Visas to Canada in 2 weeks and other news

Last week there were some very important developments regarding immigration to Canada. There was a big technology conference in Toronto, and the Minister of Immigration made some statements there.

First, those who have a U.S. work visa will be able to obtain a work permit in Canada. Secondly, Canada plans to create a new stream for foreign workers. They will be able to get a work permit for 5 years if they sign a contract with an innovative company.

Third update. Some professionals will be issued a work permit in 2 weeks. This applies to those who have found work in a managerial or highly skilled position. This also includes researchers and some in-demand IT workers.

There will also be changes to the Start-up Visa, which is an immigration program for startup founders. In the coming years, Canada will increase the application limit, and entrepreneurs will be able to get a work permit for three years instead of one to stay in Canada while they wait for a decision on their immigration application. And it will be possible to work for other companies, not just their startup.

If you are interested in business immigration, I recommend booking a consultation with our specialist. In addition to the Start-up visa, there are other options for relocation: by establishing a branch of your company, through the purchase of a business, under the program for the self-employed, etc.

Canada expanded its employment program for foreign seafarers. Workers from some countries can prove their qualifications and get a work permit in a simplified way. Previously, the list of countries included Ukraine, Australia, Norway, and France. Now Georgia, the U.K., and the Philippines were added.

And one more important statement. Those who obtained a work visa to Canada can also get an education in the country. Previously, if you came with a work permit and wanted to go to study as well, you had to get an additional study permit. Now it is not required, and you can just combine work and education. However, you will still be charged the same price as foreigners. The measure will be in force until 2026.

We help with admission Canadian universities and colleges without exams and language tests, contact us for assistance.

Some interesting statistics. A research company did a survey in which they asked Canadians questions from the citizenship test. And it turned out that only 23% could pass it. Canadians did the worst on the history questions. Although we obtained citizenship last year, and the test seemed easy.

Now to the immigration selections. On June 26, there was a draw in the province of Manitoba, and it was for Ukrainian citizens only. They needed basic English and some connection to the province, such as relatives, work, or study. 49 people were invited. Three days later, Manitoba held another drawing, but for all candidates, and selected 587 people. They were skilled workers in Manitoba, skilled workers overseas, and international graduates.

On June 27, the selection was held in British Columbia, where 185 people were invited. They were specialists of different qualifications and graduates. Separately, they invited in-demand specialists, such as educators, medics, and veterinarians.

And there were two rounds of invitations via Express Entry. On June 27, a general selection for everyone who was registered. They chose 4,300 people with a passing score of 486. And the next day there was the first targeted drawing for those with in-demand professions. For them, the passing score was reduced. There's a separate article about this selection to find out who was invited to the selection, with what score, and which professions are a priority for Canada.

By the way, starting July 5, Canada promises Express Entry selections for another category — workers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The first draw is going to be for professionals such as data scientists, software developers, mathematicians, and engineers.

Alex Pavlenko, founder of the Immigrant.Today emigration portal