Category: Education

Canada is expecting a ‘significant surge’ in immigration applications as coronavirus restrictions ease, putting a ‘tremendous demand’ on government resources, federal officials say.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) must move to overhaul how it processes applications in order to cope with the rush, according to a new tender document.

In preparation for the post-pandemic situation, IRCC must consider a range of updates to processes including paper applications, immigration interviews and a computer system overhaul. We at Emigrantz make sure that you are updated with immigration procedures.

According to IRCC’s update on June 12, 2020, there is further more guidance on who can travel to Canada while travel restrictions remain in place.

Canada has had travel restrictions since March 18 but has been providing frequent updates to keep foreign nationals informed about their authority to enter Canada. Exemptions have been announced following the introduction of the travel restrictions, and most recently, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced even more flexibility for immediate family to enter Canada.

Examples of travel for non-optional reasons

In the information released today, IRCC reminds foreign nationals they can only enter Canada for non-optional or non-discretionary purposes and it is the responsibility of foreign nationals to demonstrate the reason for their trip.

Immediate family of Canadian citizens or permanent residents will be deemed to be travelling for non-discretionary or non-optional reasons if their trip to Canada is at least 15 days long and they are either travelling with, or will reunite with their family member.

IRCC also stresses to its immigration officers that they should demonstrate flexibility when processing the applications of immediate family members, even if they are travelling to Canada for less than 15 days, so long as the trip is non-optional.

Immediate family members of temporary residents in Canada must still show evidence their travel to Canada is non-optional. Such immediate family members coming to Canada from any country other than the United States must obtain an authorization letter from IRCC.

Who are immediate family?

The immediate family of Canadians and permanent residents are limited to:

• Spouses or common-law partners
• Dependent children
• Grandchildren
• Parents or step-parents
• Guardians or tutors

Immediate family can enter Canada if they meet the following criteria

Trip to Canada is at least 15 days long (however, note above that IRCC is offering flexibility for trips under 15 days)

Immediate family is self-quarantine for 14 days when entering Canada

Immediate family does not have COVID-19 or symptoms of the coronavirus

The trip is non-optional and non-discretionary

They are coming to Canada to be with their immediate family (IRCC notes however there is no requirement for the Canadian or permanent resident to be in Canada first. IRCC wants to help facilitate family unity and understands immediate family may arrive to Canada at different times due to travel restrictions).

Recommended documents

• IRCC recommends that immediate family provide the following documents:
• Documentation showing their immediate family is a Canadian or permanent resident (e.g., Canadian passport, proof of Canadian citizenship, Canadian permanent resident card, etc).
• Documentation showing their relationship to the family member (e.g., marriage certificate or proof of common law status, birth certificate, confirmation of permanent residence for the family class, etc).
• Paper and electronic copies of the above documents are acceptable by IRCC.

Similarly, those looking to enter Canada to be with immediate family who are temporary residents are recommended to show copies of their family member’s work permit, study permit, temporary resident permit or visitor’s record, as well as proof of their relationship to the family member, and written authorization from IRCC.

IRCC will provide a letter to such individuals to demonstrate to the airline the individual is allowed to come to Canada.

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Over the last few decades, we have witnessed something frightening erupting in the form of floods, hurricane, wildfires, tornadoes as well as economic shocks and now the pandemic. Social unrest, violence and all of these things are happening with a greater frequency and they are creating a crisis.

Australian economy witnessed a significant growth and has had a record 29-year recession free run. However, things are changing and most economists are forecasting June quarter GDP to fall anywhere between 5 and 10 per cent since the entire sector were out of action for at least half the quarter. More than 3 million people are relying on government support to maintain their employment.

As the economy gradually reopens, more people will struggle to break into the workforce and the increase in unemployment is not expected to dissolve overnight. The economic downturn would last more than few months and would show signs of recovery with effective economic planning.

The government imposed shutdown had an effect on economic activity that is generated by short term moment of people in the form of tourists, or long term economic activity supported by flow of international students, Migrant workers and Permanent Residents.

Having experienced the unexpected disruption caused by the coronavirus, the household savings rate saw a significant jump in Australia. People are spending less despite the increase in social assistance benefits.

Despite the pandemic there is still hope of recovery

The governments around the world have plans of opening up the economies, and are hopeful to leave behind the worst of Covid-19. This news has been greatly welcomed by the business community, since easing of restrictions would increase the economic activity and boost the hospitality and tourism sector.

West Australia for example looks at this as a great historic opportunity to rebuild the economy. The state will introduce the phase three of eased coronavirus restrictions encouraging interstate travel and reopening of many businesses, including theaters, gyms, cinemas and beauty services.

The hopes of positive future were evident in the Australian share market with Australian stocks trading at the highest level since early March. The industry sector finished higher, dominated by healthcare and bank stocks.

If you have been thinking of Migrating to Australia lately, here’s what you could consider.

Let’s acknowledge the fact that it’s not easy time to switch jobs and start a new career, but it’s still helpful to access all the options to plan a better future.

Here’s what you can do, when your dreams of Migrating to Australia don’t match the reality.

A framework for a successful Australian migration depends on the strength of your profile. It’s about focusing time on activities that you are good at and enhancing your skills to match the job requirements. If you are good at something, you get paid for that and Australian employers always look out for talented resources that cannot be filled locally. Focus more time on learning something new that can add value to your career and life.

To know more about Australia visa news and updates, get in touch with us

The Canadian economy lost two million jobs in April, primarily because of the damage caused by the coronavirus crisis. Almost all the unemployed were on temporary layoff and are expected to return to their former employer as the lock-down is relaxed. While the uncertainty is still looming across the world, Canada’s ambitious plan of bringing in more people as part of 2020-2022 immigration level plans is justified? Let’s take a look.

Since the late 1980’s Canada has consistently been a country that has attracted many immigrants as compared to other countries, and clearly, immigrants have become crucial to the development of Canada. Many people choose to migrate to Canada purely because of its reputation as a politically moderate and economically prosperous society. With the subsequent integration of people from different nationalities, Canada’s economy witnessed a significant growth and established an enduring aspect of Canada’s immigration policy. These immigration policies were designed in the public interest and assess its contribution to the Canada’s economy.

Canada recently closed its borders to all non-essential travel, however, the government confirmed to allow the entry of selected foreign employees whose support was absolutely necessary during this pandemic. Canada’s immigration minister “Marco Mendicino” in his recent interview shared several updates and said that “immigration will be key to our success and economic recovery”. The minister also told that the government is monitoring the coronavirus situation and finding ways to effectively process permanent residents and migrant workers application.

The recent update was from Ottawa, which allows migrant workers to work for an employer other that one on their permit while waiting for a new permit to be issued. The processing time promised by the immigration department for such application is 10 days instead of 10 weeks.

The concerns of international students were also addressed and new measures and policies will allow international students to enroll in online courses for the fall term while they are abroad and still be eligible for a Post-Graduation work permit after moving to Canada.

As part of immigration levels plan to invite 341,000 permanent residents, Canada government has adopted certain measures and policies that sound promising for all the aspiring Permanent Residents of Canada. However, these numbers may be revised in November when the government is expected to announce new immigration targets.

To know more about Canadian immigration news and updates, get in touch with us

Do you want to study abroad, but worried about the current Coronavirus situation?

The outbreak of Coronavirus forced many countries to go on a lockdown, and with these announcements and Travel bans, a lot of uncertainties still loom overhead and did you notice that,every day,since the lockdown feels like just another day, where you’ve lost track of time,while sitting here and wondering, what’s going on in the world right now. Don’t worry you’re not alone.

While most of the sources are sensationalizing the current crisis, let’s acknowledge the fact that the situation is not going to remain the same. The world must move on and emerge out of this crisis.

A recent survey suggests that Coronavirus situation has not affected the plans of students aspiring to study in foreign universities. While this may be true but there are certain things that cannot be ignored, so let’s look at what to expect in the coming days.

Immigration services and foreign universities

With the growing number of Covid-19 cases, it’s obvious to expect global closure of embassies and visa appointment cancellations; however with safety measures such as social distancing in place, immigration authorities are operating with limited staff to avoid any possible delay in visa processing.

Most foreign universities are emphasizing on virtual platform and extending the admission deadlines. If the Coronavirus situation remains unchanged, it is possible that universities might offer online courses for the September intake, nothing can be said conclusively.

If the online courses are not possible, students will be told to join either in January 2021 or September 2021 because many schools have the option to defer admission by a semester or a year.

Below are few tips students can follow amid the coronavirus crisis

• Keep a regular check on colleges and enquire the possible date to start the processing or acceptance.
• Prepare for IELTS test, a good score in English language proficiency can help your application significantly.
• Make sure you have translated all the necessary documents that are not in English.
• Students should also only lodge visa applications when they are confident that they can satisfy requirements for a student visa application that may be required for assessment (Health check, English language testing and evidence of financial capacity).
• Approach a registered Immigration Consultant who can take care of all your requirements and help you attain the letter of acceptance, and a student visa.

To conclude it is advisable to remain calm and take the right action during this unprecedented situation.

To know more about Student visa, foreign universities, news and updates, get in touch with us

A total of 30,989 candidates have received ITA (Invitation to Apply) for Canadian Permanent Residency since January 2020. The Express Entry draw #145 held on 29 April 2020 was significant because 589 Express Entry candidates who received provincial nominations have received ITA for Canada Permanent Resident. The Minimum CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) cut-off scores were 692, which is down by 116 points since the last PNP draw.
Provincial nominee program are unique as they operate under different streams which are designed by the provinces to meet the Economic and immigration goals.The popularity of the PNP grew over the years, since it is considered the fastest pathway for Canadian Permanent Residency. The participating province and territory has an immigration stream that is linked to Express Entry system, which allows it to nominate candidates for Canadian Permanent Residency.

Despite the Coronavirus measures, the Canada government held several draws and issued ITA’s for candidates from PNP and Canadian Experience Class. Express Entry candidates nominated by province or territory receive an additional 600 points; this gives them a point’s advantage over other candidates.
Immigration plays a significant role in Canada and as planned the Canadian Government is targeting to invite 341,000 immigrants in 2020 and the demand for immigrants is going to increase to 351,000 in 2021 and 361,000 in 2022. Canada needs immigrants and despite the continued uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, all the aspiring candidates can start the immigration process with peace of mind. A registered Immigration consultant can assist you with all the necessary information required to immigrate to Canada.

2020 Draw results 

To know more about Canadian immigration news and updates, get in touch with us

The Canadian Prime Minister announced travel restrictions as a safety measure to prevent the spread of Corona virus. However the restrictions are exempted if you are a Citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada, Temporary foreign worker, International students with study permit, and approved Permanent resident who haven’t yet landed in Canada.
As a safety measure, you need to pass a health check conducted by Airlines, while travelling by air. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to enter Canada by air.
On your arrival in Canada you need to pass a health check before you leave the port of entry, and it is mandatory to isolate yourself for 14 days even if you have no symptoms of COVID-19.
Despite all the restrictions Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is processing immigration applications to avoid any possible delay. However you can expect some delay, since the IRCC is operating with limited staff. Let’s take a look at how these restrictions are affecting Permanent Residents, workers, students, visitors and immigration applicants.

Permanent Residents

With the restrictions in place, Permanent residents are allowed to travel to Canada, however one must isolate or 14 days despite having no symptoms of Corona virus.
Permanent Residency applicants whose application is approved before March 18, 2020 are also exempted from travel restrictions and can enter Canada and the Landing appointments will be held by telephone, however as a mandatory rule one must isolate for 14 days despite having no symptoms of Coronavirus.
As a Permanent Resident, your immediate family members are also exempted from travel restrictions and must follow the 14 day isolation measures on arrival.
New application for permanent Residency will be processed by IRCC; however files with missing documents will be retained and reviewed within 90 days.

Workers

The Canadian Prime minister imposed a travel ban on March 18, 2020; however work permit holders can still travel to Canada as long as they are not showing any symptoms of Coronavirus, but must follow the mandatory rule of self -isolation. The Truck drives are exempted from the self-isolation rule, since they regularly cross Canada-U.S. border to maintain the flow of goods. Workers from Agricultural sector, food processing, health and emergency services are also exempted from the travel restrictions. The employment duration of Temporary Foreign worker low wage stream will be increased from one to two years. It is advised to carry valid work permit or letter of induction from IRCC to identify themselves before boarding.
International Students
International students with approved study permit or who were enrolled and accepted at a Designated Educational Institution of Canada before March 18, 2020 are exempted from Travel restrictions. These students must furnish the valid study permit or letter of Induction before boarding and must self-isolate for 14 days once they arrive in Canada.

Visitors

The travel restrictions are exempted if you fall under below category:
●Person registered under Canada’s Indian Act.
●Protected person
●Medical professional invited by Canadian Government to contain COVID-19
●Immediate family member of a Canadian Citizen or Permanent resident.
The immediate family member must prove that his/her visit to Canada is for essential reasons.

Why Immigrants are necessary for Canada despite Coronavirus crisis?

It was just couple of months when Canada made an announcement of inviting over one million immigrants over the next three years, but with the outbreak of Coronavirus, Canada just like other countries appears to face economic and social turmoil.
Canada has always strengthened its economy with flexible immigration policies. This is due to its ageing population that would reach the retirement age by the end of this decade. Since Canada has a low birth rate, the economic and labor growth is mainly driven immigration.
In the current scenario immigrants arriving in Canada may face some difficulties, but will soon enjoy the unlimited employment opportunities once the ageing population leaves the workforce.
Hence, it makes absolute sense to admit that immigrants are necessary for Canada despite Coronavirus crisis.

With the outbreak of Coronavirus, Australia like many other countries has announced a lockdown and the possibility of returning to normalcy don’t seem to be happening anytime soon.The Australian immigration department however, is processing visa applications for those travelers in the exempted categories to support urgent travel.
Some services related to visa application process may be impacted by the Coronavirus; however, fresh PR applications are still being processed.

What to expect in this article?
•How Australian Immigration has changed over the years.
•Are we going to see more changes in the Australian Immigration?

How Australian Immigration has changed over the years

Australia has a history of inviting immigrants from all over the world. With the growing economic demand, Australian immigration process has seen significant changes and with the current Coronavirus crisis, we can expect more changes.
Australia had a planned intake of migrants to combat the ageing population and low birth rate problem. A major economic study highlighted the positive effects of immigration on Australian economy.
The movement of Temporary workers into Australia grew rapidly in the 90’s and this saw a significant shift in the migration policy as these migrants were not points- tested in the same way as other skilled migrants. A considerable number of Temporary workers remained in Australia as Permanent Residents. The year was 1996 when the Coalition Government abolished the labor-market testing requirements for temporary skilled workers and introduced ‘457’ long term temporary business (Employer sponsored visa).
The Australian authorities significantly restructured many acts and introduced measures relating to national security. A candidate’s eligibility was assessed based on many tests and the aim of these tests was to encourage prospective migrants to obtain knowledge they need to support successful integration into Australian society.Over the years the minimum required points for eligibility has increased from 60 to 65. There has been a significant change in visa subclass, for example skilled work regional provisional visa subclass 489 has been replaced by subclass 491.

Are we going to see more changes in the Australian Immigration?

The crisis of Coronavirus was unprecedented, with safety measures such as lock down and travel restrictions, many countries including Australia are fighting a battle against Coronavirus. The pandemic situation will eventually be under control; however it has had a devastating effect on the economy. The world will never be the same again. We can expect a lot of changes in the immigration rules and regulations post Coronavirus era.
The aspiring candidates must align themselves and be compatible with the changing norms. To avoid any kind of delay or backlogs, you can start your visa application early. Always approach a registered agent for all your visa requirements.
We urge everyone to stay safe and reduce the risk of Coronavirus infection. Visit your nearest hospital if you come across Corona virus symptoms and follow orders issued by World Health organization.

To know more about Australian immigration services, news and updates, get in touch with us

Every year thousands of applicant’s apply for Visa, with a hope of a better future prospects. However a staggering percentage of Visa applicant’s face rejection due to reasons that could have been easily avoided.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a fresh Visa applicant, Hustling with time or someone dealing with visa rejection. All applicants get stuck & look for directions sometimes.

So, it’s good to have you here.

This is your go-to source to make an educated choice guaranteed to improve your chances of Visa approval and avoid possible pitfalls.

Here’s what we will cover:

• Reasons for Visa rejection.(Broken into Categories)
• Tips to make a better choice.

Visa get’s rejected because of following reasons:

Fail to follow Visa rules

The immigration authorities have laid down rules protecting the interest of a Country’s national security & Economic welfare. Since the visa application process is complex and time consuming, applicants tend to miss few guidelines. There is conclusive proof that significant amount of visa applicants fail to follow the guidelines, making it the top reason why Visa get rejected.

Low IELTS score

Having a good IELTS scores, helps an applicant to grow his social ties and have a stable career. Applications with Low IELTS scores are generally rejected. It is advisable to get yourself trained to improve your English Language proficiency to avoid visa rejections.

Incomplete Application form

Applications with blank columns, misleading information or mismatch will be rejected. It is always advisable to double check the information with the supporting documents to avoid such errors.
The immigration authorities follow a strict time line & have a stipulated time for every application. If the applicant fails to submit the necessary documents on time, there are very high possibilities of Visa getting rejected.

Insufficient Funds

When you submit your Visa application, you will be required to show that you have enough funds to support you and your family, till you find a job. A legitimate bank statement is generally accepted. However a credit card statement or statement of investment is generally not considered. It is advisable to maintain a minimum balance to avoid Visa rejection.

Criminal Record

The immigration authorities are very specific when it comes to National Security. Any applicant convicted of criminal offence will be rejected up-front.

Unqualified sponsor

When the Visa application is sponsored by someone in the host country, the sponsor is required to show that, they have enough funds to support your stay till you find a job.
Visa can be rejected if the sponsor fails to furnish his bank statement showing sufficient funds. Visa can also be rejected if the sponsor is convicted of any criminal offence.

Fake Documents and Documents in Regional Language

Every documents furnished by the Visa applicants goes through a verification process. The authorities spent a lot of time in verification process to eliminate forged and fake documents; also documents in regional language get rejected. It is advised to furnish genuine documents & have those regional language documents translated in English language.

Approaching Unlicensed Agents

Over the past few years more Visas have been rejected by the immigration authorities, this is due to widespread of unlicensed agents operating illegally. These fraudulent agents are quiet deceptive & have set up fake emails, phone lines to attract aspiring visa applicants. The Authorities are fighting this menace & have blacklisted few unlicensed agents. Visa applications from such agents are rejected.

• Tips to make a better choice.

You always have a choice to apply for a Visa independently& if your preferred choice is that, ensure you avoid above errors.
However it is safe to avail the services of a licensed immigration agent, since they carry expertise and knowledge to guide an applicant through the complex process of Visa application. A licensed immigration agent also legally represents your cases with the government and handles complete correspondence. Few immigration firms also offer language training if required.

A Final word

The purpose of this blog is to help you achieve a desired Visa, initially, the process may seem little complex. But that’s ok; most applicants feel the same. Keep following the suggestions, because something exciting will start to happen.

All the Best!