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Foreign Worker Program

Ottawa continues measures under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Work in Canada /

Ottawa keeps up Temporary Foreign Worker Program measures as the Canadian Government continues adapting to current labor market conditions, enabling companies in certain sectors to increase staff numbers while offering lower wages.  This move, designed to bolster employers amidst current economic challenges, extends a measure allowing a significant number of temporary foreign workers to be hired through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, effective until next year.  This program enables employers to fill up to 30% of their workforce with low-wage roles in food, wood product and furniture manufacturing, accommodation and food services, construction, hospitals, and nursing and residential care facilities. These low-wage positions can be held for up to two years. Initially due to end on October 30, this program has been extended until August 30, 2024. About the Temporary Foreign Worker Program When qualified Canadians are not available, the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary jobs. This program is governed by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations, and it is administered in collaboration with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) evaluates applications from employers seeking permission to hire temporary foreign workers through its Service Canada processing centers and conducts Labour Market Impact Assessments to determine the likely impact these workers would have on the Canadian labor market. The Program evaluates the impact by analyzing available labor market information for the region and occupation, employers’ recruitment and advertising efforts, wages and working conditions, labor shortages, and the transfer of skills and knowledge to Canadians. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about the “Ottawa continues measures under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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immigrate to Canada

Why do more US citizens immigrate to Canada?

Uncategorized /

Based on the latest statistics from the US Department of State, around 1 million US citizens reside in Canada. Many Americans immigrate to Canada yearly for various reasons, including a strong job market, excellent post-secondary education, affordable healthcare, streamlined immigration policies, and political stability.  The job market attracts professionals seeking career advancement, while students are drawn to the quality and affordability of Canadian universities. While not entirely free, the public healthcare system is more accessible than in the US, and the country’s immigration policies, including Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs, are attractive to skilled workers and professionals.  Finally, Canada’s political and social stability appeals to those seeking a secure environment. US citizens can immigrate to Canada through a variety of programs Citizens of the United States can immigrate to Canada through a variety of programs. The Express Entry system in Canada is one of the simplest ways to immigrate to Canada from the United States. The majority of Canadian immigration applications for three of the country’s economic immigration programs are processed through Express Entry. If you meet the requirements for one of the programs, you may be eligible for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry. Some of the immigration programs for US citizens immigrate to Canada are: Federal economic class. Provincial Nominee Programs Quebec immigration. Business immigration, including the start-up visa program. Temporary residence first. Family class sponsorship. International experience Canada Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Why do more and more US citizens immigrate to Canada” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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skilled candidates

The BC PNP invited 224 skilled candidates

British Columbia /

On November 16, 2023, the Government of British Columbia invited 224 skilled candidates to new invitation draws under the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) and issued invitations to apply to qualified candidates in healthcare, childcare, construction, and other priority occupations.  In the general draw, the province invited 116 candidates. The minimum score for candidates invited to this draw was 94-115 points. BC issued 59 ITAs to candidates under the childcare-targeted draw for early childhood educators (NOC 42202).  In the Healthcare-targeted draw, BC British Columbia invited 32 candidates who scored 60 points. In addition, the province invited 12 candidates working in the construction sector. Furthermore, five invitations have been issued for other priority occupations (NOCs 31103, 32104).  In total, British Columbia issued 224 ITAs in this draw. This year, British Columbia has already invited 9,179 candidates. Eligibility requirements for Skilled candidates in the BC PNP Invitations to apply for the skilled candidates in the Skills Immigration pathways may be determined by one or more of the following factors: Education – level, and field of education and where it was completed Eligible professional designations in B.C. Language skills Occupation Duration and skill level of work experience Wage and/or skill level of job offer Intent to live, work, and settle in a specific region Strategic priorities – factors that address specific labor market needs in B.C. or support government pilot projects and initiatives Priority Occupations in the Construction Sector The occupations listed below are not the only ones that are eligible for the BC PNP.  Priority occupations may receive a targeted invitation after registering Priority construction occupations: 22114 Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists  72102 Sheet metal workers 72103 Boilermakers 72104 Structural metal and plate work fabricators and fitters 72105 Ironworkers 72106 Welders and related machine operators 72200 Electricians (except industrial and power system) 72201 Industrial electricians 72300 Plumbers 72301 Steamfitters, pipefitters, and sprinkler system installers 72302 Gas fitters 72310 Carpenters 72311 Cabinetmakers 72320 Bricklayers 72400 Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics 72401 Heavy-duty equipment mechanics 72402 Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics 72500 Crane operators 73100 Concrete finishers 73101 Tilesetters 73102 Plasterers, drywall installers finishers, and lathers 73110 Roofers and Shinglers 73111 Glaziers 73112 Painters and decorators (except interior decorators) 73113 Floor covering installers Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about the “The BCPNP invited 224 skilled candidates” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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Immigration Levels Plan 

The future will likely necessitate an increase in Canada’s immigration levels

Uncategorized /

On November 1, 2023, Canada declared its intent to uphold immigration levels at around 500,000 per year in 2025 and 2026. Despite record-breaking current levels, a Royal Bank of Canada report indicates these may need to increase to support the population and labor market demands.  Canada’s aging population and low fertility rate (1.40 births per woman) necessitate immigration for replenishment. This also applies to the labor market supporting Canada’s ninth-largest global economy. These factors underscore the importance of immigration for Canada’s future health and prosperity. This likely motivates the country’s current high-paced immigration, yet the stabilization of targets tells a more complex story. Immigration is important because of this combination of factors that prevent Canada from restoring its population solely through natural birth. Further demands that Canada’s economy (ranked ninth in the world by GDP) places on its labor market—which is affected by the same replenishment issue that Canada’s population faces—are linked to this issue. These two elements serve to highlight the need for immigration in order to preserve Canada’s prosperity and overall prosperity going forward. With this knowledge in hand, it would make sense to conclude that these are the causes of Canada’s current record-breaking immigration rate. This is only half of the story, though, when one considers the present support of immigration targets. Targets of the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan The following table summarizes Canada’s immigration goals for the years 2024-2026: Immigration Class 2024 2025 2026 Economic 281,135 301,250 301,250 Family 114,000 118,000 118,000 Refugee 76,115 72,750 72,750 Humanitarian 13,750 8,000 8,000 Total 485,000 500,000 500,000   Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about the “The future will likely necessitate an increase in Canada’s immigration levels” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates. Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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2500 jobs opportunities

Canada’s green tech industry could offer 2500 jobs opportunities

Work in Canada /

Canada’s green tech industry could offer 2500 jobs opportunities as the development of a five-billion-dollar electric vehicle (EV) battery plant in Windsor, Ontario, has recently gained attention, with reports indicating it will employ 2500 job opportunities by 2025. This aligns with Canada’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing the importance of green technology to the government and the public.  Earlier this year, the 2023 budget release highlighted the federal government’s proposal to invest significantly in the national clean energy and tech sectors. Alongside a $21 billion injection for a clean, next-generation economy, the 2023 Budget includes approximately $55 billion in tax credits to encourage further investment in these critical sectors. At the same time, Canadian immigrants are finding more and more job opportunities throughout the country in the green tech industry. This is a summary of some of the employment programs that have been reported in Canada to support the green tech sector in this country. Canadian workers may expect an average salary hike of 3.6% According to a financial consulting firm, Normandin Beaudry study, Canadian workers may expect an average salary hike of 3.6% next year. The survey also indicates that 43% of businesses are considering an extra 1% average salary increase. Industries may witness above-average pay rises including:  STEM,  Real Estate,  Manufacturing, and  Accommodation and Food Services.  In addition, Quebec, Yukon, Ontario, and British Columbia are predicted to experience salary growth in line with or exceeding the national average, while the rest may receive slightly less. These pay raises and Canada’s top-notch quality of life make it a desirable location for potential newcomers. Results of the annual salary increase survey were made public by the Canadian financial management consulting firm on Tuesday. A survey conducted among over 700 organizations revealed that except for salary freezes, employers plan to increase employee wages by an average of 3.6% in 2024. The consulting firm notes that only 2 percent of businesses anticipate freezing salaries for the upcoming year, which is a similar decline from the 3 to 5 percent average of wage freezes prior to the pandemic. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Canada’s green tech industry could offer significant job opportunities for immigrants” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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Canadian education system

International students positively impact the Canadian education system

Study in Canada /

International students positively impact the Canadian education system as there has been a considerable increase in the number of international students choosing to further their studies in Canada recently. This influx enhances the cultural diversity on campuses throughout the country and significantly impacts the education system, economy, and the communities that host these students.  The growing multicultural environment within educational institutions enriches the learning experience for both local and international students. The increased revenues from international tuition fees also help to improve the quality of education and research in Canadian institutions. Additionally, this trend contributes to the local economy as students spend on housing, food, and other living expenses. Overview of the Canadian education system Education in Canada is primarily provided publicly, with funding and supervision provided by provincial, territorial, and local governments. Education is governed by the province, and the curriculum is overseen by the province. Primary education is the first level of education in Canada, followed by secondary education and post-secondary education. District school boards administer educational programs within the provinces under the Ministry of Education.  Classes at most colleges and universities normally start in early September and run through the end of April or the beginning of May. The two terms that make up the winter session are typically September through December and January through April. From May through August, a variety of summer study programs are available. In Canada, there are also a few special schools that provide year-round instruction. Undergraduate degrees can be completed in three or four years, depending on the university. Postgraduate degrees can be completed in one to two years, depending on the type. Ph.D. programs are longer than in other nations, and master’s programs typically last one to two years. Typically, they require four to seven years to finish. Canada has ranked as the second-best country in the world Canada is ranked 2nd best country in the world overall in the 2023 Best Countries ranking by U.S. News, up from 3rd place in 2022. U.S. News analyzed ten sub-categories and surveyed over 17,000 people from 36 countries before ranking 87 countries. Canada ranked in the top five for four sub-categories: Entrepreneurship, Quality of Life, Social Purpose, and Agility.  Canada also ranked in the top seven for nine attributes, such as being the 2nd best country for starting a career and racial equality. These rankings show that Canada is a leading destination for immigrants seeking to build a better life, with excellent opportunities for education and career development. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “International students positively impact the Canadian education system” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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construction workers

Ontario faces a shortage of construction workers

Work in Canada /

Ontario’s construction sector faces a shortage of 72,000 construction workers, driven by high retirement rates and booming demand for housing and infrastructure. Over 80,000 workers are set to retire in the next decade, needing more new workers to fill their positions.  This shortage could leave about 118,900 construction positions vacant by 2033. The government is investing $3.6 million in projects to prepare 2,200 women and young people for careers in construction. Meanwhile, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation states that Canada needs 5.8 million new homes for affordable housing, but current construction rates could only supply 2.3 million units by 2030. About the Construction workers in Canada Canada, which is ranked as the fifth best country in the world to live and work in the construction industry, is becoming a more alluring choice for construction workers seeking greater job opportunities. To put it simply, in terms of funds, construction workers here earn $55,927 a year, which is the third-highest salary in the world for their industry.   Because of the country’s high rate of development—82 percent of Canadians live in small and medium-sized cities—major cities must undertake year-round construction projects for infrastructure. Over 1.4 million people are employed as a result of such high demand, which also generates about $141 billion yearly (or 7.5 percent of Canada’s gross domestic product). Just construction accounts for almost half of the country’s GDP!   Nonetheless, as the sector expands, so do the employment opportunities. In fact, there have been 50% more construction jobs in the last ten years alone. Workers in Canada anticipate a 3.6% salary raise in 2024 According to a financial consulting firm, Normandin Beaudry study, Canadian workers may expect an average salary hike of 3.6% next year. The survey also indicates that 43% of businesses are considering an extra 1% average salary increase. Industries may witness above-average pay rises including:  STEM,  Real Estate,  Manufacturing, and  Accommodation and Food Services.  In addition, Quebec, Yukon, Ontario, and British Columbia are predicted to experience salary growth in line with or exceeding the national average, while the rest may receive slightly less. These pay raises and Canada’s top-notch quality of life make it a desirable location for potential newcomers. Workers in Canada anticipate a 3.6% salary raise in 2024 About the new pilot program for construction workers in Nova Scotia The Government of Nova Scotia announced a new pilot program for construction workers to boost growth in the skilled trades and modernize the apprenticeship and trades qualification system.  Premier Tim Houston has announced measures to add 5,000 new apprentices in the next three years, increase the number of journeypersons and trades qualifiers by 1,000 annually, and raise the apprentice retention rate from 43% to 60% within five years.  The Critical Construction Worker Pilot, part of Nova Scotia’s Provincial Nominee Program, will include 21 in-demand occupations in the construction sector, focusing on residential building trades.  Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Ontario faces a shortage of construction workers” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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Start-Up Visa immigration

Start-Up Visa immigration on track for roughly 80% increase

Entrepreneur /

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Start-Up Visa immigration saw a slight dip in September compared to August. Still, overall numbers are significantly higher than last year. In September 2023, Canada welcomed 145 new permanent residents through the SUV, down 17.1% from 175 in August.  However, this follows a record month in August, up 30% from July. IRCC plans to increase admissions substantially for Start-Up Visa applicants. Current annual admissions of 1,000 will rise to 3,500, 5,000, 6,000, and 6,000 in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, respectively. As of September, Canada had welcomed 770 new permanent residents through the SUV, potentially reaching 1,027 by year-end. This would signify a 78.6% increase over the previous year. The Start-Up Visa Immigration attracts more Entrepreneurs The popularity of the Start-Up Visa (SUV) increased in August as 175 new permanent residents settled in Canada through the program, a 29.6% increase from July.  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has planned to admit more Start-Up Visa applicants, increasing from 1,000 per year in the past few years to 3,500, 5,000, and 6,000 in 2023, 2024, and 2025, respectively.  This increase in immigration through the SUV in August was notable, considering the spike in immigration in July. By the end of August, Canada had welcomed 640 new permanent residents through the SUV, potentially reaching up to 960 by the end of the year if current immigration levels continue. The Start-Up Visa program The start-up visa program may make it possible for entrepreneurs to immigrate to Canada. Canada is on a search for bright entrepreneurs who are eager to start businesses that will boost its economy and offer job opportunities to its citizens. The Start-up Visa Program in Canada encourages immigrant business owners who have the skills and ability to start successful businesses in Canada: are innovative can create jobs for Canadians can compete on a global scale Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about the “Start-Up Visa immigration on track for roughly 80% increase” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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college graduate students

Ontario is considering allowing one-year college graduate students to apply to the OINP

Ontario, Study in Canada /

The Ontario Government plans to amend the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) to increase eligibility for international college graduate students. The proposed legislation focuses on revising requirements for those in one-year college graduate certificate programs, with over 900 such programs across the province.  This offers international students who previously considered moving to other provinces a better chance for permanent residency. The changes, possibly approved next week and implemented early next year, also ban Canadian work experience as a job prerequisite, facilitating more qualified candidates to progress in the interview process. Studies show that helping recently arrived immigrants with foreign training to find jobs in the fields they studied for could increase the province’s GDP by as much as $100 billion over a period of five years. Ontario receives more immigrants than any other province. Through the OINP, Ontario will nominate 16,500 immigrants this year for permanent residence in a number of key sectors, including skilled trades and healthcare. Ontario bans Canadian work experience as a job prerequisite, facilitating more qualified candidates The Government of Ontario proposes legislation prohibiting employers from requiring “Canadian work experience” in job applications. Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development believes this will address labor shortages by allowing newcomers to secure better-suited jobs instead of settling for positions overqualified.  Ontario aims to enable internationally trained immigrants to work in their fields of study, fostering their integration and supporting the provincial workforce. Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Michael Ford, states this change will benefit families, communities, and businesses. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Ontario is considering allowing one-year college graduate students to apply to the OINP” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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Employment and Social Development Canada

Employment and Social Development Canada updated processing times for LMIA applications

Uncategorized /

On November 7, 2023, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) updated the processing times for the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications under various streams. Based on statistics from all processing centers, the current average LMIA processing times have increased only for the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program and High-wage and Low-wage Streams.  Global Talent Stream – 9 business days Agricultural stream – 11 business days Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program – 8 business days (+2 days) Permanent residence Stream – 57 business days (-1 day) In-home caregivers – 20 business days (-5 days) High-wage Stream – 44 business days (+4 days) Low-wage Stream – 49 business days (+4 days) LMIA process with Employment and Social Development Canada Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) determines whether hiring a foreign national will have a positive or neutral impact on the Canadian labor market. The effect of the specific occupation designated by the employer on the labor market is the subject of assessment by ESDC, not whether the foreign national meets the occupational requirements.  Based on the information provided by the employer, the ESDC officer determines the appropriate NOC code while reviewing the LMIA application. Before hiring a foreign worker, a Canadian business may be required to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). A positive LMIA will demonstrate that a foreign worker is required to fill the position. Additionally, it will demonstrate that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is qualified for the position. A confirmation letter is another name for a positive LMIA. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about the “Employment and Social Development Canada updated processing times for LMIA applications” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

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