Month: February 2023

Canada Announces New Measures to Support Iranian Temporary Residents

Date Posted: 2023/02/24

Iran Iranian flag textile cloth fabric waving on the top sunrise mist fog

The Government of Canada has recently introduced a temporary public policy for nationals of Iran who are currently in Canada as temporary residents. These new measures, which will be effective from March 1, 2023, until February 28, 2024, will allow eligible Iranian nationals to apply for the extension of their temporary resident status, open work permits, and study permits at no cost.

The exact details have not yet been announced, but will be released on March 1, 2023.

Eligible individuals can find detailed information on how to apply on the Government of Canada’s website from March 1, 2023.

For Iranian nationals currently in Canada with temporary resident status, the policy allows them to apply for the following travel documents for free:

Extension of temporary resident status in Canada
Open work permits
Study permits

Applications for eligible individuals already in Canada will be given priority.

Additionally, Canadian citizens and permanent residents residing in Iran can apply for the following travel documents for free:

Limited-validity Canadian passports
Canadian citizenship certificates
Permanent resident travel documents

This public policy was established in reaction to the sad death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of the Iranian regime’s “morality police,” and it tries to make the Iranian regime accountable for its suppression of peaceful protesters and the regime’s repression of freedoms and human rights. The Canadian government has underlined its unwavering support for the Iranian people.

Several Iranians have decided to visit or spend time with relatives, study, or work in Canada on a temporary basis. Some of these temporary residents may be reluctant to return to Iran at this time and may desire to stay longer. The actions stated in this public policy will make it easier for persons who want to extend their temporary stay in Canada and switch between temporary resident streams to do so without incurring costs.

Canada is introducing new measures to support Iranians with temporary resident status who wish to extend their stay in Canada. Effective March 1, 2023, these measures will make it easier for Iranians to move between temporary streams and apply for a new permit from inside Canada, as well as provide priority processing for applications. Certain processing fees will also be waived for Iranians who wish to extend their stay, while passport and permanent resident travel document fees will be waived for Canadian citizens and permanent residents in Iran who wish to leave.

Eligibility requirements

Eligible foreign nationals must meet the following conditions:

They are Iranian nationals currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
They have applied for either an extension of their temporary resident status under section 181 of the Regulations or a temporary resident permit.

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions in this category, exemptions may be granted for:

Subsection 298(1) – the application processing fee for a temporary resident permit
Subsection 305(1) – the application processing fee for an extension of authorization to remain in Canada as a temporary resident
Subsection 315.1(1) – the fee for biometric information collection services.

Eligible foreign nationals must also meet the following:

They have applied for an extension of their temporary resident status or a temporary resident permit as mentioned above.
They have applied for a work permit under section 200 or 201 of the Regulations.

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions in this category, exemptions may be granted for:

Paragraphs 199(a)-(i) of the Regulations – requirements for applying for a work permit after entering Canada
Paragraph 200(1)(c) of the Regulations – a specific requirement
Subsection 298(1) – the application processing fee for a temporary resident permit
Subsection 299(1) – the application processing fee for a work permit
Subsection 315.1(1) – the fee for biometric information collection services.

In addition to meeting the above conditions, eligible foreign nationals must also meet the following:

They are Iranian nationals currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
They have applied for either an extension of their temporary resident status under section 181 of the Regulations or a temporary resident permit.
They have applied for a study permit under section 216 or 217 of the Regulations from within Canada.

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions in this category, exemptions may be granted for:

Section 213 of the Regulations – the requirement to apply for a study permit before entering Canada
Paragraphs 215(1)(a)-(g) of the Regulations – requirements for applying for a study permit after entering Canada
Subsection 298(1) – the application processing fee for a temporary resident permit
Subsection 300(1) – the application processing fee for a study permit
Subsection 315.1(1) – the fee for biometric information collection services.

NOTE: Foreign nationals who satisfy the criteria for this public policy’s eligibility are subject to all other legal requirements, including those for admission and selection, that are not waived by this or any other public policy.

This interim public policy is effective upon execution and is applicable to applications submitted on or after that date. It’s valid until February 28, 2024, and it might be taken away at any time without warning.

In summary, this temporary public policy is an important step taken by the Government of Canada to support the Iranian community in Canada and to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its actions. It provides a much-needed relief to temporary residents of Iranian nationality who may be facing difficulties returning to their home country at this time.

Quotes

Canada will not stand idly by in the face of these aggressions as the Iranian regime continues its ongoing human rights violations. Our government is continuing to stand up for the people of Iran by making it easier for Iranians who wish to extend their stay here in Canada to be with their families, and allowing them to continue to work and study in safety. We will continue to work closely with the Iranian-Canadian community who is resolved to shed light on the repressive actions of the Iranian regime.

– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

No matter why you are here, during this time of great uncertainty for the Iranian people, Canada remains committed to supporting the Iranian Canadian community. With these new measures, we hope to ease the hardship they’re currently facing by making it easier for them to stay longer in a place where it is safe to live and work. And perhaps, one day, call home.

– The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources

Contact us

If you are an Iranian temporary resident in need of assistance with gathering the required documentation or submitting applications for the aforementioned measures, we are available to provide professional support.

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Tags: temporary resident

A Beacon of Hope: Canadian Study Permit Approved After 4 Prior Refusals

Date Posted: 2023/02/23

University Students Walking Outside on Campus

Applying for a study permit, work permit or any type of immigration application and facing a refusal can be a frustrating and disheartening experience. However, imagine the disappointment and discouragement of receiving four refusals.

Our team was recently presented with a unique and exciting opportunity to assist a mature student, who is married with children, seeking to study at a college in Ontario. She had previously submitted 4 applications for a study permit to Canada on her own. Unfortunately all 4 were refused.

Despite these odds, our dedicated team was able to assist a client in securing an approved study permit. The circumstances surrounding the case were challenging, but our team was able to utilize their expertise and experience to craft a compelling and convincing application.

Understanding the Key Factors in Securing a Study Permit Approval

When it comes to securing a study permit, it’s important to approach each application with a thorough understanding of the applicant’s situation. This can be achieved by reviewing all relevant documents, including Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) records, to gain a complete understanding of the circumstances. In this particular case, our team discovered that the major reason for the four prior refusals was the officers’ doubt surrounding the applicant’s purpose of visit and her status as a bona fide student.

Additionally, even the applicant’s study plan (statement of purpose) was called into question. With this knowledge, our team was able to address these concerns and create a strong and convincing application, ultimately leading to an approved study permit. This highlights the importance of conducting a thorough review and having a deep understanding of the circumstances before submitting a study permit application.

This provided a rich premise for developing a strategy that would lead to a successful outcome. Our client was highly motivated and dedicated to her studies and professional development, as demonstrated by her previous marks and language test results in both IELTS and TOEFL. These results further solidified her reasons for wanting to pursue adult education and provided valuable evidence to support her study permit application.

This particular case also underscores the significance of knowing what parts of an application to highlight when applying for immigration. In order to create a compelling and convincing application, it is crucial to understand the key factors that will influence the outcome. In this instance, our team was able to identify the importance of demonstrating our client’s motivation and dedication, as well as her solid language proficiency.

By focusing on these key factors and presenting them in a clear and convincing manner, we were able to increase the chances of a successful outcome. This highlights the need for a deep understanding of the immigration process and the key elements that will be evaluated in an application. Having this knowledge can help to increase the chances of success and make the process smoother and less stressful.

Our Team’s Approach to Successful Study Permit Applications

Our team’s approach to successful study permit applications:

Thorough analysis of previous study plans and letters of explanation
Identification of key areas lacking substance or clarity
Development of a tailored and convincing study plan that meets IRCC requirements
Emphasis on demonstrating motivation, dedication, and qualifications
Avoidance of lengthy documents filled with irrelevant information
Clear and concise presentation of the applicant’s intent and qualifications.

The Importance of a Strong Study Plan in Study Permit Applications

Serves as the foundation for a solid submission letter
Considered most important by the immigration officer
Demonstrates the applicant’s motivation, dedication, and qualifications
Must meet IRCC requirements and provide a clear and convincing demonstration of the applicant’s intent
Should not be too lengthy or filled with irrelevant information
Focus on clarity and conciseness is key to securing a successful outcome.

The Importance of Strong Financial Documentation in Study Permit Applications

Demonstrates the applicant’s ability to support themselves financially during their studies
Evidence of financial resources must be clear and convincing
Relevant sources of income and savings should be highlighted
Omission of significant financial information, such as compensation received, can be detrimental to the application
Properly demonstrating financial stability is crucial in securing a successful study permit outcome.
All relevant financial documentation should be included to demonstrate the applicant’s financial stability
This includes contracts, receipts, vouchers, and any other evidence of financial resources
Even if the amount of documentation is extensive, it is important to provide as much evidence as possible
The submission letter should indicate that additional documentation is available upon request

The Importance of Research in Supporting Purpose of Visit

Ensure your undergraduate degree connects to your proposed program of study in Canada for a stronger purpose of visit
Highlight the logical connection between your previous education and work experience and the intended course
A well-argued purpose of visit can increase the chances of approval in a study permit application.

Effective Submission Letter Structure

Highlight key points and arguments in a clear and concise manner.
Present information in a structured format to make it easy for the officer to read.
Place important information in the first few pages to capture the officer’s attention.
Ensure that all relevant information is included in the letter and woven into paragraphs effectively.
Compare the applicant’s situation to similar cases in Canada to strengthen arguments

Contact Us

This approval is a testament to our commitment to advocating for our clients and helping them achieve their dreams of studying in a new country. We are proud to have been able to make a positive impact in this student’s life and provide them with a chance for a brighter future.

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Tags: study permit

NEW Procedure For Spousal Sponsorship AOR – Temporary File Number

Date Posted: 2023/02/21

It has been sometime since IRCC issued temporary file numbers for sponsorship applications! Beginning of May 2022, we stopped receiving Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) with temporary file numbers from IRCC for sponsorship applications.

The previous AOR also included that the applicant would receive a permanent file number once IRCC started processing their application. The temporary file number would start with an X with no allocation of a Unique Client Identifier (UCI) to either the applicant or the sponsor in the letter.

IRCC stopped issuing the temporary file numbers afterwards and would go straight to issuing the permanent file number in an email which would refer to the sponsor allocating them a UCI number.

Since the third week of February, we have noticed random cases that have received temporary file numbers in their AORs. Another change that we have seen is that the letter includes an additional section which places an emphasis on returning the application in case IRCC finds it to be incomplete.

Considering the increased speed with which IRCC has been processing online sponsorship applications, this might not necessarily mean that future applications will be processed as quickly.

This might not have an effect on Family class sponsorship applications as much, but this definitely will influence In-Canada class sponsorship applications that are submitted online.

As of September 23, 2022, the sponsorship applications can only be submitted online unless IRCC is contacted directly to accept paper applications for certain clients who are unable to submit their applications online.

For an In-Canada class spousal sponsorship applicant, this means that the Open Work Permit, that they are entitled to, cannot be submitted at the same time as the sponsorship as was the case with the paper applications. Therefore, the applicant must wait to receive the AOR first and submit their Open Work Permit application online afterwards.

Now with the new version of the AORs with the temporary file numbers, the applicant cannot submit the Open Work Permit until receiving their permanent file number for the sponsorship application. There is no indication of how long this new step will take and there has been no official announcement by IRCC on this matter.

Since the applicant must be in valid status to be eligible for the Spousal Open Work Permit application, please make sure that you renew your temporary status before it expires to stay eligible until you can submit your OWP and please continue to monitor this page for any updates!

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Tags: sponsorship

Reduced Work Experience Requirement for Caregivers in Canada Offers Faster Path to Permanent Residency

Date Posted: 2023/02/13

Caregiver and senior man on a wheelchair, walking in park

Canada is acknowledging the crucial role of caregivers by providing them with a quicker route to obtaining permanent residency status.

Effective April 30, 2023, the work experience requirement to qualify for permanent residency will be reduced from 24 months to just 12 months. Additionally, a portion of spaces under the existing caregiver pathways has been reserved for those with previous work experience in Canada.

This change in qualifying rules will apply to both current and prospective applicants to the Home Child Care Provider (HCCP) and Home Support Worker (HSW) pilot programs, as well as those who have previously applied to IRCC.

This move is estimated to benefit around 90% of currently pending applications, easing the process for both new and seasoned caregivers. It supports the critical role caregivers play in assisting families and lowering stress in their lives.

By reducing the required work experience in Canada to one year, a higher number of careers and their families will now be qualified to move to permanent residency more quickly, allowing them to build roots and embark on a new chapter in their life in Canada.

Do you have questions about the Home Child Care Provider or Home Support Worker pilot programs? Contact us.

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Tags: permanent residence

IRCC Designates Pearson Canada Inc. As A Language Testing Organization

Date Posted: 2023/02/03

Closeup cropped image student girl hands typing using laptop

IRCC will likely start accepting the scores from Pearson Test of English (PTE) Essential English test

As of February 2, 2023, IRCC, has given the green light for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and it is likely to be accepted as a language-testing organization for economic class applicant applications, making it one of three English language tests, along with IELTS and CELPIP in late 2023.

The newest language test is called PTE Essential, for proof of English language proficiency.

What is PTE Essential

PTE Essential is a new version similar to the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) but it has a more practical, real-life, and non-academic focus that meets IRCC’s language proficiency standards
It is designed for applicants who must provide proof of English language proficiency for Canadian permanent residency or citizenship
PTE Essential is a fully digital test delivered through Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing business of Pearson
PTE Essential uses AI technology for scoring, biometric data collection provides enhanced security measures and voice recognition software is applied for the speaking element of the test, which makes it highly accurate
Test takers can book online up to 24 hours in advance
Results typically available in 48 hours
Administered by Pearson Canada Inc.
You may reschedule or cancel your appointment at any time

About PTE Tests

Different writing tasks
Frequent test dates
No need to speak to an examiner – completed via computer
Unbiased results
Single test session (2 hours)
You can send your score to as many institutions as you like, free of charge
Scored practice tests

About the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)

Two hours long test
Single test session
20 question types
PTE Academic is a computer-based test
Test center environment is secure and friendly
Tests language skills in:
- Speaking and Writing
- Reading
- Listening

How to prepare

Understand your current English proficiency level, and the PTE score you need to achieve.
Know the test format
What skills are tested
Choose your preparation resources
Practice speaking, writing and listening English
Enroll in free courses which you can find here https://www.pearsonpte.com/preparation/courses
Have your ID on test day because your identity will be checked against your ID document
When taking the test Ensure your personal details are accurate

Pearson Canada Inc.

Pearson was founded in 1844 by Samuel Pearson in Yorkshire, England.

Andy Bird, CEO, Pearson, said: “At Pearson, we see every day how English skills can transform lives. We’ve already seen how PTE Academic can help people take a huge stride towards being themselves in English in whichever country they choose to work or study. I’m delighted PTE Essential is now accepted in Canada for economic visas and proud of the innovation and rigor that sits behind the quick and high-quality experience our test provides to test takers.”

Predict your expected score

The most effective way to estimate your test score is to take a Scored Practice Test. This practice test replicates the actual test format and content and lasts for three hours. Taking this practice test will give you an idea of your expected overall score and also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your study plan accordingly.

You can find the practice test here https://www.pearsonpte.com/preparation/practice-tests

Where to find PTE tests?

You can find and book the test at the official Pearson Canada Inc. website for PTE tests: https://www.pearsonpte.com/

Designated language-testing organizations

Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)

Administered by
- Paragon Testing Enterprises Inc.

Two tests: CELPIP-General (CELPIP-G) and CELPIP-General – Listening and Speaking (CELPIP-G LS)

CELPIP-G test is accepted by IRCC for immigration and citizenship purposes
CELPIP-G LS test is accepted by IRCC for citizenship purposes only

NOTE: the General-LS is not accepted for Express Entry

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Administered by:
- Cambridge Assessment English
- International Development Program (IDP) Australia
- British Council

NOTE: the Academic option is not accepted for Express Entry

Pearson’s Test of English (PTE) Essential

Administered by Pearson Canada Inc.

Language testing—Skilled immigrants (Express Entry)

In order to demonstrate your language proficiency, you must take and pass an approved language test. To meet this requirement, you must:

Schedule the test with an IRCC-approved agency and cover the associated costs.
Enter the test results into your Express Entry profile and provide your Personal Information Number if requested.
If you receive an invitation to apply, be sure to include the language test results with your application. Failure to do so will result in the application not being processed.

NOTE: Don’t ask for your language test results to be sent directly to IRCC, instead send your results with your complete application and keep the original test in a safe place because it may be requested later in the process

What happens next

The test results will be used as proof of your language skills.

Your test results must be valid (less than two years old) when you:

complete your Express Entry profile
apply for permanent residence

NOTE: It is important to ensure that both your Express Entry profile and language test results remain valid for the same time period, which is 12 months. In case your language test results are about to expire, you should retake the test and update your Express Entry profile with the updated results.

To immigrate to Canada through an economic class, you must take a language test approved by IRCC and get a certain score on it. The leading pathways are the Provincial Nominee Program and Express Entry. Other programs have different requirements. For some programs, like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you need to score at least 7 in writing, reading, listening, and speaking. For other programs, a lower score is enough. If you score higher, you can get more points in programs managed through Express Entry and provincial systems.

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Tags: Express Entry, language test

Month: February 2023

Canada Announces New Measures to Support Iranian Temporary Residents

For Iranian nationals currently in Canada with temporary resident status, the policy allows them to apply for the following travel documents for free:

Additionally, Canadian citizens and permanent residents residing in Iran can apply for the following travel documents for free:

Eligibility requirements

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted

Quotes

Contact us

A Beacon of Hope: Canadian Study Permit Approved After 4 Prior Refusals

Understanding the Key Factors in Securing a Study Permit Approval

Our Team’s Approach to Successful Study Permit Applications

The Importance of a Strong Study Plan in Study Permit Applications

The Importance of Strong Financial Documentation in Study Permit Applications

The Importance of Research in Supporting Purpose of Visit

Effective Submission Letter Structure

Contact Us

NEW Procedure For Spousal Sponsorship AOR – Temporary File Number

Reduced Work Experience Requirement for Caregivers in Canada Offers Faster Path to Permanent Residency

IRCC Designates Pearson Canada Inc. As A Language Testing Organization

IRCC will likely start accepting the scores from Pearson Test of English (PTE) Essential English test

What is PTE Essential

About PTE Tests

About the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)

How to prepare

Pearson Canada Inc.

Predict your expected score

Where to find PTE tests?

Designated language-testing organizations

Language testing—Skilled immigrants (Express Entry)

What happens next

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