June 2019 CRS Cut Off Update and Express Entry Trends For July

What is the meaning of “Conjugal Partner” Relationship in Canada?

The Basics to Know about Spousal Sponsorship in Canada

Have you made that grand choice of moving in with your Canadian partner? Then marriage isn’t the only big thing that you have to consider. The next huge step is moving into the maple leaf country. However, that means immigration, and if you’ve no clue on how to go about it chances are you’ll face a dilemma.

Now, it is best to consult a spousal sponsorship lawyer to walk you through the migration procedure. However, for your convenience, it is wise to understand the ‘need-to-knows’ on Canadian sponsorship process to make the immigration easier.

This is why; this blog will discuss about spousal sponsorship Canada and what the entire process entails. Now, even if you are engaged, a fiancé, or already married sit down and give a read, to find some useful information.

Beginning with:

What is Meaning of Canadian Spousal Sponsorship?

The Canadian government created the spousal sponsorship program to ensure that loved ones can reside together. In basic terms, if you’re married or to be married to a stable Canadian citizen then he/she can sponsor your application for permanent residence depending on certain met criteria’s.

What are the Requirements to be a Sponsor?

For becoming a Canadian Sponsor certain requisites need to be met. These are as follows:

• A citizen must be above 18 and a resident of Canada.
• He/she cannot have sponsored a spouse for the past 5 years.
• He/she must not be in prison or under a removal order.
• H/she must not have committed a violent crime that begets almost 10 years of prison.
• H/she must not face accusations for sexual or any kind of criminal activity.
• The person should not a recipient of any sort of social assistance except for disability.
• The Person should not be facing bankruptcy.

What are The Recent Changes in the Spousal Sponsorship Program?

Since recent times, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada made certain changes in the traditional spousal sponsorship programs. These were done to make the application procedure fast and hassle-free. Check these out:

1. Single Application Package

In the past, one had to download several application packages depending on whether they are shifting to overseas or Canada. However this time the IRCC introduced a single platform for all spousal sponsorship applicants.

2. Tailored Document Checklist

In contrast to the past, where there were 14 guides and checklists for the spousal program. The IRCC now introduced a single spousal sponsorship checklist that is customized to fit the need of all these applicants. Additionally, this checklist informs the spouses on the documents and data needed depending on who they are sponsoring.

3. A Revised Guide

The current guide as drafted by the IRCC has only 75 pages. It is shorter; unlike the previous guide that had 180 pages and was different for overseas and Canadian applicants; this one is cohesive and short.

4. New Relationship Survey

Previously, the Canadian Spousal program used a spousal evaluation along with 3 relationship quizzes. However, currently, the IRCC uses only one form a one set of evaluation.

5. Police Certificates

Police certificates are sometimes required by the IRCC from the country where they are currently residing. In other cases, the police certificate can be from a foreign country on the criteria that the subject has resided in it for 6 months.

6. Medical exams

Currently, the IRCC does not require a medical exam certificate along with the application submitted. However, the IRCC may require it later in the procedure. This why Canada immigration lawyers instruct to congregate all document at the beginning.

7. Processing Times

In the earlier years, the processing time for a spousal application would take up to 26 months. However, to make things simpler the IRCC made the processing time come down to 12 months.

Now, apart from this at certain times a couple might not be married as per common law relationship; however, the Canadian partner wishes to sponsor their respective other’s permanent residence, then the Canadian government allows this under the label ‘conjugal partners’ if certain conditions are met. This rule is overseen by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This IRCC moreover, recognizes two kinds of relationships between conjugal couples. These are:

1. Common-Law Relationship
2. Conjugal Partner Relationship

Common-Law Relationship

Common-Law Relationship

When two consenting adults have been residing with each other in a marriage-like relationship for the span of a year, they fall under a common-law relationship. To prove the evidence as per the spousal sponsorship lawyer Canada, one has to provide documents like shared bills, rental lease, etc.

Conjugal Partner Relationship

A conjugal partner relationship is when a couple is in a marriage-like relationship yet is not married or living together for a year due to explanatory circumstances. Now, this is recognized by the IRCC only when the situational circumstances for not residing together are logically explanatory. This kind of relationship requires the correct documentation and the verification by a Canada spousal sponsorship lawyer. Moreover, a conjugal partner relationship also doesn’t just categorize under a sex relationship. But, the couple must be able to legally prove why they could not stay together.

Check How the IRCC Determines Whether You Qualify Under Conjugal Relationship

• A couple is mutually committed to sharing each other’s life.
• The couple enjoys a warm and long-lasting relationship.
• Couples are also committed sexually to one another.
• Each partner provides the other with needful emotional, financial, social, and physical support.
• The two are considered as a couple by others.
• The couple has a child they are taking care of; either adopted or their own child.

Does Sponsoring a Fiancé Fall under Conjugal Relationship?

If you wish to sponsor the permanent residentship for your fiancée then this won’t fall under a conjugal relationship. Only relationships that are marriage-like can be deemed under conjugal relations. Now, to prove a conjugal relationship your Canada spousal lawyer will request you to provide evidence like shared possessions, shared life owning property together.

Another good way of proving a conjugal relationship is naming each other as benefactors in respective insurance policies. Moreover, this Canadian law is strict with their spousal partnership programs. The conjugal relationships are only for marriage like couples who have a reason for not staying together. This way the Canadian government makes sure that only genuine couples enter into the country’s premises.

Who Qualifies Under Conjugal Partnerships?

• To qualify as a conjugal partner one needs to be an 18-year-old Canadian permanent citizen.
• One needs to sign an agreement that you and your respective spouse understand the responsibilities and obligations of a conjugal program.
• One needs to sign an undertaking that will state that the sponsoring spouse will stand responsible for the financial, emotional, basic and social support for respective partner.

Moving on,

What Other Documents Are Required for Conjugal Partnerships?

The best way to prove conjugal partner relationships is by hiring a conjugal sponsorship lawyer. He/she will guide you on the correct documents to provide to verify your relationship. However, these basic documents are must-have for proving your relation.

• Shared Credit Cards, residential leases
• Shared rental documents or receipts
• Other personal documents like shared insurances, address, driver’s licenses, etc.
• Proof of joint ownership of the residential address
• Copies of bills like shared electronic, gas or telephone bills
• An email addressed to the couple simultaneously
• Other noted documents that prove that the couple is together.

Should it be a Wise Choice to Hire a Canada Immigration/Spousal Sponsorship Lawyer?

In conjugal relationships couples are separated due to circumstantial situations like government persecutions or religious conditions like war etc. Therefore, you need to provide concrete evidence as to why you could not reside with your loved one together. Additionally, you’ll also need documentation to showcase that the two of you have been together for more than 12 months.

Thus, it is best to hire an immigration lawyer Canada to walk you through the stringent procedure of spousal relationship program. Whether you’re qualified for a spousal partnership, a conjugal sponsorship or a common law relationship, only your documents can verify.

This is why to help you pick the program most suited and frame a foolproof application, a Toronto spousal sponsorship lawyer can help. He/she can moreover, make sure that you appear to the court and government as a loving couple and help you gain a green card in the Maple leaf country.

Further, when a lawyer is involved the documents are framed and placed categorically to help save time and money. Not to mention, as Canadian law is stringent and difficult a single mistake can overrule an application. A lawyer reduces chances of potential mistakes and simplifies the application procedure.

How to Pick the Best Toronto Immigration Lawyer?

When it comes to picking a migration lawyer careful consideration needs to be observed. You need to check website testimonials and business directories to find the most reputed one. Additionally, asking the questions given below to find a genuine lawyer:

• How long have you worked as an immigration lawyer?
• What is your take on a case like mine?
• How long will the procedure take?
• What is your fee structure like?
• What are some of your success stories?

Well, there you go, now that you know all about the Canadian spousal sponsorship program and the tips to pick a migration attorney hurry and do the needful. Now, fill out the form and quickly shift to Canada with your beloved.

The post What is the meaning of “Conjugal Partner” Relationship in Canada? appeared first on Immigration Law Office of Ronen Kurzfeld.

Guide to Hire the Best Immigration Lawyer for Going Canada

Canada over the past 2 decades has bagged the title for being the dream destination to millions of international candidates. People from all quarters of the globe come to this country to establish their careers. Thanks to the increase in the acceptance rate of Canadian universities and growing job opportunities.

For these two main factors, people are no more shying away from leaving their native lands. Moreover, the process of immigration has been easier than ever before. A skilled and professional immigration lawyer with proper guidance can pilot his clients in the right direction.

Are you planning to try your luck in Canada? If so, hire the best immigration lawyer in order to have a successful application without any unnecessary delays. However, to achieve this feat, you first need to have a good lawyer.

If your lawyer is incompetent, your dream of establishing into Canada can be shattered in no time. Moreover, unintentional unlawful activities can also land you in legal trouble.

Fret not! This article will help you with all the details & tips to hire a professional lawyer with ease.

Ask for Credentials

Before finalizing an immigration lawyer, you must ask for his credentials. According to the rule, one has to have completed a law program ranging between 2 to 4 years in Canada. After completion of their degree, they must take the following evaluating steps before becoming eligible to practice in private or public:

1. Full period of articling
2. Bar admission course
3. Bar exam

If a lawyer fails to meet all these requirements mentioned above, reject him right away. Credentials are the sure shot way to identify the professionals from that of unprofessional ones.

Trust word of mouth

Secondly, you can also rely on word of mouth in case of hiring a good lawyer for immigration. Ask for your friends or relatives or even coworkers who have earlier worked with a lawyer to get into Canada. In fact, 35% of the successful candidates get their lawyers via referrals. This can also get you some discount in some cases.

Look for Experience

Experience matters in the truest sense when it comes to choosing a lawyer, especially for immigration. The entire process is filled up with several rules and regulations. Only an experienced lawyer can have the capability to get you through a successful immigration process.

Usually, it is always advisable to opt for a lawyer who has experience over 10 years at a stretch. This is because they will also be familiar with any sort of change related to immigration. So, as an applicant, you need not take all such hassles.

Consider the Costing

Never shy away from asking the budget of the lawyer. Generally, the lawyers will charge based on hours. This is perhaps an affordable way as you only need to pay for the number of hours you spend with the lawyer. However, make sure to ask a detailed breakdown of the payment. You should also ask him the mode of payment he prefers. Not to mention, before you ink any deal, read between the lines to understand any hidden fees or charges.

Opt for a Representative

If you are working in association with a law firm, make sure to look for your representative. An estimable firm will never hide their lawyers. After meeting the representative, don’t feel embarrassed to ask the same questions which you earlier questioned the firm. Always have a cordial relationship with your representative in order to avoid any stringent rules.

Read the Reviews and Testimonials

Lastly, give a thorough read to the reviews & testimonials given by the earlier clients before deciding on an immigration lawyer. This user-generated content will give a comprehensible knowledge about the streamlined lawyers and make a smart decisive move.

That’s all in a nutshell. Consider all these tips mentioned above and do a little research to appoint a leading immigration lawyer.

Get an Account of Manitoba Immigration Candidates for Permanent Residence

Manitoba is the darling spot of Canada as every year approximately 15,000 people from countries across the globe come here. This Canadian province promises new jobs and career opportunities for people, apart from offering a congenial ambience to sustain. With the help of any professional immigrant lawyer, candidates can secure a permanent residency in Manitoba.

Based on the latest survey, Manitoba has received the highest number of nominations for permanent residency in 2018. So, if you are planning to make it to Canada, but not sure about your heading, Manitoba is the place. All you need is an experienced immigrant lawyer for guiding through all the legal procedures and formalities seamlessly.

You will be surprised to know that a huge number of people went were finalized for the Skilled Workers in Manitoba as well as and Skilled Workers Overseas immigration options in 2018. According to the released data from the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) showed the total number of candidates to be 5,119.

Some Exclusive Details:

If you are unfamiliar with the term MPNP, it’s time to brush the basics. Broadly speaking, the MPNP is an exclusive part of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program. It is designed to allow the participating territories & provinces to nominate certain number of candidates under economic immigration for permanent residency every year.

Candidates usually hire the best immigrant lawyer to understand all the necessities related to this program to the core. Even being the oldest most provincial nominee program, it has been able to maintain its popularity till now. In fact, since its beginning, it has managed to attract tens of thousands of immigrants.

Statistics Time:

In accordance with the province rule, 90% of the immigrants have to be employed with their 1st year of stay in Manitoba. Needless to say, the same number prefers this place and chooses to settle over here. Moreover, for those who didn’t get a job are provided with community or family connection in the province. In 2018, only 21 percent of candidates came into this category.

 

What are the eligibility criteria?

To get considered for a nomination for this program, you must qualify certain criteria. Amongst the candidate pool, it becomes a tough decision to choose the deserved ones. Hence, the authority has entitled some regulations for an easy selection process.

You need to meet the following criteria to get eligible for the MPNP program:

• You must create & furnish an Expression of Interest or EOI at the province
• Also as deserving candidate, you should have sufficient experience of a skilled worker

Needless to say, the acceptance rate is quite high in Manitoba. Last year, over 25,000 skilled candidates delivered an EOI profile. Out of which, around 8,000 Letters of Advice to Apply had been issued.

Final Thoughts:

The major key finding is that in Manitoba 98% skilled workers get accepted every year. So, if you are planning to settle into Canada, hire an immigrant lawyer and increase your chance to make it permanently out there.

A Comprehensive Guide on Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada

Every year a plethora of international students aspire to pursue their higher academics in Canada. To make their dream come true, they do all it takes to make it to this nation. Starting from preparing for all those standardization tests to hiring the best immigration lawyer, the candidates put in their best endeavors to achieve this feat.

Now comes the fun fact. For those who come and complete their education have a tendency to work in and for the country. This is mainly due to the following reasons:

• Work opportunity
• Cultural diversity

Addressing the growing popularity for continuing their stay, the Government of Canada has launched an exclusive program named post-graduation work permit or PGWP. This bespoke program is designed in order to provide proper assistance to international students to gain priceless work experience in Canada.

You must be thinking what is the added advantage to such a program? Well, this program also aids in getting those international candidates a permanent residence of the country. Needless to say, this path can also avail one the jackpot, i.e. a citizenship in the country.

Are you planning to make it Canada in the near future? Hire an experienced immigration lawyer. He will guide you through all the processes and norms. However, before you go that far, take a quick tour on this program for better comprehension.

Advanced Insights

Multiple employers in Canada seek workers for their enterprises with the right set of skills and language proficiency. International students coming from India, China, New Zealand etc. happen to possess the required skills and thus are capable of getting well-paid jobs in the country.

In accordance with the norm, this program lasts between eight months and two years. Moreover, if you study for at least 2 years in any Canadian government recognized university, you can gain a work permit for 3 years at a stretch.

Not to mention, the work experience which you will gain in this tenure will pave the path to get hold of Canada Express Entry program. Here’s not the end. In order to encourage the stay of the international students, the government has made some good changes encompassing the program.

As per the new rule, international students can now apply within 180 days of their graduation or post-graduation from any Canadian university. Earlier the days was limited to 90 days to make the application. However, with the doubling of the former number of days, it is to be expected that more and more number of students will be applying for PGWP. Hiring a professional immigration lawyer can help them get through the process seamlessly.

Advantages:

• No need for a separate study permit
• The earlier study permit will be valid for 180 days post completion of education
• Easy to obtain jobs
• Less hassle

You can also acquire all these advantages if you plan to go to Canada. However, to make it happen, you must qualify certain criteria.

What are the Qualifying Criteria?

• Candidates must retain a PGWP valid for the next two years
• They should also have a 4-years bachelor’s degree from an overseas university
• For those who lack the same need to have a diploma from any university of Canada
• International students should also have good marks based on the tests like CELPIP or IELTS
• They should also be able to relocate to the new job location within 30 days of accepting the appointment letter.
• Candidates must provide a commitment for working a minimum of 2 years at an entry-level position in the company
• Lastly, they have to agree for applying for immigration within 365 days after they join a Canadian company

Bottom line

That’s all in a nutshell! With such advantages and benefit-driven features, getting a PGWP is not a daunting task. All you need to hire a reputable and experienced immigration lawyer to guide you through the entire procedure.

Why You Should Choose Canada for Higher Education

Do you want to complete your higher education from a foreign university? Are you still asking yourself which country will help you best to complete the education?

The right answer to your questions is Canada.

Overtime Canada has become the most sought-after country for higher education. The positive attitude of the Canadian government has helped the students from all over the world to apply to the universities. If you are thinking about applying to Canadian Universities, it is better to get in touch with an immigration lawyer beforehand.

Just to be sure about your decision, check out the following benefits that you will get if you study at a Canadian University

English Is Everywhere 

The official native language of Canada is English and French. However, most people understand English and communicate in this language. Each and every Canadian University offer courses which are taught in English. You just need to find the right field for you and apply for the same. To know about scholarship opportunities and applying norms in Canada, you should contact an immigration lawyer.

Canada Has Many Top Ranked Universities of the World

Most of the Universities in Canada are highly reputed in the academic world. Many of the higher education institutions compete with the famed UK and USA universities. The graduate employability rate of Canada is also very high which really makes this country lucrative for the students.

Research Values

This is one of the key components of the graduate programs of Canadian universities. The universities support and give a scholarship to the students who have got the best research ideas. If the idea of the research is good, the industries and the government often come forward to bear the cost of your research. You just need to follow through some rules and regulations. The best option for you is to get in touch with an experienced immigration lawyer so that you do not need to worry about the nitty-gritty of law.

Beautiful Environment

The environment of Canada offers the students an overall soothing experience. In their off time, the students can explore different places of Canada to relieve the stress. The peaceful political environment also creates a safe haven for the foreign students.

Multicultural Values

Every year Canada allows thousands of immigrants from across the world. A large number of students that come to Canada for educational purpose often make the beautiful country their home. The multicultural values of Canada prevent any unpleasant racial situation from taking place. The government of Canada ensures that the value of different culture is respected and maintained properly in the country. To know more about the culture of the country contact an immigration lawyer immediately.

Immigration

As an immigrant student, you will be offered work permit at Canada. After the graduation is completed a three-year long work permit is automatically allocated to the students. The Citizenship and Immigration Canada can help the students so that they can get a visa easily. After working in Canada for a year you can also apply for permanent citizenship. You can read more about working in Canada after graduation here!

There is no doubt that Canada can provide the best opportunities to you. So, what are you waiting for? Get help from an immigration lawyer and apply for the Canadian Universities right away.

Apply for Permanent Residence in Canada: Total Fee Structure for the Express Entry System

The second largest country in the world, Canada, is the new immigration hot spot. As per Statistics Canada, the country’s population increased by 1 million people in just 2 years. After all, it’s a country of countless opportunities, a better quality of life, free healthcare, and friendly people.

Even though more than 80 programs are available to immigrate to Canada, becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident can be tough, given the terms and expense. One of the easiest pathways to apply for Permanent Residency status in Canada is through the Express Entry program.

What is the Express Entry System for applying for Permanent Residence in Canada?

Express Entry is an electronic immigration selection system designed to choose skilled workers from overseas and grant them permanent residency in Canada. Devised to rank economic immigration candidates, the popular program invites candidates with qualifying CRS scores to apply for PR status in Canada.

The Express Entry process is pretty fast, screening potential applications in as little as 6 months. If selected, the eligible candidates (along with their families) are allotted permanent residency (PR) Status by the Canadian Government, valid for 5 years. Since Express Entry is a federal immigration system, immigrants are eligible to settle anywhere in Canada.

But, what is the cost to immigrate to Canada under the Express Entry System?

The Complete Fee Structure of the Express Entry Immigration Program

The exact amount of fees to be paid for immigration under the Express Entry program depends on the candidate’s profile. However, there are two major fees that every applicant must pay under the Express Entry immigration program.

Government processing fee for your family members and you

The processing fee is paid to the IRCC to process your immigration application and includes the following costs

• $550 CAD for the applying candidate
• $550 CAD if a spouse or common-law partner is accompanying the applicant
• $150 CAD for each dependent child

The right of permanent residence fee

The right of permanent residence fees includes the following costs

• $490 CAD for the applicant
• $490 CAD if a spouse or common-law partner is accompanying the applicant
• No right of permanent residence fee for dependent children.

In addition to the process and permanent residence fees, there is a list of costs Express Entry Program applicants must pay as a part of their PR application process.

Biometrics fee

When submitting the application, a biometric fee is levied to cover the cost of collecting fingerprints and a digital photo. The biometric cost varies from $85 CAD per person to around $170 CAD if the applicant is accompanied by the family.

Language test fee

To gain PR status in Canada through Express Entry, an applicant must establish their language skills by taking an approved language test in English or French. The English language tests include IELTS (~ $300 CAD) and CELPIP. For the French language, there is TEF Canada and TCF Canada (~ $350 CAD). On average, the language tests cost around $300 CAD per person.

Educational Credential Assessment

Educational credential assessment is a report that must be submitted with the Express Entry application to access the applicant’s degrees and diplomas earned outside of Canada. It costs around $200 CAD for each applicant. Including the courier handling charges, the ECA would cost around $300 CAD.

Medical Examination

All PR applicants must have an immigration medical examination done in order to successfully file their application. The fee for this medical exam varies from physician to physician, but, on an average, costs between $250-320 CAD.

 

Category	Single Applicant	Applicant with Spouse	The applicant with Spouse & One Dependent Child
Application Processing Fee	$550 CAD	$1,100 CAD	$1,250 CAD
Permanent Residence Fee	$490 CAD	$980 CAD	$980 CAD
Biometric Fee	$85 CAD	$170 CAD	$170 CAD
Language Test Fee	$300 CAD	$600 CAD	$900 CAD
Educational Credential Assessment	$300 CAD	$600 CAD	$600 CAD
Medical Examination	$250 CAD	$500 CAD	$750 CAD
TOTAL	$1,975 CAD	$3,950 CAD	$4,650 CAD

 

If you want to apply under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), an additional fee is charged depending on the province chosen by the applicant. The applicable fee varies between $250 CAD for New Brunswick to $1,500 CAD for Ontario.

Hence, for a single applicant applying for permanent residency status in Canada under the Express Entry system, the total bearable cost would be around $2,500 CAD including all the miscellaneous expenditures.