by Immilaw Team | Jan 8, 2024 | Canada
International students studying in Canada might sometimes face situations where their Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) might delay the start of their program to the next semester. Students might need to postpone starting their studies due to reasons like a family emergency or requiring additional funds.
If a student intends to postpone the commencement of their studies in Canada, seeking permission from their educational institution is essential. The student must formally request permission to defer their enrollment, whether prompted by personal circumstances or due to delay from DLIs. This process involves contacting and following the institution’s specific guidelines and procedures for deferred enrollment.
Let us have a look into the different options available for international students to defer their enrollment.
1. Resuming Studies Within a Specific Period
Upon deferring their enrollment at a Canadian DLI, international students can resume their studies either at the start of the subsequent semester or within 150 days from confirming their deferred enrollment, whichever occurs earlier. This option allows them flexibility, selecting the earlier timeframe between these two options, to resume their academic pursuits within the specified period.
2. Changing Immigration Status in Canada
Another option to extend their stay in Canada involves pursuing a change in their status. This entails transitioning from their current international student status to visitor status or worker status within the country.
How can international students shift to visitor status in Canada?
When international students in Canada opt to defer their enrollment, pathways are available to extend their stay in the country. One such option involves applying for a visitor record, providing an opportunity for continued presence in Canada. International students requiring a visitor record must apply at least 30 days before their current student status or study permit expires.
A visitor record and a visitor visa are different; they serve distinct purposes and have varying conditions. A visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa) is a necessary document for travel and entry into Canada, specifically for citizens of certain countries. It permits entry into Canada for a duration of up to six months. On the other hand, a visitor record extends the stay duration in Canada. These records are issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
A visitor record generally allows temporary residents to extend their stay in Canada as visitors, workers, or students without requiring specific permits. However, holding a visitor record does not guarantee re-entry into Canada.
A visitor visa indicates a specific date by which the visa holder must enter Canada, not the expiration date for their stay in the country. This date is the deadline for the visa holder’s arrival in Canada. In contrast, the expiry date on the visitor record indicates the deadline for the holder’s departure from Canada.
How can international students shift to Worker status in Canada?
International students have the option to transition to worker status through either an Employer-specific or Open work permit.
Employer-specific work permits allow the holder to work with a particular employer, location, and timeframe.
Conversely, an open work permit provides the flexibility to work for nearly any employer in Canada, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and are not listed as ineligible.
Eligibility criteria vary based on whether the individual resides inside or outside Canada. For further details on eligibility, application procedures, and subsequent steps, visit the Government of Canada website.
3. Departing from Canada
Another alternative option for international students deferring their enrollment in Canada is to depart from the country. This is a common choice, especially for those who are certain they will not return within the stipulated timeframe or need more clarity on when the situation prompting their deferral will be resolved. By opting to leave, students can manage their circumstances elsewhere without worrying about their studies in Canada. For any deferral instances, students must acquire an updated letter of acceptance directly from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This updated letter confirms and acknowledges the deferred enrollment, ensuring clarity and compliance with the institution’s records.
In conclusion, deferring enrollment for international students in Canada offers diverse options, such as resuming studies within a timeframe, changing status, or opting to leave the country. Each option requires considering personal circumstances and adhering to Canadian regulations. Awareness of these choices enables students to handle unforeseen situations while managing their academic journey in Canada efficiently.
Every student’s situation is unique, so seeking guidance from your institution’s international student services or immigration authorities is advisable. Keeping updated with reliable sources will assist in navigating the complexities associated with deferring enrollment and leaving Canada as an international student.
If you need assistance or further clarification regarding deferring enrollment, contact us at ImmiLaw Immigration Law Professional Corporation. At ImmiLaw, our experienced immigration lawyers specialize in Canadian immigration law and provide expert guidance on matters related to enrollment deferral and student immigration.
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Read To Know: Easiest Routes For International Students To Canadian PR
by Immilaw Team | Jan 6, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Canadian government has set ambitious targets for granting PR under the economic category, aiming to welcome 883,635 primary applicants by 2026 according to the new immigration levels plan for 2024-2026. Canada has been facing increased competition for permanent residency among international students due to a surge in applications and a rise in the number of temporary residents within the country. This intensifying competition may pose challenges for international students aspiring to attain permanent residency in Canada.
Canada’s immigration system plans to prioritize international students with High-Demand Skills, aligning permanent residency opportunities with labor market needs. The strategy, part of Global Affairs Canada’s Education Plan, is to better prepare international students for the workforce. The plan expects to strengthen ties between students, post-secondary institutions, and employers, emphasizing work-integrated learning.
Immigration minister Marc Miller recently highlighted plans to revamp the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, prioritizing support for vital industries experiencing skill shortages. This initiative aims to increase opportunities for international students and work permit holders possessing high-demand skills to extend their stay in the country.
International students holding the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and engaged in 82 specific occupations aligned with the Express Entry system stand a better chance at obtaining PR than PGWP holders in different occupations. Experience or employment in these targeted occupations enhances their prospects for securing PR status.
PNPs and Express Entry System
PR can be secured in Canada through two main routes: Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and the Express Entry System. Minister Miller has emphasized efforts to address labour shortages, particularly in vital sectors such as construction and healthcare.
Industries like trade, technology, and healthcare are in high demand across Canadian provinces and within the federal Express Entry system. Proficiency in the French language is also a targeted criterion for Canadian immigration, presenting an additional avenue for PR.
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International students aiming for Canadian PR can focus on these key areas: trades, tech, healthcare, and French proficiency to enhance their prospects within the Canadian immigration landscape.
Pathways for International Students to PR.
Pathways for International Students to PR
Let us look into the easiest pathways for international students to obtain PR in Canada.
1. Pursuing In-Demand Sectors
Consider entering skilled trades, tech, or healthcare sectors during your studies. Skilled trades certification can add 50 extra points in Express Entry, with lower cut-off scores in these specialized draws. All Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Canada prioritize these sectors in their PR selections.
2. Learning French for PR
This path to PR is less competitive due to the reluctance of most international students to learn French. However, becoming proficient in French makes you eligible for Francophone immigration, offering lower PR points cut-offs in both PNPs and Express Entry.
The 2024–2026 Immigration Levels Plan targets Francophone immigration at 6% in 2024, rising to 7% in 2025 and further to 8% in 2026. Proficiency in both English and French languages presents a significant advantage for international students in this context.
3. Choosing a Second Program
International students completing a 1-year diploma in Canada can pursue a second program after graduation to elevate their Canadian education level. This boosts their CRS points for PR eligibility and extends the PGWP duration.
Opting for a 4-year degree in high-demand sectors such as healthcare allows students to stay legally for the entire program duration, subsequently qualifying for a PGWP of the same duration. This notably enhances their chances of attaining PR, surpassing those students who completed a one-year diploma with a shorter PGWP.\
4. Rural Immigration Programs for International students
International students often overlook rural immigration programs, as many prefer to reside in major cities. Meanwhile, IRCC is exploring avenues to expand the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) to additional towns and is striving to establish this program as a permanent fixture.
For instance, Alberta offers PR options in over 22 rural communities. Other provinces also provide pathways to PR in rural areas. Students can choose the immigration pathways focused on rural or regional areas an easier route to attain Canadian PR.
5. Exploring Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Exploring the Start-Up Visa program is a great choice for those with innovative ideas or a passion for business. Entrepreneurs who fulfill the criteria of the Canada Start-Up Visa program can apply for PR in Canada. This initiative helps at least five international students attain PR in Canada. While it may seem appealing, the Start-Up Visa Program is not as simple as it seems. Yet, it is a potential option for obtaining Canadian permanent residency and settling for life.
At ImmiLaw Immigration, our seasoned team, consisting of immigration lawyers and overseas study specialists, offers support for study permits, second program selection, post-study pathways, and diverse immigration requirements. Connect with us to pave your path toward a brighter future in Canada.
Feel free to contact us for your queries.
Read To Know: 5 Common Causes For Canada Visitor Visa Rejection
by Immilaw Team | Jan 5, 2024 | Canada Immigration
Canada warmly embraces millions of global students every year. Notably, 2022 was labelled a “record-breaking year” for visa applications by Canadian immigration. Increasingly, students aspire to settle in Canada after their studies, eyeing Permanent Residency (PR) status. Interestingly, for international students, there is a compelling option to keep their PR dream alive: choosing a second Canadian program! This choice opens doors to fresh advantages and opportunities that might otherwise be tough.
Advantages of Enrolling in a Second Program in Canada
Let us explore the advantages of enrolling in a second program in Canada:
1. Extended Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
Students opting for a second-year program will get a longer post-graduate work permit (PGWP). A single year of study grants only a one-year PGWP. However, committing to 2-3 years of study can secure up to 3 years of PGWP. It is essential to note that they have only one chance to apply for a PGWP. Hence, extending their study plan is a smart move, particularly if they lack adequate prior work experience.
2. Extra CRS Score for PR Application
Canadian qualifications are a big plus to boost your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. These qualifications are significant in the CRS score, which is crucial for your PR application. Longer study periods increase your CRS score, making it more likely for you to be selected in the express entry pool. Each extra education level you achieve can earn you between 15 to 30 CRS points, making your PR application stronger.
3. Enhances Skillset
Canada’s top-notch education equips students to thrive in its diverse culture. Longer studies upgrade skills, keeping you competitive. Moreover, skill transferability can add a maximum of 100 points to the CRS score. So, extending your studies enhances your skill set, further strengthening your profile.
4. Expanding career options
Studying for 2-3 or more years in Canada offers valuable insights for students, exposing them to diverse career opportunities. This exposure helps students easily change careers or choose their best career path.
How to choose a Second Program?
Selecting a second program for international students in Canada requires strategic planning. You may consider these options:
Targeted Occupations:
Choose a study program that may lead to in-demand occupations and thus enhance your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) under the Express Entry system.
Provincial Nomination Options:
Explore programs in provinces offering nomination pathways for international students. Some provinces offer better immigration programs for international students.
Rural Immigration Programs:
Consider programs in regions supporting Rural Immigration Programs. Some regional programs offer international students unique pathways to permanent residence.
Professional Guidance:
Seek advice from a Canadian immigration lawyer specializing in study-to-migrate programs. Their expertise can ensure that you make informed choices and overcome the complexities of the Canadian immigration landscape efficiently
Conclusion
In conclusion, international students aiming for a second program in Canada should approach their choice strategically since opting for a second program opens the door to numerous opportunities in Canada. A second program in Canada offers longer work permits, boosts CRS scores, enhances skills, and aids in career flexibility. Extending studies strengthens students’ competitiveness. Careful planning and guidance are crucial for making informed decisions, driving them closer to achieving Canadian PR goals.
At ImmiLaw Immigration, our seasoned team, consisting of immigration lawyers and overseas study specialists, offers support for study permits, second program selection, post-study pathways, and diverse immigration requirements. Connect with us to pave your path toward a brighter future in Canada.
Feel free to contact us for your queries.
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by Immilaw Team | Nov 27, 2023 | Canada Immigration
When applying for a visitor visa, knowing the potential grounds for refusal is essential. Among these reasons, one common cause for rejection is the inability to assure immigration authorities of your intention to depart from Canada after your authorized stay. Having solid proof, such as documents, is crucial to demonstrate your intent to comply with the visa regulations.
The decision of whether to accept or refuse a visa depends on how the immigration officer views your application. If officers suspect you won’t depart Canada after your authorized stay, they might reject your visa. It’s the applicant’s responsibility to prove they meet all visitor visa requirements.
Hence, applicants must show their commitment to returning after their authorized stay by:
- Establishing ties to their residence (like family, social ties, and community involvement).
- Providing evidence of personal assets, employment, and financial status in their home country.
- Clearly stating the purpose of their visit to Canada.
An immigration officer may refuse a visitor’s visa application if they have doubts about the applicant’s intention to depart at the end of the authorized stay.
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Factors Leading to Visitor Visa Refusals
1. Applicant’s Lack of Ties to Home Country
Insufficient evidence of ties like employment, dependent family, or property at home might lead to concerns about not returning after visiting Canada. Providing employment confirmation, residence proof, and dependent details is crucial.
2. Purpose of Visit Not Clearly Stated
Lack of detailed information about the purpose of the visit might result in visa refusal. Submitting documentation such as invitation letters or event specifics can support the application, especially if the stay is for a specific event.
3. Inadequate Financial Resources
Visa refusals might occur if there’s doubt about the applicant’s ability to finance their return trip or if the sponsor lacks adequate finance to support the visit to Canada.
4. Limited travel history
Previous visa refusals or overstay incidents elsewhere could lead to a rejection. Limited travel history also raises concerns about the likelihood of returning home after the authorized stay in Canada.
5. Misleading Information
Any false or misleading information, whether intentional or not, can lead to visa refusal. It’s essential to fill out forms accurately and provide the necessary documents to avoid misrepresentation issues.
ImmiLaw Immigration is a Canadian licensed immigration law firm with a dedicated team of Immigration lawyers. If you plan to visit your close family and friends in Cannada, we’re here to assist you throughout the process.
Please contact us for any questions or assistance regarding your Canadian r Visa application.
by Immilaw Team | Nov 6, 2023 | Canada Immigration
Nova Scotia, a province in Atlantic Canada, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative to bolster its construction industry. The province is launching the Critical Construction Worker Pilot, a pioneering immigration program. The program aims to address the persistent labour shortages affecting 21 essential occupations within the construction sector. This strategic move not only underscores Nova Scotia’s commitment to meeting the industry’s demand but also heralds an innovative approach to resolving employment challenges within the region’s thriving construction landscape.
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Requirements for the Critical Construction Worker Pilot Program
The Critical Construction Worker Pilot – Job Offer Pathway is exclusively for individuals who have received offers for permanent, full-time employment from a Nova Scotia-based business.
To be eligible, you must:
To be eligible, you must:
- Possess one year of work experience relevant to the job.
- Hold either a high school diploma or evidence of completion of a construction-specific industry training program.
- Age must fall between 21 and 55 years.
- Prove language proficiency equivalent to CLB Level 5 for NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or CLB Level 4 for NOC TEER 4 and 5, even if English or French is your first language.
- Provide documents proving sufficient financial funds to settle in Nova Scotia.
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In addition to the previously stated requirements, the job offer must also align with the approved National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes outlined below:
- 70010 – Construction managers
- 70011 – Home building and renovation managers.
- 72011– Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations.
- 72014 – Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers.
- 72020 – Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades.
- 72106 – Welders and related machine operators
- 72200 – Electricians (except industrial and power system)
- 72201 – Industrial electricians
- 72310 – Carpenters
- 72320 – Bricklayers
- 72401 – Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
- 72402 – Heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning mechanics
- 72500 – Crane operators
- 73100 – Concrete finishers
- 73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers, finishers and lathers
- 73110 – Roofers and shinglers
- 73200 – Residential and commercial installers and servicers.
- 73400 – Heavy equipment operators
- 75101 – Material handlers
- 75110 – Construction trades helpers and labourers
- 75119 – Other trades helpers and labourers
If you are considering applying for Nova Scotia’s Critical Construction Worker Pilot Program, we encourage you to contact ImmiLaw Immigration today. Our team consists of competent and experienced immigration professionals, including lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants, all committed to providing exceptional service. Don’t hesitate—reach out today and let ImmiLaw Immigration’s dedicated team guide you through the process with expertise and care.
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Read To Know: Nova Scotia to Enhance Immigration Options for Healthcare Professionals
