The count of visas issued in fiscal 2023 has now surpassed 392,000. To provide context, in fiscal 2016, a total of 471,728 F1 visas were issued.

In comparison to fiscal 2022, where over 411,131 international student visas were granted, including F1 visas, the U.S. will need to issue more than 40,000 international visas by the end of September to surpass the prior year’s numbers.

An F1 visa is intended for individuals attending academic programs or pursuing full-time degrees at U.S. educational institutions. Although the U.S. has a considerable way to go to reach the peak of over 644,000 student visas issued in fiscal year 2015, these figures provide optimism for sustained, long-term growth.

Last September, the Institute of International Education reported a significant recovery in international enrollment, with U.S. colleges experiencing a surge in admission applications following reduced international student enrollments in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic.

Which Countries Have Been Getting the Most US Student Visas?

The countries witnessing the most substantial percentage increases in student visas issued from fiscal 2021 to fiscal 2022 are primarily of Asian origin. Notably, Uzbekistan secures the top spot on this list for the first time, while Nepal, Bangladesh, and Vietnam continue their upward trend in visa issuance. It’s worth mentioning that all four of these nations have reached the highest levels of student visas issued in the past 25 years.

Simultaneously, the report indicates a surge in the number of African students being granted F1 visas in 2022, reaching unprecedented levels. Nigeria and Ghana, in particular, received the highest number of student visas in their respective histories during this period.

According to records from the State Department, the issuance of visas to African students in fiscal 2022 surpassed 30,700, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This rise is particularly notable when considering the 21,037 visas issued in fiscal 2018, followed by 20,165 in fiscal 2019, a sharp decline to 7,333 in 2020 due to the pandemic, and a rebound to 23,229 in fiscal 2021.

Data from the 2022 Open Doors report and State Department statistics highlight China and India as the leading countries sending students to the United States, together constituting the majority, approximately 52%, of all international students in the country. In 2022, China remained the top contributor, with 290,086 students studying on U.S. campuses, representing a 9% decline year-over-year. Meanwhile, India claimed the second spot with roughly 200,000 international students, marking a notable 19% increase year-over-year.

In a statement, the State Department noted that in fiscal year 2022, U.S. Embassies and Consulates in India achieved a historic milestone by issuing over 125,000 new student and exchange visitor visas, establishing India as the second-largest source country for U.S. international students.

Are You Interested in Applying for a US Study Permit?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

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The REP is aimed at simplifying the experience for employers who frequently rely on the TFW Program to staff essential roles in specific fields. Under this program, eligible employers will have the opportunity to secure extended Labor Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs), which will be valid for up to 36 months. This represents a notable enhancement compared to the current maximum validity period of 18 months.

Typically, employers need an LMIA before they can apply for work permits to hire temporary foreign workers. An LMIA confirms the necessity of hiring a foreign worker and certifies the unavailability of Canadian citizens or permanent residents for the position. It also verifies the legitimacy of the job offer and the employer’s compliance with regulations aimed at safeguarding workers.

Requirements and Eligibility for Recognized Employer Pilot

To qualify for the REP program, employers must have received at least three positive LMIAs for the same occupation within the past five years. These occupations must be listed as in demand and supported by data from the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS). Additionally, eligible employers must demonstrate adherence to high standards of working and living conditions as well as worker protection. They must also commit to continuing compliance with standard program prerequisites.

In addition to the extended LMIA validity period, participants in the REP program will benefit from a simplified application process for future LMIA applications related to positions on the COPS list.

When Will Canada’s Recognized Employer Pilot Begin?

The pilot will be introduced in two phases:

Phase 1

Starting in September 2023, applications will be open for roles within the Primary Agriculture stream. These Phase 1 occupations, such as livestock laborers, harvesting laborers, greenhouse laborers, and specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators, have been identified as both in-demand and facing a shortage of domestic labor supply.

Phase 2

The second phase, commencing in January 2024, will allow applications for positions listed in the Phase 2 REP occupations catalog by the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This expanded list encompasses occupations from diverse sectors like healthcare, food service, construction, trades, and manufacturing. Notably, the Global Talent Stream (GTS) occupations are excluded from the REP program, as they already receive expedited LMIA processing and GTS recruitment benefits based on the current labor market assessment by COPS.

How Long Will Applications Be Accepted?

Applications will be accepted for this trial program until September 2024. But if they need to hire more temporary foreign employees, businesses participating in the REP will still have the choice to fill positions during the pilot period using a streamlined LMIA procedure. In the fall of 2026, the REP program is expected to come to an end.

At its core, this novel program targets roles that are in high demand but lack sufficient domestic labor, showcasing the federal government’s dedication to streamlining labor access for employers and enhancing flexibility in the Canadian labor market.

Are You Interested in Applying for Canada’s Recognized Employer Pilot?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

The application process of these work permits commenced on July 16, 2023, and by July 17, 2023, the program had already reached its capacity, attracting 10,000 applicants competing for the available permits.

Tech Strategy for Canada Open Work Permit for H-1B Holders

In the previous month, Sean Fraser, the former Immigration Minister, unveiled a fresh employment authorization designed for individuals holding H-1B visas in the United States. This move forms part of a broader strategy by the federal government to lure overseas talent.

H-1B visas allow foreign individuals to work temporarily within the U.S., particularly in specialized roles, many of which are in the technology sector.

While tech firms significantly increased their hiring activities during the pandemic, they have subsequently initiated substantial layoffs. Consequently, a considerable number of Canada open work permit H-1B visa holders find themselves urgently seeking new job opportunities to avoid having to depart from the U.S.

How Long Was The Tech Program Supposed to Be Open For?

According to the program’s website, this temporary policy will be in effect for a year or until 10,000 applications are received, whichever occurs earlier.

The introduction of this program is a direct reaction to the significant workforce reductions experienced within the technology sector of the United States. Over the past several months, major corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have let go of hundreds of thousands of employees.

When the program was initially announced, Fraser highlighted that he was closely observing the developments in the U.S. and recognized them as a favorable “opportunity” for Canada.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada noted that the substantial interest in the program underlines the appeal of Canada to highly skilled professionals. In an email statement, a representative stated, “When it comes to attracting international talent, we remain a top destination.”

Are You Interested in Working in Tech in Canada?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

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In the data released by Statistics Canada for the fourth quarter of 2022, job vacancies were divided into the Trades category, which included both wholesale trades and retail trades. The total number of job vacancies in wholesale trades was 30,930, while in retail trades, it was 108,795.

IRCC conducted a public consultation to enhance Express Entry through category-based selection. This process involved gathering feedback and suggestions from various stakeholders and the public.

When asked about using category-based selection to address labor market shortages in specific occupations or sectors, the participating stakeholders were generally supportive and provided numerous specific suggestions.

Around 16% of respondents, who primarily represented the trades, transport, and equipment operations sector, considered it to be experiencing the most significant needs among the mentioned categories.

Canada Transportation NOC Codes and Occupations  for Express Entry Category-Based Selection

There are 10 occupations in the transport occupation category. These include:

What Are the Requirements for the Transport Occupations Category?

You must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

• Meet the requirements for one of the Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program).
• Have at least 6 months of continuous work experience in one of the mentioned occupations in the last 3 years.
• Complete all of the additional requirements outlined in the round’s instructions.

Are You Interested in Applying to the Transportation Occupations Express Entry Stream?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

The Canadian cabinet consists of ministers chosen by the Prime Minister, responsible for formulating policies and priorities within their respective departments. Cabinet shuffles occur approximately every two years under the current Prime Minister’s administration. While not all positions are changed, many are altered to replace underperforming ministers or to promote those who have performed well. This process allows the government to reorganize, refresh its policies, and refocus its efforts.

About Canada’s New Immigration Minister

Prior to entering politics, Minister Miller worked as a lawyer specializing in mergers and acquisitions, with a concentration on international and commercial law. According to the official website, he also served as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Minister Miller delivered a statement entirely in Mohawk in the House of Commons in 2017, an Indigenous language that has never been used in the Canadian Parliament since Confederation. Miller has been an outspoken supporter of more federal investment in affordable housing, public transportation, and the Canada Child Benefit.

Minister Miller holds degrees in Political Science and Common Law and Civil Law from the Université de Montréal. He was born and raised in Montreal.

Did Sean Fraser Do Well As the Former Immigration Minister?

During his two-year tenure as Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser received specific immigration points from Prime Minister Trudeau to prioritize. These points included increasing immigration levels, streamlining application processing, boosting francophone immigration to Canada, and more. Despite the added challenge of managing immigration during the Covid-19 Pandemic with closed borders, Fraser made progress on these fronts. Notably, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced category-based draws to Express Entry, targeting specific profiles like French speakers and individuals with in-demand skills. Furthermore, Fraser announced plans to increase the number of newcomers welcomed to Canada each year in the latest Immigration Level Plans.

How Will the Minister’s Change Affect Canadian Immigration?

There will be minimal changes in immigration policies in the immediate future. For instance, category-based Express Entry draws will continue as before. This is because the new immigration minister is aligned with the federal government’s priorities.

Canada’s plan to welcome 1.45 million newcomers over the next three years remains intact, as it is a mandate set by the Canadian government, which is governed by the Liberal Party.

Any significant alterations to immigration policy are more likely to occur if a different political party wins an election. However, in the current scenario, Minister Miller is a member of the Liberal Party and will uphold the mandates established by the federal government.

Are You Interested in Immigrating to Canada?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

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Following changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act made by the Government of Canada, the introduction of category-based selection draws has been planned in June 2022, and began in June 2023. These improvements have enabled the selection of immigrants based on specific characteristics that match with Canada’s economic aims, such as appropriate work experience to solve labor market shortages and French language ability.

Canada Agriculture NOC Codes and Occupations for Express Entry Category-Based Selection

There are 3 occupations in the agriculture and agri-food occupation category. These include:

Eligibility Requirements for the Agriculture Occupations Category

You must meet the following requirements to be eligible:

• Meet the requirements for one of the Express Entry programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades Program).
• Have at least 6 months of continuous work experience in one of the mentioned occupations in the last three years.
• Complete all of the additional requirements outlined in the round’s instructions.

Why Was Agriculture and Agri-Food Chosen as a Category for Express Entry Occupations?

IRCC held discussions to determine immigration selection priorities and categories, obtaining opinions and proposals from a diverse variety of stakeholders and the general public. IRCC also met with provincial and territorial officials to learn more about their potential priorities and requirements.

Agriculture professions were identified as one of the five categories with the greatest need by respondents.

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting had a job vacancy rate of 10,535 (or 3.9%) at the end of 2022. The following provinces had job openings:

• Ontario: 3,070
• Quebec: 1,950
• British Columbia: 2,475
• Alberta: 940
• Saskatchewan: 540
• Manitoba: 550
• New Brunswick: 720
• Nova Scotia: 425
• PEI: 130

Are You Interested In Applying to the Agriculture and Agri-Food Occupations Express Entry Stream?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

The implementation of category-based selection draws has been expected since June 2022, following modifications made by the Government of Canada to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These changes have allowed for the selection of immigrants based on specific qualities that align with Canada’s economic goals, including relevant work experience to address labor market shortages and proficiency in the French language.

Canada Trades NOC Codes and Occupations for Express Entry Category-Based Selection

Canada’s emphasis on prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers with trades experience is aimed at addressing the country’s growing need for talented persons and filling critical roles that support economic growth and trades progress.

The following occupations and NOC codes are eligible for consideration in the trades draw:

Candidates in the selected priority occupations must have six months of continuous work experience in the past three years in Canada or abroad in an applicable occupation.

Are You Interested in Applying to the Trades Occupations Express Entry Stream?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

Anticipated since June 2022, category-based selection draws have been on the horizon ever since the Government of Canada modified the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These changes enabled the selection of immigrants based on essential qualities that align with Canada’s economic objectives, including specific work experience to address labor market shortages and proficiency in the French language.

STEM NOC Codes and Occupations for Express Entry Category-Based Selection

According to a recent press release from IRCC, Canada’s focus on prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers with STEM expertise is aimed at addressing the increasing need for talented individuals and filling crucial positions that drive the country’s economic expansion and technological progress.

Occupations eligible for consideration under the STEM draw consist of:

Can I Be Considered If I Have STEM Work Experience but I Am Not an Express Entry Candidate?

No. Candidates who get invites in a category-based selection draw must have applied through an Express Entry controlled program such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class.

Are You Interested in Applying to the STEM Occupations Express Entry Stream?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

On June 27, 2023, Sean Fraser, Minister of IRCC, announced a new temporary measure that eliminates the restriction on the duration of study programs for temporary foreign workers who do not hold a study permit.

How Long Can I Extend My Study Program for Without a Study Permit?

Effective immediately, foreign workers will have the chance to pursue additional training and education to enhance their careers. This measure will broaden their future work opportunities and increase their chances of transitioning to permanent residency.

Previously, foreign workers were only allowed to study in programs of six months or less while working, requiring a separate study permit for longer programs. This created a barrier for those seeking to enhance their education, receive additional training, or validate their foreign credentials through specific programs.

From June 27, 2023 until June 27, 2026, foreign workers who hold a valid work permit in Canada that was issued on or before June 7, 2023, or a letter issued by IRCC on or before June 7 authorizing them to work while their work permit extension application was in process, can study full-time or part-time in Canada while their work permits are valid, without restrictions on the length of the program.

Are You Interested in Extending Your Study Authorization While Working in Canada?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

• The establishment of an open work permit stream allows H-1B specialty occupation visa holders in the United States to apply for a Canadian work permit, as well as opportunities for study or work permits for their accompanying family members.
• The creation of an Innovation Stream within the International Mobility Program to attract highly skilled workers, with options including employer-specific work permits for up to five years for workers destined to work for a company identified by the federal government as contributing to its industrial innovation goals, and open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations.
• a return to the 14-day service standard for work permits under the Global Skills Strategy
• the promotion of Canada as a destination for digital nomads
• the creation of a STEM-specific draw under category-based selection to issue additional invitations to apply under the Express Entry program

Start-Up Visa Program Improvements

Improvements to the Start-Up Visa Program will also be made, which include:

• allocating more spots to this program for 2023, with further increases planned for 2024 and 2025.
• applicants will be able to apply for a work permit that is up to three years in duration instead of one year.
• applicants will be able to apply for an open work permit instead of one that limits them to work for their own start-up.
• making this three-year open work permit available to each member of the entrepreneurial team instead of only those who are essential and urgently needed in Canada.
• prioritizing applications that are supported by venture capital, angel investor groups and business incubators and have capital committed, along with applications that are supported by business incubators who are members of Canada’s Tech Network.

With Canada’s first-ever immigration Tech Talent Strategy, said Fraser, “we are targeting newcomers that can help enshrine Canada as a world leader in a variety of emerging technologies. I am grateful for the collaboration of the tech, start-up, and business communities, who have provided valuable insight to develop this strategy.”

Are You Interested in Canada’s Tech Talent Strategy?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

Why Is Healthcare a Priority Occupation for Canada Express Entry?

Healthcare is one of the industries in Canada with a serious labor shortage. This is due in part to Canada having one of the lowest birth rates in the world, as well as an aging population. For example, within the next seven years, it is predicted that nine million Canadians will reach retirement age, 65.

An aging population will put more strain on the healthcare system. Canada requires immigrants to compensate for a lack of younger Canadians and to fill these essential positions.

According to Statistics Canada, there were 144,500 vacant positions in the healthcare and social support sector as of March 2023, accounting for 17.7% of all job vacancies.

Express Entry Healthcare Occupations and NOC codes 2023

The first category-based occupations draw was a healthcare draw which took place on June 29, 2023. Out of the six recently introduced categories, healthcare occupations constitute the highest number of eligible occupations, totaling 35. These occupations include:

Do Many Immigrants in Canada Work as Healthcare Workers?

• Immigrants account for 1 out of every 4 healthcare sector workers.
• In Canada, immigrants make up about:
  • 23% of registered nurses
  • 35% of nurse aides and related occupations
  • 37% of pharmacists
  • 36% of physicians
  • 39% of dentists
  • 54% of dental technologists and related occupations

Are You Interested in Immigrating to Canada as a Healthcare Worker?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

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Fraser said after the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported in March that some Indian students had been served with deportation orders for allegedly using false travel documents to enter Canada in an immigration scheme.

According to the CBC, the Canadian government has warned Indian students involved in a fraudulent university immigration scheme that they could face deportation. The students claim they were unaware of the fake credentials and false travel documents and blame the alleged fraud on immigration officials in India who assisted them in the application process. In response, students and advocates have requested a halt to the deportations.

What Will Happen to Students Involved in the Scam?

Fraser indicated that a special task team will investigate each instance of a student facing deportation. The number of those facing deportation was not disclosed to the public. Fraser announced that ongoing deportation would be temporarily halted, permitting students to remain in Canada while their cases are being considered.

According to official figures, Canada welcomed over 800,000 foreign students with active student visas in 2022, with around 320,000 of them being from India. Because of the relatively simple process of obtaining a work visa, Canada is a popular location for overseas students.

Students interviewed by the CBC disclosed that after arriving in Canada, they were informed by agents that they could not attend the institution that had purportedly issued their acceptance letters. They were instead directed to private colleges. When the students finished their education and requested work permits or permission to stay in Canada, the fraudulent scam became apparent.

Fraser pledged that legitimate international students who had been deceived by the scammers will be allowed to stay in Canada. Those who were complicit in the fraudulent plot, on the other hand, would be held liable. Authorities will look into evidence of those who arrived in Canada and immediately began working rather than studying.

How to Watch Out for Other Immigration Scams

Immigration scams can be scary, which is why we have many resources to help you in making sure you won’t be scammed. There are many different ways in which someone may try to scam you and pretend they are an immigration law firm. You will want to always make sure you are dealing with a reputable immigration law firm. Here are some resources on what to look out for and how to do so:

• How to Spot an Immigration Scam in 2023
• Top 5 Scams to Watch Out for in 2023
• How to Spot Scammers Pretending to Be VisaPlace
• How to Avoid Scams When Seeking Immigration to the United States
• Becoming a Victim to Immigration Advanced Fee Fraud

Are You Interested in Studying in Canada?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

Which Countries Have Been Added to the eTA Program?

Travelers from these countries can now choose to use an eTA instead of a visa when flying to Canada if they have previously held a Canadian visa within the last ten years or presently have a valid United States non-immigrant visa. As of right now, citizens of these countries that qualify for this program may make use of it:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Costa Rica
• Morocco
• Panama
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Lucia
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Seychelles
• Thailand
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Uruguay

Introducing visa-free air travel will streamline and simplify the process for thousands of visitors, enabling them to stay in Canada for up to six months for business or leisure purposes. This initiative will also bolster Canada’s economy by promoting tourism, international business, and fostering stronger ties with these countries while prioritizing the safety of Canadian citizens.

Additionally, this decision will lighten the load on Canada’s visa processing system, enabling the quicker processing of visa applications to the benefit of all applicants.

Are You Interested in Immigrating to Canada?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Click here to fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form below and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

• CELPIP General
• CAEL
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT Test

What Are the Requirements for the New SDS Language Tests

All test results must demonstrate proficiency in the following areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

CELPIP general assessments must yield a score of at least 7 in each of the four language-speaking abilities, which is equivalent to the Canadian Language Benchmark.

CAEL and Pearson PTE Academic test results must have a minimum score of 60.

The TOEFL iBT Test from Educational Testing Service (ETS) requires a minimum score of 83.

These tests must be taken in person by students. Remotely proctored online tests will not be acceptable for SDS applicants.

Prior to this adjustment, the only examinations permitted by IRCC for SDS applicants were IELTS General and IELTS Academic.

Are You Interested in Canada’s Student Direct Stream?

If you find yourself interested in the Student Direct Stream, contact VisaPlace today. All of our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

The new measures include:

• Temporary residence visa (TRV) processing times are reduced for spousal applicants.
• New and specific tools for spousal TRV candidates
• A new open work permit is now available for spousal and family class candidates
• Open work permit renewals are available for open work permit holders whose permits expire between August 1st and the end of 2023

Sean Fraser opened the statement by emphasizing that people from visa-required countries who have submitted family class permanent residency (PR) applications are now qualified to do so for Temporary Resident Visas (TRV), which will allow them to travel to Canada and join their sponsor.

He raised concern that despite the fact that the vast majority of these candidates are ultimately granted permanent residency once their application is reviewed, a significant number of them are being rejected on the basis that they are unlikely to return to their native country.

What Does This Mean For Families of TRV Holders?

Fraser continued by highlighting the accomplishment of clearing the backlog of TRV requests for relatives whose applications for permanent residency are currently in process. Over 98% of spouse and children applications for spousal TRV have been approved since Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new strategy. Due to this, they are able to spend time with their family while their applications for PR are being processed.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) applications will now be processed more quickly—within 30 days—thanks to the adoption of this new approach. This innovation makes it easier for family members to make their way to Canada and be reunited with their loved ones.

In addition, IRCC is launching a new program to issue open work permits to applicants who are spouses and dependent children living in Canada with their sponsor and obtaining temporary residence status. In accordance with this initiative, dependents, spouses, and partners may apply for and receive an open work permit as soon as they submit a complete application for permanent residence under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada class (SPCLC) or other family class programs.

These open work permits were previously only available for the inland spousal program, but are now available to people applying from outside Canada.

Changes and Extensions For Expiring Open Work Permits

Starting June 7th, open work permit holders whose existing permit expires between August 1st and the end of 2023 can renew their permit for an additional 18 months through a free assisted process, affecting around 25,000 individuals who are currently in Canada and working. This includes the spouses and dependents of most temporary workers, as well as the spouses of international students and permanent residence applicants, as well as their spouses/dependents, who are awaiting the finalization of their permanent status.

Are You Interested in Learning More About Canada’s New Measures for Family Reunification?

If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

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