Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a temporary public policy allowing permanent residence (PR) applicants from Hong Kong to remain in Canada and continue working while awaiting a decision on their immigration status. This new measure, taking effect on May 27, 2024, targets residents […]
Canada to Reopen Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program on May 21
Maple News reports that Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is set to reopen on May 21, 2024, as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) prepares to issue invitations to prospective sponsors. A total of 35,700 invitations will be sent out in this round, with a goal of receiving and […]
How a Valid Job Offer Can Boost Your Express Entry CRS Score
Maple News reports that Express Entry candidates aiming for Canadian permanent residency can significantly improve their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score through a qualifying job offer. However, not all employment offers are eligible, and the criteria vary across different immigration programs under Express Entry. CRS points play a central role […]
Who Can Immigrate With You as a Canadian Permanent Resident?
Maple News reports that individuals granted permanent residence (PR) status in Canada may bring certain immediate family members with them, provided those relatives were included in their initial immigration application. This is different from sponsoring family members after arriving in Canada, which requires a separate process under Canada’s family reunification […]
Canada Speeds Up Citizenship Certification: Processing Times Now Faster Than Pre-Pandemic Levels
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is now processing proof of Canadian citizenship applications more quickly than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, applicants may receive decisions within just three months, a significant improvement from previous processing times. This is welcome news for individuals born outside of […]
Five Provinces Issue New Invitations in Latest Week of Canadian Immigration Draws
Maple News reports that five Canadian provinces — British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba, and Prince Edward Island — have conducted new immigration draws between April 27 and May 3, inviting skilled individuals to apply through their respective provincial programs. Canada’s provinces and territories, except Quebec and Nunavut, use Provincial Nominee […]
IRCC Unveils New Forecast-Based Processing Times for Key Immigration Programs
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new system for calculating and displaying the expected processing times for certain immigration and citizenship applications. Rather than relying solely on historical data, the department will now use ‘forward-looking’ estimates to help applicants better understand how long […]
Why Filing Taxes in Canada Can Unlock Powerful Financial Benefits for Newcomers
Maple News reports that the Canadian tax season is officially underway, with the deadline to file 2023 tax returns set for April 30, 2024. For many newcomers and international graduates working in Canada, this may mark their first time filing taxes—a process that may seem daunting but is packed with […]
How to Check the Status of Your IRCC Application: A Guide for Newcomers
Maple News reports that staying informed about your immigration application status is a key priority for many newcomers to Canada. Fortunately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers several tools to help applicants keep track of their progress. One of the most widely used resources is the IRCC Secure Account, […]
Finding Community: How Canada’s Major Cities Reflect the Country’s Cultural Diversity
Maple News reports that for many newcomers to Canada, finding a sense of belonging often begins with seeking out familiar cultural communities. Fortunately, Canada’s longstanding commitment to multiculturalism means that immigrants from around the world can expect to discover pockets of their own culture almost anywhere in the country. A […]
Troubleshooting Common Technical Issues in IRCC Applications
Maple News reports that many individuals navigating the online application system of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) often encounter various technical issues. Whether you’re applying for a work or study permit, permanent residency, or visiting Canada as a tourist, understanding and resolving these common digital hurdles is crucial to […]
Understanding Labour Market Impact Assessments: Key Insights for Foreign Workers in Canada
Maple News reports that many temporary foreign workers aiming to work legally in Canada may require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a crucial step in the employment process. However, not all positions require this document, making it vital for employers and workers alike to understand when it applies. An […]
Canada Sets New Weekly Work Limit for International Students at 24 Hours
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will not renew the temporary policy that allowed international students to work unlimited hours off-campus during academic sessions. Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed that starting this fall semester, international students will be limited to 24 hours of off-campus work per […]
How Switching Your NOC Code Can Impact Your Canadian PR Journey
Maple News reports that individuals applying for Canadian permanent residence (PR) may sometimes need to change their National Occupation Classification (NOC) code after submitting their application. While this change is sometimes necessary for strategic or eligibility reasons, applicants must handle such adjustments carefully to avoid jeopardizing their immigration goals. To […]
Canada Overhauls Startup and Self-Employed Immigration Streams to Speed Up Processing
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced significant changes to two federal business immigration programs: the Start-up Visa and the Self-Employed Persons program. These updates, which take effect on April 30, 2024, are designed to reduce backlogs, streamline processing, and refocus resources on high-potential applicants. […]
French Language Skills to Drive Most Express Entry Invitations in 2024
Maple News reports that candidates with strong French language skills are set to benefit the most from Canada’s Express Entry category-based selection system in 2024. According to recently released data from an Access to Information Request (ATIP), Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans to issue 78.5% of Invitations to […]