Virtual citizenship ceremonies have become the norm in Canada. These ceremonies were traditionally held in person, but over the pandemic, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) started conducting virtual ceremonies to abide by social distancing regulations and reduce the backlog. Schedule a Free Canadian Citizenship Consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm Despite the lifting of pandemic restrictions, virtual ceremonies have […]
Alberta launches new Expression of Interest system for AAIP Worker Streams
Alberta is changing how it issues Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to candidates in some Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) pathways. Starting today, September 30, candidates interested in applying to one of the AAIP worker streams will need to submit a Worker Expression of Interest (EOI). To do so, candidates will need to access the AAIP portal and complete […]
Have a DUI? Here are your options for entering Canada
Having a prior driving under the influence (DUI) offence can render you inadmissible to Canada. If Canadian authorities deem you inadmissible, they may deny you a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA), or refuse you entry. Schedule a Free Legal Consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm If you plan to travel to Canada and have a past […]
Prepare for Your Language Test and Save with the CAEL Academic Success Bundle
Follow the CAEL Path to Success and save with the Academic Success Bundle! To apply for a Canadian study permit, you’ll need to take an English language test. Choosing the Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) will give you access to exclusive preparation materials and support to help you achieve academic success in Canada. CAEL […]
British Columbia and Ontario issue more provincial nominations for skilled workers
British Columbia and Ontario have issued more nominations to immigration candidates through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Candidates were invited in two separate draws for their professional experience within in-demand sectors of the Canadian economy or a mixture of their skilled work experience and language abilities in English and French. Note: Each PNP uses its own scoring […]
Canada launches pilot project to streamline review process for rejected study permits
Those who have had their Canadian study permit rejected may soon benefit from a new pilot project. Canada’s Federal Court has announced the Study Permit Pilot Project, designed to streamline the process of requesting judicial review of rejected study permit applications. It launches on October 1. Discover your options to study in Canada Under the Pilot, people who […]
IRCC reducing Spousal Open Work Permits by more than 100,000 over the next three years
During a recent announcement regarding changes to Canada’s temporary resident programs, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced several significant changes to the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs). On September 18, Minister Miller noted that the department will be introducing further limits on SOWP eligibility for spouses of students in doctoral and certain master’s programs, select professional programs, and […]
Understanding Different Types of Mortgages: Helpful Tips for New Canadians
As a newcomer to Canada, you may be considering buying a home in your new country. It may be exciting to think about but where do you start? Sign up for the upcoming webinar: Mortgage Basics: A Newcomer’s Guide to Financing a Home in Canada and continue reading to learn more. Understanding the various types of mortgages […]
Do you need to submit biometrics to stay in Canada?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will collect your biometrics if you are aged between 14 and 79 and applying for, claiming, or requesting: Canadian temporary residence (excluding U.S. nationals); Canadian permanent residence (including US nationals); or Refugee protection. What are biometrics? Biometrics refers to data that will help confirm your identity. When giving biometrics, IRCC will […]
How many ITAs has Canada issued through Express Entry this year vs. last year?
Canada’s Express Entry system has undergone changes in the last two years. In 2023, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced category-based selection draws under Express Entry—a policy that allows the immigration department to target candidates that meet the country’s economic and demographic goals. So, have these changes made a difference in how the Express Entry system invites candidates? The following […]