Author: Admin

As of April 4, 2025, the Canadian government continues to enforce restrictions on processing Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) under the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in regions with unemployment rates of 6% or higher. This policy aims to prioritize employment opportunities for Canadian workers in areas experiencing higher unemployment.

Effective August 26, 2024, LMIAs for low-wage positions will not be processed in Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs) where the unemployment rate is 6% or higher. ​

CMAs are ineligible as of April 4

These regions will not process low-wage LMIA applications over the next 3 months.

Census metropolitan area (CMA)	Unemployment rate
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador	7.6%
Saint John, New Brunswick	7.7%
Fredericton, New Brunswick	6.9%
Drummondville, Quebec	8.0%
Montréal, Quebec	6.7%
Kingston, Ontario	7.2%
Peterborough, Ontario	9.9%
Oshawa, Ontario	8.0%
Toronto, Ontario	8.6%
Hamilton, Ontario	7.3%
St. Catharines-Niagara, Ontario	7.7%
Kitchener-Cambridge-Waterloo, Ontario	8.5%
Brantford, Ontario	7.2%
Guelph, Ontario	6.2%
Windsor, Ontario	9.3%
Barrie, Ontario	7.5%
Calgary, Alberta	7.8%
Red Deer, Alberta	8.4%
Edmonton, Alberta	7.3%
Kelowna, British Columbia	6.7%
Kamloops, British Columbia	7.1%
Abbotsford-Mission, British Columbia	6.2%
Vancouver, British Columbia	6.6%
Nanaimo, British Columbia	6.0%

To determine if a specific job location falls within an affected CMA, employers and applicants can enter the complete postal code of the work location into the Census of Population tool. ​

Employers seeking to hire foreign workers in affected regions might consider offering wages above the provincial or territorial median hourly wage to apply under the high-wage stream, which is not subject to these restrictions.

Understanding about a CMA

A Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) in Canada is a geographic region defined by Statistics Canada. It consists of one or more adjacent municipalities centered around a large urban core. To qualify as a CMA, the area must have a total population of at least 100,000, with at least 50,000 residing in the urban core. Adjacent municipalities are included if they exhibit a high degree of integration with the central urban area, typically measured by commuting patterns.

Alberta, a province in western Canada, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the majestic Rocky Mountains and vast prairies. As a significant contributor to Canada’s economy, Alberta boasts a robust energy sector, diverse industries, and vibrant cities like Calgary and Edmonton. The province offers a high standard of living, excellent educational institutions, and a multicultural environment, making it an attractive destination for immigrants worldwide.​

In March and April 2025, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) implemented several notable changes:

1.Acceptance of Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core

Effective April 1, 2025, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) now accepts the PTE Core test as a valid measure of English language proficiency across all its immigration streams. This addition provides applicants with an alternative to other recognized language tests.

The PTE Core offers several advantages:

• – It’s a computer-based test providing results within 48 hours.
• – Evaluating practical English skills across speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
• – The quick result turnaround and convenient test scheduling offer flexibility for applicants.

2.Increase in Application Fees for Worker Streams

Starting April 1, 2025, the application fee for AAIP worker streams has increased to $1,500. This adjustment affects streams such as the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Alberta Express Entry Stream, Rural Renewal Stream, and Tourism and Hospitality Stream. Fees for entrepreneur streams and other services remain unchanged.

3.Update to Express Entry Profile Procedures

As of March 17, 2025, candidates who submitted their Express Entry applications on or after September 30, 2024, and whose profiles are nearing expiration, can now update them. The AAIP may request a new profile that meets current program requirements, allowing applicants to maintain their eligibility without starting a new application. ​

4.Discontinuation of Invitations under Family Connection and Occupation in Demand Pathway

Effective March 17, 2025, the AAIP has ceased issuing invitations under the family connection and occupation in demand pathways. However, applicants can still claim points for having a qualifying family connection in Alberta, such as a parent, sibling, or child who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident over 18 years old.

5.Non-Participation in Federal Work Permit Public Policy

Alberta has chosen not to participate in the federal government’s “Temporary Public Policy to Facilitate Work Permits for Prospective Provincial Nominee Program Candidates” in 2025. This decision aims to allow Alberta to better address its specific economic needs with the limited allocations available for the year.

These updates reflect Alberta’s efforts to refine its immigration processes and better align them with the province’s economic and demographic needs.​

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers the Tech Talent Pathway to attract skilled technology and innovation sector workers to the province. This pathway is available to candidates applying through both Express Entry and Non-Express Entry streams. Below is an overview of the eligibility criteria and application process for each stream.​

Eligibility Criteria

Common Requirements for Both Streams:

• Job Offer: A permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer in an eligible technology or innovation occupation is required. The employer must provide a valid SINP Job Approval Letter. ​

• Education: Candidates must have post-secondary education related to the job offer, such as a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree, a three-year degree at a university or college, or a diploma requiring two years at a post-secondary institution. ​

• Licensing (if applicable): For occupations like Computer Engineers (NOC 21311), Software Engineers and Designers (NOC 21231), Data Scientists (NOC 21211), and Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NOC 21310), candidates must be eligible for professional licensing in Saskatchewan. ​

Additional Requirements for Non-Express Entry Stream:

• Work Experience:

• – If currently working for the employer in Saskatchewan: At least six months (780 hours) of full-time work experience in the same job.​
• – If not currently working for the employer: At least one year of high-skilled related work experience in the past five years in the intended eligible occupation. ​

• Language Proficiency:

– If currently working for the employer: The employer assesses language ability.

– If not currently working for the employer: Proof of English and/or French language ability of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 or higher.

Additional Requirements for Express Entry Stream:

• Express Entry Profile: Candidates must have a valid Express Entry Profile Number and Job Seeker Validation Code. ​

• Language Proficiency: Candidates must meet the federal Express Entry language requirements, which typically require higher proficiency than the Non-Express Entry stream. ​

• Work Experience:

• – If currently working for the employer in Saskatchewan: At least six months (780 hours) of full-time work experience in the same job.​
• – If not currently working for the employer: At least one year of high-skilled related work experience in the past five years in the intended eligible occupation.
•  

Occupations are eligible through this stream

NOC	Occupation Titles
20012	Computer and information systems managers
21310	Electrical and Electronics engineers
21311	Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
21211	Data Scientist
21220	Cybersecurity specialists
21221	Business system specialist
21222	Information System specialist
21223	Database analysts and data administrator
21231	Software engineers and designers
21230	Computer systems developers and programmers
21232	Software developers and programmers
21234	Web developers and programmers
21233	Web designers
22220	Computer network and web technicians
22221	User support technicians
22222	Information systems testing technicians

Application Process

1. Obtain a Job Offer: Secure a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer in an eligible occupation.

2. Receive a Job Approval Letter: The employer must apply for and receive a Job Approval Letter from the SINP. ​

3. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents, including proof of education, work experience, language proficiency, and licensing (if applicable).​

4. Submit Application:

   • – For Non-Express Entry: Apply directly through the SINP online portal.​

   • – For Express Entry: Ensure you have an active Express Entry profile and submit your application through the SINP online portal, including your Express Entry Profile Number and Job Seeker Validation Code. ​

5. Await Nomination: If your application is approved, you will receive a provincial nomination from Saskatchewan.​

6. Apply for Permanent Residency:

• – For Non-Express Entry: Submit your permanent residency application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as a provincial nominee.​
• – For Express Entry: Accept the provincial nomination in your Express Entry profile, which will award you additional points and expedite the permanent residency process. ​
•  

The Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Home Support Stream (HCWP:HS) reached its application cap within hours of opening on March 31, 2025. 

The program closed at approximately 2:25 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on the same day. This swift closure underscores the high demand for this immigration pathway.​

The HCWP:HS had an application cap of 2,750 for the year, with 150 spots reserved for out-of-status workers. The program is expected to reopen in 2026. As of now, the government has not announced when the “Applicants Not Working in Canada” stream will open.​

Similarly, the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Child Care (HCWP:CC) also reached its application cap on March 31, 2025, the same day it opened. ​

For those who missed the opportunity to apply this year, it is advisable to prepare in advance for the next application window in 2026. Staying informed about official announcements and ensuring all application materials are ready will be crucial for prospective applicants.​

Canada’s Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots (HCWP) opened for applications on March 31, 2025, at 10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). These pilots provide pathways to permanent residence for skilled workers in the home care sector.

Overview of the program

The HCWP consists of two main programs:​

1. Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Child Care – for professionals providing in-home child care services.​

2. Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot: Home Support – for caregivers assisting the elderly, individuals with disabilities, or those requiring home assistance.​

Each pilot features two application streams:​

• Workers in Canada Stream: Currently open for applications.​

• Applicants Not Working in Canada Stream: Details and opening dates will be announced later. ​

Application Caps for 2025

For the period from March 31, 2025, to March 30, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept:​

• 2,750 applications for the Child Care pilot.​

• 2,750 applications for the Home Support pilot.​

Within these caps, 140 spots in each pilot are reserved for out-of-status and unauthorized workers in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Workers in Canada stream, applicants must have:

Job Offer: Secure a full-time job offer from a Canadian employer (excluding Quebec).

Language Proficiency: Achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 in English or French.​

Education: Possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent.​

Work Experience or Training: Have at least six months of recent, relevant work experience or have completed six months of related training.

Application Process

1. Prepare Your Documents:

   • Proof of education, language proficiency, work experience or training, and other required documents.​

2. Create an Account or Sign In:

   • Applications must be submitted online using the Permanent Residence (PR) Portal.

3. Select the Appropriate Category:

   • Choose “Economic” when asked which program you want to apply to, then select the relevant pilot and subcategory.​

4. Complete the Application Forms:

   • Fill out all required forms accurately.​

5. Pay the Fees:

   • Submit the necessary application fees as instructed.​

6. Submit Your Application:

   • Review all information and submit your application through the PR Portal.​

7. Attend Biometrics and Medical Exam:

   • Complete the necessary biometric and medical examinations as instructed by IRCC.​

For detailed instructions and to access the application portal, visit the official Government of Canada website. ​

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/pr-portal.html

Given the limited number of spots available, it’s advisable to prepare and submit your application promptly. Ensure all eligibility criteria are met and that your application is complete to avoid delays or rejection.

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers a pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Saskatchewan through the International Skilled Worker: Saskatchewan Express Entry sub-category.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this sub-category, candidate must have:

• Express Entry Profile: Be accepted into Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Express Entry pool, providing a valid Express Entry Profile Number and Job Seeker Validation Code.​

• Intent to Reside: Demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in Saskatchewan.​

• Points Assessment: Score at least 60 out of 100 points on the SINP point assessment grid, which evaluates factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, age, and connections to Saskatchewan.​

• Work Experience: Possess at least one year of post-secondary education or training and have work experience in a high-skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) that is in demand in Saskatchewan.​

• Language Proficiency: Meet the minimum language requirements in English or French, consistent with the federal Express Entry criteria.​

• Licensure (if applicable): Obtain the necessary licensure in Saskatchewan if your occupation is regulated in the province.

Expression of Interest (EOI) System

The EOI is a pre-application process where you express your interest in applying to the SINP. Submitting an EOI is not an application but indicates your desire to be considered for the program. In your EOI, you’ll provide information about your qualifications, work experience, and other factors. Candidates are then ranked based on their EOI scores, and those with the highest scores may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination. It’s important to note that not all candidates who submit an EOI will be invited to apply.

Application Process

1. Submit an EOI: Create an online profile through the SINP’s application system, and submit your EOI. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.​

2. Receive an ITA: If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply from the SINP.​

3. Complete Application: After receiving an ITA, submit a complete application to the SINP, including all required documents to substantiate the information provided in your EOI.​

4. Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application processing fee of $500 CAD.​

5. Nomination: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a provincial nomination from Saskatchewan, which can significantly enhance your Express Entry profile by awarding additional points.​

6. Permanent Residence Application: With the provincial nomination, you can apply to IRCC for permanent residence, with most applications processed within six months.

As of March 27, 2025, the SINP has resumed accepting new Job Approval Forms (JAFs) after a temporary pause initiated on February 18, 2025. This resumption allows Saskatchewan employers to continue submitting JAFs to hire skilled foreign workers. However, the SINP has announced that 75% of its provincial immigration allocation for this year will be dedicated to candidates already residing in Saskatchewan on temporary status. Consequently, recruitment from outside Canada will be limited to workers in the health, agriculture, and skilled trades sectors.

The International Skilled Worker: Employment Offer sub-category of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is designed for skilled workers who have received a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer. This pathway enables eligible individuals to apply for Canadian permanent residency.​

Eligibility Requirements

• Job Offer: You must have a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer. The position should be classified under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER levels 0, 1, 2, or 3. Your employer is required to obtain a valid SINP Job Approval Letter, which serves as proof of the job offer. ​

• Work Experience: A minimum of one year of work experience in your intended occupation within the last ten years is required. ​

• Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate language proficiency of at least Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 in English or French. It’s important to note that certain occupations may require higher language proficiency levels as determined by regulatory bodies or employers. ​

• Points Assessment: Achieving a minimum score of 60 out of 110 on the SINP point assessment grid is necessary. Points are allocated based on factors such as education, work experience, language ability, age, and connections to the Saskatchewan labor market. ​

• Licensure (if applicable): If your occupation is regulated in Saskatchewan, you must provide proof of eligibility for licensure.

Application Process

• Document Preparation: Gather all required documents, including proof of identity, work experience, education credentials, language proficiency, and the SINP Job Approval Letter from your employer. ​

• Online Application: Create an account on the SINP online portal, complete the application, and upload all necessary documents in PDF format. Ensure that translations are provided for any documents not in English or French, along with an affidavit from the translator. ​

• Submission: After thoroughly reviewing your application for completeness and accuracy, submit it through the online portal. Incomplete applications may be closed, requiring you to reapply. ​

Individuals seeking employment in Saskatchewan’s healthcare industry and wishing to be contacted by the SINP or health sector employers for relevant job openings should complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) profile.

International Healthcare Worker EOI

The International Healthcare Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) Pool is an initiative by the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) designed to connect skilled healthcare professionals from around the world with job opportunities in Saskatchewan’s healthcare sector. By submitting an EOI, candidates indicate their interest in working in Saskatchewan and provide details about their qualifications. This information assists provincial healthcare employers in identifying potential candidates for available positions.

It’s important to note that submitting an EOI is not an application to the SINP but serves as a pre-application to express interest in employment opportunities. ​

Eligible Occupations

NOC	Occupation Titles
12111	Health Information Management Practitioner
21120	Public and environmental health and safety professionals
22232	Occupational health and safety specialists
31301	Registered Nurse and Registered Psychiatric Nurse
31201	Chiropractors
31204	Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
31302	Nurse Practitioner
31303	Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals
31120	Pharmacist
31112	Audiologist and Speech Language Pathologist
31202	Physiotherapists
32103	Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists
32109	Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
31203	Occupational Therapist
32120	Medical laboratory technologists
32121	Medical radiation technologists
32122	Medical sonographers
32123	Cardiology Technologist and Electrophysiological Diagnostic Technologist
32124	Pharmacy Technician
32129	Other medical technologists and technicians
33103	Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
32112	Dental technologists and technicians
33100	Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants
32101	Licensed practical nurses
32102	Paramedical occupations
33109	Other assisting occupations in support of health services
33102	Nurse aides, orderlies and patient associates
31200	Psychologists
41301	Therapists in counselling and related to specialized therapies

Application Process

• Create an EOI Profile: Interested candidates must create an online EOI profile through the SINP’s application system. This profile includes personal information, professional qualifications, and details about the desired healthcare occupation.

• Profile Assessment: The SINP reviews submitted EOIs to identify candidates whose skills and experience match the needs of Saskatchewan healthcare employers.​

• Job Opportunity Notifications: Candidates with suitable qualifications may receive information about job postings, including instructions on how to apply.​

• Application for Provincial Nomination: Upon securing a job offer, candidates can apply for provincial nomination through the appropriate SINP pathway, such as the Health Talent Pathway or the Student Category.

The Yukon government is implementing a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system for its Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) in 2025. This change aims to strategically manage the limited number of nominations available due to a 50% reduction in allocations from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), allowing only 215 nominations for the year.

Under the new system, employers seeking to nominate foreign workers must submit an EOI between March 31, 2025, at 9:00 am and April 22, 2025, at 4:30 pm Yukon Standard Time. The EOI process replaces the previous first-come, first-served approach, enabling the government to prioritize candidates who align with specific criteria:

• – Foreign nationals who have lived and worked in Yukon for at least one year​
•  

• – Graduates from Yukon University

• – Francophone or French-speaking individuals​.

• – Recipients of Temporary Measure Letters of Support​

Recipients of Temporary Measure Letters of Support

The Government of Yukon has introduced a temporary measure allowing foreign nationals with expiring work permits to request a letter of support. This letter enables them to apply for a Yukon-specific work permit valid for up to two years through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). ​

Application Period and Eligibility Criteria

The intake period for this initiative began on March 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM and will close on April 2, 2025, at 4:30 PM Yukon Standard Time. To be eligible, applicants must have had valid work authorization as of May 16, 2024, be currently residing and working in Yukon, and have an employer planning to nominate them for permanent residency under the Yukon Nominee Program in 2025 or 2026. ​

Application Process

Eligible individuals can request the letter of support by completing the Temporary Measure Letter of Support request form available on the Yukon government’s website.

This temporary measure is part of Yukon’s efforts to support foreign workers transitioning to permanent residency, especially in light of recent changes to the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP). The YNP has shifted to an Expression of Interest system, prioritizing applicants who have lived and worked in Yukon for at least one year, are Yukon University graduates, are Francophone or French-speaking, or are recipients of temporary measure letters of support. ​

These priorities were established in consultation with industry organizations and the Yukon business community to ensure the program meets local labor market needs effectively. The EOI system is designed to manage the high demand for nominations transparently and strategically, reflecting both government priorities and employer requirements. ​

Employers with existing applications from 2024 are not required to submit a new EOI; however, the 2025 priorities will apply to these carry-over applications. The Department of Economic Development will contact these employers with further information.

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) has permanently closed its Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Farm Owner/Operator categories, effective March 27, 2025. This decision is part of broader program changes aimed at aligning with Saskatchewan’s long-term labor market needs and follows a 50% reduction in nomination allocations by the federal government and a requirement that 75% of all nominees must already be living in Canada as temporary residents. 

The closure affects new applications and existing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) that have not yet received Invitations to Submit Applications (ISAs); these EOIs will be removed from the system without further selections. However, applications submitted before the closure date will continue to be processed under the existing criteria.

Other Updates:

In addition to these closures, the SINP has introduced other changes, including:

• – Applications from overseas candidates will now focus on the healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades sectors. Recruitment for other sectors will prioritize candidates already residing in Canada on valid temporary visas.
•  
• – Nominations in the accommodation, food services, retail trade, and trucking sectors are capped at 25% of the province’s total annual nominations. This measure ensures a balanced distribution of nominations across various industries. 
•  
• – Businesses such as spas, salons, and pet care services (excluding veterinarians) are no longer eligible to recruit through the SINP. This change focuses the program on industries deemed essential to Saskatchewan’s economic growth.

These adjustments aim to optimize the limited nomination allocations and support sectors critical to Saskatchewan’s economy.