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Canadian Study Permit: Advantages of Applying in December – Save Money & Secure Your Spot

 

Advantages of applying for a Canadian study permit in December

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced significant updates concerning international students in the country. The good news is that you can benefit from applying for a Canadian study permit in December.

Most of these changes will be effective from January 1st, 2024. Continue reading to understand the advantages associated with applying for your study permit this month.

Save CAD 10,000 Before Hike in Cost-of-Living Requirement

As per the latest IRCC announcement on December 7, the cost-of-living requirement for international students in Canada is expected to increase from CA$10,000 to CA$20,635. 

However, the new cost-of-living requirement for study in Canada will take effect on January 1st, 2024. Individuals can save CAD 10,000 by applying for a study permit in Canada before this date, even if their studies commence later in 2024. 

IRCC has more than doubled the previous cost-of-living criteria. This is done to ensure that international students possess adequate financial resources to sustain themselves in Canada. 

However, this affirms the fact that there could be a downside in applying before the new requirements kick in. Students may soon realize they are falling short of covering their living expenses. This may not be the case with those applying after the new updates are made effective. 

Remote Study Time Counted to Your Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

IRCC has also expressed its intention to permit international students to engage in remote learning at Canadian post-secondary institutions. The time spent studying outside of Canada will continue to contribute to their PGWPs. 

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) serves as Canada’s official employment pathway for international graduates who qualify for permanent residence. The work permit has the same duration as the length of the student’s program of study. It is usually up to three years. 

Under this provision, students can include their time spent in remote learning toward PGWP eligibility under the following conditions:

➤ when students spend less than 50% of their time by learning remote

➤ The program of study commences before September 1st, 2024.

Thus, international students who apply for their study permit in December may leverage these remote learning opportunities. This approach has the potential to result in cost savings for students, such as accommodation, food, and other basic living costs.

Essential Requirements to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit

To apply for a study permit in Canada, you’ll need to meet the following eligibility requirements and gather the necessary documents:

Eligibility Requirements for a Canadian study permit:

1. Be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI): This is a school authorized by the Canadian government to host international students. Basically, you can find a list of DLIs on the IRCC website or ask our study-abroad counselors to help you. 

2. Be financially sufficient to afford your tuition fees and expenses: This typically includes proof of income, scholarships, or financial support from a parent or guardian.

3. Meet the academic requirements of your program: You’ll need to provide transcripts or diplomas from your previous education.

4. No criminal record: You may need to provide a police clearance certificate.

5. Complete a medical exam: Only certain countries and study program will require this.

6. State that you will leave Canada after your permit expires to the immigration officer: This means demonstrating that you have ties to your home country and that you’re not planning to immigrate to Canada illegally.

 

Documents Required to apply for a Canadian study permit:

1. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the expected expiration date of your study permit.

2. Proof of acceptance from a DLI: A letter stating that the school has accepted you.

3. Proof of financial resources: Generally, this could include bank statements, scholarship letters, or proof of financial support from a parent or guardian.

4. Medical examination results (if required): Given that, you’ll need to get a medical exam from a panel physician that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved.

5. Additional documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to provide additional documents, such as a police clearance certificate, proof of language proficiency, or a study plan.

Enhance Your Chances with CanApprove

Indian students represent a significant portion of international students in Canada, accounting for around 41% in 2023. 

There’s a growing trend of Indian students pursuing postgraduate degrees in Canada, seeking specialized knowledge and research opportunities. Engineering, computer science, and business dominate the areas of study for Indian students in Canada. 

You too can be eligible for any study program of your choice! 

Applying through a reputed consultant can increase your chances of qualifying for a study permit in Canada. CanApprove is one such recognized immigration and study abroad partner. We are offering free consultation to determine your study options and eligibility to study abroad. 

Book your free appointment with us today!

Business Immigration Programs in Canada – An Overview 

The Canadian Government has always been looking and rooting for investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals in managerial positions in businesses who wish to settle abroad. The Canadian Business Immigration Programs are offered for these people to help them establish businesses and be self-employed by contributing to Canada’s rapidly growing economy.

Business Immigration Programs in Canada 

Take a look at these business immigration programs in Canada and read on to know its “in-outs”!

?Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows employers in Canada to recruit foreign nationals to fill vacant positions. This program partners with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This program provides visas for foreign nationals who want to work in Canada only for a limited time. 

?International Mobility Program

The International Mobility Program is an immigration program in Canada that allows foreign nationals to work in Canada without a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This program provides these skilled temporary foreign workers with an open work permit

?Entrepreneur or Self-Employed Category

The self-employed or entrepreneur program is intended to pull in applicants who can and will be able to get self-employed in Canada. It allows people to migrate to Canada permanently as self-employed individuals. To be eligible for this program, you must have relevant experience in cultural and social activities. 

?Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)

The Canada-United States -Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is a free trade agreement among Canada, the United States, and Mexico. It supports the economic connections that Canada has with Mexico and the United States. It allows eligible U.S. and Mexican nationals to obtain Canadian work permits.  

?Start-Up Visa Program

The Canada start-up visa focuses on skilled and potential entrepreneurs who are immigrants establishing businesses in Canada. It also aims at entrepreneurs who are creative and competitive on a global level, create jobs for Canadian citizens, and contribute to Canada’s economy.

?Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP)

The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program is an immigration program in Canada. It enables investors to become permanent residents by investing CAD 1.2 million and it is the only passive investor immigration program in Canada that was launched in 1985. 

The QIIP is one of the distinct immigration programs. It offers quicker permanent residency to investors in Canadian companies and to entrepreneurs who are ready to bring their business management expertise to Canada. 

?Quebec Entrepreneur program

International business people who wish to launch a new venture or buy and run an already-existing company in Quebec can apply for the Quebec Entrepreneur Program. Successful candidates in this program can become permanent residents of Canada by moving to Quebec.

?Quebec Self-Employed Program

The Quebec Self-Employed Program is for immigrants who have experience starting their own businesses. The immigration process to Quebec allows successful applicants to start their own businesses or pursue a profession on their own terms.

?Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur program

Foreigners can travel to Canada and make investments through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and immigrants can obtain permanent residence in Canada more quickly by applying through the PNP’s entrepreneur stream.

?Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program

For financially secure individuals, the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital (IIVC) Pilot Program offered a path to permanent residence in Canada which is why the government’s Canada Immigrant Investor Program was replaced by the IIVC initiative. It was expected that the initiative would significantly boost the Canadian economy.

Wrap-Up

Canada pulls in entrepreneurs who are successful and looking for new challenges. The purpose of these business immigration programs are established to promote and facilitate these people’s admission. The governments of Canada, both federal and provincial/territorial, welcome business immigrants and provide resources to assist them in establishing a company and moving there.

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for a future abroad then you know where to go! However, the process of applying could be a bit challenging, CanApprove with its best immigration experts here to assist you and ensure a flawless application and impeccable documentation process. 

We will guide you through the whole process, right from filling out your application until you settle in Canada. Want to know more? talk to our experts at CanApprove, we’d love to hear from you!

FAQs

1. What is the business immigration program in Canada?

The purpose of the Business Immigration Program is to promote and simplify people’s admission. Both the federal and local/territorial governments of Canada welcome business immigrants. It provides resources to assist them in establishing a company and relocating.

2. Who is eligible for a business visa in Canada?

Be financially sufficient to support yourself and any dependents throughout your stay in Canada. You must not have a history of any criminal record while this requires the use of a PCC (Police Clearance Certificate). You must also meet the government’s fundamental health requirements.

3. What is the fastest immigration program in Canada?

Express Entry is the easy and quick way to move to Canada in 2023. Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades applications are managed through the flagship selection system.

ICCRC Canada: An Overview

In recent times, Canada has been one of the most visited destinations for people from all over the world. If you’re one of those who are planning to travel or migrate to Canada, here’s a question for you! Are you seeking help from a legitimate immigration consultant? Or are they an ICCRC-registered firm? Before you can answer, catch a glimpse at this blog to know what ICCRC Canada is! 

What is the ICCRC?

The ICCRC stands for the Regulatory Council for Immigration Consultants of Canada.  It’s a Canadian government body that regulates immigration, citizenship, and international student advising services. The ICCRC was established in 2011 under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act

The ICCRC works to protect individuals who have used Canadian immigration consultants or advisors’ services.  According to the law, all immigration consultants and advisors working within or outside Canada who provide immigration services must register with this regulatory body and be certified as Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC).

What is the need for the ICCRC?

Although only some people need assistance from a consultant, moving to Canada can be challenging. However, most people who want their applications to be processed more quickly do not mind paying a consultant for their paid services.

Since Canada has become more popular among potential immigrants in recent years, there have been numerous instances of people charging candidates a large sum of money under the disguise of Canadian immigration consultants while making false promises of quick immigration to Canada.

The Canadian federal government established the ICCRC, ensuring that all applicants who are willing to immigrate to Canada receive professional service from licensed consultants at an affordable cost. 

The ICCRC takes all possible measures to avoid acts of fraud where candidates feel secure pursuing a successful career in Canada and are not taken advantage of of their hard-earned money and time. It takes proper measures to safeguard and protect the best interests of the applicants in all immigration cases.

Why has the CICC replaced the ICCRC?

The ICCRC, the previous regulatory body, was found to be rather ineffective in carrying out the supervisory steps for the regulation of immigration consultants, so the council developed a better regulatory system. 

The body is constructed in such a way that it establishes strong professional conduct along with efficient safeguards to protect the general public from unauthorized consultants.

What is the role of the ICCRC in Canadian migration?

The newly created statutory system, CICC Canada, will comply with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the Citizenship Act. It authorizes and permits qualified individuals to engage in immigration and citizenship consulting.

Alongside granting authorization, it also regulates the consultants, focusing on the code of professional conduct, and takes action against unauthorized consultants to ensure that the newcomer is protected.

Why should I choose ICCRC-registered consultants for immigration?

The Immigration and Refugees Protection Act (IRPA) and the Citizenship Act both require approval for any business or person who offers immigration consulting services without charging a fee. 

A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent must have been completed, and consultants registering with CICC must complete a diploma program with the organization that will be assessed annually. If any organization offering immigration advice is not registered or certified, then it is viewed as conducting business illegally.   

The RCIC or registered consultants will need to meet professional standards and demonstrate their expertise. The CICC works to regulate two categories of consultants: regulated Canadian immigration consultants and regulated international student immigration advisors.

Wrap-Up

You can apply for the Canadian permanent residency visa program on your own yet still be unsure of what will work best and how to go about doing things, even after a lot of research and analysis. It would always be considered best to work with the ICCRC, which is now called the CICC-registered immigration consultants, to make sure you’re safe and secure while migrating to Canada.

For the record, CanApprove is a CICC (#R422511) registered multinational firm and ensures to assist you right from filling out your application until you become a permanent resident of Canada. If you’d like to know more about migrating to your dream destination, talk to our experts at CanApprove; we’d love to hear from you! 

FAQs

Who is an ICCRC agent?

The ICCRC is a Canadian government body in charge of registering new immigration consultants and keeping an eye on their operations both domestically and abroad.

What is ICCRC registered for?

If any immigration consultant is registered with the ICCRC, then it would indicate that they are genuine and can be trusted.

How does an immigration consultant help?

An immigration consultant helps you by assisting you with the visa application process by providing guidance and support throughout the process. They take care of the paperwork and documentation, remember due dates, and give you updates on the progress of your application.

Eligible Healthcare Occupations Under New Category-Based Express Entry Draws

The healthcare sector is facing a severe workforce shortage, partly due to Canada’s low birth rates and aging population. Recent job vacancy data from Statistics Canada indicates that there were 144,500 vacant in Healthcare Occupations and social assistance sector as of March 2023, accounting for 17.7% of all unfilled positions.

Various provinces and territories have implemented targeted streams within their Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to address the workforce deficit and attract foreign-trained healthcare professionals. For instance, Alberta introduced the Designated Healthcare Pathway as part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, while British Columbia and Ontario regularly invite healthcare professionals to their PNP draws. Canada pnp finderHowever, the major highlight in recent times is the introduction of new category-based selection draws under the Express Entry system. Canada’s immigration minister is now given the authority to select economic immigrants based on specific attributes that align with the country’s economic priorities or promote French-speaking immigration to communities outside of Quebec. 

This opens up new opportunities for healthcare professionals to immigrate to Canada. 

Let’s explore all the eligible healthcare occupations under the new Healthcare occupations category (2023-1) here. 

Understanding Canada Express Entry System

The Canada Express Entry system is an immigration management program introduced by the Canadian government in January 2015. The system aims to attract highly skilled and qualified individuals who can contribute to Canada’s economy and workforce and offer permanent residency. 

The Express Entry system is a points-based system, and the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores required for Invitation To Apply (ITA) can change with each fortnightly draw depending on the number of candidates in the pool and the specific immigration targets of the Canadian government. 

New Category-Based Express Entry Draws

The latest innovation in the system includes the announcement of category-based draws where candidates in specific occupations will now be targeted for PR, including 

1. Healthcare
2. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professions
3. Skilled trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
4. Transport
5. Agriculture and agri-food

Eligible candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
1. Continuous work experience of a minimum of six months within the last 3 years in an eligible occupation category.
2. This experience can be gained either in Canada or abroad.

Click here to listen to Ms. Teena who got her Canada PR under the occupation-specific Express Entry stream. 

30+ Eligible Healthcare Occupations

   A. Registered Nurses (RN) and Nurse Practitioners (NP)

Registered Nurses (RN) and Nurse Practitioners (NP)The demand for RNs and NPs in Canada is consistently high due to various factors such as an aging population, an increase in chronic health conditions, and a growing need for healthcare services in rural and underserved areas.

Registered Nurses (RN) Nurse Practitioners (NP)
They are essential members of the healthcare team in Canada. 

Educational Requirements: Candidates must complete a recognized nursing program, typically including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, although diploma programs are also accepted in some provinces.

Licensure: After completing the educational program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain their nursing license. 

Each province and territory in Canada has its nursing regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses.

They are advanced practice nurses with a more extensive scope of responsibilities. 

Educational Requirements: Most NPs hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a focus on a specialized area of practice.

Certification: NPs need to obtain certification from a recognized nursing certification organization, such as the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) or the Canadian Nurse Practitioner Examination: Family/All Ages (CNPE: F/AA) exam.

Licensure: Like RNs, NPs must be licensed by the nursing regulatory body in the province or territory where they plan to practice.

   B. Physicians and Specialists

Physicians and SpecialistsThe demand for medical practitioners, including physicians and specialists, varies across different provinces in Canada due to factors such as population size, demographic trends, healthcare needs, and regional disparities in access to medical services.

Ontario  Ontario has a high demand for medical practitioners, particularly in urban centers like Toronto and Ottawa. 
British Columbia British Columbia seeks to attract physicians and specialists, especially in rural and remote areas, to address healthcare access issues.
Alberta Alberta’s rapidly growing economy and population, particularly in major cities like Calgary and Edmonton, focuses on recruiting specialists in fields such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
Quebec Quebec has a demand for medical practitioners, especially those proficient in French. There is a need for physicians and specialists in both urban centers like Montreal and rural regions.
Atlantic Province The Atlantic provinces, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, often face challenges in recruiting and retaining medical practitioners, particularly in rural and remote areas. 

It’s important to note that the licensure process may vary slightly between provinces, and candidates should check with the specific medical regulatory authority in their intended province for the most up-to-date requirements.

Canada has made it easier for self-employed Physicians in Canada to qualify for permanent residency through Express Entry. Eligible candidates can qualify under Canada Experience Class (CEC) to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry. 

   C. Pharmacists

Pharmacists Healthcare OccupationsFor international pharmacists seeking to practice in Canada, the credential assessment and licensing process involves several steps:

1. Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada Evaluating Examination (PEBC EE): After completing the Education Credential Assessment (ECA) and meeting language requirements, pharmacists must pass the PEBC Evaluating Examination. This exam assesses their knowledge of pharmacy practice and Canadian healthcare regulations.
2. Pharmacist’s Gateway Canada: Pharmacists can create an account on Pharmacist’s Gateway Canada, an online portal that guides applicants through the licensure process, connects them with regulatory authorities, and provides essential resources.
3. Structured Practical Training (SPT): Depending on the province, international pharmacists may need to complete a period of structured practical training under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist in Canada.
4. Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada Qualifying Examination (PEBC QE): The final step is passing the PEBC Qualifying Examination, which assesses clinical skills and competency in pharmacy practice.
5. Licensure: After successfully completing all the necessary exams and practical training, pharmacists can apply for licensure with the provincial regulatory authority where they intend to practice.

Other Eligible Healthcare Occupations

All the invited profiles in the latest category-based Express Entry draws also had prior work experience in any one of the following 35 healthcare occupations:

  • Audiologists and speech-language pathologists
  • Chiropractors
  • Dentists
  • Dieticians and nutritionists
  • Education counselors
  • General practitioners and family physicians
  • Instructors of persons with disabilities
  • Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
  • Licensed practical nurses
  • Massage therapists
  • Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations
  • Medical laboratory technologists
  • Medical radiation technologists
  • Medical sonographers
  • Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
  • Nurse practitioners
  • Nursing coordinators and supervisors
  • Occupational therapists
  • Optometrists
  • Other assisting occupations in support of health services
  • Other practitioners of natural healing
  • Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating
  • Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment
  • Paramedical occupations
  • Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants
  • Physician assistants, midwives, and allied health professionals
  • Physiotherapists
  • Psychologists
  • Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
  • Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists, and cardiopulmonary technologists
  • Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
  • Specialists in surgery
  • Therapists in counseling and related specialized therapies
  • Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists
  • Veterinarians

Also, read>> New Brunswick Takes Steps to Address Nursing Shortage, Plans To Cover Costs for IENs

Language Proficiency and Express Entry

Under the Express Entry system in Canada, language proficiency (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) is a crucial factor for healthcare professionals, as it contributes significantly to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. 

The two official languages of Canada are English and French. Candidates are required to demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French, and they can submit test results from approved language testing agencies – International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), Test d’évaluation de français (TEF). 

Language proficiency is a significant factor not only in Express Entry but also for healthcare professionals seeking licensure and employment in Canada. Many provincial regulatory bodies and employers require proof of language proficiency as part of the licensing and hiring process. 

Demonstrating strong language skills can enhance the chances of successful immigration and integration into the Canadian healthcare workforce.

Register Your Express Entry Profile

The Express Entry process involves several steps:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) online
2. Profile assessment on Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
3. Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
4. Apply for Permanent Residence (usually within 60 days)
5. Get Permanent Residence Status

Having a licensed consultant like CanApprove will simplify the entire process from start to end. If you’re a working healthcare professional and planning for your immigration in search of better work opportunities, you should consider Canada. 

Visit CanApprove and claim your free appointment today. We are available in major centers across India, UAE, and Qatar.