:: Universal Immigration ::

Time 2020-07-08 17:05:48

Web Name: :: Universal Immigration ::

WebSite: http://www.universalimmigration.com

ID:22707

Keywords:

Universal,Immigration,

Description:

As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com March 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. Biometrics now available for visitors in CANADA (December 03, 2019) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino New Minister of Immigration in Canada (November 21, 2019) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533 Changes to the Qu�bec Immigration Regulation (November 01, 2019) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. Message from Ministry of Immigration Quebec (February 08, 2019) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. QUEBEC A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National Assembly (February 07, 2019) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. 2019 Parental Sponsorship Process Announced (January 11, 2019) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA (November 01, 2018) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the new multi-year immigration levels plan for 2019-2021. This new immigration plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants contribute to Canada s economic growth and help keep Canada competitive in a global economy.The new plan builds on the strong economic foundation laid out in last year s levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 330,800 in 2019, 341,000 in 2020 and 350,000 nearing 1 percent of Canada s population in 2021.Minister Hussen highlighted the importance of economic immigration in spurring innovation domestically. That s why the government s immigration plan remains focused on attracting the best and brightest from around the world with the majority of the increase in 2021 allotted to high-skilled economic immigration. Newcomers are helping Canadian companies succeed and grow in the expanding information and communications technology sector, where one third of employees are immigrants.Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents to, and are an integral part of, local communities across the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada s future economic success. In addition to spurring economic growth, immigration helps address the challenges our country faces with an ageing population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy. Great News for Parental Sponsorship 2019 (August 20, 2018) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the new multi-year immigration levels plan for 2019-2021. This new immigration plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants contribute to Canada s economic growth and help keep Canada competitive in a global economy.The new plan builds on the strong economic foundation laid out in last year s levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 330,800 in 2019, 341,000 in 2020 and 350,000 nearing 1 percent of Canada s population in 2021.Minister Hussen highlighted the importance of economic immigration in spurring innovation domestically. That s why the government s immigration plan remains focused on attracting the best and brightest from around the world with the majority of the increase in 2021 allotted to high-skilled economic immigration. Newcomers are helping Canadian companies succeed and grow in the expanding information and communications technology sector, where one third of employees are immigrants.Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents to, and are an integral part of, local communities across the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada s future economic success. In addition to spurring economic growth, immigration helps address the challenges our country faces with an ageing population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy. To help reunite even more parents and grandparents with their families in Canada, today, the HonourableAhmedHussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the Government of Canada will accept up to 20000applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents, in 2019. This is 4times the number of applications accepted when the program reopened in 2014, when the cap was set at 5000applications.This decision to increase the number of applications that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada(IRCC) will accept for processing is a result of continually high demand in the Parents and Grandparents(PGP) Program and the fact that we have significantly reduced the inventory of applications. New QUEBEC Skilled Worker Application intake begins August 2, 2018 (July 18, 2018) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the new multi-year immigration levels plan for 2019-2021. This new immigration plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants contribute to Canada s economic growth and help keep Canada competitive in a global economy.The new plan builds on the strong economic foundation laid out in last year s levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 330,800 in 2019, 341,000 in 2020 and 350,000 nearing 1 percent of Canada s population in 2021.Minister Hussen highlighted the importance of economic immigration in spurring innovation domestically. That s why the government s immigration plan remains focused on attracting the best and brightest from around the world with the majority of the increase in 2021 allotted to high-skilled economic immigration. Newcomers are helping Canadian companies succeed and grow in the expanding information and communications technology sector, where one third of employees are immigrants.Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents to, and are an integral part of, local communities across the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada s future economic success. In addition to spurring economic growth, immigration helps address the challenges our country faces with an ageing population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy. To help reunite even more parents and grandparents with their families in Canada, today, the HonourableAhmedHussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the Government of Canada will accept up to 20000applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents, in 2019. This is 4times the number of applications accepted when the program reopened in 2014, when the cap was set at 5000applications.This decision to increase the number of applications that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada(IRCC) will accept for processing is a result of continually high demand in the Parents and Grandparents(PGP) Program and the fact that we have significantly reduced the inventory of applications. New Quebec Applicants... Get Ready:The application intake is likely to begin from August 2, 2018. The Gazette states the date of coming into force of the provisions of the Act respecting immigration to Qu bec (2016, chapter 3) be set for August 2, 2018 The new system will replace the current first-come, first-served application process for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).The process of applying under the Quebec Skilled Worker program, or what the government calls the Regular Skilled Worker Program, will include the following steps for candidates:1. Submission of an Expression of Interest to settle in Quebec and entry into Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.2. Successful selection from the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank results in an invitation to apply for the QSWP.3. Submission of an application for a Quebec Selection Certificate, or certificat de s lection du Qu bec (CSQ) to the MIDI.4. Submission of a Canadian permanent residence application to the federal government.After the initial step of submitting an Expression of Interest to MIDI, candidates will be entered into the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank.Candidates who meet the requirements, cut-off thresholds and passing scores for the program will be considered for selection.Any foreign national 18 or older may submit an expression of interest to the province.Once in the bank, a candidate will be assigned a score based on nine factors in Quebec's QSWP Points Grid, which include skilled work experience, education and training, proficiency in French or English, financial self-sufficiency, and others. In order to be considered, all profiles will have to meet the minimum score requirement of two points awarded for a secondary school general diploma and receive the one point for financial self-sufficiency to remain in Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.Profiles that meet the initial requirements for education and financial self-sufficiency must then meet the required cut-off score of 43 points for Employability factors.If a candidate has a spouse, his or her education and training, work experience and language proficiency will be considered toward's a candidates overall cut-off score.The Employability cut-off score for candidates with a spouse or common-law partner is 52.Candidates in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank must also meet the minimum threshold for Selection factors, which is a passing score of 50 points (and 59 with a spouse or common-law partner). Selection factors take into consideration all Employability factors, and the addition of children and the financial self-sufficiency.Once in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank, a candidate's profile will remain active for 12 months. Notice Class action against the MIDI (New Notice April 19, 2018) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the new multi-year immigration levels plan for 2019-2021. This new immigration plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants contribute to Canada s economic growth and help keep Canada competitive in a global economy.The new plan builds on the strong economic foundation laid out in last year s levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 330,800 in 2019, 341,000 in 2020 and 350,000 nearing 1 percent of Canada s population in 2021.Minister Hussen highlighted the importance of economic immigration in spurring innovation domestically. That s why the government s immigration plan remains focused on attracting the best and brightest from around the world with the majority of the increase in 2021 allotted to high-skilled economic immigration. Newcomers are helping Canadian companies succeed and grow in the expanding information and communications technology sector, where one third of employees are immigrants.Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents to, and are an integral part of, local communities across the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada s future economic success. In addition to spurring economic growth, immigration helps address the challenges our country faces with an ageing population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy. To help reunite even more parents and grandparents with their families in Canada, today, the HonourableAhmedHussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the Government of Canada will accept up to 20000applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents, in 2019. This is 4times the number of applications accepted when the program reopened in 2014, when the cap was set at 5000applications.This decision to increase the number of applications that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada(IRCC) will accept for processing is a result of continually high demand in the Parents and Grandparents(PGP) Program and the fact that we have significantly reduced the inventory of applications. New Quebec Applicants... Get Ready:The application intake is likely to begin from August 2, 2018. The Gazette states the date of coming into force of the provisions of the Act respecting immigration to Qu bec (2016, chapter 3) be set for August 2, 2018 The new system will replace the current first-come, first-served application process for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).The process of applying under the Quebec Skilled Worker program, or what the government calls the Regular Skilled Worker Program, will include the following steps for candidates:1. Submission of an Expression of Interest to settle in Quebec and entry into Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.2. Successful selection from the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank results in an invitation to apply for the QSWP.3. Submission of an application for a Quebec Selection Certificate, or certificat de s lection du Qu bec (CSQ) to the MIDI.4. Submission of a Canadian permanent residence application to the federal government.After the initial step of submitting an Expression of Interest to MIDI, candidates will be entered into the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank.Candidates who meet the requirements, cut-off thresholds and passing scores for the program will be considered for selection.Any foreign national 18 or older may submit an expression of interest to the province.Once in the bank, a candidate will be assigned a score based on nine factors in Quebec's QSWP Points Grid, which include skilled work experience, education and training, proficiency in French or English, financial self-sufficiency, and others. In order to be considered, all profiles will have to meet the minimum score requirement of two points awarded for a secondary school general diploma and receive the one point for financial self-sufficiency to remain in Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.Profiles that meet the initial requirements for education and financial self-sufficiency must then meet the required cut-off score of 43 points for Employability factors.If a candidate has a spouse, his or her education and training, work experience and language proficiency will be considered toward's a candidates overall cut-off score.The Employability cut-off score for candidates with a spouse or common-law partner is 52.Candidates in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank must also meet the minimum threshold for Selection factors, which is a passing score of 50 points (and 59 with a spouse or common-law partner). Selection factors take into consideration all Employability factors, and the addition of children and the financial self-sufficiency.Once in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank, a candidate's profile will remain active for 12 months. On February19, 2018, the Superior Court authorized a class action against the Minist re de l Immigration, de la Diversit et de l Inclusion (MIDI) for regulatory changes that came into effect on August1, 2013 and March8, 2017. In order to respect the terms of Superior Court s of Quebec judgment, the Minist re is issuing the following notice: CLASS ACTION AGAINST THE MINISTRY OF IMMIGRATION, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVENESS OF QUEBEC (THE MIDI ) C.C.M. 500-06-000660-130 NOTICE OF CLASS ACTION AUTHORIZATION Read this notice carefully as it may affect your legal rights. If you applied to immigrate to Qu bec in the skilled worker class between 2009 and March2017, you may be a member of the class action that was authorized by Justice Pepita Capriolo of the Superior Court of Qu bec on February19,2018 for the following groups of persons (the Class Members ): Group 1 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration et des Communaut s culturelles du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category prior to July8,2013: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of August1,2013; Whose application included form A-1520-AA or A-1520-AF containing the phrase Your application for a selection certificate will be processed based on regulations in effect when it was submitted or similar language; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of August1,2013 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer accumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Group 2 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration et des Communaut s culturelles du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category prior to July8,2013: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of August1,2013; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of the 1,2013 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer cumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Group 3 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration, de la Diversit et de l Inclusion du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of March8,2017; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of the March8,2017 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer cumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Purpose of this notice On August 23, 2016, Rahim (the Class Representative ) instituted proceedings in the Superior Court of Quebec (the Court ) seeking permission to bring a class action against the Minister on behalf of the Class (the Application for Authorization ). On May 16, 2017, the Application for Authorization was amended to add Rhia Basnet as Class Representative for Group 3. The Application for Authorization alleges that the Minister was unjustly enriched, acted in bad faith and abused her rights contrary to the provisions of theCivil Code of Qu becby failing to offer a reimbursement of application fees paid by those individuals whose CSQ applications became doomed to fail as a result of the application of August 1, 2013 and March 8, 2017 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2. Mr. Rahim and Ms. Basnet seek reimbursement of application fees for all Class Members. On February 19, 2018, the Court authorized the Class Representatives to institute a class action in the judicial District of Montreal on behalf of the Class Members, and identified the following principal issues to be dealt with collectively: (a) Should the Minister be condemned to reimburse the fees collected for the applications of the Group Members who do not opt out of the proposed class action? And, in particular: (b) Were the Group Members impoverished, and the Minister enriched, in the amount of the application fees paid, the whole without juridical reason? (c) What is the amount of the Group Members' impoverishment and the Minister's enrichment? (d) Alternately. did the Minister commit an extra-contractual fault and act in bad faith? I. If so, what is the amount of damages suffered by the Group Members as a direct result of the Minister's faults? (e) In all cases, can the aggregate amount of the fees to be reimbursed be awarded on a collective basis? The conclusions sought in relation to these questions are as follows: I.GRANTthe Petitioners' action a against Respondent; II.CONDEMNthe Respondent to pay to each Group Member who have not opted out of the class action an amount equivalent to the fees paid for their applications for a selection certificate in the skilled worker category filed prior to July 8, 2013, or the fees paid for applications doomed to failure by the 2017 amendments; III.ORDERthe collective recovery of all amounts to be paid by the Respondent to the Group Members; THE WHOLEwith costs, including the costs of publication of notices. Opting out of the class action If you wish to remain a Class Member in the class action, you have nothing to do. If you wish to opt out of the class action, you must advise the clerk of the Superior Court for the District of Montrealwithin 60 days of receiving this noticeby registered mail to 1 Notre-Dame Street East, Montreal, Quebec, H2Y 1B6. If you elect to opt out, you will not be eligible for any of the benefits of an eventual judgment on the merits. Any Class Member who does not opt out before the deadline will be bound by Judgments to follow in the class action, including any final judgment on the merits. This means that if the action against the Minister is ultimately successful. you may be entitled to reimbursement of the fees you paid to file an application for a CSQ. If the action against the Minister is unsuccessful, you will not be able to bring or maintain your own individual claim against the Minister in relation to the matters alleged in these proceedings. All class members have the right to seek intervenor status in the class action. However, no class member other than the representative plaintiffs or an intervenor may be required to pay legal costs arising from the class action. Additional information and questions For any questions concerning the Authorization Order and the process that will follow, please communicate with the Class Representative's counsel: MeOlga Redko oredko@imk.ca IMK LLP 3500 De Maisonneuve Boulevard West Suite 1400 Montr al, Qu becH3Z3C1 T: 514 934-7743 | F: 514 935-2999 Notice Class Action Against the Department of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion (URGENT NOTICE to All Existing Quebec killed Worker Applicants April 18, 2018) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the new multi-year immigration levels plan for 2019-2021. This new immigration plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants contribute to Canada s economic growth and help keep Canada competitive in a global economy.The new plan builds on the strong economic foundation laid out in last year s levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 330,800 in 2019, 341,000 in 2020 and 350,000 nearing 1 percent of Canada s population in 2021.Minister Hussen highlighted the importance of economic immigration in spurring innovation domestically. That s why the government s immigration plan remains focused on attracting the best and brightest from around the world with the majority of the increase in 2021 allotted to high-skilled economic immigration. Newcomers are helping Canadian companies succeed and grow in the expanding information and communications technology sector, where one third of employees are immigrants.Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents to, and are an integral part of, local communities across the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada s future economic success. In addition to spurring economic growth, immigration helps address the challenges our country faces with an ageing population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy. To help reunite even more parents and grandparents with their families in Canada, today, the HonourableAhmedHussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the Government of Canada will accept up to 20000applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents, in 2019. This is 4times the number of applications accepted when the program reopened in 2014, when the cap was set at 5000applications.This decision to increase the number of applications that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada(IRCC) will accept for processing is a result of continually high demand in the Parents and Grandparents(PGP) Program and the fact that we have significantly reduced the inventory of applications. New Quebec Applicants... Get Ready:The application intake is likely to begin from August 2, 2018. The Gazette states the date of coming into force of the provisions of the Act respecting immigration to Qu bec (2016, chapter 3) be set for August 2, 2018 The new system will replace the current first-come, first-served application process for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).The process of applying under the Quebec Skilled Worker program, or what the government calls the Regular Skilled Worker Program, will include the following steps for candidates:1. Submission of an Expression of Interest to settle in Quebec and entry into Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.2. Successful selection from the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank results in an invitation to apply for the QSWP.3. Submission of an application for a Quebec Selection Certificate, or certificat de s lection du Qu bec (CSQ) to the MIDI.4. Submission of a Canadian permanent residence application to the federal government.After the initial step of submitting an Expression of Interest to MIDI, candidates will be entered into the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank.Candidates who meet the requirements, cut-off thresholds and passing scores for the program will be considered for selection.Any foreign national 18 or older may submit an expression of interest to the province.Once in the bank, a candidate will be assigned a score based on nine factors in Quebec's QSWP Points Grid, which include skilled work experience, education and training, proficiency in French or English, financial self-sufficiency, and others. In order to be considered, all profiles will have to meet the minimum score requirement of two points awarded for a secondary school general diploma and receive the one point for financial self-sufficiency to remain in Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.Profiles that meet the initial requirements for education and financial self-sufficiency must then meet the required cut-off score of 43 points for Employability factors.If a candidate has a spouse, his or her education and training, work experience and language proficiency will be considered toward's a candidates overall cut-off score.The Employability cut-off score for candidates with a spouse or common-law partner is 52.Candidates in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank must also meet the minimum threshold for Selection factors, which is a passing score of 50 points (and 59 with a spouse or common-law partner). Selection factors take into consideration all Employability factors, and the addition of children and the financial self-sufficiency.Once in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank, a candidate's profile will remain active for 12 months. On February19, 2018, the Superior Court authorized a class action against the Minist re de l Immigration, de la Diversit et de l Inclusion (MIDI) for regulatory changes that came into effect on August1, 2013 and March8, 2017. In order to respect the terms of Superior Court s of Quebec judgment, the Minist re is issuing the following notice: CLASS ACTION AGAINST THE MINISTRY OF IMMIGRATION, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVENESS OF QUEBEC (THE MIDI ) C.C.M. 500-06-000660-130 NOTICE OF CLASS ACTION AUTHORIZATION Read this notice carefully as it may affect your legal rights. If you applied to immigrate to Qu bec in the skilled worker class between 2009 and March2017, you may be a member of the class action that was authorized by Justice Pepita Capriolo of the Superior Court of Qu bec on February19,2018 for the following groups of persons (the Class Members ): Group 1 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration et des Communaut s culturelles du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category prior to July8,2013: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of August1,2013; Whose application included form A-1520-AA or A-1520-AF containing the phrase Your application for a selection certificate will be processed based on regulations in effect when it was submitted or similar language; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of August1,2013 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer accumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Group 2 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration et des Communaut s culturelles du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category prior to July8,2013: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of August1,2013; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of the 1,2013 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer cumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Group 3 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration, de la Diversit et de l Inclusion du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of March8,2017; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of the March8,2017 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer cumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Purpose of this notice On August 23, 2016, Rahim (the Class Representative ) instituted proceedings in the Superior Court of Quebec (the Court ) seeking permission to bring a class action against the Minister on behalf of the Class (the Application for Authorization ). On May 16, 2017, the Application for Authorization was amended to add Rhia Basnet as Class Representative for Group 3. The Application for Authorization alleges that the Minister was unjustly enriched, acted in bad faith and abused her rights contrary to the provisions of theCivil Code of Qu becby failing to offer a reimbursement of application fees paid by those individuals whose CSQ applications became doomed to fail as a result of the application of August 1, 2013 and March 8, 2017 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2. Mr. Rahim and Ms. Basnet seek reimbursement of application fees for all Class Members. On February 19, 2018, the Court authorized the Class Representatives to institute a class action in the judicial District of Montreal on behalf of the Class Members, and identified the following principal issues to be dealt with collectively: (a) Should the Minister be condemned to reimburse the fees collected for the applications of the Group Members who do not opt out of the proposed class action? And, in particular: (b) Were the Group Members impoverished, and the Minister enriched, in the amount of the application fees paid, the whole without juridical reason? (c) What is the amount of the Group Members' impoverishment and the Minister's enrichment? (d) Alternately. did the Minister commit an extra-contractual fault and act in bad faith? I. If so, what is the amount of damages suffered by the Group Members as a direct result of the Minister's faults? (e) In all cases, can the aggregate amount of the fees to be reimbursed be awarded on a collective basis? The conclusions sought in relation to these questions are as follows: I.GRANTthe Petitioners' action a against Respondent; II.CONDEMNthe Respondent to pay to each Group Member who have not opted out of the class action an amount equivalent to the fees paid for their applications for a selection certificate in the skilled worker category filed prior to July 8, 2013, or the fees paid for applications doomed to failure by the 2017 amendments; III.ORDERthe collective recovery of all amounts to be paid by the Respondent to the Group Members; THE WHOLEwith costs, including the costs of publication of notices. Opting out of the class action If you wish to remain a Class Member in the class action, you have nothing to do. If you wish to opt out of the class action, you must advise the clerk of the Superior Court for the District of Montrealwithin 60 days of receiving this noticeby registered mail to 1 Notre-Dame Street East, Montreal, Quebec, H2Y 1B6. If you elect to opt out, you will not be eligible for any of the benefits of an eventual judgment on the merits. Any Class Member who does not opt out before the deadline will be bound by Judgments to follow in the class action, including any final judgment on the merits. This means that if the action against the Minister is ultimately successful. you may be entitled to reimbursement of the fees you paid to file an application for a CSQ. If the action against the Minister is unsuccessful, you will not be able to bring or maintain your own individual claim against the Minister in relation to the matters alleged in these proceedings. All class members have the right to seek intervenor status in the class action. However, no class member other than the representative plaintiffs or an intervenor may be required to pay legal costs arising from the class action. Additional information and questions For any questions concerning the Authorization Order and the process that will follow, please communicate with the Class Representative's counsel: MeOlga Redko oredko@imk.ca IMK LLP 3500 De Maisonneuve Boulevard West Suite 1400 Montr al, Qu becH3Z3C1 T: 514 934-7743 | F: 514 935-2999 February 19, 2018, the Superior Court authorized a class action against the Department of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion (MIDI) for regulatory changes entered into force on 1stAugust 2013 and March 8 2017. In order to comply with the terms of the judgment of the Superior Court of Quebec, the Minist re diffuse the following opinion:The purpose of this noticeOn August 23, 2016, Rahim (the Representative ) filed an application with the Superior Court of Quebec (the Tribunal ) seeking leave of the Tribunal to institute a class action against the Minister on behalf of Group (the Request for Authorization ).On May 16, 2017, the Request for Authorization was amended to add Rhia Basnet as Group 3 Representative.The Application for Leave alleges that the Minister was enriched without cause, acted in bad faith and abused her rights contrary to the provisions ofthe Civil Code of Quebecby failing to offer a reimbursement of expenses paid by individuals whose claims CSQ have become doomed to failure because of the application of the amendments from 1stAugust 2013 and March 8, 2017the weighting applicable Regulations to the selection of foreign nationals, RLRQ c I-0.2, r.2. Mr. Rahim and Ms. Basnet request reimbursement of expenses paid by all Class Members.On February 19, 2018, the Tribunal authorized the Representatives to institute a class action in the District of Montreal on behalf of the Class and identified the main issues to be dealt with collectively and the related conclusions sought as follows: (a) Should the Minister be ordered to reimburse the fees collected for CSQ applications from Class Members who did not exclude themselves from the class action?And more particularly : (b) Were the Group Members and the Minister respectively impoverished and enriched in the proportion of the fees paid for CSQ applications, all without any legal justification? (c) What are the amounts of the impoverishment of the Members of the group and the enrichment of the Minister? (d) In the alternative, did the Minister commit an extracontractual error and act in bad faith? i.If so, what is the amount of damages incurred by the Class Members as a direct result of the Minister's mistakes? (e) In any case, can the total amount of the costs to be reimbursed be awarded on a collective basis?The conclusions sought in relation to these questions are as follows: i.RECEIVEthe Claimants' action against the Respondent; ii.CONDEMNthe Respondent to pay each Class Member who did not exclude from the class action an amount equivalent to the fees paid by those members to file their CSQ applications in the Skilled Worker category before July 8th 2013, or the fees paid to file claims that have become doomed by the effect of the 2017 amendments; iii.ORDERthe collective recovery of the amounts due to the Class Members by the Respondent;ALLwith costs, including the cost of posting notices.Exclusion of class actionIf you wish to remain a member of the Group in the class action, you have nothing to do.If you wish to exclude yourself from this class action, you must notify the clerk of the Superior Court for the District of Montrealwithin 60 days after receiving the notice, by registered mail at 1 Notre Dame Street East, Montreal, Quebec , H2Y 1B6.If you choose to exclude yourself, you will not be eligible for any benefit of a potential judgment on the merits.Any member of the Class who does not exclude himself before the expiry of the exclusion period will be bound by any judgment rendered in the class action, including a final judgment on the merits.This means that if the Representatives ultimately win the case against MIDI, you will be entitled to a refund of the fees you paid to file your CSQ application.In the event of failure of the class action, you will not be able to file or maintain a personal claim against MIDI in relation to the allegations in these proceedings.All Class Members have the right to request to intervene in the class action.However, a member who is not a Representative or an intervenor may not be required to pay the legal costs of the class action.Additional information and questionsIf you have any questions about the Authorization Order or the process that will follow, please contact the attorneys of the Representatives:MeOlga Redkooredko@imk.caIMK LLP3500 Boul.De Maisonneuve WestSuite 1400Montreal, Quebec H3Z 3C1T: 514-934-7743 |F: 514-935-2999 Government of Canada brings medical inadmissibility policy in line with inclusivity for persons with disabilities (April 16, 2018 BRAEAKING NEWS) × How the coronavirus disease COVID19 is affecting immigration in CANADA How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services: visitors, foreign workers and studentsTemporary foreign workers, some international students and approved permanent residents who haven t yet landed are now able to enter Canada.The travel restriction exemptions that were announced are now in place. If you re exempt, you can now travel to Canada.If you re travelling by air, you need to pass a health check conducted by airlines before you re allowed to board your flight. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.When you arrive in Canada, we ll assess your health before you leave the port of entry. You must have a plan toquarantine for 14 dayswhen you arrive in Canada.This is mandatory, even if you have no symptoms.If you don t have a plan, you ll be quarantined in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.Only people who provide essential services, for example truck drivers who regularly cross the border to maintain the flow of goods, are exempt from the quarantine requirements.For all the updates on various status, please click here As per the directives of Ontario Provincial Govt. our office in Canada will remain closed for any walk-ins. For any enquiries or skype appointments, please send email to info@universalimmigration.com Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economyMarch 20, 2020 Ottawa The Government of Canada is providing an update on travel restrictions put in place to stem the spread of COVID-19.Exemptions to the air travel restrictions will apply to foreign nationals who have already committed to working, studying or making Canada their home, and travel by these individuals will be considered essential travel for land border restrictions.The exemptions include seasonal agricultural workers, fish/seafood workers, caregivers and all other temporary foreign workers international students who held a valid study permit, or had been approved for a study permit, when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020 permanent resident applicants who had been approved for permanent residence before the travel restrictions were announced on March 16, 2020, but who had not yet travelled to CanadaIn addition, a temporary modification is being made to the Labour Market Impact Assessment process for agriculture and food processing employers, as the required 2-week recruitment period will be waived for the next 6 months.We are also increasing the maximum allowable employment duration for workers in the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program from 1 to 2 years. This will improve flexibility and reduce the administrative burden for employers, including those in food processing.To safeguard the continuity of trade, commerce, health and food security for all Canadians, temporary foreign workers in agriculture, agri-food, seafood processing and other key industries will be allowed to travel to Canada under exemptions being put in place to the air travel restrictions that took effect on March 18.In addition to health screening protocols before travel, all individuals entering from abroad must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada.Allowing foreign workers to enter Canada recognizes their vital importance to the Canadian economy, including food security for Canadians and the success of Canadian food producers. The arrival of farm workers and fish/seafood workers is essential to ensure that planting and harvesting activities can take place. There will always be jobs available for Canadians who wish to work on farms and at food processing plants.Those affected by these exemptions should not try to travel to Canada immediately. We will announce when the exemptions are in place, which we anticipate will be early next week.These exemptions follow others announced earlier this week, for foreign nationals travelling at the invitation of the Canadian government for a purpose related to the containment of COVID-19 close family members of Canadian citizens close family members of Canadian permanent residents a person who is authorized, in writing, by a consular officer of the Government of Canada to enter Canada for the purpose of reuniting immediate family members a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act accredited diplomats and family members (including NATO, those under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement, other organizations) air crews any foreign national, or group of foreign nationals, whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Minister of Public Safety members of the Canadian military, visiting forces and their family members transiting passengersMarch 12, 2020 Ottawa Today the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, tabled the 2020 2022 Immigration Levels Plan in the House of Commons.The new plan will benefit all Canadians because immigration drives economic growth, spurs innovation and helps employers access the talent they need to thrive. Welcoming more newcomers will help to address the demographic challenges of an aging population and to compete and win in a competitive global marketplace.The proposed plan is based on the solid economic foundation of the previous levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada each year, from 341,000 in 2020 to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022.With this plan, the Government will implement a number of key commitments: responsibly grow Canada s population; take the steps to make the Atlantic Immigration Pilot a permanent program to continue supporting economic growth in Atlantic Canada, with 5,000 admissions; create a new stream to provide a safe haven for human rights advocates, journalists and humanitarian workers at risk abroad; facilitate the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, to address specific labour market shortages; support family reunification through sustained high admissions; and reduce application processing times and improve service delivery and client services at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.We will also continue to implement our plan to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, while supporting the successful integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers and strengthening Francophone communities.With increased space for the Provincial Nominee Program, an Atlantic Immigration Program, and the Agri-Food and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilots, the levels plan directly addresses labour market needs across Canada to ensure businesses can get the talent they need, where they need it. December 3, 2019 Ottawa Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.Canada has collected biometrics (fingerprints and photos) on most foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence since December 31, 2018.Having biometrics helps immigration officers verify people s identity, which makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers. It also makes it easier for officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians.People can apply online or by paper as they have always done. Applicants who receive a biometrics instruction letter will be able to give their fingerprints and photo at designated Service Canada locations across the country by appointment. The appointment must be made in advance through an easy online booking tool atcanada.ca/biometrics.Applicants, including those in Canada who will be travelling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Canada has one of the most extensive networks of VACs worldwide, with 160 locations in 108 countries. The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Eglinton Lawrence in 2015.Minister Mendicino is a proud resident of Toronto and a passionate advocate for his community. During his first term, he championed local investments in public transit and inaffordable housing and supported youth-driven programs aimed at creating more employment opportunities and safe spaces.Before entering politics, Minister Mendicino served as a federal prosecutor for nearly 10 years, helping to fight against organized crime and bring terrorists including members of the Toronto 18 to justice. He also worked at the Law Society of Ontario, was elected President of the Association of Justice Counsel and taught trial advocacy as an Adjunct Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.The son of an immigrant family, Minister Mendicino has a long track record of community activism in Eglinton Lawrence. He has sat on numerous boards, volunteering at John Wanless Public School, COSTI Immigrant Services, Toronto Symphony Volunteer Committee, North Toronto Soccer Club, and Heart Stroke Canada.Minister Mendicino lives in Toronto with his wife and children.Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipRepresents the riding ofEglinton LawrenceContact informationMinister@cic.gc.caThe Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino MP365 Laurier Avenue WestOttawa, OntarioK1A 1L1Telephone: 613-954-1064Fax: 613-952-5533Changes to the Qu bec Immigration RegulationChanges to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation were published in theGazette officielle du Qu becon October30,2019. These changes are designed to better respond to job market needs and to facilitate the full participation of immigrants in Qu bec society, in French. Most of the changes enter into effect on November1,2019, with a few exceptions that will enter into effect on January1,2020. Moreover, effective November1,2019, the Minist re is implementing decisions regarding the rules for managing applications for certain immigration programs. The content of these decisions can be found on the page regardingImmigration rules and procedures.Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program)Effective November1,2019, Qu bec graduates can again submit applications for permanent selection under the Programme de l exp rience qu b coise (PEQ Qu bec experience program). Temporary foreign workers can continue to submit applications. Effective November1,2019, new selection conditions apply to all applications, whether they were submitted before or after this date.Qu bec graduatesEffective November 1, 2019, Qu bec diplomas admissible under the PEQ are: Bachelor s Degree (undergraduate university degree) Master s Degree Doctorate (PhD) Diploma of College Studies - Technical Vocational Diploma, with or without attestation of vocational specialization, obtained consecutively, attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of Vocational Specialization attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study Attestation of College Studies attesting to a minimum of 900hours of study To be eligible, these attestations or diplomas must be included on theList of Areas of Training under the PEQ Graduates(in French only 437kB). This list contains the areas of training in Qu bec that best respond to job market needs.Candidates must also have completed a minimum of 900 hours of full-time study in Qu bec or, if their attestation or diploma attests to more than 1,800hours of study, they must have lived in Qu bec for at least half of the duration of their study program.Lastly, for study programs of 900 hours to less than 1,800hours, candidates must have 6months of full-time work experience, in Qu bec, acquired after their study program and in their area of training.Temporary foreign workersEffective November 1, 2019, temporary foreign workers eligible for the PEQ must: hold a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB). This list is comprised of the trades and professions most in demand on the Qu bec job market for jobs inlevels 0, A and B in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 12 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for jobs inlevels C and D in the National Occupational Classification, have held a job on theList of Jobs in Demand eligible under the PEQ - workers component(in French only 243kB) for a minimum period of 18 months during the 24 months preceding submission of the application for regulated professions, have respected the employment requirements stipulated in the National Occupational Classification and the specific conditions in the job offer In addition, the job held must not be: in an ineligible field, under Part 2 of Schedule E of the Qu bec Immigration Regulation, namely: loans on salaries, cheque cashing or pawn broking, or production, distribution, sale of pornography or sexually explicit products or services related to the sex industry such as nude or erotic dancing, escort services or erotic massages in the form of self-employment or for a company controlled by the candidate in any way Effective January 1, 2020, only the following means are admissible for attesting to knowledge of French: result of a standardized test fulfilment of the language requirements of a professional order successful completion of at least three years of secondary or post-secondary study conducted entirely in French Moreover, effective January 1, 2020, the spouse or de facto spouse included in the application for selection must demonstrate advanced intermediate knowledge of spoken French (level7 or8 on the chelle qu b coise des niveaux de comp tences en fran ais des personnes immigrantes adultes).Changes to the Programme r gulier des travailleurs qualifi s (PRTQ Regular Skilled Worker Program)Changes to the Qu bec Immigration Regulation provide details on the processing method for new applications for selection presented under the PRTQ to add or remove a family member accompanying the principal applicant. These changes come into effect on November1,2019.Attestation of the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and FreedomsEffective January 1, 2020, a new selection condition related to the learning of democratic values and Qu bec values expressed in the Qu bec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms will come into effect in order to promote better integration of immigrants into Qu bec society. It will apply to all economic immigration programs, namely, the PEQ, PRTQ, Self-Employed Worker Program, Entrepreneur Program and Investor Program.This new condition will apply to principal applicants, their spouses (aged 16 or over) and dependent children aged 18 or over. However, it will not apply to foreign nationals who have a medical condition that prevents them from obtaining the attestation. The Minist re informs you that because of the tabling in the National Assembly of the Bill to increase the socio-economic prosperity of Quebec and to respond adequately to the needs of the labor market by successful integration of immigrants, it ceases make decisions under the Regular Skilled Worker Program until parliamentary proceedings are completed.Since this is a bill before the National Assembly, the Department is not able to provide you with more information at this time. At this point, no action is required from you. If the law is passed and sanctioned, we will contact you to give you the information and instructions that will apply to your situation.Remember that you can create an account in Arrima and deposit a declaration of interest free of charge at any time. This new system makes it possible to invite first and foremost the people who best meet the needs of Qu bec to apply for permanent selection.Stay informed by visiting the News section of our website.For details on the bill, please consult the website ofThe national assembly.Please receive our best regards. A new bill on immigration was introduced today in the National AssemblyThe bill Loi visant accro tre la prosp rit socio- conomique du Qu bec et r pondre ad quatement aux besoins du march du travail par une int gration r ussie des personnes immigrantes (PL9) was introduced today in the National Assembly. The goal of this bill is to establish the necessary legal basis for improving the francization and integration of selected candidates as well as a better alignment of Qu bec s labour needs with the profile of selected candidates.The main objectives of the bill are as follows:Improving the selection of immigrantsFor immigration to contribute significantly to growing Qu bec s prosperity and better responding to job market needs, the Minist re would like to benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the statement of interest. To do this, the bill proposes terminating most of the applications for which a decision has not yet been rendered under the Regular Skilled Worker Program and reimbursing the applicants in question so that from this point on all new applications occur by invitation of the Minister, following submission of a statement of interest.This provision of the bill seeks, in particular, to: ensure a better alignment between job market needs and the profile of selected candidates; benefit more immediately from the new system for managing immigration applications based on the declaration of interest, by inviting candidates who meet Qu bec s needs; reduce processing times for applications for permanent selection from skilled workers. Note that applications for the addition of a spouse or a de facto spouse and applications for the addition of a child submitted by skilled workers who have already been selected are not targeted by this provision.Improving the francization and integration of immigrantsThe bill seeks to emphasize the importance of the process for integrating immigrants, in particular by clarifying the principle of the commitment shared between Qu bec society and immigrants. On the one hand, Qu bec society must be welcoming and inclusive and the government is responsible, in particular, for putting in place an effective and personalized offer of services for francization and integration. On the other, immigrants must commit to successfully carrying out the necessary steps for settling and integrating in Qu bec, including learning French as well as democratic values and Qu bec s values, as set out in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms.Strengthening Qu bec s actions in the area of immigrationThe Minist re wishes to pursue its efforts to fully exercise its powers of selection, particularly with the reintroduction of the enabling power that allows the Qu bec government to determine by regulation the conditions for permanent residence that the Minister can impose on the candidates selected. Qu bec also wishes to expand its scope of intervention, by ensuring better follow-up of the clients that use the services offered by its many partners.Public consultations on the bill will begin shortly and will enable stakeholders in the milieu, such as francization, integration and immigration law organizations, to voice their opinions on the new orientations proposed by the government.For information on the details of Bill 9 and the public consultation, consult the National Assembly ssite. Get ready to submit your 2019 interest to sponsor formThe first step to sponsor your parents or grandparents is filling out the interest to sponsor form.The interest to sponsor form will be available at noon EST on January 28, 2019.We ll accept form submissions on a first-in basis. As soon as we get enough submissions, the form will no longer be available.How to fill out the form You, the person who wants to sponsor, must fill out the form. If you have your information ready, it should take you about 10 minutes. We recommend you use a desktop computer. If youmake a mistakeon your interest to sponsor form, don t submit another form. Find out how tocorrect a mistake or update your information. Don t submit the interest to sponsor form if you renoteligible to become a sponsor. If you re invited to apply and we refuse your application because you re not eligible, we won trefundyour application fees. It won t increase your chances of being invited to apply. We remove duplicate entries.The information you provide in this form must be the same as what you ll put on your application, if you re invited to submit a complete application.Gather your informationBefore the interest to sponsor form opens, gather the information you ll need to provide. This includes making an electronic copy of your proof of status in Canada (new requirement for 2019).You (the person who wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents), must provide this information on the interest to sponsor form: your family name(s) (also known as last name, surname) and your given name(s) (also known as first name) Make sure you write your nameexactly as it is writtenon the proof of status in Canada document you ll submit. the country or territory where you were born your primary residential address (where you live) You mustlive in Canadato sponsor. Make sure you fill out all the fields and provide yourcompleteaddress. You ll have to provide your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), P.O. Box (if applicable), your province or territory, and postal code. For the street number and address, include thestreet type(street, boulevard, avenue, etc.). For example, follow this format: 123 JohnSt.or 123 JohnAve.or 123 JohnPl. your email address that you want us to use to communicate with you the number of family members in yourfamily unit the total number of persons you want to sponsor, including their dependants (spouse, partner andchildren) names of the parents and grandparents you want to sponsor You won t need to provide the names of their dependants. Find outwhere to find that number. Make sure you submit the number of thesame documentyou ll submit with your application. If the document number doesn t match, we ll return your application.On the form, you ll be asked if you meet the income requirements to sponsor. Make sure you understand theincome requirementsbefore you complete the interest to sponsor form.Prepare your proof of status in Canada documentWith your interest to sponsor form, you ll have to upload anelectronic (digital) copyof a proof of your status in Canada.We ll accept expired documents. You don t need to renew your document to complete the interest to sponsor form or to submit your sponsorship application.Make sure you use the same status document with your interest to sponsor form submission as you ll submit with your application, if you re invited to apply.Submit one of the following proof of status documents: permanent resident card (both sides) record of landing (IMM 1000) (only if you didn t get a PR Card) Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) Canadian Citizenship Certificate or card (both sides) Canadian birth certificate If you were born in Quebec, we ll only accept a birth certificate from theDirecteur de l tat civil. Canadian passport (pages showing passport number, date of issue and expiration, photo, name, surname, place and date of birth) Secure certificate of Indian statusPrepare your copy ahead of time and know where to find it on your computer or mobile device.How to create an electronic or digital copyYou can use a scanner or camera to create a digital copy of your proof of status document. Scan or take a picture of your status in Canada document.The maximum file size is 2.5 MB. If your file is bigger than 2.5 MB, you shouldreduce the size.You can only submit1 filewith your interest to sponsor form. If you have to submit both sides of your status in Canada document,save both sides into 1 document. If you don t have a photo editing software, the easiest way to do this is to save both images into a Microsoft Word Document.We accept these file formats: PDF (Portable Document) JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image) DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word document)Take note of the name you give the file and where you save it so you can easily find the file later.To avoid delays in processing, make sure the image is clear and your information is easy to read.We ll use your proof of status document to validate your information.After you submit your interest to sponsor form in 2019After you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form, you ll see a confirmation page with a confirmation number.Keep this number for your records.We ll also send youan emailto confirm that we ve received your form.We ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms.We ll start sending invitations after we review the submissions and remove duplicates.If you successfully submit the interest to sponsor form this year, use your confirmation number tofind out if you re invitedto apply. Increased Immigration Levels in future Years Announced by Minister of Immigration CANADA Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the new multi-year immigration levels plan for 2019-2021. This new immigration plan will benefit all Canadians because immigrants contribute to Canada s economic growth and help keep Canada competitive in a global economy.The new plan builds on the strong economic foundation laid out in last year s levels plan and continues to responsibly grow the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 330,800 in 2019, 341,000 in 2020 and 350,000 nearing 1 percent of Canada s population in 2021.Minister Hussen highlighted the importance of economic immigration in spurring innovation domestically. That s why the government s immigration plan remains focused on attracting the best and brightest from around the world with the majority of the increase in 2021 allotted to high-skilled economic immigration. Newcomers are helping Canadian companies succeed and grow in the expanding information and communications technology sector, where one third of employees are immigrants.Canada has welcomed generations of immigrants who have brought their talents to, and are an integral part of, local communities across the country. Immigration is a central pillar of Canada s future economic success. In addition to spurring economic growth, immigration helps address the challenges our country faces with an ageing population, and plays a crucial role in keeping our country at the forefront of the global economy. To help reunite even more parents and grandparents with their families in Canada, today, the HonourableAhmedHussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the Government of Canada will accept up to 20000applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents, in 2019. This is 4times the number of applications accepted when the program reopened in 2014, when the cap was set at 5000applications.This decision to increase the number of applications that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada(IRCC) will accept for processing is a result of continually high demand in the Parents and Grandparents(PGP) Program and the fact that we have significantly reduced the inventory of applications. New Quebec Applicants... Get Ready:The application intake is likely to begin from August 2, 2018. The Gazette states the date of coming into force of the provisions of the Act respecting immigration to Qu bec (2016, chapter 3) be set for August 2, 2018 The new system will replace the current first-come, first-served application process for the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP).The process of applying under the Quebec Skilled Worker program, or what the government calls the Regular Skilled Worker Program, will include the following steps for candidates:1. Submission of an Expression of Interest to settle in Quebec and entry into Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.2. Successful selection from the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank results in an invitation to apply for the QSWP.3. Submission of an application for a Quebec Selection Certificate, or certificat de s lection du Qu bec (CSQ) to the MIDI.4. Submission of a Canadian permanent residence application to the federal government.After the initial step of submitting an Expression of Interest to MIDI, candidates will be entered into the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank.Candidates who meet the requirements, cut-off thresholds and passing scores for the program will be considered for selection.Any foreign national 18 or older may submit an expression of interest to the province.Once in the bank, a candidate will be assigned a score based on nine factors in Quebec's QSWP Points Grid, which include skilled work experience, education and training, proficiency in French or English, financial self-sufficiency, and others. In order to be considered, all profiles will have to meet the minimum score requirement of two points awarded for a secondary school general diploma and receive the one point for financial self-sufficiency to remain in Quebec's Expression of Interest Bank.Profiles that meet the initial requirements for education and financial self-sufficiency must then meet the required cut-off score of 43 points for Employability factors.If a candidate has a spouse, his or her education and training, work experience and language proficiency will be considered toward's a candidates overall cut-off score.The Employability cut-off score for candidates with a spouse or common-law partner is 52.Candidates in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank must also meet the minimum threshold for Selection factors, which is a passing score of 50 points (and 59 with a spouse or common-law partner). Selection factors take into consideration all Employability factors, and the addition of children and the financial self-sufficiency.Once in the Quebec Expression of Interest Bank, a candidate's profile will remain active for 12 months. On February19, 2018, the Superior Court authorized a class action against the Minist re de l Immigration, de la Diversit et de l Inclusion (MIDI) for regulatory changes that came into effect on August1, 2013 and March8, 2017. In order to respect the terms of Superior Court s of Quebec judgment, the Minist re is issuing the following notice: CLASS ACTION AGAINST THE MINISTRY OF IMMIGRATION, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVENESS OF QUEBEC (THE MIDI ) C.C.M. 500-06-000660-130 NOTICE OF CLASS ACTION AUTHORIZATION Read this notice carefully as it may affect your legal rights. If you applied to immigrate to Qu bec in the skilled worker class between 2009 and March2017, you may be a member of the class action that was authorized by Justice Pepita Capriolo of the Superior Court of Qu bec on February19,2018 for the following groups of persons (the Class Members ): Group 1 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration et des Communaut s culturelles du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category prior to July8,2013: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of August1,2013; Whose application included form A-1520-AA or A-1520-AF containing the phrase Your application for a selection certificate will be processed based on regulations in effect when it was submitted or similar language; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of August1,2013 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer accumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Group 2 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration et des Communaut s culturelles du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category prior to July8,2013: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of August1,2013; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of the 1,2013 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer cumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Group 3 All individuals who filed an application with theMinist re de l Immigration, de la Diversit et de l Inclusion du Qu becfor a selection certificate in the skilled worker category: Whose application had not reached the preliminary processing stage as of March8,2017; and Whose application has been or will be refused by the Minister because, due to the retroactive application of the March8,2017 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2., the individuals no longer cumulated enough points to pass preliminary processing or to be selected. Purpose of this notice On August 23, 2016, Rahim (the Class Representative ) instituted proceedings in the Superior Court of Quebec (the Court ) seeking permission to bring a class action against the Minister on behalf of the Class (the Application for Authorization ). On May 16, 2017, the Application for Authorization was amended to add Rhia Basnet as Class Representative for Group 3. The Application for Authorization alleges that the Minister was unjustly enriched, acted in bad faith and abused her rights contrary to the provisions of theCivil Code of Qu becby failing to offer a reimbursement of application fees paid by those individuals whose CSQ applications became doomed to fail as a result of the application of August 1, 2013 and March 8, 2017 amendments to theRegulation respecting the weighting applicable to the selection of foreign nationals, CSLR I-0.2, r.2. Mr. Rahim and Ms. Basnet seek reimbursement of application fees for all Class Members. On February 19, 2018, the Court authorized the Class Representatives to institute a class action in the judicial District of Montreal on behalf of the Class Members, and identified the following principal issues to be dealt with collectively: (a) Should the Minister be condemned to reimburse the fees collected for the applications of the Group Members who do not opt out of the proposed class action? And, in particular: (b) Were the Group Members impoverished, and the Minister enriched, in the amount of the application fees paid, the whole without juridical reason? (c) What is the amount of the Group Members' impoverishment and the Minister's enrichment? (d) Alternately. did the Minister commit an extra-contractual fault and act in bad faith? I. If so, what is the amount of damages suffered by the Group Members as a direct result of the Minister's faults? (e) In all cases, can the aggregate amount of the fees to be reimbursed be awarded on a collective basis? The conclusions sought in relation to these questions are as follows: I.GRANTthe Petitioners' action a against Respondent; II.CONDEMNthe Respondent to pay to each Group Member who have not opted out of the class action an amount equivalent to the fees paid for their applications for a selection certificate in the skilled worker category filed prior to July 8, 2013, or the fees paid for applications doomed to failure by the 2017 amendments; III.ORDERthe collective recovery of all amounts to be paid by the Respondent to the Group Members; THE WHOLEwith costs, including the costs of publication of notices. Opting out of the class action If you wish to remain a Class Member in the class action, you have nothing to do. If you wish to opt out of the class action, you must advise the clerk of the Superior Court for the District of Montrealwithin 60 days of receiving this noticeby registered mail to 1 Notre-Dame Street East, Montreal, Quebec, H2Y 1B6. If you elect to opt out, you will not be eligible for any of the benefits of an eventual judgment on the merits. Any Class Member who does not opt out before the deadline will be bound by Judgments to follow in the class action, including any final judgment on the merits. This means that if the action against the Minister is ultimately successful. you may be entitled to reimbursement of the fees you paid to file an application for a CSQ. If the action against the Minister is unsuccessful, you will not be able to bring or maintain your own individual claim against the Minister in relation to the matters alleged in these proceedings. All class members have the right to seek intervenor status in the class action. However, no class member other than the representative plaintiffs or an intervenor may be required to pay legal costs arising from the class action. Additional information and questions For any questions concerning the Authorization Order and the process that will follow, please communicate with the Class Representative's counsel: MeOlga Redko oredko@imk.ca IMK LLP 3500 De Maisonneuve Boulevard West Suite 1400 Montr al, Qu becH3Z3C1 T: 514 934-7743 | F: 514 935-2999 February 19, 2018, the Superior Court authorized a class action against the Department of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion (MIDI) for regulatory changes entered into force on 1stAugust 2013 and March 8 2017. In order to comply with the terms of the judgment of the Superior Court of Quebec, the Minist re diffuse the following opinion:The purpose of this noticeOn August 23, 2016, Rahim (the Representative ) filed an application with the Superior Court of Quebec (the Tribunal ) seeking leave of the Tribunal to institute a class action against the Minister on behalf of Group (the Request for Authorization ).On May 16, 2017, the Request for Authorization was amended to add Rhia Basnet as Group 3 Representative.The Application for Leave alleges that the Minister was enriched without cause, acted in bad faith and abused her rights contrary to the provisions ofthe Civil Code of Quebecby failing to offer a reimbursement of expenses paid by individuals whose claims CSQ have become doomed to failure because of the application of the amendments from 1stAugust 2013 and March 8, 2017the weighting applicable Regulations to the selection of foreign nationals, RLRQ c I-0.2, r.2. Mr. Rahim and Ms. Basnet request reimbursement of expenses paid by all Class Members.On February 19, 2018, the Tribunal authorized the Representatives to institute a class action in the District of Montreal on behalf of the Class and identified the main issues to be dealt with collectively and the related conclusions sought as follows: (a) Should the Minister be ordered to reimburse the fees collected for CSQ applications from Class Members who did not exclude themselves from the class action?And more particularly : (b) Were the Group Members and the Minister respectively impoverished and enriched in the proportion of the fees paid for CSQ applications, all without any legal justification? (c) What are the amounts of the impoverishment of the Members of the group and the enrichment of the Minister? (d) In the alternative, did the Minister commit an extracontractual error and act in bad faith? i.If so, what is the amount of damages incurred by the Class Members as a direct result of the Minister's mistakes? (e) In any case, can the total amount of the costs to be reimbursed be awarded on a collective basis?The conclusions sought in relation to these questions are as follows: i.RECEIVEthe Claimants' action against the Respondent; ii.CONDEMNthe Respondent to pay each Class Member who did not exclude from the class action an amount equivalent to the fees paid by those members to file their CSQ applications in the Skilled Worker category before July 8th 2013, or the fees paid to file claims that have become doomed by the effect of the 2017 amendments; iii.ORDERthe collective recovery of the amounts due to the Class Members by the Respondent;ALLwith costs, including the cost of posting notices.Exclusion of class actionIf you wish to remain a member of the Group in the class action, you have nothing to do.If you wish to exclude yourself from this class action, you must notify the clerk of the Superior Court for the District of Montrealwithin 60 days after receiving the notice, by registered mail at 1 Notre Dame Street East, Montreal, Quebec , H2Y 1B6.If you choose to exclude yourself, you will not be eligible for any benefit of a potential judgment on the merits.Any member of the Class who does not exclude himself before the expiry of the exclusion period will be bound by any judgment rendered in the class action, including a final judgment on the merits.This means that if the Representatives ultimately win the case against MIDI, you will be entitled to a refund of the fees you paid to file your CSQ application.In the event of failure of the class action, you will not be able to file or maintain a personal claim against MIDI in relation to the allegations in these proceedings.All Class Members have the right to request to intervene in the class action.However, a member who is not a Representative or an intervenor may not be required to pay the legal costs of the class action.Additional information and questionsIf you have any questions about the Authorization Order or the process that will follow, please contact the attorneys of the Representatives:MeOlga Redkooredko@imk.caIMK LLP3500 Boul.De Maisonneuve WestSuite 1400Montreal, Quebec H3Z 3C1T: 514-934-7743 |F: 514-935-2999 Government of Canada brings medical inadmissibility policy in line with inclusivity for persons with disabilities April 16, 2018 Ottawa, ON One of the Government of Canada s priorities is to ensure greater accessibility and opportunities for Canadians with disabilities. Today s announcement by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Ahmed Hussen of changes to the medical inadmissibility provision of theImmigration and Refugee Protection Actensures that our immigration policies better align with Canadian values and reflect the importance that the Government places on the inclusion of persons with disabilities.Under the 40-year-old policy, applicants could be found medically inadmissible to Canada based on a set of criteria out of step with a 21stcentury approach to persons with disabilities. Most of those affected are individuals who would otherwise be approved in the economic immigration class, and selected for the benefit their skills will bring to the Canadian economy.While the number of refusals under this provision was not high, it resulted in cases where applicants or their children were refused despite the fact their health condition or disability was one readily accommodated in Canadian society.The new policy on medical inadmissibility strikes a balance between protecting publicly funded health and social services and updating the policy to bring it in line with current views on the inclusion of persons with disabilities. The changes include: increasing the cost threshold for medical inadmissibility to 3 times the previous level, and amending the definition of social services by removing references to special education, social and vocational rehabilitation services and personal support services.Increasing the cost threshold will facilitate immigration for applicants with health conditions that typically require a limited range of health and social services and have relatively low health and social services costs. It is expected that this would dispense with a majority of the medical inadmissibility cases seen in Canada today.Amending the definition of social services will bring the policy in line with Canadian values on supporting the participation of persons with disabilities in society, while continuing to protect publicly funded health and social services. This would also benefit applicants with intellectual disabilities, applicants with hearing or visual impairments, and others.The Government has been reviewing all elements of the medical inadmissibility provisions since 2016. This included meetings with provincial and territorial governments, and discussions with stakeholders.In addition, the issue was studied by the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration, which recommended eliminating the policy. Going forward, the Government agrees with the Standing Committee s recommendation to eliminate the policy and will collaborate with provinces and territories towards its full elimination. Why Universal Immigration The True Experts in Immigration Matters, Proven Track Record, Trustworthy & 100% Transparency... 10 ways to immigrate to Canada Federal skilled worker, Canadian experience class, Federal skilled trade class... Mr. Sailesh Shankar President Study & Resettlement Mr Amalsingh Badal Vice President – Operations Fax - (+1) – 416-273-2048 E-mail - info@universalimmigration.com Universal Immigration Bangalore: 1st Floor, 154, 1st Floor, "Mallige Complex", 17th 'D' Main Road, K H B Colony, 5th Block, 60 Feet Rd, Koramangala, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560095. Tel: 91 80 4160 9060 Email: bangalore@universalimmigration.com Universal Immigration Philippines: Ali Mall, Cubao, Level - 2, Unit 2011, Opposite DFA, Quezon City, Metro Manila., Tel: 639171243465, urcs.PH@universalimmigration.com

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