In a bid to support and enhance Canada’s healthcare and labor market, several new measures and programs have been introduced. These initiatives aim to attract skilled professionals, improve regulatory frameworks, and provide new pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) for semi-skilled workers. Below are the key highlights of these updates:
PEI’s New Bursary Program for Internationally Educated Nurses
Prince Edward Island (PEI) has launched a new bursary program designed to aid internationally educated nurses in covering the costs associated with relocating and working in the province. The Internationally Educated Nurses Bursary Program offers up to $10,000 to help with immigration fees, application processing costs for nursing registration, and expenses for textbooks and equipment. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers and attract more nurses to the province, thereby enhancing the healthcare system.
To be eligible for the bursary, nurses must be currently employed by a PEI healthcare provider, registered with the relevant nursing colleges, and commit to a two-year service agreement. This program is a significant step toward addressing the healthcare workforce needs in PEI.
Quebec Arrima Draws: Invitation Rounds 69 and 70
The Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) recently published the results of the 69th and 70th invitation rounds in Quebec’s online system, Arrima. On July 25, 2024, MIFI invited 1,560 candidates to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program. Following this, on August 1, 2024, an additional 1,490 candidates were invited.
Candidates invited in these rounds had a minimum score of 580 and 579, respectively. Additionally, invited candidates possessed at least level 7 oral proficiency in French and a valid job offer outside the territory of the Montreal metropolitan community. These draws reflect Quebec’s commitment to attracting skilled workers to the province and ensuring that candidates meet the language and job requirements.
New Measures to Combat Fraud in Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program
The Canadian government is introducing several measures to combat fraud in the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program, particularly concerning the Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs). Key actions announced include:
- 20% Cap Enforcement: Strict application of the 20% cap policy, including for workers aiming for permanent residency.
- Increased Oversight: More rigorous oversight in high-risk areas during LMIAs and inspections.
- LMIA Fee Increases: Considering higher LMIA fees to support additional integrity and processing activities.
- Employer Eligibility: Future regulatory changes regarding employer eligibility, including a minimum number of business operation years and lay-off history.
- Low-Wage Stream Restrictions: Considering refusing to process under the low-wage stream, which would restrict certain employers and industries from using the TFW Program.
- Modernization: Plans to modernize the TFW Program with a new stream for Agriculture and Fish & Seafood Processing.
These actions build on previous changes that have improved employer inspections and increased fines for violations by 36% in 2023-2024.
New PR Category for Tier 4 and Tier 5 Workers
In a significant policy shift, the Canadian government has announced a new Permanent Residency (PR) category specifically for Tier 4 and Tier 5 workers, also known as semi-skilled workers. These workers typically perform jobs that require minimal education, such as truck driving, and were previously ineligible for PR through the Express Entry system.
With this new category, thousands of semi-skilled workers in Canada will now have the opportunity to apply for PR. This change reflects Canada’s commitment to supporting all levels of the workforce and could lead to further positive changes in PR policies in the near future.
Alberta’s Transition to the EOI System
Starting September 30, Alberta will transition to the Expression of Interest (EOI) system to select candidates based on their pool ranking and the province’s labor market needs and priorities. Consequently, the monthly application intake process will be discontinued. This new approach aims to streamline the selection process and better align it with Alberta’s labor market demands.
These updates highlight Canada’s ongoing efforts to enhance its immigration programs and support its workforce. For more information and assistance with your immigration needs, contact Aura Visa & Education Consultancy.
