World Migration News - March 18, 2023
News Bulletin 1
Canada extends work permit validity for international students by 18 months.
Canada has decided to extend work permits for international students by 18 months. This decision aims to help international students in Canada cope with the high costs of studying and living.
According to information from the Canadian Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, international students will be allowed to work a maximum of 40 hours per week during summer breaks and a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic year. This extension of the work permit will help international students earn enough money to cover their living and study expenses.
To have their work permit extended, international students need to meet certain conditions, including:
- Students must be studying at a registered university or college that is on the list of institutions eligible for a PGWP in Canada.
- Students must have a current work permit and not be in violation of its regulations.
- Those with expired or expiring post-graduation work permits in 2023 will be eligible.
- Individuals who qualify for the 2022 PGWP interim policy will also be eligible. This includes those with a PGWP valid between September 20, 2021, and December 31, 2022.
- Those covered under this temporary PGWP policy will be able to apply for reinstatement of their residency status even outside the usual 90-day reinstatement period.
- This temporary policy will take effect on April 6, 2023.
This is an important decision by the Canadian government to support international students studying and working in the country. Extending work permits will help international students achieve their academic goals and prepare for their future.
News Bulletin 2
An announcement on the Ontario (Canada) Government website states that the next draw for the Express Entry immigration program will take place on March 16th. This is a targeted draw, meaning only applicants with work experience in certain specific occupations will be invited to participate. Details about the occupations will be published on the Ontario Government website before the draw takes place.
If you are a candidate in the Express Entry master plan and have work experience in the specified occupations, pay attention to the Ontario Government website on the draw date to see if you have been invited to participate.
News Bulletin 3
In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, which caused significant damage to many people, the New Zealand government has announced a financial assistance program for migrant workers affected by the storm. This program can help migrant workers cover basic living expenses such as rent, utilities, food, laundry, and transportation. Migrant workers may be eligible for this assistance if they meet certain criteria, including being affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and being able to demonstrate that they lack sufficient funds to cover basic living expenses. Migrant workers can apply for assistance from March 10, 2023.
News Bulletin 4
The article presents the latest report from the Canadian Ministry of Home Affairs on citizenship and immigration. According to the report, the number of people who became Canadian citizens in 2021 increased to 27,152 compared to 19,164 in 2020.
In 2021, India continued to be the largest source of immigration to Canada with 4,699 people becoming citizens. This was followed by the Philippines with 4,437 people, China with 2,869 people, Pakistan with 1,986 people, and Nigeria with 1,767 people.
Additionally, the report provides some interesting information about citizenship and immigration in Canada. For example, the number of people who became Canadian citizens more than doubled between 2000 and 2021, from 127,162 to 273,182. In 2021, the success rate for obtaining citizenship was 86.3%, higher than the previous year's 82.9%.
In addition, the report also shows that the number of immigrants to Canada is increasing, especially since 2015. In 2021, the total number of immigrants to Canada was 341,175, of which more than 60% came through business and investment programs.
News Bulletin 5
The Narcity website reports on the biggest tax mistakes newcomers to Canada often make, based on advice from a financial expert. In the article, the expert warns that some newcomers to Canada may be unaware of the country's new tax regulations, leading to errors in tax reporting. Some common mistakes include not registering for a Social Insurance Number, not reporting foreign income, and not taking advantage of appropriate tax deductions. The expert also offers advice to help newcomers avoid tax reporting errors, including thoroughly researching tax regulations and using online tools to assist with the reporting process.
News Bulletin 6
The article warns about the new immigration policy of the Liberal Canadian government. This new policy is seen as favorable to businesses and could put pressure on the labor market, especially in the context of the ongoing pandemic. Economists argue that if the new policy is implemented too quickly and without careful consideration, it could have unintended consequences for the Canadian economy and its people.
News Bulletin 7
This is the latest guidance document on how occupations are ranked within Canada's 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This guidance is updated for 2022 and is issued under the direction of the Canadian Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
The main content of this document includes information on how occupations are ranked and categorized according to the 2021 NOC system, as well as guidance on how to use the NOC for visa applications, career guidance, and job searching in Canada. This guide also provides information on the latest changes to the list of eligible occupations for permanent residency and work visas in Canada.
This document also shares helpful resources for those who want to learn about the NOC system and the visa application process in Canada. It is a useful resource for immigration professionals, employers, and job seekers in Canada.
News Bulletin 8
The article reports that colleges in Ontario, Canada, have implemented new policies to protect international students before and after their arrival in Canada. Specifically, these colleges will enhance information and support for international students before their arrival, such as providing information on visas, quarantine procedures, and health regulations. Upon arrival in Canada, international students will be guided on Canadian regulations, such as social distancing and mask-wearing, to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection. These policies are considered necessary and humane, helping to protect the rights and health of international students.
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