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BC PNP conducted its latest draw on 3rd April, 2024.

April 4, 2024

Ishita Soni

On April 3, the BC PNP issued only 83 invitations for individuals seeking permanent residents. These invitations were dispersed in two distinct manners. Initially, 30 invitations were extended to candidates across various job categories, including Express Entry, Skills Immigration, Entry Level, and Semi-Skilled. The requisite score for invitation increased by 5 to 9 points in comparison to the previous draw on March 19, with the exception of the International Graduate category.

Furthermore, in this particular draw, invitations were specifically allocated to individuals in certain professions: 18 for early childhood educators’ assistants or instructors, 10 for construction-related occupations, and 25 for healthcare-related roles. Collectively, the threshold score necessary to secure an invitation for these targeted occupations rose by 10 points relative to March 19.

INVITATIONS TO APPLY

The draw dates, the type of draw conducted, the number of invitations to apply (ITAs) issued, and any specific factors that were targeted for a specific draw.

Targeted invitations to apply to the Skills Immigration streams may be based on 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

British Columbia's economic and labor market needs. — British Columbia’s economic and labor market needs.

General information

The BC PNP will prompt individuals within the registration pool to submit an application for the program. Invitations to Apply ( ITAs) are determined based on the information furnished during registrations. This data is utilized to assess, select, and invite candidates deemed most likely to fulfill the economic and labor market requirements of British Columbia.

Invitations may be strategically directed to align with B.C. government priorities, such as bolstering specific business sectors, fostering regional immigration, and facilitating strategic pilot initiatives. The quantity of invitations extended and the frequency of ITA draws across all streams are managed to uphold consistent processing timelines for all applicants and to align with B.C.’s overarching priorities.

Learn on How to apply to this stream from Bc’s official website! OR

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Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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Nova Scotia Implements Federal Cap on New International Student Applications.

April 1, 2024

Ishita Soni

Nova Scotia follows federal limit on new international student applications.

Nova Scotia, a province in Canada, announced how many international students it can accept in its universities and colleges for the year 2024. The government has been granted 12,900 permits for international students by the federal government. This is lower than last year, where Nova Scotia allowed around 7,000 more international students. In 2023, there were about 16,000 international students studying full-time in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia is distributing study permits among 32 schools that can accept international students. The permits are divided as follows:

11,565 for universities and Nova Scotia Community College
710 for private career colleges
526 for language schools
Plus 99 extra for unexpected situations.

The Minister of Advanced Education wants more permits from the federal government. Canada is reducing the number of study permits issued in 2024. Each province decides how to allocate permits based on Provincial Attestation Letters.

Island of Prince Edward

Prince Edward Island (PEI) announced it has 2,000 study permits for international students. They will be given to three schools:

College de l’Ile (105 permits)
Holland College (710 permits)
University of Prince Edward Island (1,185 permits)

In PEI, the Department of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population will give PALs to these schools. Then, the schools will give them to international students applying for federal student permits.

Allocations in other provinces

Sure! Ontario plans to give out 96% of its study permits to public universities and colleges. The other 4% will be split among language schools, private universities, and other institutions in the province. However, they haven’t said how many permits the federal government has given them.

British Columbia is dividing its 83,000 study permits almost equally between public and private Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), with 53% going to public DLIs and 47% to private DLIs.

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Provincial Attestation Letters Now Issued by New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

March 30, 2024

Ishita Soni

New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador Start Giving Out PALs.

Starting from January 22, 2024, Canada’s Immigration Department needs provinces to give PALs (Provincial Attestation Letters) based on the number of study permits allowed for 2024. New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador have recently started issuing PALs, joining other provinces like British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba. All other provinces and territories must start issuing these letters by March 31.

Getting a PAL in Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador started their PAL system on March 19, 2024. International students should talk to their designated learning institution (DLI) to get their PAL. Memorial University in St. John’s, which has the most international students in the province, will email admitted students to gather extra info needed for the letter, starting with those beginning in the May 2024 semester. More details are not yet provided.

Getting a PAL in Saskatchewan

According to the IRCC website, Saskatchewan has had its PAL process since March 13. International students should reach out to their designated learning institution (DLI) to obtain their PAL. However, there are no extra instructions available from the province’s major universities or colleges regarding the PAL process.

Getting a PAL in New Brunswick

According to IRCC, New Brunswick started giving out PALs on March 18. International students should ask their school how to apply. Each school might have its own way to do it. For example, if you’re going to the University of New Brunswick (UNB), after you get accepted, you need to pay a deposit for your tuition. This shows you’re serious about coming. Then UNB will ask for a PAL for you from the province. They’ll email you when it’s ready, which takes about two weeks. After that, you can download your PAL and use it when you apply for your study permit.

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Ontario’s New Plan for its’s international Study Permit Distribution in 2024.

March 28, 2024

Ishita Soni

Ontario Prioritizes Public Colleges and Universities for Study Permits.

Almost all study permits for international students, about 96%, will be given to public universities and colleges in Ontario. The rest will be shared among language schools, private universities, and other institutions in the province. Ontario government aims to prioritize public institutions to train students for jobs needed in Ontario’s workforce.

Ontario prioritizes study permits for international students in high-demand fields and French-language programs. Institutions can’t exceed 2023 permit numbers. Most public universities and colleges will maintain 2023 application levels, with some exceptions.

Why is Ontario Deciding on Allocation of International Study Permits?

Ontario’s announcement today is a response to a limit set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on the number of study permits for international undergraduates in Canada for 2024 and 2025. However, this cap doesn’t apply to international students at primary and secondary schools or those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.

Implementing Safeguards for International College Students.

To protect international college students in Ontario, the government is ensuring accessible accommodation options, investing $32 million in mental health support, and proposing new laws for safer campuses and increased fee transparency.

Ontario Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

International students applying to study in Ontario need a provincial attestation letter, confirming federal accommodation limits. Those enrolling in postsecondary education should request this letter from their school. Changes by IRCC in 2024 and 2025 include capping study permits, except for certain programs. Most universities and colleges will maintain 2023 application levels, with Algoma University being an exception. Some colleges, especially those in public-private partnerships like Conestoga College, will see reduced applications. Additionally, international students starting programs in publicly subsidized colleges run by private partners won’t be eligible for post-graduation work visas after May 15, 2024.

Getting a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) in Ontario

Ontario is soon expected to announce its PAL issuance system for international students, in line with the federal deadline of March 31st. Currently, students are advised to contact their chosen school for details. The process will involve DLIs applying on behalf of students to the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities, with approved PALs then sent to students.

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IRCC Issues Second Round of ITAs to Express Entry Candidates This Week

March 27, 2024

Ishita Soni

In a recent Express Entry draw by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), 1,500 invitations were issued to apply for Canadian immigration. This draw specifically targeted candidates with proficiency in French language, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 388 required for eligibility.

March 24 draw invited 1,980 candidates from all Express Entry programs with a minimum CRS score of 524, slightly lower than the previous draw. There was also a category-based draw on March 13 for transport occupations, inviting 945 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 430.

What is category-based selection?

Category-based selection is a new feature of Express Entry that allows IRCC to invite candidates from specific occupations or language groups. This helps IRCC to target its recruitment efforts and address specific labor market needs.

What happens when you have created an Express Entry Profile?

Once you have created your profile and submitted your Express Entry application, you will be given a score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) which evaluates factors such as age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and other criteria.

If you meet the minimum CRS score required for the specific draw, you may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. If you receive an ITA, you will need to submit a complete application within the given timeframe and meet all the eligibility requirements to be granted permanent residence in Canada.

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Canada to put a cap on temporary residents for the first time!

March 22, 2024

Ishita Soni

Canada Plans to Control Number of Temporary Residents!

Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, announced plans to decrease the number of temporary residents. By 2024, Canada will have about 2.5 million temporary residents. Statistics show 40% had work permits, 22% had study permits, and 18% were asylum applicants. Canada is also placing a limit on the number of international students allowed in for the next two years.

Canada Plans to Cut Temporary Resident Numbers

Canada Plans to Limit Temporary Residents, Targeting 5% of Population, Down from Current 6.2%. Immigration Minister Marc Miller Announces Reduction Over Next Three Years, Starting with Caps Set in September, Affecting Foreign Workers and Asylum Seekers. With Nearly 2.5 million Temporary Residents in 2024, Up One Million from 2021, Businesses Must Cut Foreign Workers by May 1st. Construction and Healthcare Industries Face Labor Shortages, While Current Temporary Worker Levels Remain Until August 31, 2024.

Changes made to temporary residents.

In 2021, Statistics Canada reported that 40% of temporary residents in Canada held work permits, 22% had study permits, and 18% were asylum applicants, while the remainder consisted of family member visa holders. Additionally, Canada’s Immigration Minister, Mr. Miller, announced a limit on international student numbers for the next two years, aiming to reduce study permits by 35%. In 2022, Canada hosted around 800,000 international students, marking a significant rise from 214,000 a decade earlier.

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Getting a Green Card in Canada Faster with IELTS Exam!

March 21, 2024

Ishita Soni

How do I become a permanent resident in Canada?

In Canada, lots of people from different countries want to live because it’s friendly and diverse. One good way to move there permanently is through Express Entry, which helps you get residency faster. If you want to try this, being good at English, which you can show by taking tests like IELTS, can really help you get in.

How does the Express Entry system help people move to Canada?

Check if you’re eligible for Express Entry.
Create an online profile if you’re eligible.
Get a CRS score after submitting your profile.
Enter the Express Entry pool and get ranked against others based on your CRS score.
If your score is high, you might get an Invitation to Apply (ITA) during regular draws.
Once you receive an ITA, you have a limited time to submit your full application.

How does IELTS General Training help increase your CRS score?

Taking the IELTS test, especially the General Training version, is crucial for success in the Express Entry process to become a Canadian resident. It boosts your CRS score, and by choosing the British Council, you benefit from their extensive expertise in English language and culture.

If you do well on the IELTS General Training test, it can make your CRS score much better. This means you’re more likely to get invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada. The test checks how good you are at listening, reading, writing, and speaking English. If you get high scores in each of these areas, you’ll get more points for your CRS score.

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Canada Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)

March 18, 2024

Ishita Soni

Canada Permanent Resident Travel Document

If you’re a permanent resident of Canada and you’re outside the country without a valid PR card, you need a special document called a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) to come back to Canada. This travel document is usually valid for a single entry into the country.

You can benefit from:

Applying anytime, 24/7
Quick and easy upload of all your information, including payment.
No printing required.

Canada’s entry rules

If you live in Canada as a permanent resident, you need to have a valid permanent resident card (PR card) or a special travel document (PRTD) when you travel back to Canada. Incase If you don’t have these, you might not be allowed to board your flight, train, bus, or boat to Canada.

Make sure your PR card is still valid when you come back from a trip outside Canada. If it’s expiring soon, apply for a new one before it expires. It’s your responsibility to keep this in check.

Are you eligible to apply for PRTD?

To be eligible for a PRTD, you must:

be a permanent resident outside Canada.
confirm your PR status.
not be in possession of a valid PR card.
meet the residency obligation of a permanent resident.
not have lost your PR status.

Who should not apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document?

Canadian citizens
Foreign Nationals who do not have Permanent Resident status
Permanent residents with a valid PR card in their possession
Permanent residents who want to voluntarily give up (renounce) their permanent residence status.
Past Permanent Residents who have lost their PR status.

What is the Canadian PRTD processing time?

When you apply for a PRTD (Permanent Resident Travel Document) in any country, the time it takes to process your application can vary. Usually, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks. However, in some cases, it might take even longer than eight weeks.

Get in touch with SPS Canada

(Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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IRCC Simplifying the Process for Getting Permanent Residency.

March 15, 2024

Ishita Soni

IRCC’s Plan to Make Immigration Application Approvals Faster

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released the details and deadlines of its action plan to address recommendations made in a report by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) last October.

The details, released in a recently obtained Access to Information Request, offer an insight into how IRCC will address a backlog of permanent resident applications for newcomers across all lines of business.

The OAG has several functions. Mainly, it holds the federal government accountable for how it handles public funds and conducts audits that provide objective information, advice, and facts for Canada’s parliament. These help parliament to measure how government activities are performing.

Getting things done on time and doing them well.

The recommendation is for the immigration department to clearly tell applicants how long it will take to decide on their application. They plan to set time goals for different types of applications, aiming to finish 80% of them within these timeframes. They’ll set new goals for programs without them and update existing ones by specific dates.

IRCC also said it will establish a clear method of communicating service standards with immigration applicants and a new methodology will be in place by December 31.

Different Delays for Different Applications

The report found differences in how long it takes for Canada’s immigration department to handle applications, which goes against their yearly immigration targets. The department says these differences happen because each application is unique and some are more complicated, and sometimes priorities shift. To see if where someone comes from affects how long they wait, the department will track wait times by country and test ways to collect and use data about race and culture.

Matching workloads to resources

The report found that some immigration offices had much more work than others, like the office in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, compared to Rome, Italy, even though they had similar staff numbers. The department says this is because some offices deal with more paper applications, especially for refugees and family cases needing interviews. The pandemic also halted many interviews, adding to the backlog. They’re creating a tool to track work and improve fairness, aiming to balance workloads and staff better based on yearly immigration goals. They’re also reviewing staffing in Africa to tackle the backlog there by June 2024.

Monitoring the use of AI in decision-making

The report suggests that the immigration department should look into how automated tools affect processing times and make sure enough resources are allocated to manual processing for fair outcomes. The department has been using technology like AI to speed up various tasks such as determining eligibility, distributing work, and responding to emails. While this has helped process applications faster, they’ll now check if these tools are affecting processing times differently for different types of applications. If needed, changes will be made by April 2025 to ensure fairness.

Conclusion

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) response to recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) regarding addressing the backlog of permanent resident applications. It emphasizes IRCC’s commitment to setting clear timelines for decision-making, establishing communication methods for service standards, addressing disparities in processing times, and monitoring the use of AI in decision-making. These actions aim to improve efficiency, fairness, and transparency in Canada’s immigration processes.

Get in touch with SPS Canada

(Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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Canada Set to Approve 292,000 Study Permits for International Students in 2024

March 13, 2024

Ishita Soni

Over 292,000 Permits Are Approved for College & UG Students

Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, told the Globe and Mail that this year, there are about 292,000 study permits available for international students wanting to study at Canadian colleges and universities. However, back in January, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) put a limit on the total number of international students allowed to receive study permits this year to around 360,000.

This limit is meant to control the rapid growth of Canada’s international student program by decreasing the number of approved study permits by 35% over two years. IRCC also plans to make the system more trustworthy.

Clarification on Study Permit Availability and Intake Cap for International Students in Canada.

The government clarified that they counted some study permits separately from the cap, so the actual number of new permits for college and university students this year is 292,000, not 360,000 as first thought. The immigration minister can’t directly limit the number of visas issued but can control how many applications are processed. Some programs were not affected by the processing limit, potentially leading to around 360,000 study permits being approved in 2024. This contrasts with the Globe and Mail’s report of 292,200 permits. At first, the government didn’t mention that the processing limit also included students not affected by the cap.

Canada’s Approach to Implementing Study Permit Cap.

IRCC is letting provinces handle the study permit cap by giving international students a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from their province’s government, alongside their acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to apply for a study permit. PALs must include the student’s full name, date of birth, and address, and the number of allocations each province gets depends on its population. So far, only British Columbia and Alberta have announced their PAL delivery systems, with DLIs distributing PALs once students meet requirements. All provinces must have their PAL systems in place by March 31st, 2024.

Conclusion:

Canada is implementing a cap on study permits for international students to control the rapid growth of its international student program. The cap aims to decrease the number of approved study permits by 35% over two years. However, there was a discrepancy between the Immigration Minister’s explanation of the cap and the initial reports, with IRCC clarifying that certain permits were exempt from the cap. Provinces are responsible for managing the cap by issuing Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) to students alongside their acceptance letters from designated learning institutions (DLIs).

Get in touch with SPS Canada

(Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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