Canada is reuniting loved ones through new immigration measures New measures also address labour shortages in Canada - Canada.cahttps://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2023/05/canada-is-reuniting-loved-ones-through-new-immigration-measures-new-measures-also-address-labour-shortages-in-canada.html The highlights from this announcement are as follows:
- faster temporary resident visa (TRV) processing times for spousal applicants
- new and dedicated processing tools for spousal TRV applicants
- a new open work permit for spousal and family class applicants. But the instructions appear to state that the spouse who is being sponsored cannot apply for their open work permit until after AOR (acknowledgment of receipt) issues which could take additional time. This appears to be the case after MAY 09/23.
- open work permit extensions of a further 18 months for open work permit holders expiring between August 1 and the end of 2023.
As they say, the devil appears to be in the details. So, if you are representing a spouse being sponsored, please take the time to review the instructions which you will find in the website of IRCC: cic.gc.ca
There has also been another announcement which helps particular economic industries in Canada. See the following web link: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2023/05/canada-launches-new-process-to-welcome-skilled-newcomers-with-work-experience-in-priority-jobs-as-permanent-residents.html The federal government stated on May 31, 2023 as follows: “Category-based selection will allow Canada to issue invitations to apply to prospective permanent residents with specific skills, training or language ability. Further details on the timing of invitations for individual categories and how to apply will be announced in the coming weeks. This year, category-based selection invitations will focus on candidates who have a strong French language proficiency or work experience in the following fields:
- healthcare
- science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- trades, such as carpenters, plumbers and contractors
- transport
- agriculture and agri-food
By allowing us to invite more skilled workers in these professions, category-based selection supports Canada’s commitment to welcoming in-demand professionals into communities across the country. Additionally, by placing a special focus on Francophone immigration, the Government of Canada is ensuring that French communities can continue to live their life in Canada in the official language of their choice.
Category-based selection will make Express Entry more responsive to Canada’s changing economic and labour market needs, while building on the high human capital approach that has been a hallmark of Canada’s successful economic immigration system. These priorities maintain the focus on bringing in skilled workers with the potential to integrate and contribute to Canada’s future.”
This category-based selection program appears to be a genuinely beneficial program to select quality candidates which is a great idea and should help industries across Canada. However, there will be those who will try to abuse the benefit. Be sure to include many documents to prove the genuineness of the work experience of the foreign national and ensure all documents are certified.
David H. Davis is the founder and owner of Davis Immigration Law Office. He and his team can be reached by email at: david@daviddavislaw.com on the web at www.daviddavislaw.com or by phone at 204-956-2336 extension 208. David has over 33 years of legal experience in Canadian immigration legal matters.