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This could change how you deal with visa refusals. Starting July 29, 2025, IRCC will proactively include officer decision notes with certain refusal letters. Currently, this applies only to temporary resident applications. Which applications will receive officer decision notes? Refusal notes will be included with decisions on the following application types (including extensions): No more waiting weeks for GCMS notes. These notes explain the real reason your application was refused, straight from the officer who made the call. Whether it’s about funds, travel history, or purpose of visit, you’ll now see it clearly. Applicants who want a deeper explanation can still request Global Case Management System (GCMS) notes, but that process can take several weeks. With this update, you get key information instantly with your refusal letter. Note: This is not available yet if you applied through the new IRCC portal. This is a big win for applicants. See IRCC’s official announcement Have questions about your refusal or next steps? You can book a consultation with our team or visit our website to explore the right service for your situation. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity.

If you are planning to go to Canada as an international student, there’s an important update you need to know. From September 1, 2025, Canada is changing the financial rules for getting a study permit. To put it simply, you will need to show more money in your bank account to prove that you can afford to live in Canada while studying. This new rule does not affect your tuition fees. Instead, it focuses on the cost of living, which includes your daily expenses such as food, rent, transport, and other basic needs. The Canadian government wants to make sure students are financially ready and won’t face problems after arriving in the country. 🔷 How Much Money Do You Need to Show? The amount of money you need to show depends on how many people are going to Canada with you. Below is the new minimum amount you must show as proof of funds, starting from September 1, 2025. This is only for living expenses and does not include tuition fees. Number of People Minimum Funds Required 1 person $22,895 2 people $28,502 3 people $35,040 4 people $42,543 5 people $48,252 6 people $54,420 7 people $60,589 Each extra person $6,170 🔷 Why Is This Change Happening? This update is happening because living expenses in Canada have gone up. The government wants international students to be better prepared. If students do not have enough money to take care of themselves, it could lead to serious problems — like being unable to pay rent, buy food, or manage medical emergencies. By raising the financial requirement, Canada is trying to make sure that students and their families can live comfortably during their time in the country. 🔷 Who Needs to Follow This Rule? If you are planning to apply for a study permit on or after September 1, 2025, you must follow this new rule. It applies to all study permit applicants outside of Quebec. If you already have a study permit or plan to apply before this date, the current rules will still apply to you. 🔷 What Should You Do Now? If you are hoping to study in Canada next year or later, now is the right time to start preparing your finances. You should make sure that the bank account you show as proof of funds has the correct amount of money according to the new table. This money should be easy to track and clearly explained in your visa application documents. Also, speak to an expert if you’re not sure how to prepare your documents properly. Mistakes in financial proof are one of the top reasons why study permit applications get refused. Do I need to show this money for just myself, or for my family too?If your family is coming with you, such as your spouse or children, you need to show more money. The table above shows how much money is needed depending on the number of people. Does this money include tuition fees?No, this amount is separate from your tuition fees. You must show that you can pay both your tuition and your living expenses. Can I show my parents’ bank account as proof?Yes, you can, but you also need to provide a letter of support from them and show proof of their relationship to you. The money should be easily available for your use in Canada. What happens if I don’t meet the financial requirement?Your study permit application may get refused. It is very important to meet the required amount and show proper documents to support your application. What kind of documents can I use to prove my funds?You can show bank statements, fixed deposits, loan letters from recognized banks, or scholarship letters (if you got one). The money must be available and clearly explained in your paperwork. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

🔷 Canada Day Message Highlights What It Means to Belong On Canada Day, Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab gave a heartfelt speech from Halifax. She spoke about what it truly means to be Canadian — not just having a passport, but feeling a deep connection to the country. Diab, who is herself a Lebanese Canadian, highlighted how Canada is built on Indigenous history, democratic values, and the idea of belonging. She encouraged people across Canada to attend citizenship ceremonies, where new Canadians take the oath. These ceremonies are a powerful reminder that being Canadian means contributing to your community and embracing shared values. Her message was clear: Canada welcomes those who are willing to be part of its journey of growth, equality, and reconciliation. 🔷 Government Will Review Immigration Targets This Summer The Canadian government has announced that it will hold public discussions this summer about future immigration levels — especially the number of international student visas. This comes after a recent decision to limit study permits, which has put financial pressure on many universities and colleges. Some institutions are now facing staff cuts and budget problems. To better manage the situation, the government will invite provinces, schools, and the public to share their thoughts. The goal is to create a system that is financially stable and fair for everyone. These discussions could lead to changes in how many international students are allowed to come in the future. 🔷 New Work Permit Stream Coming for Farm and Fish Workers To help fill important jobs in farming and seafood processing, the government is creating a new work permit stream just for these sectors. This comes after the Agri-Food Pilot was closed. The new plan will offer sector-specific work permits, which means workers will be allowed to come to Canada to work only in jobs related to agriculture and fish processing. Canada is also planning to work closely with other countries to bring in more workers through partnerships. This change shows that Canada is moving toward more targeted programs that focus on solving specific job shortages. 🔷 Canada Cracks Down on High-Risk Foreign Nationals Canada’s Border Services Agency (CBSA) is investigating 66 people believed to be senior members of the Iranian regime. So far, 20 of them have already been told they are not allowed to stay in Canada, and deportation steps have started. This is part of Canada’s stronger screening of people who may have ties to foreign governments involved in conflict or human rights issues. The government is being more cautious about who enters the country, especially when national security is a concern. 1. What is a sector-specific work permit?It’s a work permit that only allows you to work in a certain industry, like farming or seafood processing. You cannot switch to a job in another field with this permit. 2. Will Canada reduce the number of international students?That is still being decided. But the government is reviewing current limits and asking provinces and schools for input to find a better long-term solution. 3. What was the Agri-Food Pilot, and why was it closed?The Agri-Food Pilot was a program that allowed farm and food workers to get permanent residency. It recently ended, but the government is now introducing a new, more focused stream. 4. Can you be deported even after entering Canada?Yes. If the government finds that someone has ties to a foreign regime or breaks immigration rules, they can be declared inadmissible and removed from the country. 5. Is citizenship just about getting a passport?No. According to the Immigration Minister, citizenship is about participation, values, and belonging — not just legal status. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

Canada’s travel, immigration, and social trends are changing fast — here’s what you need to know this week. 🔷 Domestic Travel Is Growing While International Travel Slows Down In the first three months of 2025, more people in Canada chose to travel within the country rather than go abroad. Domestic tourism spending went up by 0.8% to $20.2 billion, with money mostly spent on hotels, restaurants, and local attractions. At the same time, the number of Canadians taking overnight trips to the United States dropped by over 12%. This could be a sign that people are being more careful with money or avoiding international travel for other reasons. Still, this increase in local travel helped the tourism industry grow by 0.5%. 🔷 Sharp Rise in Online Hate Speech Against South Asians in Canada A new report shows a 1,350% increase in hate speech online targeting South Asians in Canada. In 2024, there were more than 16,800 hateful posts recorded. The problem became worse during the recent federal elections, showing how online spaces are being misused to spread racism. Police data also reveals that hate crimes against South Asians tripled between 2019 and 2023. This is a serious concern for communities and newcomers who want to feel safe and welcomed in Canada. 🔷 Quebec Wants to Limit the Number of Temporary Residents Quebec is asking the federal government to place a national cap of 200,000 non-permanent residents. The province believes that some areas with high unemployment, like Montreal, should receive fewer temporary foreign workers. However, Quebec also admits that many businesses still rely on international workers to survive, especially in regions where local workers are not available. The federal government is still considering this request. 🔷 Over 7,000 Young People Invited Through the IEC Program in June In June 2025, Canada invited 7,162 applicants through the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. This program allows young people from select countries to live and work in Canada for a short period, usually under a working holiday or co-op work permit. The countries with the highest number of invitations were the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and France. So far this year, over 80,000 young people have been invited through different IEC streams. What is domestic tourism and why is it important?Domestic tourism means Canadians are traveling within their own country. It’s important because it helps support local jobs in hotels, restaurants, and travel businesses. What is the IEC program?The International Experience Canada (IEC) program lets young people from certain countries come to Canada to work and travel. It’s a great way to gain experience and enjoy Canadian culture. Why is Quebec asking to limit temporary residents?Quebec feels that too many non-permanent residents might affect job opportunities for locals, especially in areas where unemployment is already high. But they also know many employers depend on foreign workers to fill jobs. What is being done about the rise in hate speech?The issue is gaining national attention. Authorities are being urged to monitor online platforms more strictly and provide better protection for affected communities. Stay informed. Stay prepared.For newcomers, travelers, and international workers, knowing what’s happening in Canada can help you plan better. Whether you’re applying for a visa, preparing to move, or just keeping up with trends, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Follow Ask Kubeir for weekly updates and expert immigration support. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

Great news for those looking to work in Canada!The Canadian government is creating a new immigration stream just for foreign workers in agriculture and fish processing. This could open the door for many people looking for job opportunities in farming, food, and seafood sectors. 🌾 What Is This New Work Stream? IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) announced in its 2025–2026 plan that they’re working on a new program to hire foreign workers in two key sectors: Here’s what we know so far: ✅ A sector-specific work permit will be created — meaning it’s only for jobs in farming and fish processing.✅ It may include partner country agreements — making it easier to hire from specific countries.✅ IRCC and ESDC (Employment and Social Development Canada) will work together on this program. 🤔 Why Is Canada Doing This? Canada is facing big labour shortages in farms and food sectors. Many local workers don’t take these jobs, so foreign workers play a huge role. The government wants to: 📉 What Happened to the Old Program? Earlier this year, the Agri-Food Pilot was shut down. It used to help workers in: The program reached its application limit in February 2025 and closed down after running for five years. Now, this new stream may act as a better, more focused replacement. 🔜 What’s Next? This new stream is still under development, but is expected to roll out in 2025 or 2026. The Canadian government will: 📝 Summary What’s Happening? Canada is building a new immigration stream for farm and fish work. Who Can Benefit? Foreigners interested in agriculture or fish processing jobs Why Now? Labour shortages + closure of old Agri-Food Pilot When Will It Start? 2025 or 2026 (Exact date not confirmed yet) Q1: Can I apply now?👉 Not yet. The stream is still in planning stages. Launch expected in 2025 or 2026. Q2: Will it lead to PR (Permanent Residency)?👉 No confirmation yet. But if it works like the old Agri-Food Pilot, it might lead to PR in the future. Q3: What kind of jobs will be included?👉 Likely farm work, seafood packing, meat cutting, food processing and more. Q4: Do I need Canadian work experience?👉 Probably not. These programs are usually made for new workers from abroad. Q5: What happens if I missed the Agri-Food Pilot?👉 This new stream may be your next chance! Stay updated by following Ask Kubeir. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

Here’s everything you need to know about the latest Canadian immigration updates – explained in simple terms! Whether you’re planning to apply for PR or just keeping track of the trends, this summary is for you. 🔷 New Express Entry Draw – Canadian Experience Class (CEC) What happened?On June 26, 2025, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) held an Express Entry draw for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Good news: The cut-off score dropped by 8 points from the last CEC draw. 📌 Total Express Entry Invitations in 2025 so far: 41,845 🔷 Manitoba PNP Draw – Close Family Gets Priority Date: June 27, 2025Draw Number: #248 Manitoba held a new draw through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). Here’s the breakdown: 📌 Manitoba’s total invitations in 2025: 1,338 This draw focused on applicants with family in Manitoba, giving them a better chance to immigrate. 🔷 Canada’s Immigration Backlog Keeps Growing Canada is facing a growing number of pending applications — also known as the immigration backlog. Here’s what’s delayed: Despite hiring more staff and improving systems, IRCC is still struggling to keep up. 🔷 Job Market Snapshot – Wages Up, Vacancies Down April 2025 – Stats Canada Report 🔷 Healthcare jobs are growing🔷 Food services and manufacturing jobs are shrinking 1. What is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC)?It’s for skilled workers who already have at least 1 year of Canadian work experience. It’s one of the fastest PR pathways. 2. What is a CRS score?CRS = Comprehensive Ranking System. It scores your profile based on age, education, work experience, and language. Higher score = better chance to get invited. 3. How does having family in Manitoba help?If you have close relatives in Manitoba, you may get extra points or preference under their PNP program. 4. What is a backlog in immigration?It means applications are taking longer than usual to process. Many files are waiting in line due to high demand and limited staff. 5. Which jobs are in demand in Canada right now?Health care jobs are growing fast. Canada needs nurses, doctors, caregivers, and personal support workers. Tech and trades are also strong fields. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

🔷 Canada Plans to Limit the Number of Immigrants in the Future Canada is making long-term plans to manage how many immigrants come to the country. Starting in the next few years, the number of temporary residents (like visitors, international students, and temporary workers) will be limited to 5% of the total Canadian population. Also, the number of permanent residents (PRs) allowed each year will be kept under 1% of the population starting in 2027. The government says these changes will help manage housing, healthcare, and job market pressures while still allowing Canada to grow. But it’s not all restrictions—Canada also plans to welcome more French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec and offer more PR options for temporary workers already living in the country. To make processing easier and faster, IRCC is also working on a new online Case Management Platform that should help applicants track their progress and reduce waiting times. 🔷 Big Increase in Refused Visa and PR Applications A recent report shows that immigration refusal rates have increased by 61%, especially for applicants from countries considered “high-risk.” This includes visitor visas, study permits, work permits, and PR applications. The reasons behind this spike include overworked officers, incomplete or missing documents, and inconsistent decision-making. Many people are facing long delays or unfair rejections, making the process harder for genuine applicants. If you’re planning to apply, it’s now more important than ever to make sure your application is complete, clear, and professionally prepared to avoid mistakes that could lead to a refusal. 🔷 McGill is Now the Top University in Canada Canada’s McGill University has now ranked 27th in the world, beating the University of Toronto, which is in 29th place, according to the 2026 QS World University Rankings. Other top schools include the University of British Columbia (40th) and the University of Alberta (94th). McGill’s higher ranking is due to its strong record in academic reputation, graduate success, and sustainability efforts. This is great news for international students who are considering Canada for higher education, as these universities are globally respected. 🔷 Canada Among Top 10 Countries for Work-Life Balance Canada has been ranked 7th in the world for work-life balance in a global report that studied 60 countries. With a score of 73.46, Canada is the highest-ranked country in the Americas, much higher than the United States, which came in 59th. This ranking shows that Canada continues to be a great place to live for people who value free time, flexible work, good healthcare, and quality of life. These are important things to consider if you are thinking about moving to Canada for work or to settle permanently. 1. What does the cap on temporary residents mean for future applicants?It means Canada will limit the number of temporary residents (like international students and workers) allowed each year. If you’re planning to come to Canada, it’s important to apply early and have a strong application, as competition may increase. 2. Will PR applications also be affected by the new limits?Yes, starting in 2027, Canada plans to limit PR admissions to under 1% of the population each year. However, they are still expanding options for temporary workers to apply for PR. 3. Why are so many visas and PR applications getting refused?The increase in refusals is mainly due to incomplete documents, high volume of applications, and inconsistent decision-making. Getting professional help with your application can reduce your chances of refusal. 4. Is studying in Canada still worth it?Yes! Top universities like McGill, University of Toronto, and UBC are world-renowned. Studying in Canada can open doors to jobs, PR pathways, and global opportunities. 5. How does Canada’s work-life balance benefit immigrants?Canada offers good working hours, paid leaves, healthcare, and family-friendly policies, which means newcomers can enjoy both career success and personal well-being. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

Canada continues inviting skilled workers for permanent residency through Express Entry, and the latest draw focused on Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. On June 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held another Express Entry draw and invited 503 candidates to apply for permanent residency (PR). This draw was specifically for those who had a PNP nomination. To qualify, candidates needed to have: What is Express Entry and the PNP? The Express Entry system is how Canada manages applications for skilled immigrants. Within this system, the PNP pathway allows provinces to nominate individuals who meet their specific labour needs. If you get a PNP nomination, your CRS score gets a big boost—usually 600 points—making it easier to get an invitation to apply. How does this draw compare to previous ones in 2025? Here’s a quick summary of Express Entry draws held so far this year: Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score June 23 Provincial Nominee Program 503 742 June 12 Canadian Experience Class 3,000 529 June 10 Provincial Nominee Program 125 784 June 4 Healthcare and social services 500 504 June 2 Provincial Nominee Program 277 726 May 13 Canadian Experience Class 500 547 May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706 May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510 May 1 Education 1,000 479 April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727 April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764 March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379 March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736 March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410 March 3 Provincial Nominee Program 725 667 February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428 February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750 February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521 February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802 January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527 January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542 January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793 So far in 2025, a total of 38,845 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) have been issued through Express Entry. Most of these draws have been for PNP candidates, followed by Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates, those with French-language skills, and candidates in priority job categories like healthcare and education. Breakdown of draws by type in 2025: Draw Type Number of Draws Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) 11 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) 5 French-language proficiency 3 Healthcare and social services 2 Education 1 Important: What to do after you receive an ITA If you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), it’s very important to submit a complete and truthful application for permanent residence. Once you apply, your status changes from “candidate” to “applicant.” Giving false information in your application is considered misrepresentation, and it can have serious consequences: It’s your responsibility to ensure all the information and documents you submit are correct and genuine. Even if a mistake was unintentional, you may still face penalties. 1. What is a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?A PNP allows individual provinces in Canada to nominate skilled workers who can contribute to their economy. If you’re nominated, you get extra CRS points in Express Entry, which increases your chances of getting an ITA. 2. Is a CRS score of 742 normal for PNP draws?Yes. Since PNP nominations add 600 points to your score, most PNP draw cut-offs are above 700. 3. What happens after I get an ITA?Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your complete PR application. Make sure your documents are accurate and your information is truthful. 4. Can I apply to the Express Entry system without a job offer?Yes, you can create an Express Entry profile without a job offer. However, having a job offer or a provincial nomination can significantly improve your chances. 5. Why does Canada keep holding PNP draws?Canada wants to support regional labour markets. Provinces know their workforce needs better, so PNPs help bring skilled workers to specific areas where they’re most needed. 6. How do I know if my profile is competitive?You can check your CRS score using IRCC’s tool and compare it with the cut-offs in recent draws. You can also talk to a licensed consultant to understand how to improve your profile. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details

For many people who dream of moving to Canada, getting permanent residence (PR) through the Express Entry system can feel difficult—especially if you don’t have a high CRS score, provincial nomination, or strong French skills. But there’s another way. If you’re struggling to get invited in the regular Express Entry draws, you can still qualify through category-based draws—and some jobs are easier to enter than others. What are Category-Based Draws? These are special draws under Express Entry that invite only people who work in certain job categories, like education, healthcare, or trades. These draws often have lower CRS score cut-offs than regular draws. To qualify, you must: This means that if you can switch to a job that qualifies for a category-based draw—and gain six months of experience—you could significantly improve your chances of getting Canadian PR. Which Jobs Are Easiest to Get Into? Some jobs don’t require years of training or study, and are easy to start. Others may need a short college course or certification. The table below shows some of the easiest jobs to break into, how long it takes to qualify, their pay, and more. Easiest Occupations to Break Into Occupation Time to qualify to begin working CRS cut-off score of the most recent EE draw Category Median hourly pay SOWP-eligible? Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants (43100) 10 months to 2 years 479 (May 1, 2025) Education $24.36 Yes Insurance agents and brokers (63100) A few weeks to a few months 491 (April 11, 2024) STEM $29.77 No Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations (33101) 1-2 years 510 (May 2, 2025) Healthcare and social services $26.35 Yes Nurse aides and patient service associates (33102) N/A – Can begin work immediately – – $23 Yes Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants (33103) N/A – Can begin work immediately – – $20 Yes Cooks (63200) N/A – Can begin work immediately 433 (October 23, 2024) Trades $17 No Concrete finishers (73100) N/A – Can begin work immediately – – $32.76 Yes Floor covering installers (73113) N/A – Can begin work immediately – – $26.92 Yes Roofers and shinglers (73110) N/A – Can begin work immediately – – $30 Yes Painters and decorators (73112) N/A – Can begin work immediately – – $26 Yes Butchers – retail and wholesale (63201) N/A – Can begin work immediately 437 (Feb 16, 2024) Agriculture and agri-food $19.50 No How to Qualify and Get Started in These Jobs Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants These jobs involve helping students in classrooms and supporting teachers. You usually need high school education and a college course in teaching or educational assistance, which can take 10 months to 2 years. You may also need CPR and first aid training. Insurance Agents and Brokers Insurance agents sell policies, while brokers work independently to find the best deal for clients. You need a high school diploma and a license, which involves passing an exam. The process can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the province and the insurance type. Medical Laboratory Assistants They work in labs, preparing and handling samples. You need high school education and a college certification program, which takes 1 to 2 years. Many employers prefer you to have a certificate from a recognized organization like OSMT or CSMLS. Nurse Aides and Patient Service Associates These jobs support patients with daily care. You can usually start right away, although many employers prefer people with a personal support worker or healthcare aide course. Some ask for CPR certification and a driver’s licence. Pharmacy Assistants They help pharmacists by handling prescriptions and inventory. You can either complete a 6–12 month college program or start with on-the-job training if you have a high school diploma. Becoming a Pharmacy Technical Assistant takes up to 2 years of vocational training. Cooks They prepare meals, supervise kitchen staff, and manage inventory. You may need a college or apprenticeship program, or just several years of work experience. Food handler’s certification is often required and easy to get. Concrete Finishers They level and smooth concrete for surfaces. You can start working right away, but for trade certification, you’d need an apprenticeship or 3 years of experience. Certification is optional in most provinces. Floor Covering Installers They install flooring like carpet or hardwood. You can begin work immediately, but for trade certification, you need an apprenticeship or 4 years of experience. Certification is not mandatory outside Quebec. Painters and Decorators They prepare surfaces and apply paint. You can begin work right away, but for certification, you need an apprenticeship or 3 years of experience. Certification is voluntary. Roofers and Shinglers These jobs involve installing or repairing roofs. You can start without formal education. To become certified, you may need an apprenticeship or 3 years of experience. Training is usually on-the-job, and certification is voluntary. Butchers They prepare and sell meat. You can usually start working right away, though many employers prefer training programs or prior experience. Certification and food safety training may also be required. Who Is This For? These jobs are great options for: Can I apply for Express Entry if I switch to one of these jobs?Yes. As long as you work at least six months full-time (or part-time equivalent) in one of these eligible jobs and meet other Express Entry rules, you can qualify for category-based draws. Do I need a job offer to work in these roles?Not always. Some jobs let you start immediately, while others need short courses or certification. A job offer may help but is not always required. Will these jobs increase my CRS score?The job itself may not increase your score, but being in a targeted category helps you get selected even with a lower CRS. Can international students or work permit holders apply for these jobs?Yes. These jobs are ideal for those already in Canada on a study or work permit, as they allow you to gain experience and improve your immigration chances. How soon can I start?Some

If you’re an internationally trained teacher dreaming of teaching in Canada, there’s great news for you. While teachers now have better chances of immigrating to Canada, getting certified to actually teach in a Canadian classroom can still be a challenge. That’s because teaching is a regulated profession, and each province or territory has its own rules for approving foreign credentials. To make things easier, a new initiative called Pathways to Teach Canada has been launched in partnership with World Education Services (WES). This program helps internationally educated teachers fast-track the process of getting certified to teach in Canada. What is Pathways to Teach Canada? Launched in November 2024, Pathways to Teach Canada offers a single entry point for internationally trained teachers who want to become certified in Canada. It simplifies the process by offering both credential and language assessments in one place. The program currently supports applications to the following provinces and territories: Note: If you’re applying to Ontario, the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) handles credential assessments directly. However, you can still use Pathways to Teach Canada to take the approved Language Competency Assessment for the Teaching Profession (LCATP), which OCT accepts. Applicants targeting Alberta, Quebec, or Yukon must complete their certification directly through that region’s regulatory authority. How Pathways to Teach Canada and WES Help International Teachers Through this partnership, applicants can start both their credential evaluation and language testing through one platform. This makes the process faster and more organized. Here’s what you can do: Once your documents are reviewed, you’ll receive an official Credential Assessment Report. The documents needed will depend on the country where you studied and your issuing school or institution. Some documents can be uploaded by you, while others must be sent directly by your institution. Who Can Apply? You can use Pathways to Teach Canada if: If you don’t have a teacher education qualification, you won’t be eligible to apply through this program. How the Process Works After you open an account on the Pathways to Teach Canada portal, you can: You can apply to more than one province or territory, but keep in mind that additional fees will apply for each. Important: Pathways to Teach Canada does not provide the certification itself. It only helps you complete the required assessments and submit your documents. What Happens After the Assessments? Once you submit your results, you’ll need to follow your province’s rules to get certified. Some provinces may ask for extra steps like a criminal record check, reference letters, or additional courses. For example, British Columbia requires internationally trained teachers to complete a familiarization course approved by the BC Teachers’ Council. In some regions, Catholic school boards may have additional requirements, such as a letter from a Catholic priest or proof of confirmation and baptism. New Immigration Advantage for Teachers Under Express Entry In 2025, the Canadian government made education one of the most in-demand sectors under the Express Entry system. This means if you’re a teacher, you may have a better chance of getting permanent residence (PR). To be eligible for this new Education category, you must: You cannot combine work experience from different teaching roles (e.g., 2 months as a primary teacher + 4 months as a secondary teacher won’t qualify). In the first draw held on May 1, 2025, 1,000 invitations were issued with a CRS score cutoff of 479, which is much lower than recent Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws. This makes now a great time for teachers to apply for PR in Canada. 1. Do I need a job offer to use Pathways to Teach Canada?No, you do not need a job offer. The program is designed to help you get certified, not to place you in a job. 2. What if I studied in a country where documents are hard to obtain?Some documents can be submitted by you, while others must come directly from your institution. WES provides country-specific document guidelines. 3. Is the LCATP test difficult?The LCATP tests your language skills for teaching. You’ll need to prepare well, but it’s designed to measure if you can effectively teach in an English-speaking classroom. 4. Can I apply to more than one province?Yes, but each province may have its own rules and you’ll need to pay additional fees. 5. Will this process give me a teaching job in Canada?No, this process helps you get certified to teach. Once certified, you can apply for jobs in schools. 6. Can I apply through this if I’m already certified in one province?No. If you’ve already been certified in any province or territory in Canada, this program is not for you. 7. How long does the whole process take?The timeline can vary depending on how quickly your documents are submitted and assessed. Generally, it may take a few months. 8. Do I still need to apply for PR separately?Yes. This process helps with certification, but applying for permanent residence through Express Entry or another immigration program is a separate process. Ready to Start Your Teaching Career in Canada? If you’re a qualified teacher trained outside Canada, Pathways to Teach Canada could be your bridge to the classroom. With the new immigration benefits under Express Entry, now is the perfect time to get started. Reach out to Ask Kubeir if you want help understanding your eligibility or building your profile for Canadian immigration. Let us help you take the next big step in your teaching journey. Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today! 📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services. 📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment” 📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services: Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details