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Steps for Newcomers
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Prepare For Your Canadian Career: Essential Steps for Newcomers

Moving to Canada presents a world of opportunities for newcomers, including the prospect of building a successful career in a vibrant and diverse economy. However, preparing for the Canadian job market requires careful planning and foresight. In this article, we

IRCC has provided additional information regarding adjustments to the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP). Effective January 22, 2024, IRCC implemented several modifications to Canada's international student program. Notably, IRCC announced that spouses of international students enrolled in undergraduate and college programs will no longer qualify for SOWPs. Starting from March 19, partners and spouses of international students are eligible for a SOWP only if their sponsor is enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program at a university or polytechnic institution in Canada. Certain exceptions apply for spouses or partners of undergraduate students. Spouses of undergraduate students enrolled in specific professional degree programs at a university are also eligible to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP). There are specific exemptions for spouses or partners of undergraduate students. Spouses of undergraduate students enrolled in certain professional degree programs at a university are also eligible to apply for a SOWP: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD) Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL) Doctor of Medicine (MD) Doctor of Optometry (OD) Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm) Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc) Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.) Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng., BE, BASc) Spouses and partners seeking an SOWP must furnish documents proving their relationship to the student and one document demonstrating their partner’s enrollment in a degree-granting program. IRCC accepts: A valid Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) Proof of enrollment letter from the spouse or partner’s DLI Transcripts from the spouse or partner’s ongoing program of study If you have already submitted an application According to IRCC, individuals who submitted a SOWP application before March 19 remain eligible if their partner: Holds a valid study permit. Qualifies for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). Is enrolled full-time at one of the following types of institutions: A public post-secondary school (e.g., college or university), or CEGEP in Quebec. A private college-level school in Quebec. A Canadian private school authorized to confer degrees under provincial law (e.g., bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees). These criteria also apply to current SOWP holders seeking to extend their existing permits. Exploring Options if You're Not Eligible for Spousal Open Work Permits Spouses and partners of international students who are no longer eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) have the option to apply for other types of work permits or a Visitor Visa (TRV). However, it's important to note that individuals who enter Canada as visitors are not authorized to work. The SOWP not only allows holders to work for nearly any employer in Canada but also serves as a means to support IRCC’s objective of promoting family reunification. In a statement to the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) on February 28, Immigration Minister Marc Miller indicated that he was restricting SOWPs to the partners and spouses of master’s and PhD students as a measure to address both volume and integrity challenges. He stated, "attack a volume challenge but also integrity challenges with what we believe was an area that was being exploited and not necessarily legitimate.
Blog

IRCC Introduces Changes to Eligibility Criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits

IRCC has provided additional information regarding adjustments to the eligibility criteria for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP). Effective January 22, 2024, IRCC implemented several modifications to Canada’s international student program. Notably, IRCC announced that spouses of international students enrolled in

Medical Examination
Blog

Is a medical examination required for studying in Canada?

Every year, a large number of foreign nationals seek study permits to pursue higher education in Canada, reflecting the country’s popularity as an educational destination. Recently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented a two-year cap on new international

Atlantic Canada
Blog

The Residency Requirement for Permanent Residents in Canada

Embarking on the journey toward Canadian permanent residency (PR) involves understanding crucial requirements and privileges. This guide will delve into the residency requirements for maintaining PR status, shed light on the eligibility criteria for counting time spent abroad, and clarify

A Comprehensive Guide
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Navigating Canadian Immigration as a Couple: A Comprehensive Guide

Embarking on a journey to immigrate to Canada as a couple involves navigating various immigration programs catering to spouses, partners, and families. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the options available, focusing on key pathways such as spousal sponsorship,

What You Need to Know
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The Ins and Outs of Express Entry: What You Need to Know?

With over 100,000 new immigrants welcomed in 2021 alone, Canada remains one of the most popular destinations for those looking to make a new life abroad. For many hoping to immigrate, the first step is creating an Express Entry profile.

three year work permit
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Master’s Students can now access a three-year work permit, offering an extended window of opportunity for them to pursue employment opportunities following their studies

Effective immediately, international students enrolled in master’s programs lasting less than two years can now apply for a three-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP). This significant policy change by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) acknowledges the potential of master’s students

Complete Guide to Conquering the Test
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Ace the CELPIP: Your Complete Guide to Conquering the Test

Preparing for the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) Test can seem daunting for immigrants, but with the right guidance and resources, you can enter the exam room feeling confident and ready to succeed. This comprehensive guide will provide

Super Visa And a Visitor Visa
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What Is The Difference Between a Super Visa And a Visitor Visa?

Canada offers multiple visa options for those looking to visit family members who are citizens or permanent residents. While a standard visitor visa allows stays up to 6 months, the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa provides the opportunity for longer

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