Godfrey Mathias - RCIC

🌐 Reduction in International Student Admissions in Canada:

Starting next year, Canada will be implementing a temporary two-year cap on foreign enrolment, leading to a 35% decrease in the number of international student permits.

Changes to Spouse Open Work Permits:

In the coming weeks, open work permits will only be available for the spouses of students enrolled in master's and doctoral programs, as well as professional programs like medicine and law.

Federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser acknowledges that high levels of immigration have exacerbated Canada's housing crisis, especially with the influx of international students. He highlights the exploitation of the international student program by some institutions for financial gain, leading to false promises of permanent residency. Fraser acknowledges the presence of bad actors in this space and emphasises the need to address the challenge.

However, he contends that building more homes and immigration are interconnected. He suggests using targeted immigration programs, such as changes to the express entry system, to attract skilled individuals in trades where Canada faces shortages.

Requirements to be a sponsor for Family Sponsorship application to Canada?


To be considered an eligible sponsor:

You must be 18 years of age or older.

You and the sponsored relative must sign a sponsorship agreement that commits you to provide financial support for your relative, if necessary. This agreement also says the person becoming a permanent resident will make every effort to support her or himself.

You must provide financial support for a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner for three years from the date they become a permanent resident.

You must provide financial support for a dependent child for 10 years, or until the child turns 25, whichever comes first.

Prove that you will be able to financially support their family member and any dependent, if necessary

Enter into an agreement with the Government of Canada or Quebec, as well as the sponsored relative, where the sponsor will agree to support the family member for a certain amount of time. The sponsored relative must make an effort to support themselves, as well.

Either reside in Canada or prove your intention to live in Canada when your sponsored relative arrives in Canada

Not be incarcerated or charged with a serious offence

Not be bankrupt

Not be under a removal order for Canada

🌎 Minister Marc Miller takes a closer look at international student numbers in Canada. 🤔 Discussions on
to address concerns, emphasizing collaboration and nuanced solutions. 🏠 Balancing housing and workforce goals is key! ⚖️

On January 16, the first British Columbia PNP draw of 2024 sent out more than 193 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR) in targeted draws.

This morning, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller announced a series of initiatives that will support Francophone immigration outside of Quebec.

The measures include a new Francophone immigration policy, the renewal and expansion of the Welcoming Francophone Communities initiatives, a new program to support Francophone immigration, and the implementation of the Action Plan for Official Languages.

The Minister said the new Francophone immigration policy will promote the growth of Francophone minority communities and increasing the weight of these communities. The policy includes measures such as promotion and recruitment support efforts in order to address labour shortages.

Through the renewal of the Welcoming Francophone Communities initiatives, 14 Canadian communities will continue to receive funding to help integrate French-speaking newcomers. The initiative will be expanded to allow the Canadian Government to select up to 10 more Canadian communities that will be able to support French-speaking newcomer integration.

The new Francophone Immigration Support Program will fund projects that will work to eliminate barriers to Francophone immigration.

Finally, the Minister highlighted that the target of 4.4% French speaking residents admissions outside of Quebec was surpassed in December of 2023, reaching about 4.7%. IRCC has previously announced that this target is 6% for 2024, 7% in 2025 and 8$ for 2026.

“Francophone immigration plays a crucial role in strengthening our national identity," he said. "The numerous measures we are implementing will attract skilled Francophone workers who will support the economic and cultural development of these communities. Our efforts to ensure the successful reception and integration of French-speaking newcomers support our unwavering commitment to restoring and increasing the demographic weight of Francophone minority communities.

Embracing every moment on Canadian soil as I countdown to 1,095 days – the magic number for my Canadian citizenship journey! 🇨🇦