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Ontario has officially launched the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting economic growth in the province’s rural northern regions. The program, which commenced on January 2, 2025, will run until December 31, 2025.

The REDI pilot program is designed to attract up to 800 highly skilled immigrants to four rural northern regions of Ontario. These regions, which have faced challenges such as population decline and labor shortages, stand to benefit significantly from the influx of skilled workers. By addressing critical workforce gaps, the initiative aims to support local businesses, enhance economic development, and foster long-term community growth.

The targeted regions include:

• – Lanark;
• – Leeds and Grenville;
• – Sarnia-Lambton; and
• – Thunder Bay.

Skilled immigrants approved through this program will receive a provincial nomination from the OINP, enabling them to apply for permanent residence (PR) directly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

How this REDI Pilot Program Works

The REDI program addresses labor shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades, including construction. The REDI pilot will process applications through the Employer Job Offer streams of the OINP. Each participating region will have 200 additional nominations, issued through the 3 job-offer streams.

Eligibility Requirements

To be qualified for the REDI program, applicants must meet the criteria for one of the OINP’s Employer Job Offer streams, which include:

1. Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream

• – Job Offer: Full-time, permanent, TEER 0-3 occupation, with wages equal to or above Ontario’s median wage.
• – Candidate Requirements: At least 2 years of relevant work experience (or a valid license for regulated jobs).

2. Employer Job Offer: International Student Stream

• – Job Offer: TEER 0-3 occupation, paying wages equal to or above the low wage level for the role.
• – Candidate Requirements: Must have completed a post-secondary program in Ontario within the last 2 years.

3. Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills Stream

• – Job Offer: Eligible occupations with wages meeting or exceeding Ontario’s median wage.
• – Candidate Requirements: 9 months of relevant work experience, a high school diploma, and a minimum CLB 4 language proficiency.

Ontario projects that enable skilled newcomers to work in their fields could boost the province’s GDP by up to 100 billion CAD over 5 years. With PNPs increasingly critical to Canada’s immigration goals, REDI aims to strengthen smaller communities and support economic growth across the province.

As of November 8, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented new regulations for international students transferring between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) at the post-secondary level. Previously, students could change DLIs by updating their information through their online accounts. Under the new rules, students are now required to apply for a new study permit by submitting an application to extend their current permit when changing DLIs.

Key Changes:

Application for New Study Permit

• International students intending to transfer to a different post-secondary DLI must apply for a new study permit by extending their existing one. This process necessitates submitting a new letter of acceptance from the intended institution.

Immediate Enrollment at New DLI

• For the Winter or Spring 2025 semesters (January 1 to May 1, 2025), students who have applied for a study permit extension and hold a valid study permit without the new DLI’s name printed on it may commence studies at the new institution while their application is being processed, provided they continue to meet all existing study permit conditions.

Maintaining Compliance

• It is imperative for students to inform IRCC of any changes in their educational institution. Failure to do so can result in the study permit becoming invalid or canceled, potentially leading to removal from Canada and affecting future immigration opportunities.

Special Considerations for Quebec

• Students transferring to a DLI in Quebec are generally required to obtain an attestation of issuance of a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and submit it with their study permit application. Transfers between vocational training centers within Quebec may not necessitate a new study permit but do require a new CAQ.

Recommendations for International Students

• Verify DLI Status: Ensure that the new institution is a recognized DLI and is not on any suspension list.
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• Timely Application: Submit the application for a study permit extension promptly upon receiving a letter of acceptance from the new institution to avoid any disruptions in your studies.
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• Adherence to Permit Conditions: Continue to comply with all conditions of your current study permit during the transition to the new institution.

Updated rules for PGWP-eligible college programmes

New rules for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) for college programs in Canada apply to students who submit their study permit application on or after November 1, 2024. These rules include:

• – Language requirements: Students must demonstrate their English or French language skills.
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• – Field of study requirements: Students must graduate from an eligible field of study.
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• – CLB or NCLC score: Students must score a minimum of CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all four language areas.

Students who applied for or held a study permit before November 1, 2024, are generally exempt from the new “field of study” requirements. They will still be eligible for a PGWP under the existing rules. However, they must still meet the language proficiency requirements upon applying for their PGWP. This ensures that students already in the system or those who already started the application process are not disadvantaged by the new rules.

In a move aimed at addressing labor market needs and ensuring a more structured immigration system, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that new restrictions will be implemented on family Open Work Permits (OWPs) beginning January 2025. This policy shift is expected to impact foreign workers and their families seeking work opportunities in Canada.

About Open Work Permits

An Open Work Permit allows individuals to work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Family members of foreign workers, such as spouses and dependent children, have traditionally benefited from this program. This system has provided flexibility for families relocating to Canada, enabling them to integrate into the labor market more seamlessly.

New Criteria for Canada Spousal Open Work Permits

Effective January 21, 2025, family OWPs will be limited to spouses of:

• – International students enrolled in:
  • + Master’s programs that are 16 months or longer;
  • + Doctoral programs; or
  • + Select professional and eligible programs; and
• Foreign workers employed in:
  • + TEER 0 or 1 occupations; or
  • + Select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in sectors with labour shortages or linked to government priorities, including occupations in:
    • * the natural and applied sciences;
    •  *construction;
    •  *health care;
    •  *natural resources;
    •  *education; and
    •  *sports and military sectors.

Foreign workers must also have a minimum of 16 months remaining on their work permit when their spouse applies for the OWP.

Dependent children of foreign workers are no longer eligible for open work permits.

Unexpired OWPs Approved Under Previous Measures

Unexpired OWPs approved under the previous measures will continue to be valid.

Renewal of Work Permits

Family members who are in Canada (including spouses and dependent children) can apply to renew their work permit when:

• – Students require more time to complete their program; or
• – Family members received a shorter work permit than the principal applicant, on the condition that:
  • + They are applying under the same criteria as the current work permit; and
  • + The duration of the renewal matches the duration of the principal applicant’s existing study or work permit.

Exceptions To The New Policy

The new restrictions do not apply to:

• – Spouses of Workers under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
• – Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Applicants: Those sponsored for permanent residence with valid temporary status in Canada.

Canada has conducted its first Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw of 2025. The draw, which took place on January 8, issued 1,350 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates eligible under the CEC program. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was 542, marking a competitive threshold for applicants.

Details Of The Draw

This draw follows the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw that took place on January 7 in which 471 candidates were invited with a minimum CRS score of 793. These draws signify a gradual increase in activity after a slow December during which fewer ITAs were issue.

A Step Towards Meeting Immigration Goals

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is an immigration program under Canada’s Express Entry system, which is designed for skilled workers who have gained work experience in Canada and want to become permanent residents. It recognizes the value of Canadian work experience as a key factor for successful integration into Canadian society and the economy.

Under the Levels Plan for 2025, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will emphasize the “In-Canada Focus” allocation, prioritizing candidates already residing in Canada. This includes applicants from the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), with the potential to invite candidates from two additional Express Entry programs. Additionally, the “Federal Economic Priorities” allocation will focus on candidates who align with Canada’s labour market and demographic goals. These individuals will be selected through category-based invitations within the Express Entry system, ensuring a strategic approach to addressing the country’s economic needs.

IRCC has also changed the groups that it will prioritize under category-based selections. 

The priority categories this year include:

• – Healthcare occupations;
• – Trades occupations; and
• – French-language proficiency.

Understanding the CRS Score Threshold

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is a points-based mechanism used to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability are considered in determining an individual’s score.

For this draw, the CRS cut-off score was set at 542, reflecting the competitive nature of the pool and the high qualifications of candidates. Those who received ITAs can now proceed to submit their applications for permanent residence, taking them one step closer to achieving their goal of settling in Canada.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has started the year 2025 on a positive note by conducting its first Express Entry draw on January 7. In this draw, 471 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. This marks a promising beginning for the new year, with the draw specifically targeting candidates aligned with the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Details Of The Draw

This draw is the first Express Entry selection of the year and follows 2 PNP draws and a French language proficiency draw in December. Last December, the immigration department issued a total of 2,561 ITAs to candidates.

Understanding the CRS Score Threshold

The minimum CRS score of 793 in this draw reflects the additional points awarded to PNP nominees. Candidates who receive a provincial nomination automatically gain 600 CRS points, significantly boosting their ranking in the Express Entry system. Without the provincial nomination, the base CRS score for these candidates would have been 193.

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The PNP allows provinces and territories in Canada to nominate individuals who have the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to their local economy. This program plays a vital role in addressing regional labor shortages and supporting community development.

Candidates in the Express Entry pool who are nominated by a province not only enhance their chances of receiving an ITA but also demonstrate strong ties to the province that nominated them. This alignment ensures a smoother integration into the local workforce and community upon arrival in Canada.

The first Express Entry draw of 2025 highlights Canada’s continued commitment to leveraging immigration as a tool for economic development and regional prosperity. For prospective immigrants, staying informed about program changes and preparing competitive applications will be key to successfully navigating the Express Entry system in the months ahead.

In the latest Henley Passport Index released for 2025, Canada has once again proven its status as a global leader in travel freedom. Tying at 7th position worldwide, the Canadian passport is recognized as one of the most powerful travel documents, offering its holders unparalleled access to the world.

What Makes the Canadian Passport Stand Out?

The Henley Passport Index, a globally respected ranking system, evaluates the strength of passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without requiring a visa or by obtaining a visa on arrival. This year, the Canadian passport provides entry to an impressive 188 countries and territories, showcasing its enhanced global reach and trustworthiness.

Global Comparisons

Ranked alongside other top-tier passports, Canada’s position at number 7 reflects its diplomatic relations, international agreements, and reputation for fostering global partnerships. It places Canada ahead of many other developed nations and underscores the privilege and convenience enjoyed by Canadian citizens when traveling abroad.

Benefits of a Strong Passport

Having a passport that ranks so highly brings significant advantages to Canadian citizens:

• Ease of Travel: With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations, Canadians can explore the world with minimal bureaucratic hurdles.

• Time and Cost Savings: Avoiding the need for lengthy visa application processes saves both time and money.

• Enhanced Opportunities: Whether for tourism, business, or education, the freedom to travel widely opens doors to diverse opportunities.

While Canada’s position in the Henley Passport Index is commendable, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong international ties and fostering global mobility. With travel resuming and expanding post-pandemic, the power of the Canadian passport is more relevant than ever, highlighting the privilege and responsibility of being a global citizen.

The Canada Agri-Food Pilot (AFP), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing labor shortages in the agriculture and food processing sectors, is set to accept 1,010 new applications in 2025. Launched in May 2020, this pilot program has been a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration strategy, targeting essential industries that are vital to the country’s economic and food security.

Overview of the Agri-Food Pilot Program

The Agri-Food Pilot was designed to attract experienced, non-seasonal workers who can contribute to the long-term growth and stability of Canada’s agri-food industry. It provides a pathway to permanent residency (PR) for eligible workers employed in specific industries and occupations.

With a total annual cap of 2,750 principal applicants, the program is highly competitive and tailored to meet the unique needs of the agri-food sector.

Key features of the pilot include:

• – Targeted eligibility criteria focusing on specific occupations like farm supervisors, livestock workers, butchers, and food processing laborers.

• – Industry-specific support to address chronic labor shortages in meat processing, mushroom production, greenhouse operations, and livestock farming.

Permanent residency pathways for workers committed to settling in Canada and contributing to its agri-food economy.

Updates for 2025

For 2025, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced significant changes to the program’s application intake. This program will accept a reduced cap of 1,010 applications, a significant decrease from the 2,750 applications accepted in 2024. This adjustment is due to high demand and aligns with the targets established in Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan. Applications will be accepted until May 14th, 2025, or until the cap is reached, whichever comes first.

To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Work Experience: A minimum of one year (full-time, non-seasonal) in an eligible occupation within the past three years.

2. Job Offer: A full-time, non-seasonal job offer in Canada outside of Quebec.

3. Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 4 in English or French.

4. Education: At least a high school diploma or an equivalent foreign credential.

5. Settlement Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their families unless already employed in Canada.

Application Categories

The Canada Agri-Food Pilot allows applications under specific job categories that align with the needs of the agri-food sector. For 2025, applications will be accepted in the following categories:

1. Meat Processing
   • – Industrial butchers
   • – Meat cutters
   • – Supervisors in meat processing plants
2. Greenhouse, Nursery, and Floriculture Production
   • – General farm workers
   • – Harvesting laborers
3. Animal Production
   • – General farm workers
   • – Farm supervisors and specialized livestock workers

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party, a position he has held since 2013, and as Prime Minister, a role he assumed in 2015. This decision comes amid declining public support, internal party conflicts, and significant economic challenges facing the country.

Trudeau emphasized the need for new leadership to navigate Canada’s current challenges and to provide Canadians with a clear choice in the forthcoming elections. He stated his intention to remain in office until the Liberal Party selects a new leader, a process expected to take between 60 to 90 days. To facilitate this transition, Trudeau has advised Governor General Mary Simon to prorogue Parliament until March 24, 2025, effectively suspending parliamentary activities during this period.

Trudeau’s tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including progressive policies on gender equality, climate change, and Indigenous rights. However, his administration also faced controversies and criticisms, such as the SNC-Lavalin affair, perceived policy inconsistencies, and challenges in addressing economic issues like housing affordability and inflation.

Impacts on immigration

Trudeau’s tenure was marked by progressive immigration policies, including increased immigration targets and support for refugees. His departure introduces uncertainty regarding the future direction of Canada’s immigration system. The new Liberal leader’s stance on immigration will be pivotal, as will the positions of opposition parties, particularly the Conservatives, who have previously advocated for more stringent immigration controls.

Prorogation of Parliament:

The suspension of Parliament until March 24 delays legislative activities, including those related to immigration. This hiatus may postpone the introduction or amendment of immigration policies and could affect the processing of immigration applications, potentially leading to delays for applicants.

While Trudeau’s resignation marks a significant shift in Canadian politics, the direct impact on immigration policies will depend on his successor’s agenda and the political dynamics in Parliament post-prorogation.

Canada remains one of the most popular destinations for immigrants worldwide, offering numerous opportunities for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and families. However, obtaining permanent residency (PR) can be challenging, especially for applicants with a low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Fortunately, there are several pathways to achieve Canadian PR even if your CRS score is not high.

1. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are among the most effective ways to secure PR with a low CRS score.

Each Canadian province operates its own PNP, allowing them to select candidates that meet their specific labor market needs. There are two types of PNPs: base PNPs and enhanced PNPs.

• Base PNP:

  • – Operates independently of the federal Express Entry system.
  • – Candidates apply directly to the province and, if nominated, apply for permanent residence through the regular process.
  • – Processing times are typically longer than Express Entry streams.
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• Enhanced PNP:

  • – Linked to the Express Entry system.
  • – Candidates must first create an Express Entry profile and indicate interest in provincial nomination.
  • – Provinces can search the Express Entry pool and invite candidates directly.
  • – Nominated candidates receive 600 additional CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) points, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

2. Consider Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) targets skilled workers and international graduates seeking to settle in Canada’s Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. A job offer from a designated employer in these regions can lead to permanent residency without relying heavily on CRS scores.

Apply Through Family Sponsorship

If you have a family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may qualify for family sponsorship programs. Spousal, parental, and dependent sponsorship pathways bypass the CRS system entirely, offering a more straightforward route to PR.

Immigration Pilots

The Canadian government runs some immigration pilots, which also provide pathways to permanent residence for eligible foreign nationals.

Agri-Food Immigration Pilot

Supports workers in Canada’s agri-food sector.

• Targeted Occupations: 
  • – Meat processing, farm supervisors, harvesting laborers.
• Requirements:
  • – 1 year of non-seasonal work experience.
  • – Job offer required.
  • – Language requirement (CLB 4).

The government has also announced its intention to launch a new caregiver program pilot, but has not yet released details on eligibility or when this program is expected to launch.

Tips to Increase Your Chances:

• – Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer.
• – Language Improvement: Retake IELTS/CELPIP to improve language scores.
• – Education: Gain additional certifications or credentials.

A low CRS score does not mean the end of your dream to become a Canadian permanent resident. By exploring alternative pathways like PNPs, regional programs, and family sponsorship, you still can increase your chances of success.

In a significant announcement, the Government of Canada has confirmed that the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) will not be accepting new applications in 2025. This decision marks a temporary pause in one of Canada’s key family reunification initiatives, affecting thousands of hopeful families seeking to bring their loved ones to Canada.

About the Parents and Grandparents Program

The Parents and Grandparents Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence. The program has been a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration framework, aiming to promote family reunification and provide support systems for immigrants.

Reasoning Behind the Decision

IRCC has cut the permanent resident targets by 20% for 2025. Part of this cut also included a reduction in the allocation for landings under the PGP.

The 2025 target is 24,500 landings for foreign nationals sponsored through the PGP.

In the earlier Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC had set targets of 32,000 for 2024, and 34,000 for 2025.

Impact on Applicants

Families who were planning to submit applications in 2025 will need to explore alternative pathways for bringing their parents and grandparents to Canada. Options such as the Super Visa, which allows extended temporary visits for up to five years at a time, remain available. The government has reassured families that the Super Visa program will continue to operate without interruption.

The temporary suspension of new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Program in 2025 reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the immigration system’s efficiency. While this may delay reunification plans for some families, the government’s commitment to managing current applications and expanding alternative options remains steadfast. For those affected, keeping up to date with announcements from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will be essential.