Canada Immigration News Podcast #42 – Francophone Express Entry Draw, Manitoba PNP & CUAET Extensions

Canada Immigration News Podcast

Francophone Express Entry & CUAET Extensions | Key Canada Immigration News:

IRCC held the third Express Entry draw of the week and invited Francophone candidates

On August 15, 2024, IRCC held its third Express Entry draw of the week, targeting French-speaking candidates. A total of 2,000 Invitations to Apply were issued, with a cut-off score of 394 points—six points lower than the last francophone draw in July. This brings the total number of ITAs issued in 2024 to 74,542, with 19,400 going to French language proficiency candidates. Canada’s commitment to Francophone immigration is stronger than ever!

MPNP invited candidates under the Skilled Workers Overseas and International Education streams

On August 15, 2024, Manitoba held its latest round of invitations under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, issuing 292 Letters of Advice to Apply. In the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, 40 candidates were invited through the Strategic Recruitment Initiative, with the lowest score at 703 points. Another 252 invitations went to the International Education Stream, including 37 Express Entry candidates. So far in 2024, Manitoba has invited 5,690 candidates, with 833 through Express Entry. Manitoba is opening doors for skilled workers and international students!

The US expedites asylum processing at the Canadian border

The U.S. is speeding up asylum processing at the Canadian border to curb illegal crossings. Under the revised Safe Third Country Agreement, asylum seekers now have just four hours, down from 24, to consult a lawyer during their initial screening. This change aims to streamline the process, while ensuring fair access to asylum procedures. With over 12,600 migrants detained in the first half of 2024—already surpassing last year's total—the pressure is on to manage the rising numbers at the northern border.

IRCC extends CUAET measures for Ukrainian nationals

On August 13, 2024, IRCC extended key measures under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET). Ukrainian nationals and their families who arrive in Canada before March 31, 2024, can now apply for new open work permits, study permits, or visitor records, valid for an additional three years. The application deadline is March 31, 2025. Plus, temporary residents can access free settlement services until then. With over 1.18 million applications submitted through CUAET, Canada continues to stand with Ukraine.

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