the beginning of a long journey, but it's a journey that I believe will lead to remarkable outcomes for our communities."
Dr. Robert Williamson is confident a new transfer portal between two B.C. post-secondary schools can inspire and produce a multitude of educators to help the next generation of diverse learners.
On Aug. 14, an agreement was unveiled that will allow Classroom and Community Support students at Douglas College to transfer 75 per cent of their credits directly to Simon Fraser University's (SFU) Bachelor of General Studies in Education.
This means 45 of 60 credits can move students from the New Westminster-Coquitlam school up Burnaby Mountain and into the second year of SFU's program.
In a news release, SFU stated this will address the "ongoing shortage" of diverse learning supports in B.C. schools — specifically for students with disabilities.
Free car and booster seat safety clinic being hosted by Burnaby RCMP
August 19th, 2024
If you want to make sure your car or booster seat is set up properly for your child, Burnaby RCMP is hosting a free clinic this month.
The clinic is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 25, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bonsor Recreation Complex (6550 Bonsor Rd.) in the south parking lot.
Certified Child Passenger Safety Educators, including Burnaby Mounties and BCAA staff, will be available to work one-on-one with the public to inspect the current setup of their car or booster seat and help with any adjustments and education.
"For a child’s car seat or booster seat to be effective it must be installed and used correctly, but parents and caregivers often remark that they can be complicated and intimidating to set up and adjust," a news release said.
What to do if your study permit application is rejected
August 19th, 2024
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there is no formal appeal process available to international students who are rejected for a Canadian study permit.
However, international students can apply for reconsideration of their study permit decision if they can present new evidence that argues against the rejection of their initial application.
Things to know about reapplying for a Canadian study permit
The following will outline some key points to remember before submitting a second study permit application to IRCC.
How long do I have to reapply?
According to IRCC, international students can reapply for a study permit at any time, as long as their PAL remains valid. In other words, your study permit application must be submitted before the PAL expires.
The department clarifies, however, that a PAL may or may not explicitly list an expiry date. Accordingly, IRCC notes that an individual PAL will either expire on the listed date or on January 21, 2025 (if no date is listed).
Nine apps to enhance your life in Canada
August 19th, 2024
Newcomers often face a steep learning curve when adapting to life in Canada.
Digital tools can help to ease this transition.
The CIC News team has compiled a list of nine mobile apps that newcomers can download to enhance their life in Canada.
Entertainment
NFB Films: The National Film Board of Canada's NFB films app allows users to watch over 6,000 films, without any ads or subscription fee. Users can also save films for up to 48 hours for off-line viewing, allowing them to watch on the plane even if they don’t have wi-fi.
Weather
The Weather Network: The Weather Network app provides information about local forecasts to help newcomers better plan for their day and week ahead. It can also be helpful for getting a feel of the weather in a city or region of Canada, as the weather across this country can vary greatly depending on where you live.
Some temporary foreign workers can get a job in Canada without an LMIA thanks to these international agreements
August 14th, 2024
Work permits given to foreign nationals in Canada can be broken down into two categories: those that require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and those that do not.
An LMIA is a document that some Canadian employers must obtain from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before they hire a temporary foreign worker (TFW). This document proves that the hiring of a TFW will only have a positive or neutral – that is, not negative – impact on the Canadian labour market.
Depending primarily on the positions they need to fill, Canada’s many international arrangements and agreements allow some employers to hire without an LMIA for TFWs from certain countries.
Occupation: Traders
Canadian employers hiring foreign nationals who work as traders can do so without an LMIA if the TFW is from any of the following six countries:
United States
Mexico
Colombia
Chile
South Korea
Peru
This is possible because of several international agreements Canada has with the above countries such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
More than 160 affordable homes, 74 child care spaces coming to Burnaby
August 14th, 2024
Families and seniors in Burnaby will soon benefit from 161 new affordable homes and 74 child care spaces as construction starts on a new development in the community.
“We are taking action to help families who have struggled to find affordable housing and child care and provide them with the supports they need to thrive in their community,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “Our government is proud to lead the way to help people across the province have healthy, vibrant neighbourhoods with the quality care and homes they deserve.”
The six-storey building at 3838 Hastings St. will feature a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes on floors two through six. Nine of the homes will be fully accessible and 84 will be adaptable. The S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Affordable Housing Society will operate the building. The child care centre on the ground floor will be operated by the YMCA of Greater Vancouver.
“Alongside new homes, it’s important to ensure families have access to child care in their growing community,” said Mitzi Dean, Minister of State for Child Care. “These 74 spaces will provide an opportunity for parents to pursue their goals while their children learn and play in a safe environment. This is part of our commitment to make child care a core and reliable service for everyone.”
In addition to housing and child care, the building will have commercial space on the ground floor, 139 parking spots and 224 bicycle spaces. Construction is expected to be complete in 2026.
Answering 11 FAQs about Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit
August 8th, 2024
In light of proposed changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program announced last month, many current and prospective international students may be looking for more information.
For example, as outlined by notes from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Deputy Minister Transition Binder 2024, these changes would work to better align the “issuance of PGWPs [with Canada’s] labour market needs.”
This would result in fewer permits being issued to graduates from some post-secondary programs while “students entering occupations in shortage” would have better access to PGWPs.
To help international students better understand the PGWP, CIC News has compiled a list of frequently asked questions.
What is a PGWP?
A PGWP is an open work permit for international students who complete an eligible study program at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This type of work permit is popular among those who come to Canada for an education because the work experience gained through this permit can assist in the foreign national’s eligibility for several Canadian permanent residence pathways.
Permanent residence class proposed for semi-skilled workers
August 8th, 2024
Immigraiton, Refugees and Citizesnhip Canada (IRCC) has proposed an amendment to the Immigration and Refugees Protection Act (IRPA) that would introduce a new permanent economic immigration class for workers who have experience and training that falls under the Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) levels 4 and 5.
The department says the pathway would “support the modernization of the economic immigration system by expanding the selection of permanent residents to candidates with a more diverse range of skills and experience.”
According to IRCC, ministerial instructions with more detail about the new class and any pathways will be released this fall in the Canada Gazette.
Canada’s TEER system
Canada’s TEER system was introduced as part of the evolution of the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system in 2022. The system categorizes occupations into “TEERS,” replacing the “Skill Levels” in NOC 2016.
TEERs 0-3 are for occupations that typically require a post-secondary education or an apprenticeship for a specific length of time. TEERS 4 and 5 cover those that need just a high school education, on-the-job training or, in the case of TEER 5, no formal education but some Occupations that usually need short-term work demonstration.
More people will benefit from training grants
August 8th, 2024
People training for good paying, in-demand careers will be able to access grants that cover most, or all, of their tuition thanks to the next intake of the StrongerBC future skills grant.
This popular grant covers as much as $3,500 in eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions.
“Because B.C.’s strong economy is growing, we now have more job openings than people with the training needed to work in high-demand fields,” said Premier David Eby. “We need to give people the opportunity to build a good life – and help employers find the people to drive our economy forward and deliver the services we all rely on.”
People 19 and older who live in British Columbia are eligible for these grants.
“This government is focused on investing in British Columbians and removing financial barriers to their success. As jobs transform and more training is required, with the $3,500 future skills grant, people will be able to boost their skills, and succeed in their current jobs and get better-paying jobs,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “Last year, this grant served over 7,000 people, and this year, thousands of British Columbians will benefit from more training opportunities offered by B.C.’s public post-secondary institutions that will enhance workers’ skills who will fill in-demand positions now and get good-paying jobs.”
8 ways to master the art of small talk
August 4th, 2024
Getting good at the art of small talk is not only appreciated in professional circles but can be a smart way to boost your career. Remember it’s not about simply initiating a conversation. It’s about engaging your audience with a meaningful conversation. It is recommended to read the classic Everyone communicates but few connect by John Maxwell, for more on this subject.
You could be taking the elevator one minute or standing in a lunch line the other or presiding over a business meeting. Every instance presents an opportunity to strike up a conversation, show empathy and leave the individual with a positive impression. Surprisingly, these are the very things that are noticed in leaders.
When you master small talk, it can open doors to new opportunities, connections and relationships. Simply find common ground, wear a smile, carry a pleasant personality and always have a pleasant tone. Here are eight effective phrases that you can use to get started!
1) “How’s your day going?” (Inquire about anything)
Do not dismiss it as a trivial venture. Inquiring about someone’s day is a popular approach that can quickly break the ice. An open-ended question, it shows that you care and it can create a connection. Plus, it allows anyone to respond in a manner they deem fit. It gives you an insight into their current mood and state of mind.
Building language skills for career success
August 4th, 2024
Investing in developing language skills opens up more job opportunities and facilitates successful socialization and integration for newcomers in Canada.
When Liliia Shvets immigrated to Canada from Ukraine in 2022, she quickly realized that improving her language skills was crucial for establishing her career in Canada. She enrolled in the government-funded Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program offered by the settlement agency Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto (NEW).
“My course provided a lot of useful information, and the teachers understood that most newcomers are already under stress, so there was no additional pressure,” she recalls. “During each session, we covered various topics, including participating in mock job interviews. We learned how to effectively showcase our skills to potential employers and gained valuable insights into Canadian culture, resume writing, and interview techniques, among other topics.”
Shvets believes this knowledge is indispensable for job seekers. “I consider this essential knowledge that significantly eases the job search process for newcomers,” says Shvets, who now works as a retail business manager in the postal industry.
New data suggests growing demand for temporary foreign workers in several Canadian industries
August 4th, 2024
Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) reports that the number of people approved to work as temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in Canada has doubled compared to five years ago.
According to publicly available ESDC data, in 2023, employers were cleared to hire just less than 240,000 (239,646) TFWs. Five years prior, this number was less than half of the 2023 figure – at 108,988 TFWs in 2018.
This illustrates the continuation of an upward trend – save for 2020, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic – that has persisted since at least 2016. That year, ESDC data indicates that employers were approved to hire just over 90,000 TFWs (90,314).
However, it is important to note that the data presented in this article does not correlate, necessarily, to a higher number of TFWs in Canada. This is because, although the number of TFW approvals is rising, this does not account for employers who later change their minds and decide not to hire a TFW.
Instead, what this data shows is that an increasing number of employers are pursuing the hiring of TFWs to fill vacant jobs in their organizations.
Do you need a lawyer when making a will in Canada?
July 29th, 2024
Many people believe that creating a will requires the services of a lawyer, but this isn't always the case. Below, I’ll expand on a lawyer’s role in your will and explain how they can be helpful in certain circumstances.
Whether you’re in the process of creating your will, have already created your will, or are just curious and planning for the future, here are some helpful tips to make sure your final wishes are honoured.
Do you need a lawyer to make your will in Canada?
Technically speaking, you can create your will completely without ever involving a lawyer. That being said, a lawyer can help ensure that your final will and testament is executed exactly as you intended.
The last thing that you want your family to worry about as they mourn your passing is an argument over your will and your real intentions. Having a legally sound last will and testament eliminates any confusion for your loved ones.
The executor(opens in a new tab) is the individual you appoint with the responsibility of reading your will and distributing your assets as outlined in the document. Aside from creating the will itself, the individual you choose to execute the will is the most important decision you’ll make.
It’s not uncommon for individuals to appoint a lawyer to execute their will. However, the executor is not required to have any official legal or financial experience. The main requirement you’ll want them to have is honesty and impartiality.
Changes to BC PNP processing times for Skills Immigration applications
July 25th, 2024
BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) applicants will start to see an increase in processing times for Skills Immigration applications submitted after May 2024.
Due to fewer federal nominations available in 2024 and an increase in the number of applicants, processing times for BC PNP applications are expected to be longer until early 2025. Afterwards, processing times are anticipated to return to approximately 3 months for 80% of applications.
The BC PNP will continue to issue invitations to apply (ITAs) and receive applications during this period.
7 apps to prepare for your move to Canada
July 25th, 2024
Planning your move to a new country is no small task.
But digital tools can help.
The CIC news team has compiled a list of 7 mobile apps that newcomers can download to help prepare for their move to Canada.
Accommodation and housing
Padmapper, Rentals.ca, Rentseeker.ca, or Zumper: Newcomers can use these digital tools to search for rental housing. These platforms allow users to filter searches based on parameters such as location, cost, number of bedrooms, and other amenities. If newcomers want to tour apartments in person, they might consider initially booking a short-term rental on platforms such as AirBnB or VRBO, and then searching for a long-term rental after arriving.
Realtor.ca, Zillow, or HouseSigma: These platforms are predominantly focused on buying and selling real estate, but offer a good deal of rental housing as well. Newcomers can use these to search for listings if they are looking to purchase a home, or can use them as additional platforms in their search for property to rent. If you are coming to Canada as a temporary resident, you must meet certain conditions to purchase residential property.
Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace: Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace are among the most popular online classifieds in Canada. Users can search these platforms both for accommodations and for household furnishings. Newcomers can use classifieds to obtain items at a fraction of the cost of new merchandise—or even for free. Users can filter searches by parameters such as price and distance. Purchasing items from classifieds is one of only a few situations in which it is generally considered socially acceptable to haggle in Canada.
Finding your first job as an international graduate in Canada
July 23rd, 2024
Many international students who attend a Canadian post-secondary institution do not have a job offer lined up when they graduate.
Therefore, when you complete your studies in Canada – transitioning from international student to international graduate – you will need to start from the ground up with your job search.
To help international graduates get started on their job search, CIC News has compiled this list of tips and advice to help make it easier to find work.
Research
It is rare to know exactly what role you are looking for when first entering the workforce as a new graduate.
Therefore, a key step in finding your first job after graduation is researching potential career paths and jobs. In fact, Indeed.com, a popular employment search platform used by both job seekers and employers, lists research as the first step for job seekers looking to get a job after graduation.
New plastic regulations will keep more plastic waste out of communities
July 21st, 2024
People in British Columbia will benefit from a cleaner environment and reduced waste from single-use plastics as new regulations come into effect.
People will see less plastic waste in their communities as the next phase of the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan comes into effect. Beginning Monday, July 15, 2024, plastic shopping bags will no longer be offered at stores and oxo-degradable plastic packaging and single-use products will no longer be sold in the province. These changes will keep harmful waste out of landfills and will reduce oxo-degradable plastics, which contain chemicals that cause break down into microplastics and pollute the environment.
It is estimated that more than 340,000 tonnes of plastic items and packaging were disposed of in British Columbia in 2019. This equates to more than 65 kilograms of plastic waste per person sent to the landfill in one year.
Phasing out single-use items is part of the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan to help us move away from temporary and disposable plastics to durable and reusable products.
Families to benefit from new child care spaces at SFU-Burnaby
July 14th, 2024
More students and families in Burnaby will have access to affordable and quality child care with 160 additional child care spaces to be created on the local Simon Fraser University campus.
“Access to quality, affordable child care is life changing for families, and we are focused on building spaces where families need them most,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. “These additional child care spaces in Burnaby means more children will have a safe space to learn and grow and will provide parents with the opportunity to further pursue their personal goals.”
Renovations of an existing building and the construction of a new building were made possible through $16 million from the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund. The fund is jointly supported by provincial investments and federal funding under the 2021-2022 to 2025-2026 Canada-British Columbia Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.
“Access to affordable and high-quality child care is a game changer for families,” said Jenna Sudds, federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. “These new spots mean children will have a safe place to play, learn, and grow, and parents will have the support they need to chase their academic and career dreams. We’re going to keep working hard to make sure every single family in Burnaby and across Canada who wants a child care spot for their child gets one.”
More student housing coming to Burnaby
July 14th, 2024
More student housing is coming to Simon Fraser University (SFU) with the announcement of a 445-bed student housing project to be built at SFU’s Burnaby campus.
“When students don’t have access to student housing they are forced into the local rental housing market with higher costs, increasing competition with other renters,” said Premier David Eby. “By providing hundreds of additional students with on-campus homes every year – as well as increased access to convenient child care – we are helping them focus on their studies and their futures, while also relieving pressure on local renters who aren’t students.”
The eight-storey residence will accommodate 445 students with a mix of self-contained studio and quad units, as well as two- and four-bedroom townhouses. The project will also include a 160-space child care centre. Construction is expected to be complete in fall 2027.
“Our government has been making historic investments in on-campus student housing to support students in their academic success and well-being,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “This project builds on the thousands of student beds already built or underway across B.C., making it easier for students to get the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow.”
Prepare for heat
July 14th, 2024
People throughout British Columbia are encouraged to be prepared for heat as many regions of the province will experience high temperatures beginning Friday, July 5, 2024.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has forecast increasingly hot temperatures for many parts of the province this weekend, and the Province is reminding people to plan ahead to stay safe.
Heat warnings and special-weather statements are in place for coastal areas of B.C., and ECCC is expected to expand warnings to the Interior. High temperatures are expected to first hit Vancouver Island and southwestern B.C. and spread to the Interior. The hot weather is expected to last into the middle of next week.
For many, these will be the first high temperatures of the season, which can lead some people to overheat because they are not yet accustomed to warmer weather.
Older adults and people with chronic health conditions are most susceptible to extreme heat, especially if they live alone. High-risk conditions include schizophrenia, COPD, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and physical and cognitive disabilities. People who are most susceptible should plan to access a cool space, take measures to stay cool and hydrated, or even stay with friends or family who have air conditioning if they cannot stay cool at home.
International Credentials Recognition Act streamlines career opportunities
July 2nd, 2024
More internationally trained professionals will be able to use their skills for a career in B.C. as the International Credentials Recognition Act comes into effect on Monday, July 1, 2024.
The act will remove barriers in 29 professions and make it fairer, more transparent and efficient for qualified professionals to pursue and achieve credential recognition, no matter where they were trained.
The professions include engineers, social workers, veterinarians, paramedics, early childhood educators, teachers, biologists, land surveyors, architects and others.
In addition, the Province will appoint a new superintendent of international credential recognition. The superintendent will oversee the fair recognition of international credentials, addressing any systemic or procedural issues. They will also have the authority under the act to issue orders for compliance and impose administrative penalties as needed.
Five free settlement resources for temporary foreign workers in Canada
June 26th, 2024
Although most Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) settlement services are reserved for permanent residents and protected persons, temporary foreign workers (TFWs) are eligible to access some settlement services from provincial and territorial governments across Canada.
Note: Settlement services are offered by a range of providers in all Canadian provinces and territories, all of whom have their own policies, eligibility criteria and offerings.
Am I eligible for IRCC’s settlement services?
Eligibility for settlement services often depends on the criteria outlined by a particular service provider.
According to IRCC, some temporary residents in Canada are eligible for federal settlement services. The department clarifies that IRCC-funded settlement services for TFWs have different eligibility criteria than those provided by privately funded organizations, non-profits and provincially or municipally funded service providers.
Statistics Canada forecasts population growth of 21 million thanks to immigration
June 26th, 2024
Statistics Canada is projecting that Canada could be home to 63 million people by 2073.
Modeling what Statistics Canada refers to as “various projection scenarios”, data for the period of 2023 to 2073 suggests that Canada could be home to anywhere between 47.1 to 87.2 million people in 50 years.
Note: Statistics Canada clarifies that “projections are not predictions.” Additionally, the department says that its projections account for “recent trends” as well as “the opinions of population experts who were consulted specifically during the development of these projections.”
The projection of 63 million, however, is based on Statistics Canada’s medium-growth scenario (M1).
How is Canada’s population going to grow?
This projected growth, of roughly 21 million* over 50 years, is despite the aging of Canada’s natural population.
*Canada’s population, led by immigration, has recently surpassed 41 million less than a year after reaching the 40 million milestone
In fact, by 2073, “older adults” (aged 65 and older) in Canada could make up between 21.9% and 32.3% of the total population.
New regulations streamline pathway for international credentials
June 26th, 2024
Internationally educated professionals will soon have a more streamlined, efficient and transparent process to get their credentials recognized in B.C.
"The Premier gave me the task to get the International Credentials Recognition Act across the finish line, and I'm happy to say we've done it,” said Ravi Parmar, Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials. “For too long, skilled professionals from around the world have come to our province hoping for a better life, only to find roadblocks in their way. But now, with these regulations, we're changing that. It means simpler, fairer rules so these professionals can start working in their fields faster, providing the services our communities need.”
The International Credentials Recognition Act will come into effect on July 1, 2024, after significant consultation with 18 regulatory bodies, led by the parliamentary secretary for international credentials.
The act will require regulatory bodies to reduce red tape and remove barriers in 29 professions and make it easier, more transparent and quicker for those qualified professionals to pursue and achieve credential recognition, no matter where they were trained.
One major change is eliminating the catch-22 of unnecessary Canadian work experience requirements for experienced internationally trained professionals. The catch-22 was that a person needed work experience to work in Canada, but couldn’t work in Canada because of the lack of Canadian work experience.
Canada improves fairness for applicants by ending post-graduation work permit “flagpoling”
June 24th, 2024
A safe and secure flow of goods and people across the Canada–United States border is critical to North America’s economy and the close person-to-person ties that Canadians and Americans enjoy. That’s why we continue to look for ways to make it easier and faster to cross the border without compromising the integrity of our immigration system.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that foreign nationals can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border, effective immediately. This measure will help reduce what is known as “flagpoling.” Flagpoling occurs when temporary residents of Canada bypass the normal wait times involved in applying for a work or study permit online by leaving the country and then immediately re-entering to receive same-day immigration services.
Flagpoling uses significant resources at the border, taking officers away from enforcement activities, causing delays for travellers and slowing down the movement of goods. From March 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, PGWP applicants represented about one fifth of the foreign nationals who attempted to flagpole.
June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 24th, 2024
B.C. is home to over 200,000 Indigenous people, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit, representing one of the largest and most diverse Indigenous populations in the world. There are over 200 distinct First Nations, whose languages, cultures, values, traditions, world views and customs continue to be an integral part of society in B.C.
National Indigenous History Month is a time to celebrate the rich histories, diverse cultures and resilience of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and to recognize the importance of continued commitment to our collective journey towards reconciliation.
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day filled with celebratory events and activities to recognize the history, culture, heritage and diversity of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
Burnaby kicks off BC Parkway planning with free summer events, activities
June 24th, 2024
If you’re not sure how to start in self-employment, ISSofBC can assess your entrepreneurial interest, provide online learning opportunities and one-on-one support.
ISSofBC Provides:
Assessments on your entrepreneurial interest and knowledge to help you decide the next steps.
Online, self-paced modules to help you understand key aspects of starting a business.
Assistance in developing a business plan through one-on-one sessions and workshops.
Self-employment mentorship in a similar field.
Eligibility:
Permanent Residents
Convention Refugees and Protected Persons
Individuals who have been selected to become Permanent Residents, and who have been informed by a letter from IRCC.
Live-in Caregivers or Temporary Foreign Workers who have approval in principle.
Burnaby kicks off BC Parkway planning with free summer events, activities
June 24th, 2024
Burnaby is revving up for the BC Parkway linear park revitalization project with fun and games this summer.
The city is hosting mini-engagement events for the “Parkway Alive!” project with live music, arts and crafts, Indigenous education and storytelling and more at Metrotown and Patterson SkyTrain stations on Sundays and Wednesdays this summer.
Staff have set up picnic tables, life-size chessboards, ping pong tables and food trucks to promote the project and listen to feedback.
The city wants to transform a three-kilometre stretch of the parkway from an underutilized, in-between space into a vibrant linear park that “really serves the needs of the local community,” staff said in a presentation to the city’s parks and rec committee June 11.
The activities will continue for the next few years until the corridor is built out, said senior planner and project manager Charlene Liew.
What are my chances of receiving a work permit through the IEC this year?
June 24th, 2024
Newcomers to Canada often seek to obtain work permits. When eligible, newcomers may want to consider the International Experience Canada (IEC) program as a route to obtain a work permit.
Unlike most other programs, the IEC pool gives candidates greater clarity on their likelihood of obtaining a work permit.
What is the IEC and what kind of work permit(s) does it offer?
The IEC is a temporary residence program for youth 18-30/35 from countries that have Bilateral Youth Mobility Agreements with Canada. These are agreements that allow youth from different countries to work and gain experience in Canada—while allowing Canadian youths to do the same in other countries. IEC applicants can have their work permits approved in as little as six weeks.
Check if your country has a bilateral youth mobility agreement with Canada here. The eligible age range may also change depending on which country you are from, and its agreement with Canada.
The IEC opens for an application season—usually in January, lasting throughout the year or until all work permits are issued. The program allows successful applicants to live and work in Canada for up to two years through three streams that issue work permits:
The Working Holiday stream;
The Young Professionals stream; and
The International Co-op (Internship) stream.
If you are a citizen of a partner country, you may be able to apply to more than one of these streams.
Growth in Burnaby powered by clean, affordable electricity
June 16th, 2024
BC Hydro will construct more than $1.25 billion in capital projects throughout Burnaby over the next decade to upgrade and expand the electricity grid, and provide clean power for homes and businesses in growing communities.
“We must build out B.C.’s electrical system like never before, to power our homes and businesses, to power a growing economy and to power our future,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “In Burnaby and communities across B.C., these construction projects will create thousands of good jobs over the next decade and ensure that people have access to clean, affordable and reliable electricity – when they need it and where they need it.”
In January 2024, the Province announced BC Hydro’s updated 10-year capital plan, which contains $36 billion in regional and community infrastructure investments throughout B.C., which is a 50% increase in investments over its previous capital plan. These new construction projects are forecast to support 10,500 to 12,500 jobs on average annually, and will increase and maintain BC Hydro’s capital investments as major projects such as the Site C hydoelectric dam are completed.
More Canadian immigrants are being hired for jobs that fit their qualifications
June 16th, 2024
A new Statistics Canada (StatsCan) report suggests that overqualification among Canadian immigrants is decreasing.
Overqualification describes what occurs when immigrants to Canada are hired for jobs where their education and/or work experience is too advanced for their role.
According to a StatsCan report published on May 22, among recent immigrants with at least a bachelor’s degree, the number of immigrants working “in jobs fitting their qualifications” has increased by 4.4% between Canada’s last two censuses*.
*This is according to a comparison of census data in 2016 and 2021.
Understanding the history of overqualification in Canada
Overqualification has been a long-standing issue for recent Canadian immigrants.
Going back as far as 2001, StatsCan data reveals that the rate of recent immigrants’ “education-occupation mismatch” has been inconsistent.
In 2001, 28.7% of recent immigrants were overeducated for their occupation.
In five-year increments, that number fluctuated as follows:
2006: 32.9%
2011: 27.8%
2016: 31.1%
2021: 26.7%
Canada announces new pilot programs to support caregivers and Canadian families, intends to make the caregivers program permanent
June 14th, 2024
Caregivers from abroad are invaluable to Canadian families. Their hard work makes a difference in the lives of those they care for, including children, seniors and persons with disabilities.
As the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot come to a close later this month, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced new, enhanced caregiver pilots. This will allow caregivers to continue to come to Canada, as we work toward making the caregiver pilot programs permanent.
The new pilot programs will provide home care workers with permanent residence (PR) on arrival in Canada. They will also be allowed to work for organizations that provide temporary or parttime care for people who are semi-independent or recovering from an injury or illness. This new pathway means that caregivers can more easily find proper work with reliable employers and have clear, straightforward access to permanent resident status as soon as they arrive in Canada.
Pilot Program: Canada Introduces On Arrival Permanent Residence (PR) For Home Care Workers
June 8th, 2024
The federal government is introducing new caregiver pilot programs to support families in need of caregiving for children, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
Set to offer permanent residence upon arrival; the new programs aim to streamline the integration of caregivers into Canadian society.
Per the news release, this initiative is a marked shift from previous requirements, directly addressing the complexities caregivers faced under older schemes.
Prospective candidates must meet certain prerequisites:
attain a minimum of level 4 based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)
hold the equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma
have recent and relevant work experience
receive an offer for a full-time home care job
“Caregivers play a critical role in supporting Canadian families, and our programs need to reflect their invaluable contributions,” said Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship announcing the program.
Successful BC PNP pilot becomes ongoing stream
June 4th, 2024
As of May 27, 2024, the Entrepreneur Immigration Regional Pilot is a permanent stream of the BC PNP. As part of our commitment to a StrongerBC, the BC PNP will continue supporting regional communities to grow their local economies.
Entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in B.C.’s rural, interior, and coastal communities can apply to immigrate through the BC PNP’s Entrepreneur Immigration Regional stream.
To learn more about business opportunities in the participating communities, visit the Regional stream page.
What kind of school should I apply to as an international student in Canada?
June 4th, 2024
Universities, colleges, and specialty programs across Canada all have unique values, and the best choice for international students often depends on their individual career goals and aspirations.
Note: Speciality programs are those specifically designed to help students develop and enhance specific skills such as those in the trades. Meanwhile, bridging programs help newcomers connect the international training, education and experience they have with what is needed to continue working in their field when they arrive.
Foreign nationals should remember that only designated learning institutions (DLIs), regardless of the type of program they offer, are permitted to welcome international students to study in Canada.
Including a comparison of these pathways, what follows may help prospective international students make informed decisions based on multiple factors, including their personal development, academic/professional ambitions.
Do I need a language test to immigrate to Canada?
June 3rd, 2024
Many of Canada’s economic immigration programs require candidates to complete a language test to be eligible to apply.
This article will provide an overview of important details about whether a reader may need a language test on their immigration journey to Canada. For example, the following will cover which programs require language tests and the types of language tests accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Which Canadian economic immigration programs require a language test?
According to IRCC, 12 economic immigration programs currently require candidates to take a language test to qualify*. They are:
Agri-food pilot
Atlantic Immigration program
Caregivers
Economic Mobility Pathways pilot
The three programs managed under the Express Entry application management system
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Federal Internship for Newcomers Program
Permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents
Rural and Northern Immigration pilot
Self-employed Persons program
Start-up visa program
*Each program may have different standards regarding the score that a candidate must obtain on their language test to qualify for that specific program.
B.C. minimum wage increases June 1
June 3rd, 2024
On June 1, 2024, the general minimum wage increases from $16.75 to $17.40 an hour.
The 3.9% increase also applies to minimum-wage rates for resident caretakers, live-in home-support workers and live-in camp leaders. The increase will help approximately 240,000 workers who currently earn less than $17.40 per hour.
On Dec. 31, 2024, the minimum piece rates for the hand-harvesting of the 15 crops specified in the Employment Standards Regulation will also increase by the same percentage.
Government has made regular, gradual increases to the minimum wage to provide certainty for workers and predictability for businesses. This is the third year that the adjustment reflects government's commitment to tie annual minimum-wage increases to inflation.
ChildCareBC’s New Spaces Fund open for new applications
June 3rd, 2024
The 2024-25 intake of the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund is open for applications until Aug. 2, 2024.
The New Spaces Fund has created thousands of new licensed child care spaces throughout B.C., improving access to child care for families. Since 2018, government has funded more than 37,000 new licensed child care spaces, with more than 18,000 of these spaces open throughout the province.
This year, there are two grant funding streams for applicants: major capital grants and minor capital grants. These funding streams replace the previous new spaces fund primary stream and school-age-care-on-school-grounds stream.
Major capital funding helps build, renovate and expand child care centres, with requests of more than $500,000. Minor capital projects are renovations and equipment-only projects anticipated to be complete within one year, with requests of up to $500,000.
Eligible organizations include Indigenous governing entities, local governments, public bodies, including health authorities, public post-secondary institutions and Crown corporations, not-for-profits and Indigenous not-for-profits, First Nations schools and other eligible independent schools looking to apply for space-creation funding.
B.C. seeks anti-racism advocates for provincial committee
June 3rd, 2024
People from diverse backgrounds with an interest in dismantling systemic racism and advancing racial equity are encouraged to apply to be members of the Provincial Committee on Anti-Racism.
The Province is accepting expressions of interest from throughout the province to fill 11 positions on the new committee, which will advise government about the implementation of the newly passed Anti-Racism Act and on developing a whole-of-government Anti-Racism Action Plan. The committee will also be responsible, in collaboration with racialized communities, to develop a framework for public bodies to do anti-racism assessments and establish anti-racism training standards they will follow.
Requirements for consideration include being a B.C. resident, having lived experience as a racialized person and experience with anti-racism work.
Toll-free Racist Incident Helpline ready to provide support
May 30th, 2024
People in B.C. who witness or experience a racist incident can now call a new helpline to receive trauma-informed, culturally appropriate support in more than 240 languages.
The Racist Incident Helpline is a toll-free, accessible service established in partnership with United Way BC 211. The helpline was created for people who have been subjected to discrimination based on the colour of their skin, culture, ethnicity or place of origin.
Callers will receive support and guidance, which could include referrals to local community support services, such as counselling or help with reporting to law enforcement.
“Hate incidents are deeply traumatic to victims,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “This helpline opens up new avenues to access supports that matches peoples’ unique needs, whether that means help pursuing legal outcomes or feeling less alone by having someone to talk to.”
Callers will be asked to provide a description of the incident and where it occurred, and whether they would like to disclose basic demographic information.
Ways to get mental health support and available resources
May 29th, 2024
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental well-being can be affected and needs to be monitored and looked after. Feeling anxious, sad, frustrated or suicidal can affect us in the short-term and long-term.
Knowing that you need help and learning where to get help is important for newcomers and immigrants. Traditional supports such as family, friends, religious/spiritual leaders in home countries may no longer be available having moved to a new country. In addition, barriers such as language, culture and preoccupation with immediate needs such as income, housing, jobs and schools could have come in the way of fostering new community connections, or finding out about resources available and seeking help.
Added to it may also be the hesitancy to talk to someone about your uncomfortable thoughts and feelings as it may not be a common thing to do in some cultures.
However, if you want to feel better and have made the decision to seek help, there are different supports available through the health care system and in the community. Most of the services are free of cost, they are available in different languages and are offered by trained professionals.
Census 2021: Immigrant Demographics Summary
May 29th, 2024
NewToBC is pleased to share this summary of immigrant demographics. In 2023, using Census 2021 data, profiles were created for the 14 Greater Vancouver / Fraser Valley communities that received the greatest number of new immigrants over the last census period (2016 – 2021). This was NewToBC’s 3rd edition of its Immigrant Demographic Profiles; the first edition was developed in 2013 and the second in 2018.
The profiles include useful data on countries of origin, languages spoken, age at immigration, education levels, employment, income, religion, and more. This summary compares all data across communities providing a snapshot of who and where our newest residents are living.
How to foster collaboration in a multi-generational workforce
May 29th, 2024
A primary indicator of organizational success is collaboration in the workplace. When people work together they are engaged better and report higher success levels. Especially when one brings multi-generational teams to collaborate, the company can record a high level of productivity and success.
By leveraging the enthusiasm of younger members and harnessing the wisdom of senior staff, the team is better equipped to achieve the organizational mission, accomplish goals and be happier while doing it. Here are five proven ways to effectively build a collaborative workforce when working with multigenerational teams.
1. Celebrate individual perspectives
Effectively working together with everyone begins by understanding the differences that shape people’s individual perspectives and the subsequent behaviours. This enables everyone to gain absolute clarity around the same perspectives. And eventually adapt your communication style to match that of each member in the multi-generational force.
The authority and wisdom of baby boomers, the contemporary, strategic insights of millennials, the technological competence of Gen X and the autonomy of Gen Z can create a productive dynamic. When we learn about their individual differences, we are also able to appreciate individual strengths and avoid making wrong assumptions. The ability to put together this diverse team greatly contributes to the organization’s strengths and delivers multiple benefits.
3 tips for a smooth trip back to Canada
May 29th, 2024
Whether you’re returning from an international holiday or work-related travel, once you get to the airport or border crossing, you probably just want to get home. But, first, you need to pass through customs and immigration. Here are three tips to help you speed up the process.
Prefill your customs declaration
Instead of filling in your customs declaration when you get to the airport, you can complete the form up to 72 hours before arriving at select Canadian airports, which will give you access to express lanes. You’ll need to confirm your declaration when you get to the airport kiosk.
Know your limits
If you’re out of the country for more than 48 hours, you can bring back goods worth up to $800 without paying any duty or taxes.There are also limits on the quantity of certain products you can bring back, including food. Restrictions vary depending on the item and the country from which it originates. In addition, certain foods or products may not meet Canadian standards or regulations regarding ingredients, labelling or production practices.
What not to bring back to Canada
Some souvenirs and mementos from your travels may be prohibited or require permits because they are fully or partly made of endangered or threatened species. It’s important to check before coming back to Canada. The country you’re bringing these items from may also require a permit to export them.
Parents and Grandparents program will reopen this month
May 20th, 2024
The Parents and Grandparents program (PGP) is set to reopen this month, as Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) prepares to send out invitations to potential sponsors.
The department confirmed via an announcement that starting May 21st, 2024, it will send out 35,700 invitations with the hope of approving 20,500 complete applications.
Who is eligible for the next round of the PGP?
IRCC has declared its intention to invite candidates from the 2020 intake of the PGP. This means that the individuals receiving invitations in the upcoming round will have submitted their profiles in 2020. This will be the fourth year in a row that the PGP will only consider profiles submitted in 2020.
Under the PGP system, applicants will be invited at random (through a lottery system). These invitations will be delivered to sponsors through the email provided on their interest to sponsor form. Sponsors are advised to check their emails starting May 21st, with all invitations being delivered within roughly two weeks of this date.
Five things you need to know about Labour Market Impact Assessments
May 20th, 2024
Some foreign workers in Canada require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to work in Canada, while others are LMIA-exempt.
An LMIA is a document that some employers in Canada need before hiring a temporary foreign worker. This document must be obtained before the foreign national applies for their work permit. It verifies that a foreign worker will have either a positive or neutral effect on the Canadian labour market.
After the recent announcement that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will be reducing Canada’s temporary resident population over the next three years, many foreign nationals who want to work in Canada may be trying to accelerate their journey to Canada.
Accordingly, this article will guide readers through the answers to five common questions that many foreign workers have about LMIAs.
Six common issues with IRCC applications and how to fix them
May 20th, 2024
Applying to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online is an integral part of the immigration process, whether for those on a work or study permit, permanent residents, and even tourists.
Due to this widespread use, newcomers can sometimes experience technical issues in different parts of the application process—be it when opening and uploading documents, gathering necessary information, signing into their account, and much more. This article will cover many common technical issues that can occur when applying, and best practices to troubleshoot them.
Documents downloaded from IRCC don’t open/appear blank
A common issue for new users, being unable to open documents from IRCC can be frustrating but does come with a simple fix.
To be opened, IRCC documents require Adobe Reader 10 or higher. Adobe Reader is a free software manufactured by Adobe, that allows users to fill and sign PDFs electronically. Other PDF viewers (like Microsoft programs, or “Preview” on Apple operating systems) will either be unable to show the document or will show it as a blank file.
Where to find your cultural community in Canada
May 20th, 2024
For many newcomers to Canada, finding people of their own social and cultural background can be a huge consideration in settling in a new country.
Luckily, due to its ethic of multiculturalism, and emphasis on diversity, newcomers from all around the world can likely find members of their community in Canada.
Below is a profile of Canada’s most populous municipalities, including prominent ethnic groups, place of birth, immigrant status, breakdown of official languages spoken, and knowledge of languages. The largest cities from each province have been chosen, and data has been obtained from the Canadian 2021 National Census.
Improving estimates for application processing times
May 20th, 2024
To strengthen Canada’s immigration system, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is improving the online processing times tool to help new clients predict how long it will take to process a complete application.
Forward-looking processing times are now available for the following applications:
Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
Provincial Nominees Program (Express Entry and non-Express Entry)
Federal Skilled Workers (Express Entry)
Quebec Skilled Workers
citizenship grants
citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)
spouse or common-law partner living inside Canada
spouse, common-law or conjugal partner living outside Canada
parents or grandparents
B.C. allots record $25.6M in annual funding for newcomer services
May 17th, 2024
The B.C. government is more than quadrupling funding for newcomer services from $6 million to $25.6 million per year, partnering with 30 organizations throughout the province.
The increased funding, announced in March, is divided between two programs: $12.2 million for the Safe Haven program, which serves refugee claimants and asylum seekers, and $13.4 million for the B.C. Newcomers program, which focuses on work and study permit holders, provincial nominees and entrepreneur immigration candidates, among others.
Combined, the programs are expected to serve more than 40,000 people per year, up from 26,000 in 2021-22, the province says.
B.C. has also significantly expanded its multilingual support for immigrants from diverse backgrounds, now offering services in over 220 languages through trained interpreters.
Meheret Basrit, the senior manager of community development at Surrey-based charity DIVERSEcity, which is leading the Safe Haven program in the Lower Mainland, said she is excited about changes to mental health supports. Under the new programs, Ukrainians fleeing war, as well as regular visa holders and refugees, will be eligible for clinical counselling.
BC PNP operational update - Skills Immigration draw timing
May 17th, 2024
Effective April 30, 2024, BC PNP Skills Immigration invitations to apply will be issued to qualified registrations received before the date of the draw. New registrations received on the same day will be considered for a future draw.
The Invitations to Apply page will usually be updated within 24 hours of the time invitations were issued.
Strategies for making progress on a delayed immigration application
May 17th, 2024
Navigating Canada’s immigration system can bring exciting new opportunities but also frustrations – particularly when faced when an application stuck in processing. Delays, lack of updates and prolonged waiting are not only stressful but may result in missed job and academic opportunities, or family separation. In today’s processing landscape, delayed applications are not only common, but broadly felt by applicants across all application categories.
So, what recourse do you have with a delayed application? Thankfully, there are several different strategies available. Each option has its own advantages and drawbacks, requiring careful consideration based on your specific circumstances and often, a multi-faceted approach. Although no single approach guarantees success, these options may resolve your delayed application or at the very least, provide insight into the root cause of the delay.
Check processing times and application status
Although it may be months or even years since you applied, your application might still be within IRCC’s standard processing times. Consult IRCC’s Check Processing Times tool for the estimated processing time for your application type. If your application is still within the standard processing times and you haven’t received a decision, there’s no need to panic. Waiting is often the best course of action at this stage. You can also check your application through IRCC’s Client Application Status tool or your online MyCIC account for status updates.
Getting PR after graduating from a master’s or PhD program as an international student
May 17th, 2024
It may now be easier for students who come to Canada for a master’s or Ph.D. program to obtain permanent residence (PR).
On February 15, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) enacted a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) policy that was first announced on January 22 as one of many changes coming to Canada’s international student system.
This policy now means that international student graduates of master's degree programs at Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) – the only post-secondary institutions authorized by IRCC to accept international students – are eligible for a three-year PGWP. This is true even for students studying in master's programs that are two years or less in length.
How does this make it easier to obtain PR in Canada?
The value of a PGWP lies in that it allows international student graduates to work in Canada once they complete a PGWP-eligible program at a DLI.
This Canadian work experience is valuable to those who later intend to pursue PR because many of Canada’s immigration pathways either require or reward such experience.
More than 150 affordable homes coming to Burnaby
May 10th, 2024
Indigenous and non-Indigenous families and individuals, seniors and people living with disabilities will soon have access to more than 150 affordable rental homes in Burnaby.
“By investing in affordable homes, we are ensuring that communities remain livable with affordable options for growing families and individuals working in the area,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “Burnaby is one of the fastest-growing communities in B.C. and we’ve stepped up to meet that demand with our commitment to build 1,500 new affordable homes by 2026.”
Construction is underway on 130 new affordable rental homes at 6488 Byrnepark Dr. and 25 additional new affordable rental homes will be opening at 7898-18 Ave., Burnaby.
The building at 6488 Byrnepark Dr. will be six storeys and contain a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units for Indigenous and non-Indigenous families and individuals with low or moderate incomes.
Rents will be a mix of rent geared to income where residents pay 30% of their income for rent, market rates, and deep-subsidy rates for people on income assistance. Construction is expected to be complete in 2026.
Expanded mental-health, addictions support coming for South Asian community
May 4th, 2024
South Asian people who are struggling with mental-health or addictions challenges in greater Vancouver now have access to expanded services provided by the South Asian Community Hub Society (SACH).
SACH is a primarily volunteer-run non-profit organization based in Surrey. Launched in 2020, it helps people in South Asian communities who are struggling with mental-health and addictions challenges connect with tailored and in-language services, including counselling, harm-reduction and victim- and income-assistance services.
“People of South Asian heritage who want to reach out for support often face significant barriers, like stigma, language, racism and lack of culturally appropriate care,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Through peer support, SACH helps provide that much-needed connection to make it easier for South Asian people to connect to the programs and services that meet their specific needs. This way, people get the right kind of supports on their path to wellness and to a better quality of life.”
Recent policies that may make home ownership more affordable for eligible newcomers to Canada
May 4th, 2024
On April 11, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister/Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced several new housing affordability measures designed to help first-time buyers and current homeowners.
In light of the federal restrictions on foreign home buyers last year (more on that later), newcomers to Canada may be curious if they are eligible for any of the recently announced housing affordability measures.
This article outlines how policies implementing increased RRSP withdrawal limits and extended mortgage terms can benefit newcomers to Canada, making it easier to purchase their first home.
We also provide a clear guide on what these changes mean and discuss how newcomers, especially temporary residents such as international students and foreign workers, can pursue them.
How an ECA can help you immigrate to Canada
May 4th, 2024
Many newcomers who want to immigrate to Canada will require some proof of their education level, and what equivalent it holds within the Canadian education system, to prove their eligibility.
This is where an education credential assessment (ECA) serves a critical function for newcomers, helping to contextualize a candidate’s educational achievements for the Canadian immigration system. However, ECA’s can also do much more than prove your eligibility for immigration.
What is an ECA?
An ECA is a document that assesses a newcomer’s international education credential and determines its Canadian equivalent. Newcomers can order ECAs from organizations that are designated by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess foreign education credentials.
There are several kinds of ECAs offered by many of these organizations, including ECAs for professional licensing and certification, employment, education, and immigration purposes (among others). Choosing the right ECA for your needs is crucial.
New legislation aims to remove systemic barriers for Indigenous, racialized people
May 4th, 2024
Indigenous and racialized people in B.C. will face fewer barriers when accessing public programs and services with new legislation aimed at removing systemic racism from provincial institutions.
With this legislation, government will take action on systemic racism uncovered through race-based data collection and lived experiences of Indigenous and racialized communities. Building on the 2022 Anti-Racism Data Act, the anti-racism legislation was co-developed with Indigenous and racialized communities. It fulfils Action 3.6 of the Declaration Act Action Plan, which commits the Province to introducing anti-racism legislation that addresses Indigenous-specific racism.
“For too long, too many people have faced racial barriers when trying to access government services, just because of their identity,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “This historic legislation is about changing the system and making sure everyone in B.C. can equitably access the programs and services they need with the safety, dignity and respect they deserve.”
The legislation requires the Province to strengthen checks and balances in its programs and services in hospitals, schools, courts and other public spaces. A new anti-racism committee will draw up a whole-of-government action plan to address systemic racism and, for the first time, public institutions will be required to critically evaluate day-to-day operations and remove policies and practices that harm Indigenous and racialized people. It will also advance the recruitment, hiring, retention and advancement of Indigenous, Black and racialized public servants to ensure that public sector workers in B.C. reflect the population they serve.