IRCC launches survey to evaluate Caregiver Programs
On March 8, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the commencement of a comprehensive survey targeting caregivers who have been part of the Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots. The survey, which runs from March 8 to March 22, 2024, aims to delve into the perspectives and experiences of caregivers in Canada under these pilot programs. The initiative seeks to identify successful aspects and areas for improvement in caregiver programs moving forward. Participants are assured that their involvement is entirely voluntary and confidential. IRCC emphasizes that the information gathered will be strictly used to enhance the quality of existing programs and services without impacting past, current, or future applications or statuses with the department. The survey, with an estimated completion time of 20 to 30 minutes, is accessible in English and French, specifically targeting caregivers who applied through these pilots between 2019 and 2023.
Canada’s new policy for resettling SGBV survivors from Mexico
On March 8, the Canadian government introduced a temporary public policy addressing the resettlement of women survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Mexico. Up to 100 eligible individuals and family members can be resettled through Reed Smith LLP’s identification, referral, and support initiatives. CCVT, as a Sponsorship Agreement Holder, will offer care, lodging, settlement assistance, and financial support for two years. The policy, valid for three years, grants exemptions based on specific conditions for foreign nationals applying under the Convention Refugee Abroad or Country of Asylum classes. The exemptions cover regulatory fees and address eligibility and admissibility criteria. The policy comes into effect upon signing the Memorandum of Understanding and concludes after three years or upon reaching 100 applicants, with pending applications addressed in case of termination.
Manitoba conducted a new MPNP draw for Skilled Workers Overseas stream candidates
On March 8, 2024, Manitoba conducted its latest draw, #212, within the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). This draw focused on the Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO) stream, extending 104 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to eligible candidates, including 20 to Express Entry candidates. Notably, the minimum required score dropped to 614 points, marking a significant decrease of 99 points from the previous SWO draw. In this draw, the province invited candidates with a valid Express Entry profile number and job seeker validation code. In 2024, the MPNP invited 1,356 candidates, with 148 receiving invitations through the Express Entry stream.
Saskatchewan invited 35 skilled candidates under the SINP
On March 7, 2024, Saskatchewan held its most recent invitation rounds within the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), extending invitations to 35 skilled candidates. Notably, 21 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued in the Express Entry category. At the same time, another 14 were granted to candidates in the Occupations In-Demand category, all achieving a minimum score of 89 points. All selected candidates possessed Educational Credential Assessments and are now eligible to apply for provincial nomination. The SINP draws strategically targeted specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) occupation codes in alignment with the Expression of Interest (EOI) selection process. In 2024, Saskatchewan welcomed 48 skilled immigrants and entrepreneurs through its invitation processes.
