In six provinces across Canada, minimum wage increases have taken effect

In six provinces across Canada, the hourly minimum wage will now increase.This action is in accordance with a timeline that was discussed in April of this year. The six affected provinces' hourly minimum wages have increased as of this past Sunday (October 1, 2023), according to the list below.Ontario: $16.55 instead of $15.50Manitoba: $15.30, up from $14.15Saskatchewan*: increased from $13 to $14.Nova Scotia: An increase to $15.00 from $14.50Up from $14.50 to $15.00 in Newfoundland and LabradorPrince Edward Island: Increased to $15.00 from $14.50*Saskatchewan has already declared that it will increase its minimum wage from $14.00 to $15.00 per hour once more in October 2024.

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  • 06 Oct, 2023

"Upfront Medical Exams No Longer Required for Express Entry Applicants as of October 1, 2023"

Starting October 1, 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has eliminated the requirement for upfront Immigration Medical Exams (IME) when submitting Express Entry applications for permanent residence.Applicants no longer need to provide proof of a medical exam during the initial application. If you've previously undergone an IME, include the IME or UMI number in your application.For those who have never completed an IME, you can upload a blank document, and IRCC will provide instructions for the medical exam when necessary.Please note that IMEs remain a mandatory requirement for permanent residence, conducted by IRCC-approved panel physicians. Your health assessment must align with Canadian public health standards, and exam results are valid for 12 months. 

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  • 04 Oct, 2023

"IRCC Introduces Automated Tools for Faster PGWP and Work Permit Extension Processing"

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is implementing new automated tools to expedite the processing of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and work permit extensions. These tools will handle tasks such as triage (assessing application urgency) and eligibility assessment. They aim to free up immigration officers for more complex tasks.The automated tools will prioritize applications based on urgency, like medical professionals or individuals facing emergencies. They will also assess eligibility using predefined criteria. However, these tools cannot refuse applications, and human officers will make final decisions. Officers can override automated decisions.The new automation is subject to regular reviews, including assessing potential discriminatory impacts and ensuring privacy and security compliance.While these tools are expected to enhance processing efficiency, their impact is still being monitored. Former Minister Sean Fraser highlighted increased productivity and a high approval rate due to the use of artificial intelligence and automation in immigration processing.

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  • 30 Sep, 2023

India Suspends Visa Services for Canadian Citizens Amid Rising Tensions

India has taken the extraordinary step of indefinitely suspending visa services for Canadian citizens amidst rising tensions between the two nations. This decision follows a diplomatic fallout triggered by the assassination of Khalistanist militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar.The background to this decision involves mounting tensions between the two nations due to accusations surrounding Nijjar's murder. Both countries had previously expelled each other's diplomats, and now this dispute has extended to visa services. Canada had issued advisories warning its citizens against travel to sensitive areas, including Jammu and Kashmir, leading India to advise its citizens and students in Canada to exercise caution due to an increase in anti-Indian sentiments and hate crimes.BLS International, the operator of the visa application center in Canada, announced the indefinite suspension of Indian visas, starting from September 21. While there hasn't been an official announcement from India, this marks the first instance of such a measure since the COVID-19 pandemic.The root of the tensions can be traced back to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot outside a gurudwara in June. Nijjar's associates have accused India of involvement in his killing. Furthermore, another gangster, Sukha, was recently killed in Canada, further exacerbating tensions.India has expressed dissatisfaction over what it perceives as Canada's support for pro-Khalistan elements, an issue that has been a recurring point of contention. This matter was also discussed during Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's visit to India.The suspension of visa services adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing tensions between India and Canada, raising concerns about the impact on Canadian citizens, particularly Indian students.Do not panic with any kind of rumours and newsYou can contact us and get the expert advice here for Canada’s on going situation. For further more inquiry you can visit us at our premises 701/702, 7th Floor, Joyos Hub Town, Adajan bus port, Adajan Patiya, Surat- 395009Or Contact us on +91 – 7600014090 | +91 – 9624819819

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  • 24 Sep, 2023

UK Announces Visa Fee Increases to Fund Public Services

The British government has announced an increase in visa fees, set to take effect on October 4th. The changes include a raise fees by 15% for most work and visit visas and at least 20% for priority visas, study visas, and certificates of sponsorship affecting travelers worldwide, including those from India. This move comes as part of a broader effort to generate additional revenue to support public sector wages and the National Health Service (NHS).The goal is to reduce the reliance on British taxpayers' funding while maintaining an attractive immigration system for those wishing to work and study in the UK.The fee hike applies to various visa categories, including health and care visas, naturalization as a British citizen, visas of different durations, entry clearance, and applications for leave to remain. These changes are pending parliamentary approval and are scheduled to be implemented on October 4th.

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  • 19 Sep, 2023

Express Entry: The IRCC declares that draws will resume this week.

According to the department, invitations will be sent to Express Entry applicants who match the requirements for the new category-based selection for transport occupations later this week. These job titles include commercial truck drivers, pilots, and people who assemble aircraft, among others. According to the IRCC, filling these roles will boost Canada's economy.

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  • 19 Sep, 2023

Canada Celebrates #WelcomingWeek2023, Embracing Immigrants for a Brighter Future

Canada celebrates #WelcomingWeek2023 from September 8-17, urging Canadians to embrace newcomers and support their integration.Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) emphasizes the importance of making newcomers feel welcome, fostering successful integration, and recognizing their contributions. With approximately 8.3 million immigrants in Canada, comprising nearly 25% of the population, IRCC aims to raise awareness through its #ImmigrationMatters campaignCanadians are encouraged to connect with newcomers, share meals, attend cultural events, and promote a sense of belonging. Immigration is vital to Canada's growth, accounting for labor force and population expansion, economic prosperity, and innovation.

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  • 14 Sep, 2023

Parent and Grandparent PR Sponsorship Scheme Starting in October 2023 - Canada

Canada is set to launch a new batch of its Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program on October 10, 2023. With the growing Indian population in Canada, the demand for inviting parents and grandparents to Canada as Permanent Residents (PR) has surged.Application Details:Approximately 24,200 sponsors will be invited to apply.The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will accept a maximum of 15,000 applications this year.Invitations will be issued over a two-week period starting on October 10, 2023.Random Selection:Sponsors will be randomly selected from the received applications, streamlining the process.Eligibility to Sponsor:To be eligible as sponsors, individuals must have reached a minimum age of 18 years.Sponsors must be Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, or registered under the Canadian Indian Act.Proof of sufficient income for the last three years is required to support those being sponsored

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  • 13 Sep, 2023

Conestoga College is accepting application for May 2024 intake from September 19, 2023

 - Overall 55-60% and above in Bachelor's DegreePG Diploma - Overall 55-60% and above in Bachelor's DegreeEnglish Language Requirements:IELTS - Diploma and Advanced Diploma - Overall 6.0 with 5.5 in one module / PG Diploma and Bachelor's Degree - Overall 6.5 with 6.0 in eachTOEFL - Diploma and Advanced Diploma - Overall 80 with 20 in each / PG Diploma and Bachelor's Degree - Overall 88 with 22 in eachPTE - Diploma and Advanced Diploma - Overall 53-57 / PG Diploma and Bachelor's Degree - Overall 58APPLICATION FEE: 100 CADSTUDY GAP ACCEPTABLE UPTO 7-8 YEARS ' required> Starting on September 19, 2023, CONESTOGA College in Kitchener, Ontario will begin accepting applications for the May 2024 intake.Academic Requirements:Diploma - Overall 50-55% and above in Class 12thAdvanced Diploma - Overall 50-55% and above in Class 12thBachelor's Degree - Overall 55-60% and above in Bachelor's DegreePG Diploma - Overall 55-60% and above in Bachelor's DegreeEnglish Language Requirements:IELTS - Diploma and Advanced Diploma - Overall 6.0 with 5.5 in one module / PG Diploma and Bachelor's Degree - Overall 6.5 with 6.0 in eachTOEFL - Diploma and Advanced Diploma - Overall 80 with 20 in each / PG Diploma and Bachelor's Degree - Overall 88 with 22 in eachPTE - Diploma and Advanced Diploma - Overall 53-57 / PG Diploma and Bachelor's Degree - Overall 58APPLICATION FEE: 100 CADSTUDY GAP ACCEPTABLE UPTO 7-8 YEARS

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  • 12 Sep, 2023

Canada holds yet another Express Entry draw on July 12

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held its latest round of Express Entry invitations.On July 12th the department invited 3,800 candidates in a French language category-based draw with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 375. 

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  • 13 Jul, 2023

IRCC issues 800 invitations on July 11

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held its latest round of Express Entry invitations.The department invited 800 candidates in an all-program draw with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 505.

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  • 12 Jul, 2023

Canadian passport processing back to pre-pandemic service standards

Service Canada has reported that passport delivery has returned to pre-pandemic processing times.A recent news release by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) says that there are no more passport application backlogs, and that Service Canada is exceeding the delivery standard for most applications. This is despite a brief disruption caused by the Public Service Alliance of Canada strike that lasted 12 days from April 19-May 1.Nearly all passports are now being delivered within the 10–20-day target (depending on how the passport application is submitted). ESDC says approximately 98% of passports issued are issued within service standards regardless of the intake method.

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  • 11 Jul, 2023

IRCC holds first-ever Express Entry STEM draw

IRCC has issued a second round of Express Entry invitations this week. This time, it was for candidates who are eligible for category-based selection in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations.In total, 500 candidates were invited. Candidates required a minimum CRS score of 486.

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  • 06 Jul, 2023

Canada holds first-ever category-based Express Entry draw for healthcare workers

IRCC has invited 500 healthcare workers under the new Express Entry category-based selection draws. Candidates required a minimum comprehensive ranking system (CRS) score of 476.This is the very first category-based selection draw since the six new categories were announced on May 31. A second round, inviting 1,500 workers to apply, will take place on July 5. A draw inviting eligible candidates from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions is also expected to occur in the same week.

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  • 29 Jun, 2023

Canada to introduce new work permit for U.S. H-1B visa holders

IRCC will improve labour mobility in North America by creating a streamlined work permit for H-1B speciality occupation visa holders in the US to apply to come to Canada. Right now, many workers in high-tech fields are employed in companies with operations in Canada and the US, and those working in the US often have an H-1B speciality occupation visa.As of July 16th 2023, H1-B holders in the US and their accompanying immediate family members will be eligible to apply to come to Canada. The approved applicants will receive an open work permit for up to three years, which means they can work for almost any employer in Canada. In addition, their spouses and dependents can also be eligible to apply for a temporary resident visa.IRCC believes this will expand opportunities for skilled workers to continue to pursue careers in the high-tech sector and contribute to economic growth in North America. This measure will remain in effect for one year or until IRCC receives 10,000 applications.

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  • 28 Jun, 2023
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