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Success: PGWP (Change in DLI)

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IRCC Minister Diab has made it clear that she wants many international students and temporary foreign workers (TFWs) to leave Canada. Based on her most recent report, she has instructed IRCC Officers to heavily scrutinize applications and limit immigration options. The Canadian immigration system has changed radically since 2024. Students and TFWs who rely on policies and procedures pre-2024 are being refused in record numbers. From her report:

the Government is committed to reducing Canada’s temporary population to less than 5% of the total population by the end of 2027.

During these difficult times, it is imperative that applicants find good immigration lawyers to help with their applications. Today, we can share a difficult situation from a client who decided to switch study programs. He started at a DLI and then made the difficult decision to change to another DLI. These situations often lead to refusals when the applicant applies for the PGWP. With our help, our client got a positive result and he is able to work. We will continue to support our client in his path to PR status.

ACADEMIC HISTORY AND PROGRAM TRANSITIONS

Upon his arrival in Canada in December 2023, our client initially enrolled in the Nursing Sciences program at University 1 at the University of Manitoba. However, due to significant personal hardships encountered shortly after his arrival, he was unable to begin the program.

He subsequently enrolled in the Business Management program at Red River College. After completing one semester, he determined that the program did not align with his long-term career goals and voluntarily withdrew on December 7th, 2024.

To pursue a career path more consistent with his interests in healthcare, he enrolled in the Health Care Aide and Health Unit Clerk program, which he successfully completed on January 21, 2026.

To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must complete an eligible program of at least eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

LEGAL STRATEGY: PGWP Application

Our office was engaged in December 2025 to assist the client with securing a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after the successful completion of his studies and subsequent program adjustments.

Following a detailed assessment of the file, it was confirmed that the client maintained valid status in Canada, and no restoration application was necessary. Our strategy was therefore focused on preparing and submitting a strong, well-documented PGWP application, clearly addressing all relevant aspects of the client’s academic record and program changes.

The application was submitted within the prescribed 180-day period following completion of studies, in full compliance with Canadian immigration requirements.

BUILDING A STRONG PGWP APPLICATION

A successful PGWP application requires more than simply submitting academic documents. In cases involving program changes, it is essential to establish a clear narrative supported by credible evidence.

In January 2026, our team prepared a comprehensive application package that included a detailed explanation of the client’s circumstances, supporting academic records, enrollment documentation, and legal representations addressing the program and institution changes.

The objective was to demonstrate that the client had continuously pursued his studies in good faith and that every academic decision was supported by legitimate personal and professional considerations. The complete application package was submitted in February 2026.

PGWP APPROVAL

We are pleased to share that the application was approved in May 2026.

IRCC reviewed the additional documentation prepared and submitted by our office and granted our client a one-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Despite the various factors involved in the client’s academic history, the successful outcome highlights the quality of the work and guidance provided throughout the application process.

PROCESSING TIME

  • IRCC Work Permit inside Canada processing time: 201 days
  • PGWP processing time: Several months, according to similar cases
  • Our client’s processing time: Approximately 3 months

This highlights how a well-prepared PGWP application significantly impacts processing efficiency.

APPLICATION TIMELINE

  • December 2025– Consultation
  • January 2025– Client retained CIL to prepare and submit the PGWP application
  • January 2026– Full file review and preparation of supporting documentation
  • February 2026– PGWP application submitted
  • May 2026– PGWP approved

RECOMMENDATIONS

Applications involving academic changes require a clear and strategic presentation of the applicant’s study record. Any variation in program structure or academic progression should be fully documented and explained within the application framework.

The objective is to ensure that the decision-maker can clearly understand the continuity and legitimacy of the studies, supported by consistent documentary evidence.

Strict attention must also be paid to the statutory requirement of filing within 180 days of program completion.

A well-prepared submission minimizes ambiguity and enhances the overall strength of the case.

Many international students worry that changing programs, transferring institutions, or adjusting their career plans may negatively affect their eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. While these situations can add complexity to an application, they do not necessarily prevent approval.

This case illustrates the importance of presenting a clear, credible, and well-documented explanation of an applicant’s academic journey. When educational decisions are properly contextualized and supported by evidence, even a non-linear pathway can lead to a successful PGWP outcome.

Success: PGWP (academic part-time semesters)

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The current IRCC Minister has announced the priority of the Canadian government is to reduce the temporary status population to below 5%. That means that many international students and temporary foreign workers (TFWs) will be forced to leave. The Liberal government has passed laws and regulations to limit access to programs across the board. They have also increased the ineligibility requirements for filing a refugee claim after the passing of Bill C-12. They are refusing applications at an unprecedented rate, even for minor technicalities. Here is a case of a Toronto doctor who wanted to stay in Canada but he’s been refused multiple times. (To be clear, CIL has not had any contact with the doctor and we are not involved in that case in any way.)

The main point for 2026: hire an immigration lawyer. Now, more than ever, it is too risky to file applications to IRCC on your own or with an Immigration Consultant. It is simply too risky.

In the past, immigration lawyers had many more tools to “fix” a messy situation. IRCC has limited those tools and it is increasingly important for Applicants to hire professionals from the start. In this case, we assisted a student who was concerned about their eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) due to a part-time semester early in their university program, along with a complicated immigration history. Our client sought our help at the beginning. He did not try to do it himself. He did not hire an Immigration Consultant. He made a key decision that led to a positive result.

CIL worked closely with this student and, despite these challenges, the application was approved and our client was issued a three-year PGWP – the best possible result!

BACKGROUND

Our client had been studying in Canada for several years and completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. However, their situation included several complicating factors:

  • A disrupted academic timeline due to COVID-19 travel restrictions
  • Prior immigration refusals before successfully returning to Canada
  • A delayed arrival for one academic term
  • Withdrawal from courses during that semester due to health and adjustment challenges

As a result, the client was not enrolled full-time during that term – an issue that often raises concerns under PGWP eligibility requirements.

According to IRCC, students are expected to maintain full-time status throughout all academic semesters, with limited exceptions.

HOW THE TEAM AT CIL HELPED

For this file, Michelle took the lead and she worked closely with the client. She recognized early on that this case required a careful and well-structured approach. Thankfully, unlike many other files, we did not have to clean up a mess from a previous representative. Less work on our side means that we charge less money to the client. We are happy to keep our fees low, if that saves us time.

Our team conducted a thorough review of the client’s academic and immigration history and prepared a comprehensive application that addressed the concerns raised by their situation. Michelle had to review many documents and provide feedback.

The application focused on clearly presenting the client’s overall situation and academic history, including the challenges they experienced and their subsequent progress. It also demonstrated the client’s continued commitment to completing their studies in Canada.

By ensuring the submission was complete, consistent, and properly supported, we were able to present a strong application aligned with current immigration requirements.

TIMELINE TO GET WORK PERMIT

  • December 2018 – Initial Study Permit issued
  • 2021–2022 – COVID-19 disruptions
  • September 2022 – Return to Canada; difficult first semester
  • 2023–2025 – Full-time studies resumed and completed successfully
  • May 2025 – Program completed
  • Within 180 days – PGWP application submitted
  • March 2026 – PGWP approved (3-year permit issued)

OUTCOME

The application was approved in March 2026, and the client received a three-year PGWP.

The length of a PGWP can be up to three years for programs of two years or more. This allows the client to move forward with full-time employment in a skilled role and continue building their future in Canada.

TAKEAWAY

Many students worry that a single difficult semester could affect their chances and that is true. We have seen many international students who have been refused by IRCC after part time academic semesters. Here are the key takeaways from this case:

  1. Client contacted CIL for the initial PGPW application, without any previous refusals
  2. Client hired an immigration law firm, rather than an agent or immigration consultant
  3. Client provide significant documentation to explain circumstances to IRCC Officer
  4. Team at CIL spent the time and attention to draft strong legal arguments
  5. Client was able to save $$$$ because he came to CIL without any previous IRCC refusals

Outcomes depend on the overall context of the application and the individual circumstances involved. IRCC may consider unique situations when sufficient information is provided.

Every case is different, and a part-time semester does not automatically prevent eligibility. At Clarke Immigration Law, we focus on developing clear and well-supported applications that are carefully prepared to present each case in the strongest possible light.

 

 

Success: PGWP (3 year) after refusal

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At Clarke Immigration Law (CIL), we love helping international students and graduates reach their immigration goals. We have extensive experience dealing with complex immigration challenges, including Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) refusals, study permit complications, and study gaps during academic programs. These cases often require careful legal assessment and a strong understanding of IRCC decision-making. Many international students try to do these applications by themselves and we are seeing an increase in refusals from IRCC.

Students who receive an IRCC refusal face a stressful situation. Canadian immigration rules allow students one chance to fix their situation. Typically, if the applicant receives a 2nd refusal, they may be ordered to leave Canada immediately.

In this case, we assisted the student who had previously been refused a PGWP due to a lengthy study gap during their university studies in Canada. IRCC may refuse the application if they have a lengthy gap in their studies. The student made the right choice and retained CIL to help with the 2nd application. We worked with the client and put together a strong package for the IRCC Officer. After our involvement and hard work, the client was approved and issued a full three-year PGWP, allowing them to begin full-time work in Canada. We love positive results! We got the absolutely best result for our client. Congratulation!

BACKGROUND & MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

Our client completed a Bachelor’s degree at a recognized university after several years of study as an international student.

The application history included several important factors:

  • A study gap during one academic semester;
  • A prior PGWP refusal related to a significant gap during the study period;
  • Mental health challenges during the academic period; and,
  • A temporary return to the home country during recovery.

PGWP eligibility is generally assessed based on study history, and gaps or interruptions in studies can impact application outcomes.

Many international students face mental health issues. They are in Canada, often with minimal support, separated from family and relatives. IRCC Officers have limited discretionary powers to review these types of issues.

HOW WE HELPED – STATUTORY DECLARATION

Every client at CIL has support from an experienced team of professionals. In this case, our team supported the client through the preparation and submission of a strong package to IRCC. Our PGWP application also addresses all the concerns by the IRCC Officer who refused the initial PGWP application. It is vitally important to not ignore the previous Officer’s decision. Reversing a decision is very difficult.

IRCC recognizes very levels of evidence. Applicants may include a letter of explanation. These are often given low weight. Lawyers have the power to draft Statutory Declarations, that may be notarized and sworn. Sworn documents are often given high weight and may be very persuasive to the Officer.

In this case, we worked many hours with our client to draft a strong Statutory Declaration. We were able to put together a strong application that addressed all the issues with the client’s academic history, study interruption, and situation.

TIMELINE

  • August 2019 – Study Permit issued
  • 2020–2022 – COVID-19 academic disruptions
  • Fall 2022 – Onset of mental health challenges
  • Winter 2023 – Study gap during university program
  • April 2023 – Medical treatment initiated
  • Fall 2023 – Return to studies in Canada
  • June 2025 – Degree requirements completed, student submitted PGWP without professional help
  • August 2025 – First PGWP application refused; client contacted CIL for assistance and booked a basic consultation
  • August 2025 – Client retained the team at CIL to prepare and submit 2nd PGWP application (urgent)
  • Late August 2025 – The team at CIL spent many hours reviewing the IRCC refusal, the applicant’s documents and drafted a Statutory Declaration on behalf of client.
    • CIL submitted the PGWP application through the IRCC Authorized Representative Portal (ARP) (within 180 days)
  • March 2026 – PGWP approved (three-year open work permit issued).

OUTCOME & RECOMMENDATIONS

As noted above, the PGWP application was approved, and the client was granted a three-year PGWP – the maximum work permit allowed by IRCC.

Obviously, our client was extremely happy with the result. The team at CIL got the best positive result after a difficult situation. This approval allows the client to pursue full-time employment in Canada and continue building their long-term career in the country.

CIL was able to achieve this outcome based on the following 3 main points:

  1. Strong STATUTORY DECLARATION
  2. Address the IRCC Officer’s concerns from the 1st refusal
  3. Submit the application through the IRCC ARP to give the application the best possible chance

TAKEAWAY

Each immigration case is assessed individually based on its own facts and circumstances.

At CIL, we assist clients with a wide range of Canadian immigration matters, including PGWP refusals, study interruptions, and PGWP applications.

A prior refusal does not automatically determine the outcome of a future application. With a properly presented case and full consideration of the individual circumstances, positive results may still be possible. Immigration lawyers offer services that are not available to agents or consultants. Lawyers are granted powers that give clients the best possible chance.

Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances and eligibility under IRCC guidelines.

 

Success: AIP & OWP

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The Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) application is an option of last resort for foreigners in Canada who have strong reasons to stay in Canada and they have no other choice. This is a long and uncertain process. During extended processing times, we recommend that applicants, whenever possible maintain valid status while their applicatin is process to avoid potential removal (eg. deportation). The team at CIL tried to find creative paths for work authorization from IRCC so they may support their families.

This success story highlights how careful planning and timely applications allowed our client to secure and extend work authorization while awaiting the final outcome of her H&C application.

Background

Our client moved to Canada with her son in 2019. After residing in Canada for several years and establishing strong ties to Manitoba, our office was retained to assist this family. We submitted the H&C application in December 2022. As is common with H&C applications, processing times were lengthy, and the client remained in Canada while awaiting a decision.

Approval in Principle and Initial Work Permit

In July 2024, the client received a positive Approval in Principle (AIP) on her H&C application.

Approval in Principle means that IRCC has completed the assessment of the applicant’s eligibility and humanitarian factors and has determined that the application meets the requirements in principle. While permanent residence is not yet finalized at this stage, AIP allows the applicant to remain in Canada lawfully and, in many cases, apply for a work permit while background and admissibility checks continue.

Our office assisted with the work permit application, which was approved in September 2024, granting authorization to work in Canada until April 2026. This approval provided the client with stability, lawful status, and the ability to support herself and her child while remaining in Canada.

Work Permit (22 days)

The goal of the team at CIL is to make sure our clients have the best chance at success.

  • January 13, 2026 – Work permit extension application submitted
  • February 4, 2026 – Work permit approved, extending authorization until February 2028

The extension was approved without interruption to the client’s ability to work in Canada.

This outcome ensured the client’s continued ability to live and work in Canada while awaiting the final decision on her humanitarian application, providing stability for both her and her child.

This case demonstrates that:

  • Approval in Principle under an H&C application can open the door to work authorization
  • Timely work permit and extension applications are critical during long processing periods
  • Maintaining valid status requires careful monitoring of expiry dates and eligibility
  • Strategic legal support can help avoid gaps in status and employment authorization

If you have an ongoing Humanitarian and Compassionate application and are unsure about work permit eligibility or extensions, professional guidance can be essential to protecting your ability to remain and work in Canada.

Success: Visitor Record (Dual Intent) @ USA Border

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Visitor Record @ USA Border

We are pleased to share a recent success story involving a U.S. citizen who was admitted to Canada on September 29, 2025, and issued a Visitor Record under the principle of dual intent.

The client traveled to Manitoba to reunite with her Canadian fiancé, following over three years of living together in the United States. Although the couple had submitted a Spousal Sponsorship application (Regular stream) in June 2025; however, IRCC returned the application due to missing documentation. No applicant wants to see their application returned; however, a “returned” application is much less serious than a “refused” application. In this case, when the application was returned, the couple only saw this as a minor setback that added complexity to their move to Canada. It was also an eye-opening experience that motivated them to find professional help.

The couple contacted our firm and we helped them fix the situation. We worked with the couple and put together a beautiful package for the Officer at the border. She demonstrated that she had a genuine, temporary purpose of travel, along with strong ties to the U.S. and a solid history of compliance with immigration rules. At the same time, using the Dual Intent provisions per Canadian law, she was forthcoming with her future intent to submit a PR application. Our legal arguments, of course, were accepted by the Officer.

This outcome reinforces that even amid heightened scrutiny at the border, dual intent continues to be a successful pathway when clearly presented and properly supported.

Timeline of Key Events

  • 2022 – 2025: Client and her fiancé started cohabiting.
  • June 2025: Submitted an outside-Canada spousal sponsorship application, which was returned.
  • August 2025: Fiancé returned to Manitoba for work.
  • September 4, 2025: Client contacted CIL for help.
  • September 16, 2025: Client retained our service – Team at CIL worked with client and her fiancé (sponsor).
  • September 29, 2025: Client successfully entered Canada and was issued a Visitor Record.

Although client had never been denied entry, the case still required careful attention. Her intention to eventually apply for permanent residence could have been misinterpreted at the border without the right documentation and legal framing.

Key factors that contributed to this success:

  • A clear and credible plan for temporary stay with demonstrated ties to the U.S;
  • A genuine purpose of visit supported by evidence; and,
  • Advance preparation under the dual intent framework, ensuring transparency and compliance.

Her case reminds us that even without prior refusals, a proactive and well-informed immigration strategy is essential when long-term plans include applying for permanent residence. We are proud to have supported this couple in taking the next step toward building a life together in Canada.

Every case is unique. Whether you are preparing for a first-time visit, or reapplying after a refusal, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration law with clarity and confidence.

 

 

 

Success: PGWP (Part time student)

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If you read this space, you know that we have helped 1000s of students in Canada. We help them come to Canada, extend their Study Permits, change DLIs, apply for PGWPs and help them get PR status. Every case is different. Today, we can share a difficult situation. Our client came to us after she graduated from her study program. She had multiple part-time academic semesters on her transcript. She had medical issues. She had gone through a difficult time being separated from her family in Bangladesh.

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Thankfully, after significant work, we were able to help our client get a 3 YEAR PGWP, and we are now helping her gain PR status in Canada. To be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), students must complete an eligible program of at least eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), maintain full-time status throughout their studies (with limited exceptions), and apply within 180 days of receiving proof of completion. The permit is valid for up to three years and can be issued only once.

At Clarke Immigration Law, we are dedicated to providing professional and compassionate immigration assistance tailored to each client’s unique situation. Our work goes beyond preparing applications we strive to understand our clients’ personal journeys, identify challenges early, and find the most effective legal pathways available under Canadian immigration law. In 2024, our team handled a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application for an int’l student whose academic history included several semesters of part-time study, presenting certain complexities under IRCC’s eligibility requirements. Through our careful preparation and advocacy, our team successfully helped the client obtain a PGWP. This case reflects our ongoing commitment to diligence, advocacy, and client-focused service in every matter we take on.

Here is a brief timeline of this PGWP application:

  • JUNE 2024 – Consultation;
  • JULY 2024 – Client retained CIL to prepare and submit PGWP application on client’s behalf;
  • JULY 2024 – Review full package, submitted PGWP application;
  • APRIL 2025 – PGWP Approved.

Our team carefully reviewed the client’s academic history and identified that several part-time semesters were the result of medical circumstances. We worked closely with the client to draft a clear and persuasive explanation outlining the reasons for the reduced course load, supported by appropriate documentation. We ensured that this explanation aligned with IRCC’s policies regarding exceptions to full-time study requirements. By presenting a well-structured submission that demonstrated the client’s genuine intent to study full-time and the legitimacy of their medical leave, we strengthened the application and helped the client obtain approval of their Post-Graduation Work Permit.

We have reported on many changes to the PGWP program over the years and it is very important to keep up to date. 

Success: Entering @ POE

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Crossing the USA/ Canada border may be very stressful. The laws and regulations at a POE are complex and Officers have broad discretionary powers. The current political environment and the hostility with American Officers has compounded the stress and anxiety.

CIL was retained by an American who was denied entry to Canada. He has a Canadian spouse. He tried to enter Canada to be with his family. He had a stressful experience at the POE and the CBSA Officer did not accept his reasons for entering Canada. He was denied his request to enter Canada as a Visitor and the CBSA Officer issued an Allowed to Leave (ATL).

After our client was issued the ATL by the CBSA Officer at the POE, he contacted our office and he retained our services. The team at CIL provided guidance on Canadian immigration laws, including the concept of Dual Intent. After significant work, our client was granted entry on July 18, 2025, and issued a six-month Visitor Record. Normally, individuals from visa-exempt countries do not require a Visitor Record. In this case, however, that was the solution.

This was a complex case requiring thorough preparation, legal submissions, and a clear explanation of the applicant’s genuine temporary intent alongside future plans for spousal sponsorship.

In June 2025, the client, who has strong ties to the U.S., attempted to enter Canada to reunite with his Canadian spouse. Unprepared for the border interview, he was unable to fully explain his intent and was issued an ATL by CBSA.

Recognizing the risks, he sought legal counsel. We advised him on the dual intent principle under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), which allows a person to enter Canada temporarily while intending to apply for permanent residence.

With supporting documentation prepared and clear re-entry guidance provided, he returned to the border in July 2025 and was successfully admitted.

Brief timeline of events

  • Fall 2022 – 2025: The applicant maintained a committed relationship with their Canadian spouse, culminating in marriage in early 2025.
  • June 2025: Attempted to enter Canada at a port of entry but was denied entry and issued an “Allowed to Leave” (ATL) by CBSA.
  • Early July 2025: The client contacted CIL for assistance. Our team worked closely with both the applicant and sponsor to develop a re-entry plan and long-term immigration strategy based on the principle of dual intent.
  • July 18, 2025: The applicant successfully re-entered Canada and was issued a Visitor Record valid for six months.

This was not just a matter of reapplying, but it was about presenting the applicant’s case clearly, within the scope of Canadian immigration law, and ensuring CBSA had a full and accurate understanding of the situation.

Key elements that contributed to this outcome:

  • Clear demonstration of dual intent, in line with IRPA and updated policy guidance.
  • Strong supporting documentation, including evidence of ties to the U.S. and the genuine nature of the applicant’s relationship.
  • Proactive handling of the prior refusal, showing accountability and steps taken since.
  • Careful preparation for re-entry, including timing and presentation.

Every immigration case is unique. This one required clarity, persistence, and a well-prepared approach, and we are proud to see this family reunited in Canada.

 

 

Presentation: CBA Conference (Victoria BC)

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On 6 June 2025, Alastair Clarke will be moderating a panel at the CBA National Immigration Conference which will be held in Victoria, BC. Alastair completed his undergraduate degree at UVic many years ago so he is very excited to return to the city. Chantal Desloges will be a speaker on the panel as well as a representative from IRCC. Here is a description of the presentation:

The Art of Staying Legal: Mastering Temporary Residence Issues Facing Your Clients
Room: Carson Hall C, Victoria Conference Centre, 2nd floor

This session will be offered with webcasting and simultaneous interpretation *

With Canada intensifying enforcement efforts and focusing on reducing the temporary resident population, maintaining legal status has become more critical than ever. This session provides an in-depth review of key issues surrounding temporary residence, equipping practitioners with the knowledge to guide their clients effectively. Topics include the impact of the cancellation of flagpoling, advising clients on maintained status and IRCC’s maintained status letters, and addressing challenges faced by Visitor Record holders due to IRCC’s shifting interpretations. The session will also explore the laws and procedures for restoring status and obtaining Temporary Resident Permits, ensuring you’re prepared to help your clients navigate these complex challenges.

Speakers:
Chantal Desloges, Desloges Law Group Professional Corporation (Toronto, ON)
Julie Campeau, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (Ottawa, ON)

Moderator: Alastair Clarke, Clarke Immigration Law (Winnipeg, MB)

If you would like to attend this presentation, I hope you are already registered. This conference is extremely popular and the conference is sold out.

For the full agenda and a list of other speakers and moderators, please click on this link. 

We expect IRCC will be making significant announcements during the conference. This is the largest annual conference for Canadian immigration lawyers and it is a chance for representatives to speak directly with IRCC Officers, CBSA Officers, policy analysts, Federal Court judges and other professionals.

We are hoping that Minister Diab will attend the CBA conference. She has not yet confirmed her attendance. She has only been Minister of IRCC for less than a month.

Alastair Clarke previously presented at the CBA National Immigration Conference in 2017. At that time, Canada was dealing with a crisis at the border with many refugee claims and he was recognized as an expert on the STCA. That presentation received strong support and he subsequently gave interviews on CBC News, Global News and many other programs.

CIL strongly believes in public education and awareness. There is significant misinformation online and many websites include outdated or obsolete information. Unfortunately, we regularly meet individuals who rely on bad information or incorrect advice and that may lead to significant problems.

 

Success: TRV (inside Canada)

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We know the Canadian immgration system can be complex and difficult to navigate. Last month, an int’l student came to our office. He has been studying in Canada for many years and he wants to spend time with his family at home. He is in Canada on a Study Permit. He applied for a Visitor Record so that he could leave Canada and come back to his studies. If you are familiar with our system, you will know that he applied for the wrong document. A Visitor Record does not give a FN the right to re-enter. He came to us for help and we helped with an expedited TRV application from inside Canada. It was approved and he can now go and visit his parents.

Here is a brief timeline of Emmanuel’s TRV  application:

  • MAR 2025              Prepared supplementary document checklist, collected and reviewed documents;
  • MAR 2025              Reviewed full package, submitted OWP application;
  • APR 2025.              TRV Approved.TRV inside Canada

TRV approved. We wish him safe travels!

 

 

MB MPNP Work Permits – New Policy

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It is no secret that the MPNP program is the best PNP in Canada. It is also the original, first PNP program. My kids may say that the MPNP is the “OG” PNP in Canada. I would love to say that MPNP gets special attention by IRCC based on the history of the program and the high level of expertise by MPNP Officers. They spend significant time vetting the applications. We have helped 1000s of people through the program to get PR status.

Alastair Clarke was in Montreal in 2024 when Manitoba negotiated the previous Temporary Public Policy for Work Permits. That public policy was announced in MAY 2024 based on specific program requirements at that time. We were able to help our clients get Open Work Permits through that program and then help them with PR status.

The APR 2025 program is based on the same public policy section of IRPR that allows Officers to issue Work Permits. That said, the APR 2025 policy is different from the MAY 2024 policy. We know that many applicants had issues with the MAY 2024 public policy and we met with many clients who received refusals from IRCC as they did not properly submit the application. This program opens on 22 APR 2025.

For this 2025 policy, we strongly recommend that applicants hire a professional for the Open Work Permit application.

Basis eligibility requirements:

MPNP candidates who meet these basic requirements may be eligible for this Open Work Permit application:

  • Hold a valid work permit that will expire in 2025, or
  • Held a work permit valid on May 7, 2024 that has since expired and have submitted an application for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or
  • Held a work permit valid on May 7, 2024 that has since expired and have submitted an application for an extension of the authorization to remain in Canada as a temporary resident under section 181 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or
  • Held a work permit valid on May 7, 2024 that has since expired and have submitted an application for restoration of temporary resident status under section 182 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or
  • Were authorized to work pursuant to paragraph 186 (u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations on May 7, 2024, and the work permit extension application remains pending or was approved, and have submitted an application for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or
  • Were authorized to work pursuant to paragraph 186 (u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations on May 7, 2024, and the work permit extension application remains pending or was approved, and have submitted an application for an extension of the authorization to remain in Canada as a temporary resident under section 181 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

Additional requirements:

  • They had a valid Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program Expression of Interest profile on January 15, 2025, and have a valid Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program Expression of Interest profile at the time of this application
  • They were residing in Manitoba prior to January 15, 2025 and have continuously remained residing in Manitoba
  • They are currently employed in Manitoba with a Manitoba employer that is willing to provide a letter of employment*.
  • They are intending to establish in Manitoba as a permanent resident.

Professional Help

If you would like our services, the first step is to call CIL and book a consultation. We will review your situation, including the requirements. If the client is eligible, we can provide a quote for the necessary services. For our base fees, we have published our fees online to provide guidance.