The Pearson Test of English or PTE is now an approved English proficiency test. IRCC announced on 12th May that Pearson Canada Inc. has renamed their English language test as PTE core. The update is applicable to all economic permanent residency programs such as Express Entry categories, Agri-Food Pilot, PNPs, RNIP and more. Though approved and launched, there is still no definite date when IRCC will accept PTE scores.
The English proficiency test is an integral part of the Canadian immigration process. Initially, the interested candidates had to submit test results from IELTS and CELPIP, approved English-language tests. With the new update, now you can submit PTE test results as well.
Impact of PTE Core Test on Study Permit Applications
A language proficiency test is mandatory for enrollment in a DLI. PTE tests are legit in some DLIs for general study permit applications.
In the case of non-SDS applications, you need to submit your DLI enrollment proof to IRCC. Also, attach the language test results as a supporting document.
PTE Score Requirements for Immigration in Canada
IRCC has set some Canadian Language Benchmark or CLB levels for immigrants.
Here are the general CLB requirements:
CLB Levels
Reading
Writing
Listening
Speaking
10
8.0
7.5
8.5
7.5
9
7.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
8
6.5
6.5
7.5
6.5
7
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6
5.0
5.5
5.5
5.5
5
4.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
4
3.5
4.0
4.5
4.0
Possible PTE CLB levels:
CLB Levels
Reading
Writing
Listening
Speaking
10
84
76
89
76
9
66
66
84
66
8
56
56
76
56
7
46
46
46
46
6
29
36
36
36
5
18-20
29
29
29
4
15-18
18-20
23
18-20
Minimum Language Requirement for FSWP
A CLB level of 7 is mandatory for FSWP or Federal Skilled Worker Program on all four aspects. In the case of IELTS, however, each module must have a band score of 6 to qualify for FSWP. The required PTE score is supposed to be around 46 after comparing all scores.
Let’s say you got an 8 in IELTS listening and a 7 in the other modules. So, that is equivalent to a PTE score of 84 in listening and 66 in others.
The required CLB for Canadian Experience Class is level 7 for TEER 0 or TEER 1 occupations. The mandatory IELTS scores are 6 in every module whereas the PTE score is expected to be 46 in each module. If you want to apply for TEER 2 or TEER 3 jobs, the required CLB level is 5, the IELTS score is 4 in reading and 5 in rest and possible PTE scores are 15=18 in reading and 29 in others.
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilotis yet another economic immigration program meant to bridge the vacancies in the labour force. Skilled workers can use this program to work in some of the most in-demand occupations in New Brunswick. The NBCWP also lets specific employers help immigrants adjust and contribute to the community.
Our immigration consultants are here to guide you through the entire NBCWP application process.
Get in touch if you are interested.
New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot | What Is It?
The Government of New Brunswick brought forth the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot. This lets GNB choose the most skilled individuals to economically establish themselves in New Brunswick.
All in all, the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilotserves two main purposes:
Keep track of and meet immigration demands
Deliver the best potential results for the province
Unlike most immigration programs in Canada, the NBCWP also has something important in store for employers.
It allows employers to equip immigrants with everything necessary for them to contribute to the community. It may include on-job-training, language support, etc.
Which Employers Can Participate in the NBCWP?
Here are the employers who can take part in this five-year pilot program:
Cooke Aquaculture
McCain Foods.
Groupe Westco
Imperial Manufacturing
Groupe Savoie Inc.
J.D. Irving Ltd.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for Employers?
The employers should:
Reflect on their human resource strategy for hiring skilled international workers and improving on-the-job capabilities
Help students willing to pursue their secondary education equivalency in Canada
Show firm settlement plans for transportation and housing
Convey up to 200 hours of language instructions
What are the stages of approval for the Immigration Program?
You can apply for the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilotthrough an online application if:
You meet all eligibility criteria
You have the support of your employer in New Brunswick
The support is in the form of a signed Employer Information form
Apply to IRCC for a T13 work permit and PR visa
You can apply to the IRCC if GNB nominated you for the pilot program. Your spouse and other dependents should meet all statutory requirements to get through the criminal, security and medical admissions process.
Wrapping Up,
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilotbrings good news for both immigrants and employers. Though it has no intention of reuniting families, the NBCWP certainly addresses labour shortages in the province.
At Onkar Immigration, we have certified immigration consultants to guide you through the application process. Our team will equip you with all the necessary information required to get through the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot program hassle-free.
The healthcare system in Canada is one of the key reasons why people decide to immigrate here. Once they become permanent residents in Canada, they have several questions about healthcare in Canada. Don’t worry; this blog has got you covered. Read on to clarify all your doubts regarding the Canadian healthcare system.
Is healthcare in Canada free?
All Canadian citizens and permanent residents pay their taxes every year. These taxes fund healthcare in Canada. It is mostly free for all Canadians though medications are an exception. You have to pay for prescription drugs and certain treatments.
When can I be eligible for public health care?
You need a health card to gain access to the benefits of public health care after becoming a permanent resident in Canada. It also provides you with certain financial coverage for specific emergency health services.
You may not be able to enjoy the benefits of public healthcare in Canada immediately after getting permanent resident status. Some provinces may take three months to process the healthcare benefits of newly landed permanent residents in Canada.
Province-wise waiting time for public health insurance coverage:
British Columbia- Two months
Ontario- No waiting period
Alberta- Three months
Nunavut- Three months
Manitoba- Up to three months
Nova Scotia- Three months
Prince Edward Island- Three months
Northwest Territories- Three months
Saskatchewan - Three months
Quebec- Up to three months
New Brunswick- Three months
Yukon- Three months
Newfoundland and Labrador- No waiting period
How to get the Health Card? When does it arrive?
The health card lets the medical professional know that you are registered with public healthcare in Canada. The application process for a health card varies from province to province.
For instance, let’s say you are a permanent resident of Edmonton. That means you have to follow the rules specific to Edmonton while applying for the health card.
Talk to our certified immigration consultants to learn the application processing rules of Edmonton and Alberta.
We will guide you through the entire application process efficiently.
Do I need both public and private health insurance?
The benefits of private health insurance are:
The waiting period is almost negligible if you apply for private health insurance.
Also, private health insurance provides coverage even during the waiting period.
Private health insurance provides coverage for needs that are not usually handled by public insurance. The needs may include dental checkups or visit to a medical specialist.
What if I need to visit a hospital or doctor for an emergency? What documents do I need if I just walk in?
You should visit the nearest hospital in case of a medical emergency. Bring your personal ID and health cards to the hospital. Also, an employee at the clinic will further guide you after assessing the severity of your condition.
How do I find a family doctor?
Family doctors are also known as family physicians or general practitioners. Several Canadians visit them because of appointment flexibility and patient-centric care. You can, however, visit the nearest hospital as well in case of emergencies.
You don’t have to wait in long queues to consult with a family doctor. Also, they provide advanced and consistent care experience to all patients.
Family doctors often decide on their own who they want to accept as patients. So, finding a reliable family doctor can be tedious. You can get recommendations from friends and family to find a reliable one easily.
You can try looking for family doctors online. For instance, if you are in Edmonton, you can search for “family doctors near Edmonton”. You can then call the clinic and book your appointment accordingly.
Here are some links that can help you find a family doctor:
Healthcare systems vary from province to province in Canada. Why don’t you give us a call and learn everything you need to know about healthcare in Canada? Our professional immigration consultants not only help you attain your permanent residence but also equip you with everything about healthcare in Canada.
The time isn’t easy for Iranians. Thus, the Canadian Government is trying to make things as easier as possible for them. The honorable Minister of Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson announced new measures for Iranian residents on behalf of the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. According to the new measure, Iranian temporary residents can extend their temporary stay from inside Canada from 1st March 2023.
How does it help Iranians living in Canada?
You can extend your stay here instead of returning home at this chaotic time. The new temporary measure lets you stay, study, or work anywhere in Canada hassle-free.
What Can Iranian Temporary Residents Expect from this New Measure?
Let’s say an Iranian student is pursuing their education in Edmonton, Canada on a temporary study permit. The new temporary policy lets you apply for an extension of the study permit and continue studying within Canada. These applications will also be processed on a priority basis. You don’t have to return to your home because the temporary residence permit has expired. Instead, you can apply for an extension and even switch between temporary immigration streams.
Here’s what Iranian temporary residents can expect from the new measure:
Iranians already living in Canada can opt for an open work permit pathway that lets them work for any employer and in any occupation in Canada. You don’t have to worry about the processing time since these applications receive the utmost priority.
The Canadian Government may waive some processing fees for Iranian temporary residents. Similarly, they have waived the PR travel document and passport fees for Canadian permanent residents or citizens living in Iran and wishing to return to Canada.
The Human Rights Defenders stream is one of the few programs that focus on promoting human rights. So, the new temporary public policy may bring some positive changes to such programs as well.
According to research, Iran was the eighth leading source for immigrants landing in Canada in 2022. In fact, about 11,105 Iranians got their permanent residence visa last year. Hence, the Canadian Government introduced this measure to protect and safeguard Iranians living in Canada and help Iranian families stay together.
Wrapping Up,
It is a difficult time for Iranians. Basic freedom and human rights are at stake in Iran right now. Hence, the Canadian Government has brought forth a new temporary public policy that lets Iranians extend their stay in Canada hassle-free. You can pursue your education or apply for a work permit extension.
Onkar Immigration is here to guide you through the entire application process. Our certified immigration consultants equip you with all the knowledge and information you need to get through the application process easier. Give us a call today.
Do you have immediate relatives living in Alberta as permanent residents?
Well, then there’s good news for you.
The updated AAIP has added having immediate family relatives to the eligibility criteria for the Alberta Express Entry stream.
What does it mean?
Let’s say you are shortlisted in the federal Express Entry pool with 500 others. Now your brother is a permanent resident in Alberta. So, you will have more chances at receiving an NOI from the Alberta Express Entry stream.
In short, immigration to Alberta is easier when you have immediate family relatives residing in Alberta as permanent residents/citizens.
Alberta Express Entry Stream | An Important Update
There are multiple streams under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). For instance, the Alberta Opportunity Stream is for foreign workers, Graduate Entrepreneur Stream for entrepreneurs and so on. The eligibility criteria hasn’t changed for any other stream under the AAIP. It impacts only the selection criteria of the Alberta Express Entry stream which targets foreign workers.
Outcome of the program update?
The Alberta Express Entry stream can now allocate about 25% of its NOIs to candidates with experience in specific occupations and immediate family relatives in Alberta. This can encourage and help more immigrants to settle in Alberta successfully.
The change in selection criteria can help Alberta address its labour shortage issues. There is a hige rate of job vacancies in Alberta due to which newcomers are all the more encouraged to settle here.
The new program update, however, led to massive growth in 2022. The private sector, for instance, added about 41,000 new jobs in the private sector.
AAIP and Alberta Express Entry Stream | Here’s What You Need To Know
Are you interested in immigrating to Alberta? Then the AAIP is the program for you. It manages eight streams which mainly target workers and entrepreneurs.
Eligibility criteria for the Alberta Express Entry Stream:
An active profile in the federal Express Entry pool (It is better if it has validity for over five months)
A statement of interest to move to Alberta permanently
An experience in an in-demand occupation in Alberta
At least a CRS score of 300
Your chances at getting a NOI improve if you:
Have a valid Albertan work experience or a job offer
Have an immediate family relative living in Alberta as a permanent resident or citizen
Complete your graduation in a Albertan post-secondary institution
You need to create and submit your profile to the federal express entry pool first. You will receive an NOI once your profile is selected. Now you have to convey your interest in applying to the AAIP and send them a copy of the NOI.
You will get an invitation to apply to the program once AAIP confirms that you’ve met the eligibility criteria. Submit an application in the federal pool and receive 600 CRS points extra. The completed applications are put in the eligible applications pool for further processing.
Looking For Professional Immigration Consultants in Alberta?
At Onkar Immigration, we have some of the most knowledgeable and professional immigration consultants in Alberta. They guide you through the complex application processes and help you settle here effortlessly. Alberta has several job vacancies across a plenty of sectors. Consult with us to make the most of the opportunities without delays.
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