Monthly Newsletter - December 2024
Happy December!
As we approach the holiday season, we at R&R Law LLP extend our warmest wishes to all our valued clients. With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, we can't help but marvel at how quickly 2024 has flown by. As always, Immigration Canada has some important updates to share, keeping you informed about the latest developments in our immigration landscape.
New Permanent Residency Pathways
Canada has recently unveiled two innovative permanent residency pathways aimed at addressing labour shortages and promoting regional economic growth. On December 14, 2024, IRCC announced the Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC) and the Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC). These programs are designed to attract skilled workers to underserved regions while fostering economic development and cultural diversity.
Rural Community Immigration Class (RCIC)
Focuses on attracting skilled workers to rural areas outside Quebec
Requires a minimum of one year of continuous, full-time work experience
Offers exemptions for international graduates from designated Canadian institutions
Demands a genuine job offer from an approved employer within the designated community
Francophone Community Immigration Class (FCIC)
Aims to attract French-speaking immigrants to communities outside Quebec
Requires advanced French language skills (minimum CLB/NCLC level 5)
Demands at least one year of continuous work experience in a recognized TEER occupation
Necessitates a permanent, full-time job offer in the designated community
Manitoba's Rural Immigration Initiative
Manitoba's government has launched a three-year West-Central Immigration Initiative pilot program to address rural labour shortages. This strategic partnership involves seven rural municipalities and Gambler First Nation, aiming to fill an estimated 240-300 positions within three years. The initiative builds on Manitoba's success in rural immigration, with provincial nominees increasingly choosing rural communities – rising from 16.2% in 2012 to 25% in 2023.
Visa Application Fee Changes
Starting December 1, 2024, Canada implemented increased application and processing fees for various visa categories.
Express Entry Draws in December
IRCC has conducted three Express Entry draws so far this month:
December 16, 2024: Provincial Nominee Program, 1,085 invitations, CRS cut-off 727
December 3, 2024: French language proficiency (Version 1), 800 invitations, CRS cut-off 466
December 2, 2024: Provincial Nominee Program, 676 invitations, CRS cut-off 705
As we eagerly await potential additional draws before the year's end, we encourage you to stay tuned for further updates.
In closing, we wish everyone a joyous holiday season filled with warmth and happiness. Should you have any immigration-related questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is here to assist you with all your immigration needs. Happy Holidays and best wishes for a prosperous New Year!
Regards,
Rema and Rebecca
