Canada invited 920 PNP candidates via Express Entry
On July 2, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the third Express Entry draw for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates of the year. IRCC issued 920 Invitations to Apply (ITA) to candidates in the PNP-targeted draw. In round #299, the cut-off score was 739 points. The tie-breaking rule for this round was February 02, 2024, at 11:38:43 UTC. As of July 2, 2024, were 222,547 profiles registered in the Express Entry pool. In 2024, Canada has already issued 44,374 invitations through the regular Express Entry draws.
IRCC announced new open work permits for Hong Kong residents
As of July 02, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new public policy that allows Hong Kong nationals applying for permanent residence to obtain open work permits, exempting them from the requirements of paragraph R200(1)(c). The temporary public policy offers a significant advantage to Hong Kong residents and their eligible family members in Canada. Those who have applied for permanent residence under the specific pathways for Hong Kong residents can now maintain or restore their temporary residence status while their applications are being processed. This policy, which took effect on May 27, 2024, provides flexibility and support and will remain in place until May 27, 2029.
Quebec premier warns of immigration overreaction
Quebec Premier François Legault has expressed concerns regarding the current immigration levels, warning that an “overreaction” against newcomers could occur if the province continues to accept as many immigrants as it has in recent years. Legault has urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to reduce immigration to Quebec, citing the strain on services, the French language, and housing as primary issues. He emphasized the need for balance, stating that welcoming over 300,000 new residents in two years is unsustainable. Legault’s remarks come amid fears of growing right-wing sentiments similar to those seen in the United States and France.
Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program gains popularity
Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) has nearly doubledin popularity over the past five years, with a significant rise in employer demand for temporary foreign workers. The TFWP’s reach has expanded across various sectors, with notable increases in the number of administrative assistants and construction labourers recruited. In 2023, the TFWP admitted 239,646 workers, up from 108,988 in 2018. Despite its growth, the program faces criticism for potentially exploiting workers and undermining market competition. The increased demand is partly attributed to relaxed regulations post-pandemic.
