Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) scaled back its Express Entry activity in September 2024, issuing just 5,911 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence — a notable decrease from 10,384 in August and 25,125 in July. Despite the slowdown, IRCC conducted three targeted draws throughout […]
Year: 2024
IRCC Implements New Restrictions on Intra-Company Transferees (ICT) Program
Immigration, Citizenship and Refugees Canada (IRCC) has released new guidance for Intra-Company Transferees (ICTs), marking significant changes to the program as of October 3, 2024. These updates impose stricter requirements on employers seeking work permits for employees under the International Mobility Program. The revisions mean that companies will now face […]
New Realities for International Students Seeking Permanent Residence in Canada
As the landscape for international students in Canada continues to evolve, recent changes emphasize an important truth: obtaining Permanent Residence (PR) is not guaranteed. Although Canada offers multiple pathways for graduates to transition from study to work, and potentially to PR, the process is complex and highly competitive. Why PR […]
Provincial Nominee Programs: British Columbia, Manitoba Hold Immigration Draws, Alberta Shares Processing Updates
This past week, British Columbia and Manitoba conducted immigration draws, while Alberta provided key updates on its provincial immigration streams. British Columbia (BCPNP) On October 2, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) held two draws. The first was a general draw, inviting 81 candidates through various immigration streams. Here […]
October 2024: Current Insights on the Express Entry Pool and Recent Trends
In a noticeable shift from the busy months of August and July, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) scaled back on Express Entry draws throughout September, issuing nearly 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). The focus continues to be on domestic candidates and those with French language proficiency, reflecting the priorities […]
Canada Tightens Rules for Intra-Company Transferee Work Permits
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released new guidance tightening the requirements for Intra-Company Transferee (ICT) work permits under the International Mobility Program. These changes, announced on October 3, are expected to significantly impact how multinational corporations bring foreign employees to Canada. Under the International […]
October 2024: A Closer Look at the Express Entry Pool
In September 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) slowed the pace of Express Entry draws, following a busy summer in July and August. During the month, the IRCC conducted three Express Entry draws, focusing primarily on domestic and francophone candidates for permanent residence (PR) applications. Express Entry Draws in […]
Ontario Raises Minimum Wage — But Is It Enough for Newcomers to Get By?
Maple News reports that Ontario and three other Canadian provinces—Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan—implemented increases to their minimum hourly wage rates as of October 1. These adjustments are primarily designed to align with inflation, providing slight relief amid Canada’s rising cost of living. Ontario, home to many recent immigrants, […]
Working at a Foreign Conference in Canada? Know When You Need a Work Permit
As Canada welcomes a resurgence of international conferences and trade events this summer—ranging from technology expos to agricultural conventions—foreign professionals are once again traveling to the country in growing numbers. Maple News reports that it’s critical for non-Canadian service providers working under contract at these events to understand the specific […]
Montreal Among the Top 10 Cities for International Students in 2025
Montreal has secured a spot among the top ten best cities worldwide for international students, according to the 2025 QS Best Student Cities rankings. The city, known for its vibrant cultural scene and academic institutions, ranked 10th out of 150 cities, with an impressive overall score of 92.1 out of […]
Alberta Introduces New Expression of Interest System for Worker Immigration Streams
Alberta has implemented significant changes to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), introducing a new system for issuing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for certain worker pathways. As of September 30, 2024, candidates looking to apply under the AAIP Worker Streams must submit a Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) through the […]
What to Expect from Canada’s Growing Trend of Virtual Citizenship Ceremonies
In a shift that began during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues today, virtual citizenship ceremonies have become the standard practice for new Canadians. While traditionally held in person, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) transitioned to videoconferencing during the health crisis to ensure safety and reduce backlogs. That adaptation has […]
Canada Sees Significant Rise in Visitor Arrivals
Canada is witnessing a remarkable increase in the number of international visitors, as highlighted by recent statistics released by tourism officials. This surge marks a pivotal moment for the country’s tourism sector, showcasing its renewed appeal as a preferred travel destination for people around the globe. In the latest data, […]
Virtual Job Fair for Bilingual Professionals in Tourism, Hospitality, and Culinary Sectors
Maple News is excited to announce an upcoming virtual job fair, organized by Destination Canada and Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), for bilingual candidates interested in careers in tourism, hospitality, and culinary fields. The event, which will be held on November 13th, 14th, and 15th, offers an exceptional opportunity […]
Permanent Residence Pathway for Out-of-Status Construction Workers in the Greater Toronto Area
Canada continues to provide innovative immigration solutions that address the needs of key industries and vulnerable workers. In a move to support the growing demand for skilled labor in the construction sector, the Government of Canada, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has extended a pathway to permanent residence […]
Navigating Canadian Entry with a DUI Conviction: Options for Overcoming Inadmissibility
Individuals with a past driving under the influence (DUI) conviction may face challenges when attempting to enter Canada. A DUI can render you inadmissible, potentially resulting in the denial of a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA), or refusal of entry at the border. If you have a past DUI […]