Integralite Legal Services

IRCC is removing CRS points for job offers in Express Entry starting March 25, 2025. This means candidates will no longer get 50 or 200 points for arranged employment, but job offers still matter for program eligibility (FSW, FST, PNP). If you already received an ITA before this date, you’re not affected. No action is required, but stay informed and keep your profile up to date.

The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary method for selecting skilled workers for immigration. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool and is crucial for receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Your CRS score is calculated based on several factors: age, education, language proficiency, work experience, and additional factors like a provincial nomination or a valid job offer. Enhancing your CRS score involves improving these key areas. For instance, achieving high scores in language tests like IELTS or TEF can add up to 160 points. A provincial nomination, which can be earned by aligning your skills with provincial labor market needs, can add 600 points. Gaining additional Canadian work experience or furthering your education in Canada can also significantly boost your score.

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is essential for anyone living in Canada who wants to work, access government services, or receive benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how immigrants can obtain their SIN:
1. Determine Your Eligibility
• You are eligible to apply for a SIN if you are a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a temporary resident with a valid work or study permit. This number is required to work legally in Canada and to access various government programs and benefits.

2. Prepare the Required Documents
Primary Document: You will need to provide a primary document that proves your identity and legal status in Canada. This could be:
• A valid work or study permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
• A confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a valid passport if you’re a new permanent resident.
• A Canadian birth certificate or citizenship certificate if you’re a Canadian citizen.
Supporting Documents: If the name on your primary document differs from your current name, you will also need to provide supporting documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change certificate.

3. Application Process
• Online Application: You can apply online through the Service Canada website by submitting digital copies of your documents. This is a convenient option but ensure that your documents are clear and legible.
• In-Person Application: You can also apply in person at a Service Canada Centre. Make sure to bring all your original documents with you. This option allows you to receive your SIN immediately during your visit.
• By Mail: If applying by mail, send copies of your documents to the appropriate Service Canada office. Ensure that all copies are clear and complete to avoid delays.

4. Receive Your SIN
• Online: Your SIN will be sent to you via mail. Ensure your mailing address is accurate and up to date.
• In-Person: You will receive your SIN during your visit.
• By Mail: You will receive your SIN through the mail.

5. Protect Your SIN
• Once you receive your SIN, keep it secure. Your SIN is a confidential number and should only be provided when necessary.

Detailed Explanation: Alberta to Launch New Expression of Interest System
Starting September 30, 2024, Alberta will introduce a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). This update marks a significant shift in how Alberta selects candidates for immigration, aiming to streamline the process and better align it with the province's labour market needs.
Key Features of the New EOI System:
• Points-Based Selection: The EOI system will function as a points-based selection mechanism, where candidates express their interest in immigrating to Alberta. Points will be awarded based on factors like age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and the applicant's alignment with Alberta's labour market priorities.
• Continuous Intake: Unlike the previous system, which had specific intake dates, the new EOI system allows for continuous intake. This means candidates can submit their expressions of interest at any time, making the process more flexible and accessible.
• Selection Pool: Once an expression of interest is submitted, candidates will be placed in a selection pool. The AAIP will then periodically invite top-ranking candidates from this pool to apply for permanent residency, based on their points and how well they meet Alberta's economic needs.
• Alignment with Labour Market Needs: The new system is designed to better match the province's labour market requirements, ensuring that selected candidates possess the skills and experience most needed in Alberta. This focus on economic alignment is expected to enhance the province's ability to address critical labour shortages.
This new EOI system is a step towards modernizing Alberta’s immigration process, making it more efficient and targeted in meeting the province’s economic goals.

Canada's government, led by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, is preparing to introduce a series of measures aimed at reducing the number of temporary residents. This initiative seeks to manage the influx of temporary residents, which has been a growing concern, particularly in relation to housing and affordability. Currently, temporary residents make up 6.2% of Canada’s population, and the goal is to reduce this figure to 5% by 2027. This would involve a significant reduction of about 20% from the current 2.5 million temporary residents.

Some of the anticipated measures include changes to post-graduate work permits and stricter enforcement of existing regulations. There are no immediate plans to implement a broad regularization program for undocumented residents, although sector-specific programs for areas like healthcare and construction are being considered. Additionally, the government is facing record levels of refugee claims and may impose stricter criteria on temporary resident visas to manage the situation better.