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Missed Out on CRS Points for a Job Offer? You Can Still Boost Your Score with a Language Test

Not everyone applying for Canadian permanent residency has a job offer. And that’s okay. If you’re applying through Express Entry and feel your score is too low, one of the easiest and fastest ways to increase it is by improving your language test results. Here’s how it works and why it can make a big difference. Language Can Give You a Major CRS Boost When you apply through Express Entry, your profile gets a score called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The higher your score, the better your chances of getting selected. Language is one of the biggest areas where you can earn points—up to 310 points! That includes points for: And here’s the good news: You can take the language test as many times as you want. If you score better the next time, your CRS goes up. If You Know French, That’s a Bonus Canada is giving more chances to people who can speak French. In 2024 and 2025, French-speaking applicants have been selected even with lower CRS scores through special French-language draws. So if you speak French, or are willing to learn, it’s a great opportunity to get extra points and increase your chances of being selected. Real-Life Example: Amy Increased Her Score with Just One CLB Level Let’s say you’re like Amy. She had: That score wasn’t enough to qualify for recent Express Entry draws. So, Amy decided to study more and re-take her English test. She improved to CLB 9, and guess what? Her score jumped to 559. That was more than enough to get selected in the next draw. Here’s how her score changed when she improved from CLB 8 to CLB 9: Factor Points with CLB 8 Points with CLB 9 Age 105 105 Level of Education 120 120 Official languages proficiency 92 124 Canadian Work Experience 80 80 Skill transferability – language + education 13 25 Skill transferability – Canadian + education 25 25 Skill transferability – foreign + Canadian work 50 50 Additional points – education in Canada 30 30 Total Points 515 559 A single-level jump in the language test gave her 44 extra points. That’s a simple but powerful change. Want to Improve Your Language Test Score? Here’s How to Start 1. Make language learning part of your daily lifeEven 20–30 minutes a day can help. Use that time to practice reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The more consistent you are, the better your results. 2. Speak in real-life situationsReading books or doing online lessons is great, but speaking to people in real conversations is better. Join a language group, talk with friends, or attend a language exchange. 3. Take practice testsPractice tests show you what the real test looks like and help you get used to the format. They also reduce stress and help you do better on the actual test. 4. Use free resourcesThere are free tools online—practice tests, YouTube lessons, and mobile apps—that can help you prepare for CELPIP, IELTS, TEF, or TCF. 5. Try immersion if you canIf you’re learning French, being in a French-speaking environment—even for a few weeks—can boost your skills faster than anything else. What’s CLB?CLB stands for Canadian Language Benchmark. It’s the system Canada uses to measure your language skills. The higher the CLB, the more CRS points you get. Which language tests can I take? Make sure it’s the General version—not Academic. Can I take the test more than once?Yes, absolutely. You can re-take the test as many times as you want, and only your best score is used. Do I need both English and French?No, but if you do both and score well, you can get extra points. And if you do well in French, you might qualify for special French-speaking draws. What score should I aim for?Try to reach CLB 9 or higher. This is the level that gives you extra points for “skill transferability” and makes your profile much stronger. Final Thoughts You don’t need a job offer to succeed in Express Entry. If your CRS is low, language is your best tool to move up. It’s something you can control, and improving it could be the key to your new life in Canada. At Ask Kubeir, we help you build the perfect Express Entry strategy, including language score planning and test prep guidance. Ready to take the next step? Talk to us today. 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.

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Immigration applicant reviewing Canada judicial review extension notice on laptop

Canada Gives Immigration Applicants More Time to Challenge Refusals in Court

Good news for immigration applicants: Canada has extended the time you get to apply for a court review if your immigration application was refused. If you think your application was wrongly rejected, you now have more time to take legal action. Previously, applicants only had 30 days to perfect their application for judicial review. But as of May 14, 2025, Canada’s Federal Court has introduced special measures that give applicants an extra 45 days to complete their court challenge paperwork. That means you now have 75 days in total to submit all required documents after requesting a review. This change was made because of the huge number of court review requests that built up in 2024 and 2025. Many people felt they didn’t have enough time to prepare everything properly. Now, the process gives more breathing room to get things done right. What is a Judicial Review? If your immigration application gets refused and you believe it was due to a mistake or misunderstanding, you can ask a Canadian federal court to review that decision. This process is called a judicial review. You don’t go straight to a full court hearing. First, you must apply for “leave” – which means you’re asking the court for permission to review your case. If the court agrees, then it will move forward to actually review your case and possibly order it to be reconsidered. What Has Changed Now? The biggest update is about how much time you get after applying for leave. Under the new rule, once you file your leave application: When does this 75-day period start? The 75-day countdown begins from one of the following, depending on your situation: This change also applies to any applications already in progress that haven’t been reviewed yet. So if you’ve already filed a leave application and are waiting, this applies to you too. How Does the Judicial Review Process Work? Here’s a simplified explanation of how the process goes if you want to challenge your immigration refusal in Federal Court: What Can Happen After the Review? If the Federal Court finds that the immigration decision was made fairly and legally, your refusal will stand. But if the court finds that the decision involved an error of law or process, it may send your application back to be reviewed again – giving you a fresh chance without needing to start over completely. 1. Who can apply for judicial review?Anyone who received a refusal on their immigration application and believes there was a legal mistake or unfair process. 2. What is a “leave” in judicial review?“Leave” means permission. You must first get the court’s approval before your case can go to full review. 3. What if I already applied for leave before this rule changed?Good news — this new 75-day rule applies to you too, as long as your case hasn’t been decided yet. 4. Can I get a lawyer to help me with this?Yes, and it’s often a good idea. Immigration lawyers are experienced in handling judicial reviews and can prepare your documents correctly. 5. Is there a chance the court will reverse the refusal?The court does not make immigration decisions directly. If they find a legal issue, they will send your case back to the immigration office to be reconsidered. If your immigration application was refused and you feel it was unfair, this update gives you more time and better chances to challenge it properly. It’s an important step to ensure everyone has enough time to present their side clearly in court. For help with your case or to understand whether you qualify for judicial review, reach out to Ask Kubeir today. 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.

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Temporary foreign workers in Saskatchewan waiting for a work permit extension to continue employment

Saskatchewan Plans to Extend Work Permits for Skilled Workers

What’s Happening in Saskatchewan?Saskatchewan’s Immigration Minister, Jim Reiter, wants to give temporary foreign workers more time to stay in the province. He is asking the federal government to extend their work permits by two more years. This idea is inspired by Manitoba, which already got permission from the federal government to do the same. Saskatchewan is doing this because the federal government recently reduced the number of immigrants the province can nominate for permanent residency through its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). Why Is This a Problem?The federal government made nationwide cuts to immigration to reduce pressure on housing, healthcare, and education. But for Saskatchewan, this has caused serious problems. The number of people Saskatchewan can nominate under SINP dropped by 50%—from more than 7,000 to just 3,625 in 2025. Also, 75% of those nominations must go to people who are already in Canada. That makes it harder for new workers to get a chance. Since more than 90% of economic immigrants in Saskatchewan come through the SINP, many foreign workers could lose their chance to stay and may be forced to leave when their permits expire. What’s Saskatchewan’s Plan?Saskatchewan wants to follow Manitoba’s lead. In Manitoba, the federal government allowed 6,700 workers to stay until the end of 2025, even if their permits were ending. Saskatchewan hopes to make a similar deal so that temporary foreign workers have extra time to apply for permanent residency. Employers in Saskatchewan are also pushing for this because they are struggling to keep staff in key sectors like healthcare, trucking, and agriculture. How Did Manitoba Make It Work?Manitoba’s agreement allowed eligible workers to receive a 2-year work permit extension. This helped businesses retain employees, reduced worker stress, and showed that provinces and the federal government can work together. Saskatchewan is now hoping to negotiate a similar deal to protect both workers and employers from the ongoing impact of reduced immigration slots. Who Will Benefit from This Extension?If the extension is approved, it would help: However, this will not help those who have already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) under SINP. Why Is This Important for Saskatchewan’s Economy?Saskatchewan needs immigrants to fill job gaps that locals can’t. But with fewer nomination spots: What’s Changing in SINP in 2025?To manage with fewer nomination spots, Saskatchewan is updating SINP rules as of March 27, 2025: These changes will make it much harder for new immigrants to get nominated unless they meet very specific conditions. How Will the Work Permit Extension Work?If the federal government agrees, here’s how it would happen: What Could Go Wrong?There are still challenges ahead: What Can Workers and Employers Do Now? For Workers: For Employers: What Does This Mean for the Bigger Picture?Saskatchewan’s request for a work permit extension shows that provincial needs don’t always match federal policies. The federal government is trying to reduce immigration to ease the pressure on services like housing and healthcare. But in places like Saskatchewan, immigrants are vital to the economy. Other provinces like Alberta and B.C. are also adjusting to these changes. Around the world, countries like Australia and the UK are making similar moves—only selecting immigrants based on critical skills. ConclusionSaskatchewan’s proposed work permit extension is a temporary but necessary solution. It could help prevent worker shortages, support local businesses, and allow more time for workers to apply for permanent residency. If approved, it would be a lifeline for many workers and employers who are feeling uncertain about the future. For now, the best approach is to stay informed, understand the changes, and make a plan based on your situation. 1. Who qualifies for the proposed work permit extension?Workers with a valid Saskatchewan work permit as of May 7, 2024, and whose permits are expiring in 2024 or 2025, may qualify—if the federal government approves the plan. 2. Will everyone get this extension?No. It will apply only to eligible workers. If you already received an LAA under SINP or work in certain restricted sectors, it might not apply. 3. When will we know if the extension is approved?Saskatchewan is still waiting for federal approval. There’s no official date yet, but workers should keep checking for updates from IRCC and SINP. 4. What if my job is now ineligible under SINP?Unfortunately, some job types like spa workers or pet groomers are no longer eligible. You may need to explore other immigration pathways or provinces. 5. Can I still apply for PR without SINP nomination?Yes, but it may be harder. You can explore Express Entry, Atlantic Immigration, or other provincial nominee programs that suit your profile. 6. Should I talk to an immigration consultant?Yes. A licensed consultant can help you understand your options, guide you through the process, and avoid mistakes that could delay or block your application. 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.

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Alberta invites more newcomers through PNP draws in early May

Between April 29 and May 8, 2025, the province of Alberta held a series of immigration draws under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), inviting a total of 295 applicants to apply for permanent residence. These invitations were issued under six different immigration streams, focusing on three main areas: healthcare professionals, workers in high-demand industries like construction and agriculture, and people willing to settle in rural Alberta. This approach highlights Alberta’s growing need for skilled workers across both urban and rural communities. Who got invited in these draws? Alberta’s draws targeted candidates through both Express Entry and non-Express Entry pathways. Some streams were designed especially for healthcare workers, while others focused on specific priority sectors like aviation, agriculture, and construction. The largest number of invitations (165) was issued under the Rural Renewal Stream, which helps bring new people to smaller communities in Alberta. This draw marked the second-largest Rural Renewal draw of the year, after a January draw that invited 190 candidates. Here’s a full summary of the recent draws: Summary of AAIP draws (April 29 – May 8) Draw date Stream or pathway Number of invitations issued Cut-off score 8 May, 2025 Dedicated Health Care Pathway – non-Express Entry 35 53 6 May, 2025 Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors (Aviation) 20 51 5 May, 2025 Rural Renewal Stream 165 68 1 May, 2025 Dedicated Health Care Pathway – Express Entry 36 59 30 April, 2025 Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors (Agriculture) 19 64 29 April, 2025 Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors (Construction) 20 67 Why are these draws important? These draws show Alberta’s continued effort to fill key labour shortages and support growing sectors of the economy. For instance, Alberta still faces a strong need for healthcare professionals, which is why two of these draws were focused specifically on that field. The province is also tapping into industries that are essential to its economy, like construction, agriculture, and aviation. It’s also clear that Alberta wants to boost the population in smaller towns and rural areas, which is why they’re actively inviting people through the Rural Renewal Stream. How many spots does Alberta have in 2025? For 2025, Alberta received 4,875 provincial nomination spots from the federal government. This is half the number they received in 2024, when their allocation was 9,750. Because of this lower number, each invitation and draw becomes more competitive. Alberta also shares useful statistics online, showing how many nominations are left, how many applications are in the queue, and how many people are waiting in the system. This helps candidates understand their chances and track the program’s progress. Here’s a snapshot of those numbers: Current status of AAIP nominations Stream or pathway 2025 nomination allocation 2025 nomination spaces remaining EOIs in the selection pool Applications to be processed Dedicated Health Care Pathways (Express Entry and non-Express Entry) 500 358 1,356 123 Alberta Express Entry Stream – Priority Sectors (all) 405 281 3,757 243 Rural Renewal Stream 950 601 3,623 1,948 Note: The figures for healthcare pathways include both Express Entry and non-Express Entry combined. Similarly, all priority sector streams like construction, agriculture, and aviation are grouped together. What does this mean for you? If you’re a skilled worker in a high-demand job sector—or open to living in a rural community—you may have a great chance to be selected by Alberta through one of these pathways. These draws show Alberta’s clear direction: attract the right talent to keep its economy growing. And while the number of nominations is limited, there’s still time to submit your profile, especially if you have relevant work experience in healthcare, trades, farming, or aviation. 1. What is the AAIP?The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is the provincial immigration system that selects people to apply for Canadian PR based on Alberta’s economic needs. 2. Do I need to be in Canada to be eligible?No, many of Alberta’s pathways, especially Express Entry-linked ones, are open to overseas applicants with the right work experience and qualifications. 3. What is a cut-off score?Each draw has a minimum score requirement. If your score is at or above that number, and you meet other criteria, you might be invited to apply. 4. What’s the benefit of applying through a rural stream?These streams can have fewer applicants and offer a better chance of selection—especially if you’re willing to live and work in smaller Alberta towns. 5. Is healthcare a top priority in Alberta immigration?Yes! Two out of six draws this month focused solely on healthcare workers, proving that Alberta urgently needs qualified people in this sector. 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.

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Person reviewing work permit documents while in Canada

Who Can Apply for a Work Permit from Inside Canada?

If you’re already in Canada and wondering whether you can apply for a work permit without leaving the country—good news! In certain situations, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does allow people to apply for a work permit from within Canada. But this is only possible if you meet one of nine specific conditions. If you don’t fall into one of these categories, then you’ll need to apply for a work permit either from outside Canada online or, in rare cases, at the border. Let’s walk through the nine situations that allow you to apply for a work permit while staying in Canada. You have a valid study or work permit If you’re in Canada and currently have a valid study or work permit, you can apply for a new work permit without leaving the country. The important thing is to apply before your current permit expires. For example, if you’re working in Canada and your job ends, but you find another one, you can apply for a new permit—as long as you do it before your current status ends. IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before your permit expires. Your spouse, common-law partner, or parent has a valid study or work permit If your spouse, partner, or parent is studying or working in Canada and their permit is still valid, then you may qualify for a work permit too. This rule is often used by family members who come to Canada together. For example, if your spouse is finishing a degree at a Canadian university and still has time left on their study permit, you can apply for your own work permit during that period. You qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) If you’ve recently finished your studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, and your study permit is still valid, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This type of permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada. However, just graduating from a Canadian school does not automatically make you eligible. You must meet all the rules about the type of program you completed, your status in Canada, and how long you studied. You or your family member has a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) valid for 6 months or more A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) allows someone who’s usually not allowed into Canada to stay temporarily for important reasons—like visiting a sick relative or attending a major family event. If you, your spouse, or your parent has a TRP that’s valid for at least six months, you may be allowed to apply for a work permit from inside Canada. You’ve applied for permanent residence and are waiting for a decision You may be allowed to work in Canada while waiting for your permanent residence application to be processed, but only in some cases. For example: In these cases, you can apply for an open work permit while waiting for the final decision. You are allowed to work without a work permit but now need one for another job Some people can do certain jobs in Canada without needing a work permit. But if they want to take on a new job that requires a permit, they can apply from inside Canada. These individuals include: If you’re already in Canada and doing one of these jobs legally without a permit—but now want to switch to a different job that requires one—you can apply from within Canada. You are in Canada under CUSMA as a professional, transferee, trader, or investor If you’re a U.S. or Mexican citizen working in Canada under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) in one of the following roles, you may apply for a new permit from within Canada: Category Who is eligible? Professionals US or Mexican citizens with a job offer in one of the 63 approved occupations and matching qualifications. Intra-company transferees Senior staff or specialists from international companies transferring to a Canadian office. Traders Individuals involved in significant trade of goods or services between their home country and Canada. Investors Those who have made or are actively making large investments in a Canadian business. You’ve made a refugee claim in Canada If you’ve applied for refugee protection (asylum) while in Canada and are waiting for a decision, you may qualify for a work permit. To be eligible, you must show that you fear returning to your home country because of serious threats to your safety—like torture, violence, or persecution based on race, religion, or political beliefs. You are a Convention Refugee or Protected Person If the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) has ruled that you are a Convention Refugee or Protected Person, you can apply for a work permit from within Canada. You may also be eligible if IRCC gave you a positive decision on a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA), which confirms that it would be unsafe for you to return to your home country. Maintained Status: What if your current permit is about to expire? If you apply for a new permit before your current one expires, you may be granted what’s called maintained status. This means you can stay in Canada under the same conditions of your current permit while your new application is being processed. How to Apply for a Work Permit from Inside Canada Applying is mostly done online through your IRCC secure account. Here’s what you need to do: Once submitted, you’ll wait for IRCC to review your application. Current processing time is around 233 days. Important: Your work permit cannot be issued past your passport’s expiration date. Make sure your passport is valid before you apply. Can I apply for a work permit if my study permit just expired?No. You must apply while your permit is still valid. If it’s expired, you likely need to apply from outside Canada. Can I stay in Canada while waiting for a new work permit?Yes, if you applied before your current permit expired. You’ll have maintained status, which allows you

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Lena Metlege Diab Becomes Canada’s New Immigration Minister

Canada has a new immigration leader – Lena Metlege Diab. She was recently appointed by Prime Minister Mark Carney after his Liberal Party won the federal election. Diab now takes charge of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), replacing the former minister, Rachel Bendayan. Why do cabinet changes happen?Changes in ministers like this are common in Canada after elections. The Prime Minister often updates the team to better match new goals or priorities. Who is Lena Metlege Diab?Lena Metlege Diab is not new to immigration work. She served as Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration from 2013 to 2021, where she helped bring more newcomers to the province. She introduced new immigration programs, supported small businesses owned by immigrants, and used Express Entry-linked immigration streams to attract skilled workers. She has broken many barriers. Diab was the first woman of Lebanese descent elected to a legislature in Canada and the first woman to be Nova Scotia’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice. She also held other roles, including Minister of Labour and Advanced Education and Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie. Diab’s background is inspiring.Born and raised in Halifax to Lebanese immigrant parents, she speaks English, French, and Arabic. She studied commerce and law, and worked as a lawyer and small business owner before joining politics. She is also very active in the Lebanese Canadian community and served as the first female president of the Canadian-Lebanon Society of Halifax. According to her campaign website, Diab’s values are based on diversity, inclusion, fairness, and teamwork—all important for shaping Canada’s immigration system. What could change under Prime Minister Mark Carney?With a new Prime Minister in charge, Canada’s immigration policy may see some shifts. While detailed plans are yet to be announced, Carney has talked about: These priorities suggest that the government might focus more on long-term permanent immigration and put some limits on temporary visas. Why immigration matters so much in CanadaImmigration is one of Canada’s most powerful tools for economic growth and population increase. In fact, almost 100% of Canada’s labour force and population growth now comes from newcomers. That’s why the immigration minister’s role is so important—it affects workers, students, families, and employers across the country. The immigration department also has the power to make temporary policy changes without waiting for Parliament to approve. For example, it can change work permit rules or adjust how many hours international students can work. This gives the minister a lot of flexibility to respond quickly to changes in the job market or the economy. Who is the new immigration minister of Canada?The new minister is Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West. She replaced Rachel Bendayan and now leads Canada’s immigration department (IRCC). What is Lena Metlege Diab’s experience with immigration?She was Nova Scotia’s Minister of Immigration for eight years and played a key role in bringing more newcomers to the province through innovative programs. What language does Diab speak?She is trilingual – she speaks English, French, and Arabic. What might change with Canada’s immigration under Prime Minister Mark Carney?While details are still coming, Carney has suggested he wants to lower immigration levels, increase skilled economic immigration, and reduce temporary visa use, especially for short-term workers and international students. Why is immigration so important for Canada?Immigration helps fill job gaps, supports economic growth, and drives population growth. Without immigrants, Canada’s workforce and economy would struggle to grow. Can the immigration minister change policies without Parliament?Yes. The minister can make temporary policy decisions, such as adjusting work permit rules or student work hours, without going through Parliament. 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.

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Infographic showing BC PNP 2025 immigration draw results and nomination priorities

British Columbia Starts 2025 Immigration Draws with Tight Limits on Skilled Workers

British Columbia has officially begun its immigration draws for 2025 — but with strict limits. On May 8, the province held its first Skills Immigration draw of the year under the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). Until now, the province had only conducted draws for entrepreneurs this year. Only 94 candidates were invited in this draw, and British Columbia made it clear that these invitations are focused on candidates who bring high economic impact to the province. Who received invitations in the May 8 draw? The 94 candidates invited in this draw qualified through one of two criteria: These two groups each made up half of the total invitations issued. This shows that British Columbia is looking for either top-level professionals with high wages or those with very strong profiles in the BC PNP system. Why so few invitations this year? The main reason is that the federal government has significantly reduced the number of nominations British Columbia can issue in 2025. In response, BC has said it will nominate only about 100 high-impact skilled workers through this particular immigration pathway. This means the window of opportunity is much smaller than in previous years. What else is British Columbia focusing on in 2025? If British Columbia reaches its limit of high-impact nominations, the rest of the province’s limited nomination spots will go to: So, unless you fall into one of these priority areas, it may be much harder to receive a nomination from British Columbia this year. What future draws may consider Although this draw focused on wage and point score, future draws may invite candidates based on different factors, including: British Columbia has also made major changes to its immigration system this year. Here are the biggest updates to BC immigration in 2025: These changes are designed to help British Columbia make the most out of its limited allocation from the federal government, by focusing only on key priority areas. 1. What is the BC PNP?The BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) allows British Columbia to nominate foreign workers and graduates for Canadian permanent residence based on the province’s economic needs. 2. What does “high economic impact” mean?It refers to candidates who bring strong economic value to the province — for example, people with high-paying jobs, advanced skills, or those working in priority sectors like healthcare. 3. Can I still apply to the BC PNP this year?Yes, but it will be much more competitive in 2025. British Columbia is only accepting a limited number of new applications and focusing on very specific candidate types. 4. What if I’m an international student in BC?If you applied under the International Post-Graduate (IPG) Stream between September 2024 and January 2025, your application may be waitlisted. Additionally, new student immigration streams are delayed until the province receives more nomination spaces. 5. What if I’m an Early Childhood Educator Assistant?Unfortunately, ECE Assistants are no longer included in education draws. Only fully certified Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) are now being considered under those streams. 6. Is it easier to immigrate to another province?It depends on your profile. Other provinces may have more nomination spots or more flexible criteria in 2025. It’s best to get a full eligibility assessment before deciding where to apply. 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.

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Steinbach immigration pathway explained with priority jobs and PR steps

Steinbach’s New Immigration Pathway: Who Can Apply and How It Works

The city of Steinbach in Manitoba has officially launched its own immigration stream under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP). This program is designed to help foreign workers get permanent residence (PR) by working in one of Steinbach’s priority sectors through a job offer from a designated local employer. Steinbach is Manitoba’s third-largest city and this new immigration pathway includes surrounding areas like the rural municipalities of Ste. Anne, Piney, La Broquerie, and the towns of Landmark and Vita. If you’re a foreign worker looking to settle in a welcoming, growing community in Canada, Steinbach’s RCIP could be your gateway — especially if your job falls under one of the approved occupations listed below. How the Steinbach RCIP Works This is an employer-driven program, which means you need a valid job offer from an approved employer in Steinbach to apply. The employer must be operating in one of the city’s priority sectors, and your job offer must match one of the approved occupations under Steinbach’s list. Once you get the job offer, and if you meet the program’s other requirements (like education, language, experience, and settlement funds), the local development office — called Steinbach Economic Development (SED) — will issue a certificate of recommendation. You can then use this to apply directly for PR with the federal government. Priority Sectors in Steinbach Each community in the RCIP can select up to five sectors that are important for local development. Steinbach has chosen: Priority Occupations in Steinbach To be eligible, your job offer must match one of the following roles and NOC (National Occupation Classification) codes: Occupation Title NOC Code Accounting technicians and bookkeepers 12200 Agriculture representatives, consultants and specialists 21112 Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians 32104 Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers 72410 Business systems specialists 21221 Construction estimators 22303 Construction managers 70010 Database analysts and data administrators 21223 Drafting technologists and technicians 22212 Early childhood educators and assistants 42202 Electrical mechanics 72422 Food service supervisors (excluding fast food restaurants) 62020 General practitioners and family physicians 31102 Heavy-duty equipment mechanics 72401 Industrial and manufacturing engineers 21321 Insurance agents and brokers 63100 Lawyers and Quebec notaries 41101 Licensed practical nurses 32101 Massage therapists 32201 Nurses aides, orderlies and patient service associates 33102 Pharmacy technicians 32124 Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations 11202 Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301 Retail and wholesale trade managers 60020 Welders and related machine operators 72106 Application and Recommendation Rules Important Reminders If you meet all these conditions and receive a recommendation certificate, you can move ahead and apply for permanent residence through IRCC. 1. What makes Steinbach’s RCIP different from other immigration pathways?It’s community-based and employer-led, meaning the city decides which jobs are needed most. You need a job offer from a designated local employer in a priority sector. 2. Do I need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)?No. One of the biggest advantages is that RCIP doesn’t require an LMIA, which usually makes hiring foreign workers slower and harder for employers. 3. How many people can apply each month?Only 7 applications are accepted each month, and just 1 per job type (NOC code). This means it’s important to act quickly when the intake opens on the 1st of each month. 4. Can I apply without a job offer?No. You must have a job offer from a designated employer in Steinbach in order to apply. 5. What are the chances for healthcare workers?Very good. Roles like registered nurses, practical nurses, and care aides are not limited by monthly or yearly caps, which gives healthcare workers more opportunities to get selected. 6. What if I work in a fast food restaurant?You won’t qualify under the Food Service Supervisor category. The RCIP for Steinbach excludes fast food jobs from eligibility. 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.

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Candidates selected in the May 8, 2025 BC PNP draw for Canadian permanent residency

BC PNP Invites 94 Skilled Workers in May 8, 2025

On May 8, 2025, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) held its latest immigration draw and invited 94 skilled workers to apply for permanent residency in Canada. This draw focused on people with strong job experience and the potential to support B.C.’s growing economy. Who Was Invited in This Draw In this latest draw, 94 people were selected based on two different groups: Only candidates who had already registered with the BC PNP before this draw were considered. What Is NOC and TEER? BC PNP uses the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system to categorize all jobs in Canada. Jobs are grouped by TEER levels, which show the amount of training, education, and experience needed. Here’s a simple breakdown: TEER Level What it Means TEER 0 Management jobs TEER 1 Jobs needing a university degree TEER 2 Jobs needing a college diploma or apprenticeship TEER 3 Jobs needing some post-secondary education or training TEER 4 Jobs needing high school education or short-term training TEER 5 Jobs needing little or no formal training Most of the invitations in this draw were for TEER 0 and TEER 1 jobs, meaning B.C. is currently looking for highly educated and experienced professionals. What Does BC Look for in Candidates? B.C. selects applicants based on a mix of personal and professional qualities. These include: All these factors help the province choose people who can succeed and contribute to the local economy. How Long Does the BC PNP Process Take? B.C. usually holds about 4 to 5 immigration draws each month, focusing on different types of jobs or regions. Once you’re invited and apply, 80% of applications are processed within 8 to 10 months. This makes the BC PNP one of the more consistent and stable immigration options in Canada. 1. What is BC PNP?BC PNP stands for British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program. It allows the province to nominate skilled workers, international graduates, and others for Canadian permanent residence. 2. What is the minimum salary needed to qualify for this draw?For the May 8 draw, some candidates needed to be earning at least $105 per hour and have a job in a high-level occupation (TEER 0 or 1). 3. What does SIRS mean?SIRS stands for Skills Immigration Registration System. It’s a points-based system used by B.C. to rank immigration candidates. Higher points give you a better chance of receiving an invitation. 4. Do I need a job offer to qualify?Yes, for most streams under the BC PNP, a valid job offer from a B.C. employer is required. 5. Can international students apply under BC PNP?Yes, there are specific BC PNP streams for international graduates, especially those with job offers in B.C. after completing their studies in Canada. 6. Is this the same as Express Entry?No, but some BC PNP streams are linked to Express Entry. If you’re eligible for both, it can speed up your permanent residency process. 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.

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Canada visa processing timelines chart showing updated wait times by country and visa type

Canada Visa Processing Times Updated – What Indians Should Know (May 2025)

If you’re planning to study, visit, work, or move to Canada from India, there’s an important update you should know about. On May 6, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released the latest processing time estimates. These timelines show how long it might take to get your visa or permanent residency (PR) right now. While they’re not exact promises, they give a good idea of current delays based on how many applications IRCC is handling. Why this matters: Whether you’re applying for a study permit, work visa, or PR, knowing the wait time can help you plan better—like when to submit your application or when to expect a decision. Let’s take a look at the latest wait times in simple terms. Citizenship Applications If you’re applying for Canadian citizenship, here’s what you can expect now: PR (Permanent Residency) Card Timelines If you already have PR and need a card or renewal: IRCC reminds applicants to double-check their applications, as incomplete forms are a major reason for delays. Economic Class Permanent Residency This includes programs like Express Entry, PNP, and others: As you can see, PR applications can vary widely depending on the stream you apply through. Visitor Visas and Super Visas Planning a short visit to Canada? Here’s how long you’ll wait depending on where you apply from: Visitor Visa Processing Times (Outside Canada) Country Processing Time India 19 days United States 18 days Nigeria 89 days Pakistan 25 days Philippines 27 days Study Permits Students from India still have a reliable timeline: Work Permits If you’re applying from India, work permit processing continues to be slow: What This Means for You These timelines are not fixed guarantees, but they reflect current conditions. If IRCC gets fewer applications or improves its speed, processing times can go down. If there are more delays or more people apply, the wait could get longer. Be sure to submit a complete application, with all required documents and information, to avoid delays. Missing paperwork is still one of the top reasons for slower processing. 1. Are these timelines final or can they change?No, these are only estimates based on how many applications IRCC has right now. They can change anytime. 2. Why is my friend’s visa processed faster or slower than mine?Processing times vary by country, type of visa, and how complete your application is. Some applications need background checks or extra documents. 3. How can I track my visa status?You can log in to your IRCC account online and check your application progress directly. 4. Can I speed up my application process?There’s no official way to speed it up, but submitting a complete and accurate application from the beginning helps a lot. 5. Why is the work permit from India taking 18 weeks?IRCC receives a high number of work permit applications from India. Combined with case-by-case checks, this slows things down. 6. Is there a best time to apply to avoid delays?There’s no perfect time, but applying early—especially for study or work—is always a good idea, ideally 3–6 months before your planned travel. 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.

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