GTR Canada

Category: Immigration

  • Canada to introduce new Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot

    Canada to introduce new Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot

    The Canadian Government recognizes the difficulties faced by women of colour who are new immigrants to Canada. Visible minority newcomer women also face many employment challenges in Canada. Hence, the Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot is launched to address these challenges. The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the launch of this program onDecember 5, 2018.

    What is the Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot?

    The Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot is a three (3) year program. Its objective is to strengthen the professional and career progression for visible minority newcomer women. It aims at addressing discrimination based on race and gender. Through this program, the Government hopes to resolve many social problems for visible minority newcomer women including:

    • eliminate low-income employment,
    • availability of affordable childcare and
    • provision strong social supports.

    The ICCRC is providing funding of up to $7 million for new, innovative programs and services to support visible minority women in employment. Also, the ICCRC is launching the ‘Expression of Interest: Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot Initiative’ to look to fund new partners on schemes that especially address this issue.

    All these recent changes show Canada as a progressive nation on a global level. Canada offers an amplitude of opportunities that help you progress in your career and live a better life!

  • Canada Immigration focuses on Business Immigration

    Canada Immigration focuses on Business Immigration

    In the recent week, Canada Immigration has made a significant focus on Business Immigration.

    What is Business Immigration?

    This program is most suitable for entrepreneurs. This program is for those individuals, who are looking to make an investment in Canada or to start/acquire a business in Canada. Candidates are required to own a business and/or have managerial experience.

    In the last week, many new developments have been made in Business Immigration. They are:

    • In a draw held on November 23, Ontario issued 15 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to entrepreneur immigrants. The minimum score for the candidates in the OINP’s Entrepreneur Stream was 112.
    • In another draw held on November 21, Saskatchewan issued 84 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to entrepreneur immigrants. The minimum score for the candidates in the SINP’s Entrepreneur Stream was 115. The highest score was 135.
    • British Columbia PNP announced the launch of the Entrepreneur Immigration — Regional Pilot. Through this program, entrepreneurs can come to the smaller localities in BC, and grow a business there. The program is planned to launch next year in 2019.

    Under Business Immigration, there are several options available:

    • Federal Start-Up Visa Program.

    It is a part of Canada’s federal immigration program. Candidates must be an owner of a business, meet the language requirement and have adequate financial support before they can apply. 

    • PNP Business Immigration.

    Many provinces have Business Immigration Programs as a part of their Provincial Nominees Program. Each province has different conditions for eligibility.  

  • British Columbia opens new category for business immigration

    British Columbia opens new category for business immigration

    British Columbia PNP announced the launch of a new pilot program in its immigration system. The program intends to attract foreign entrepreneurs to invest in the growth of the province’s economy.

    The program is named Entrepreneur Immigration — Regional Pilot. The program is planned to launch next year in 2019.

    Through this program, entrepreneurs can come to the smaller localities in BC, and grow a business there. This initiative is taken to boost the economy of the small communities. Enrolled communities must be situated 30 kilometres or more from a population centre of more than 75,000 people.

    Candidates interested in applying must have the intention of settling in British Columbia. They also need to make an “exploratory visit” to BC and obtain a referral letter from the community where they wish to establish their business.

    Other criteria include:

    • Have a minimum business investment of $100,000 and individual net worth of $300,000,
    • Have 3+ years of experience as an acting business owner/manager etc.

  • Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers 2018

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers

    As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers to the country. A major component of Canada’s strategy is the refinement of immigration pathways like the Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The changes introduced in 2018 reflect Canada’s efforts to streamline immigration, align it with economic needs, and provide opportunities for qualified candidates to become permanent residents.

    In this article, we will explore some of the key reforms in Canada’s immigration system, including changes to Express Entry-linked PNPs in provinces like Ontario, Saskatchewan, and the Atlantic Provinces. We will also look at how these updates help support Canada’s mission to fill labor shortages and strengthen its economy.

    1. The Express Entry System: A Gateway to Canada

    Canada’s Express Entry system remains at the forefront of its economic immigration framework. Launched in 2015, this system facilitates the management of immigration applications through three federal programs:

    • Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC)
    • Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC)
    • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

    Express Entry operates through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points to candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. Candidates with higher CRS scores are more likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

    A significant update to Express Entry in recent years has been its closer integration with Canada’s PNPs, which now offer an additional 600 CRS points to candidates who secure a provincial nomination. This increase nearly guarantees an ITA, making provincial nomination a coveted advantage in the immigration process.

    2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Driving Immigration in Provinces

    Provincial Nominee Programs allow Canadian provinces and territories to select individuals who meet local labor market demands and have a high likelihood of contributing to the economy. PNPs have gained importance because of their alignment with Express Entry, making it easier for provinces to fill their economic gaps by attracting highly skilled immigrants.

    Throughout the third quarter of 2018, several provinces introduced reforms and held major draws aimed at attracting skilled workers. Below are highlights from some key provinces:

    3. Ontario: A Leader in Immigration Through Human Capital Priorities

    Ontario has consistently been one of the most attractive destinations for immigrants, given its strong economy and job opportunities. In August 2018, Ontario conducted the largest draw of the third quarter through its Human Capital Priorities Stream, which is linked to Express Entry.

    On August 9, 2018, Ontario issued 947 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to Express Entry candidates. This draw was specifically targeted at individuals with a valid job offer in Ontario. The CRS scores of invited candidates ranged from 350 to 439, showcasing Ontario’s willingness to attract mid-range skilled workers who can meet the province’s labor demands.

    This strategic draw demonstrated Ontario’s focus on balancing the needs of employers with immigration targets. By inviting individuals with job offers, Ontario continues to ensure that the newcomers are well-positioned to succeed economically upon arrival.

    4. Saskatchewan: A New System with Express of Interest (EOI)

    Saskatchewan, another province heavily reliant on immigration to sustain its economic growth, introduced significant reforms in 2018. In July 2018, the province replaced the old intake system for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) with the new Expression of Interest (EOI) process.

    EOI serves as a pre-application process, where candidates express their interest in applying for SINP by submitting a profile. This profile is scored out of 100 based on criteria such as work experience, education, language proficiency in English or French, and connection to Saskatchewan. Candidates need to score a minimum of 60 points to be eligible, after which they are ranked, and those with higher scores are invited to apply for provincial nomination.

    In the third quarter of 2018, Saskatchewan held two draws under the new EOI system:

    • September 19, 2018: Saskatchewan invited candidates based on specific skills needed in the province.
    • September 27, 2018: Another draw focused on high-demand occupations with candidates possessing work experience in selected fields.

    The EOI system allows Saskatchewan to be more selective and strategic in inviting candidates, ensuring that immigrants meet local labor demands and are more likely to integrate successfully into the workforce.

    5. Atlantic Provinces: Targeted Immigration Through Labour Market Priorities

    Canada’s Atlantic Provinces—Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island—continue to focus on attracting skilled workers to counter population decline and labor shortages. As part of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), provinces have adopted a collaborative approach with employers to fill workforce gaps.

    Nova Scotia made headlines in the third quarter by launching its Labour Market Priorities Stream on August 8, 2018. This stream targets specific occupations based on Nova Scotia’s labor needs. It selects candidates directly from the Express Entry pool, allowing the province to bypass CRS scores and focus on individuals whose skills are in demand.

    Similarly, Prince Edward Island (PEI) invited candidates to apply for provincial nomination on three occasions during the third quarter. PEI’s Express Entry Stream focuses on selecting candidates with the skills and experience to support the province’s economy, particularly in sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture.

    These reforms in Atlantic Canada demonstrate a focused effort to attract newcomers who can contribute to provincial economies and sustain population growth.

    6. The Role of CRS Points and ITAs in Immigration Success

    The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) plays a critical role in Canada’s immigration process, determining which candidates in the Express Entry pool receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. A CRS score is calculated based on a combination of factors such as:

    • Age: Younger candidates generally score higher.
    • Education: Higher levels of education attract more points.
    • Language Proficiency: Strong English or French skills are highly valued.
    • Work Experience: Skilled work experience inside or outside Canada can boost scores.

    One of the major advantages of Canada’s immigration reforms is the opportunity for candidates to boost their CRS scores by securing a Provincial Nomination. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to a candidate’s CRS score, virtually guaranteeing that they will receive an ITA.

    For example, candidates with CRS scores ranging between 350 and 439 in Ontario’s August draw would not have been invited through the federal Express Entry program alone. However, with a provincial nomination, they would see their scores jump to over 900 points, leading to an ITA in the subsequent federal draw.

    This highlights the effectiveness of Canada’s PNPs in making immigration accessible to skilled individuals who might not meet the CRS cut-off under the regular Express Entry draws.

    7. The Future of Canadian Immigration: Welcoming More Newcomers

    As Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve, it remains clear that provinces are playing an increasingly significant role in shaping immigration policies. By linking PNPs to Express Entry and introducing reforms such as EOI, Canada is ensuring that its immigration system is responsive to economic needs while providing more pathways for skilled workers to enter the country.

    In the coming years, Canada is expected to welcome over 1 million immigrants through various programs. The combination of federal and provincial efforts is designed to meet labor demands, support economic growth, and ensure that Canada remains an attractive destination for skilled immigrants from around the world.

     

    2024-08-12 Visitor Visa for India client

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome…


    2024-08-28 Work Permit & Visitors for child – Passport request letters for Vietnamese clients

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome…


    2024-06-06 Work Permit Approval Indian Client

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome…


    2024-06-06 Work Permit Approval Indian Client

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome…


    2024-06-04 Study Permit Extension Approval

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome…


    2024-06-06 Study Permit Approval

    Canada keeps reforming its immigration systems to welcome more newcomers As the third quarter of 2018 comes to a close, Canada remains committed to improving its immigration systems to welcome…



    Read More

  • British Columbia conducts the biggest draw of 2018

    British Columbia conducts the biggest draw

    British Columbia held its latest round of draw on October 17, 2018. British Columbia PNP invited a total of 472 candidates to apply for BC Provincial Nomination.

    This draw had the maximum number of invitations issued this year. The candidates from the category BC Express Entry and Skills Immigration were selected in this draw.

    BC Express Entry

    The province’s Express Entry is aligned with the federal Express Entry system. The Express Entry system has three main categories:

    Federal Skilled Worker Class.
    Federal Skilled Trades Class.
    Canadian Experience Class.

    Candidates who receive an invite for provincial nomination receive 600 points in their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This increases their chance of getting Canadian PR. The Express Entry processes these applications. It takes 6 months for their PR applications to process.
    Skills Immigration
    In this draw, the candidates from the stream’s Skilled Worker, International Graduate and Entry Level and Semi-Skilled categories received an invite.

    To apply for Permanent Residency, one must sign up in the BC PNP online portal here. Then they have to submit their profile and registration form. Many factors like education, work experience etc. are used to rank these applications.

  • Atlantic Provinces in Canada are looking for new skilled immigrants

    Atlantic Provinces in Canada are looking for new skilled immigrants

    The Atlantic Provinces of Canada include the provinces on the Atlantic coast of Canada: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

    These provinces are growing economically. The provinces are going through big amounts of commercial and industrial growth. This means that the job market in these provinces is increasing as well. More job opportunities are becoming available to job seekers.

    The provinces of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island have even increased their quota for the number of applications they will accept in 2018 because of the popularity of this program.

    So, what is Atlantic Immigration Pilot?

    It is an immigration program which is managed by the Federal Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces of:

    New Brunswick
    Newfoundland and Labrador
    Nova Scotia
    Prince Edward Island

    This program is designed to help employer hire foreign skilled workers and utilize their experience and knowledge. The worker must meet the requirements of the employer. Then, if the worker receives a job offer, he/she will get Permanent Resident status in Canada.

    However, this program does not match candidates to employers. One cannot get hired through this program. Candidates must get a job offer by themselves.

  • British Columbia holds weekly draw for Tech Pilot

    British Columbia holds weekly draw for Tech Pilot

    British Columbia conducted this week’s draw for Tech Pilot on August 30. It issued 32 Invitations to Apply for Permanent Residency under BC PNP.

    BC had launched its Tech Pilot Stream to hire more skilled talents for its growing tech jobs market.

    To be eligible, candidates have to meet the following criteria:
    Have an offer letter for a job which has at least a 1-year term.
    Your job must be in the tech pilot’s 29 priority occupations.
    BC PNP Tech Pilot has priority processing. Thus, applications are usually processed within 2-3 months.

    The Tech Pilot have weekly draws. Hence, don’t miss the next deadline!

  • BC Provincial Nominee Program can become your avenue to Canada

    BC PNP offers a wide range of programs that allow individuals to become Permanent Residents.

    British Colombia is a gorgeous place to live, work and raise your family in. Thousands of people immigrate to British Colombia every year and make it their home.

    GreenTech Resources is a licensed recruiter in BC. That means we can help with your Immigration Process to BC as well as Job Search.

    What makes BC so popular among new immigrants?

    Growing economy creates many job opportunities.
    A Diverse Culture which makes it easy for you to settle.
    Variety of industries and sectors including Agriculture; Natural Resources; Medical; Information and Technology.
    Efficient wages and benefit plans offered by many employers, including full medical and dental coverage options.

    BC PNP offers many ways to apply for Permanent Residents like:

    Skills Immigration,
    BC Express Entry,
    Entrepreneur Immigration,
    Federal Skilled Workers & Trades Program, and many other options!

  • Canada Immigration News: British Columbia needs more skilled employees for its tech sector.

    Canada Immigration News: British Columbia needs more skilled employees for its tech sector.

    British Columbia (BC), especially Vancouver, is renowned as one of Canada’s leading tech hubs. Its booming market and exceptional quality of life have made the province a top destination for skilled tech professionals worldwide. However, this rapid growth has created an urgent demand for skilled workers in the tech industry, which the local workforce cannot meet on its own.

    To address this shortage, the British Columbia government introduced the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) Tech Pilot, a dedicated immigration program designed to attract highly skilled international tech talent to the province. This article delves deep into the BC PNP Tech Pilot, covering its key benefits, eligibility criteria, and the opportunities it presents for tech professionals aspiring to build their careers in British Columbia. Whether you’re a seasoned tech expert or an employer seeking top-notch talent, this program offers unparalleled advantages. Let’s explore how it works and why it might be your gateway to Canada.

    Why British Columbia? A Booming Tech Industry

    British Columbia has emerged as a major tech hub, with Vancouver leading the charge. Often compared to Silicon Valley, Vancouver’s tech ecosystem is thriving, with a plethora of opportunities for software developers, engineers, data scientists, and other tech professionals. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Shopify have set up major offices in the province, and new startups are emerging at a rapid pace.

    According to Tech Talent BC, the province’s tech industry contributed $34 billion to the provincial GDP in 2021, and that number is expected to grow even further. In addition, the region offers a lifestyle that is hard to beat, with beautiful landscapes, cultural diversity, and a strong sense of community. But as the industry expands, so does the demand for skilled professionals.

    The local talent pool, while strong, is not enough to meet the growing demand. To address this talent shortage, the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) introduced the BC PNP Tech Pilot, which aims to bring skilled foreign workers into BC’s tech sector.

    British Columbia

    What is the BC PNP Tech Pilot?

    The BC PNP Tech Pilot is an immigration initiative launched under the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) to help address the shortage of tech talent in the province. This program focuses specifically on tech professionals who have a valid job offer from a British Columbia employer in one of the 29 eligible tech-related occupations.

    Originally launched as a pilot in 2017, the program has proven to be so successful that it has been extended several times, with many tech professionals using it as a pathway to permanent residency in Canada. The BC PNP Tech Pilot stands out from other immigration programs due to its focus on tech-related occupations and its expedited processing times.

    Key Highlights of the BC PNP Tech Pilot

    • Weekly Invitations: One of the most appealing features of the BC PNP Tech Pilot is that it conducts

    • weekly draws, inviting candidates with job offers in tech occupations to apply for nomination.

    • Priority-Based Processing: Applications under the Tech Pilot receive priority, which significantly reduces processing times, allowing candidates to move to British Columbia and begin working sooner.

    • One-on-One Employer Support: British Columbia provides comprehensive support to employers looking to recruit foreign tech talent. This includes one-on-one assistance and participation in PNP events that connect companies with skilled professionals.

    • Long-Term Job Security: The Tech Pilot is not limited to short-term contracts. Candidates applying under the program must have job offers that are at least one year in duration, with a strong preference for offers that are permanent or longer-term.

    By focusing on these critical features, the BC PNP Tech Pilot ensures that both tech professionals and employers benefit from a streamlined immigration process, making it easier to address the province’s talent shortage.

    The Growing Demand for Tech Workers in British Columbia

    British Columbia’s tech sector is booming, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, software development, biotechnology, and more. The tech industry in BC accounts for nearly 10% of the province’s total employment, and the number of job openings continues to rise. A recent study projected that British Columbia would need over 85,000 new tech workers by 2029 to meet demand, making this one of the fastest-growing industries in Canada.

    Vancouver: A Leading Tech Hub

    At the center of this growth is Vancouver, which has earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading cities for tech innovation. Ranked among the top 20 cities globally for tech talent, Vancouver’s tech ecosystem includes major global players, as well as homegrown success stories like Hootsuite and Slack.

    However, as the industry expands, finding the right talent has become a challenge. Many tech companies report difficulties in filling key positions, particularly in specialized roles such as software engineering, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

    This talent shortage has created an urgent need for skilled foreign workers who can contribute to British Columbia’s growing tech industry. The BC PNP Tech Pilot has proven to be an effective solution, helping employers fill these critical roles with top international talent.

    The Growing Demand for Tech Workers in British Columbia

    British Columbia’s tech sector is booming, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, software development, biotechnology, and more. The tech industry in BC accounts for nearly 10% of the province’s total employment, and the number of job openings continues to rise. A recent study projected that British Columbia would need over 85,000 new tech workers by 2029 to meet demand, making this one of the fastest-growing industries in Canada.

    Vancouver: A Leading Tech Hub

    At the center of this growth is Vancouver, which has earned a reputation as one of the world’s leading cities for tech innovation. Ranked among the top 20 cities globally for tech talent, Vancouver’s tech ecosystem includes major global players, as well as homegrown success stories like Hootsuite and Slack.

    However, as the industry expands, finding the right talent has become a challenge. Many tech companies report difficulties in filling key positions, particularly in specialized roles such as software engineering, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

    This talent shortage has created an urgent need for skilled foreign workers who can contribute to British Columbia’s growing tech industry. The BC PNP Tech Pilot has proven to be an effective solution, helping employers fill these critical roles with top international talent.

    The Benefits of the BC PNP Tech Pilot for Applicants

    The BC PNP Tech Pilot offers several key benefits to applicants, making it one of the most attractive immigration programs for tech professionals seeking to work in Canada. Here are some of the advantages:

    1. Fast-Track Processing

    The Tech Pilot prioritizes applications for tech professionals, which means faster processing times. In many cases, candidates can receive an invitation to apply for a nomination within weeks of submitting their Expression of Interest (EOI). This quick turnaround is a significant advantage for candidates who are eager to start their new jobs in British Columbia.

    2. Weekly Invitations

    Unlike many other immigration programs that hold draws only occasionally, the BC PNP Tech Pilot conducts weekly draws. This means that candidates in the tech sector have more frequent opportunities to receive invitations to apply for a provincial nomination, increasing their chances of success.

    3. No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Required

    Another significant benefit of the BC PNP Tech Pilot is that employers are not required to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for tech workers. The LMIA is a lengthy and complex process that employers must usually go through to prove that there are no Canadian workers available for a particular job. By waiving this requirement for tech positions, the BC PNP Tech Pilot makes it easier for employers to hire foreign talent and for applicants to secure job offers.

    4. Employer Support

    The BC PNP Tech Pilot provides employers with one-on-one support to help them navigate the immigration process and recruit foreign workers more effectively. This support can be invaluable for both small tech companies and larger firms, ensuring that the hiring process is smooth and efficient.

    5. Job Security

    Candidates applying under the BC PNP Tech Pilot must have a job offer that is at least one year in duration, but many of the job offers are for permanent positions. This provides applicants with a high level of job security and the opportunity to build long-term careers in British Columbia’s tech sector.

    Eligibility Requirements for the BC PNP Tech Pilot

    To be eligible for the BC PNP Tech Pilot, candidates must meet several criteria. The two primary requirements are:

    1. A Valid Job Offer in a Tech-Related Occupation

    The first requirement is that candidates must have a valid job offer from a British Columbia employer in one of the 29 eligible tech occupations. These occupations include roles in software development, engineering, telecommunications, and other tech-related fields. The full list of eligible occupations can be found on the BC PNP website.

    2. Meeting the General BC PNP Criteria

    In addition to having a job offer, candidates must also meet the general criteria for the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program. This includes demonstrating sufficient work experience, language proficiency, and financial stability to support yourself and your family after moving to British Columbia.

    The general criteria also include a points-based system, where candidates are awarded points based on factors such as work experience, education, and age. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for a nomination under the BC PNP Tech Pilot.

    A Closer Look at the 29 Eligible Occupations

    The BC PNP Tech Pilot is specifically designed for professionals in the tech industry, and the program only accepts applicants who have job offers in one of 29 eligible tech occupations. Here are some of the key occupations included in the list:

    • Software Engineers and Designers (NOC 2173)
    • Information Systems Analysts and Consultants (NOC 2171)
    • Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers (NOC 2174)
    • Web Designers and Developers (NOC 2175)
    • Database Analysts and Data Administrators (NOC 2172)
    • Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NOC 2133)
    • Telecommunications Carriers Managers (NOC 0131)
    • Graphic Designers and Illustrators (NOC 5241)

    These are just a few examples of the occupations that are eligible for the BC PNP Tech Pilot. The full list includes a range of roles in software development, engineering, and other tech-related fields, making the program highly relevant to professionals in a variety of industries.

    Take the First Step Towards Canadian PR Today!

    Don’t miss the next deadline for the BC PNP Tech Pilot! If you’re interested in working in British Columbia’s thriving tech industry and securing Canadian Permanent Residency, contact GTR Immigration today. Our experienced team is here to help you through the entire process, from job offer to application submission, ensuring you have the best chance at success.

    Why Choose GTR Immigration?

    With our expertise in Canada immigration and a deep understanding of the BC Provincial Nominee Program, we can provide you with the guidance and support needed to achieve your immigration goals. Whether you need assistance with job placements or help navigating the PNP criteria, GTR Immigration is your trusted partner on the path to Canadian PR.

    Reach out to us now and start your journey to British Columbia, Canada!

  • Government is accepting more applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program

    Government is accepting more applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program

    Parents and Grandparents Program

    The Government of Canada has made a significant announcement that brings hope to countless families aiming to reunite with their loved ones. Earlier this year, Canada’s immigration authorities, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), declared that 10,000 applications would be accepted for processing under the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program (PGP). However, in response to overwhelming demand and Canada’s ongoing commitment to family reunification, this number has now been increased to 17,000 applications, allowing more families to reunite in Canada.

    Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Immigration Minister, confirmed this expansion of the program last Thursday, further reinforcing the Canadian government’s commitment to immigration and family reunification.

    Canada’s Commitment to Family Reunification

    Canada has a long-standing tradition of supporting family immigration. Through various programs, Canada aims to provide opportunities for families to live together, fostering a strong support system for newcomers. The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program is one of the most popular family immigration pathways, offering permanent residence to the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This increase in application numbers reflects Canada’s commitment to family unity and the social and economic benefits that come with it.

    Why the Increase?

    The increase from 10,000 to 17,000 applications for 2018 is part of the Canadian government’s broader immigration strategy, targeting higher immigration numbers to meet labor market demands, boost economic growth, and strengthen family connections. According to Minister Hussen, this decision aligns with Canada’s immigration goals and aims to make it easier for families to stay together.

    With Canada’s immigration goals prioritizing skilled immigrants, refugees, and family sponsorship, the increased cap for the PGP will contribute to the government’s target of welcoming 1 million newcomers by 2023. Family reunification is a core principle of Canadian immigration policy, and programs like the PGP highlight the government’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for both Canadian families and their relatives abroad.

    Changes to the 2018 Program

    The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program has undergone significant changes over the years. The program now operates on an invitation-based system, where potential sponsors first submit an “Interest to Sponsor” form online. The IRCC then randomly selects individuals from this pool and invites them to submit a sponsorship application.

    This new system is designed to make the application process fairer and more efficient, moving away from the previous first-come, first-served approach that led to significant wait times and challenges for applicants.

    For 2018, individuals who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form between January 2 and February 1 were eligible for the randomized selection process. The recent announcement means that those who were not selected previously may now have another chance to apply, as the IRCC continues to invite additional sponsors to submit their applications.

    Key Criteria for Sponsors

    If you are interested in sponsoring your parents or grandparents, there are several criteria you must meet to be eligible:

    1. Residency Status: You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

    2. Age: Sponsors must be 18 years or older.

    3. Financial Requirements: Sponsors must demonstrate the ability to financially support their parents or grandparents. This includes meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past three tax years. Sponsors may also include their spouse or partner’s income to meet this requirement.

    4. Sign an Undertaking: As a sponsor, you must sign an undertaking agreeing to financially support your parents or grandparents for 20 years from the time they become permanent residents.

    5. Invitation to Apply: Potential sponsors must have been invited to apply through the randomized selection process before submitting an application.

    These requirements are essential to ensure that sponsors can provide for their family members and help them integrate smoothly into Canadian society.

    Benefits of Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents

    Sponsoring parents or grandparents to come to Canada offers numerous benefits, not only to the family but also to the country as a whole. Here are some ways in which the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program supports Canada’s broader social and economic goals:

    1. Social Support for Immigrant Families: Having parents and grandparents close by provides emotional and social support, which can be invaluable to immigrant families adjusting to life in Canada. The presence of extended family members can make a significant difference, helping to ease the transition and reduce the pressures on immediate family members.

    2. Enhanced Economic Stability: With grandparents and parents in Canada, many immigrant families find it easier to balance work and family obligations, as grandparents can often assist with childcare and household responsibilities. This support can lead to increased labor market participation among working-age immigrants.

    3. Strengthening Communities: Reuniting families contributes to more vibrant and diverse communities. Extended family members enrich cultural traditions and community engagement, making Canada an even more inclusive and multicultural society.

    Applying for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program

    The application process for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program includes several steps, each of which requires careful preparation to ensure accuracy and completeness.

    1. Submit the Interest to Sponsor Form: This form is typically open for a limited time each year, usually in January. Ensure that you submit this form during the specified period to be considered for an invitation.

    2. Wait for an Invitation: The IRCC selects potential sponsors randomly and sends out invitations. If you receive an invitation, you can then proceed with your application.

    3. Complete the Sponsorship Application: After receiving an invitation, you’ll need to gather all required documents, including proof of income, residency, and relationship to the applicant. Make sure to review the requirements carefully, as missing information or incorrect documents can delay the application process.

    4. Submit the Application within the Given Deadline: After receiving an invitation, sponsors must submit a complete application within a specified timeframe. Late or incomplete applications may not be processed.

    5. Await Approval: The processing times can vary, but once approved, parents or grandparents receive permanent residence, allowing them to live with their families in Canada.

    Final Thoughts on Canada’s PGP Update

    This increase in the number of applications accepted under the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program offers hope to many families hoping to reunite with their loved ones in Canada. With this update, the Canadian government has demonstrated its commitment to a compassionate and family-friendly immigration policy that prioritizes family reunification and promotes social stability.

    If you’re interested in sponsoring your parents or grandparents, it’s essential to stay updated on IRCC announcements and be prepared to act quickly during the application period. The increased cap is a promising development, but demand remains high, and the application process is competitive. Working with a knowledgeable immigration consultant can help you navigate the process smoothly and increase your chances of success.

    Ready to Sponsor Your Family Members?

    The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program presents a wonderful opportunity for Canadian families to reunite with their loved ones. If you’re eager to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada and enjoy the benefits of having your family together, consider starting your application process today.

    With the recent update, the time has never been better to act. Contact us to learn more about eligibility, requirements, and how you can make your dream of family reunification a reality in Canada. Let us help you navigate the process and support your family’s journey toward a brighter future together.