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Game Changer: Category-based draws coming soon to Express Entry

by Ronalee Carey Law

June 2023

After much anticipation, IRCC has announced a category-based selection for Express Entry.

Rather than only being selected based on program and comprehensive ranking system points, in the future, applicants can be selected based on French or English language ability, work experience in a specific occupation, or education. In 2023, the following categories will be used:

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New Policy Will Allow Family Class Applicants (Spouses and Common-Law Partners) and Dependent Children to Apply for Open Work Permits

by Ronalee Carey Law

June 2023

As I blogged about in September 2017, in the past, it has been challenging for romantic partners of Canadians to get approved for a visitor visa. Many couples remained separated, sometimes for years, while waiting for the sponsorship applications to be processed. Though adjustments to the ‘dual intent’ policy last fall provided additional guidance to immigration officers, the policy change did not have a measurable impact on the acceptance rates of these applications; over half of the applicants were being denied.

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