Canada opens 2 immigration programs for new applicants in 2024
Canada, known for its inclusive policies and welcoming environment, has once again opened its doors to individuals seeking new beginnings. In a significant announcement, the Canadian government has introduced two pioneering immigration programs, set to revolutionize the landscape for prospective applicants.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these newly announced programs, exploring the eligibility criteria, and the potential impact on aspiring immigrants. Join us as we navigate through these exciting developments and uncover the pathways that could lead to a new chapter in the lives of countless individuals seeking to call Canada their home.
What are the new immigration programs in Canada that will begin accepting applicants in January 2024?
- Agri-Food Pilot
- Caregivers Pilot Programs
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
Let’s discuss further information about each program:
1. Agri-Food Pilot
The Agri-Food Pilot, an immigration program with limited slots available yearly, will reset its annual cap on January 1, 2024. Under this pilot, IRCC processes a maximum of 2,750 permanent residency applications annually.
Extended until May 14, 2025, with adjustments made on May 18, 2023, this program also permits family members of applicants who have received an acknowledgment of receipt letter to apply for an open work permit.
To be eligible for the Agri-Food Pilot Program:
- Individuals must have at least 1 year of cumulative, non-seasonal, full-time work within the past 3 years in occupations such as Butchers, Meat Cutters, Agricultural Service Contractors, Livestock Labourers, Harvesting Labourers, among others listed under various NOC codes.
- The program has relatively lenient language proficiency requirements, requiring a CLB Level 4 in English and French.
- Additionally, it recognizes a high school diploma as sufficient education based on an education credential assessment (ECA).
- An employer’s reference letter is accepted, and now, Canada also acknowledges a union reference letter if an employer is unable to provide an experience letter.
In the following, we’ll discuss the eligible occupations for this pathway with the NOC code for each:
- NOC 63201: Butchers, retail and wholesale
- NOC 65202: Meat cutters and fishmongers – retail and wholesale
- NOC 94141: Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers, and related workers
- NOC 82030: Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors
- NOC 84120: Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators
- NOC 85100: Livestock labourers
- NOC 95106: Labourers in food and beverage processing
2. Caregivers Pilot Programs
The Home Support Caregiver Pilot and Home Childcare Provider Pilot programs, eagerly anticipated each year, offer a limited number of openings. These spots are swiftly taken as soon as applications open.
In 2023, both pilot programs had a combined cap of 5,500 applications across various categories. The eligibility requirement for in-Canada caregiver provider pilots has been reduced from 24 months to 12 months of experience.
Both caregiver pilot programs comprise two categories:
- Gaining Experience Category: For applicants with little to no experience in NOC 44100 or NOC 44101 occupations.
– Requirement for in-Canada caregivers: 12 months of experience. - Direct to Permanent Residency (PR) Category: For applicants with 24 months or more experience in NOC 44100 or NOC 44101 occupations.
– Requirement for in-Canada caregivers: 12 months of experience.
Eligible candidates receive a work permit to accrue 24 months of Canadian experience. They can then apply for Direct Permanent Residency after fulfilling the experience criteria.
To apply for PR, applicants need:
- At least 24 months of full-time work experience in Canada in the last 36 months
- Post-secondary education of at least 1 year
- Any experience or training demonstrating capability for the job offer.
For a work permit, applicants require:
- A valid full-time job offer
- CLB level 5 in English or French (IELTS = Reading 4 and other modules 5)
- Post-secondary education of at least 1 year
- Any experience or training demonstrating capability for the job offer.
Occupations eligible for the Caregivers Program include various roles under NOC 44100 (Home child care providers) and NOC 44101 (Home Support Worker Pilot).
What does Canada’s immigration plan for 2024 entail?
The updated plan targets the admission of more than 485,000 newcomers in 2024 and aims for 500,000 in 2025. It encompasses a range of immigration programs, including economic, family, and refugee categories.
The announcement of Canada’s of opening two immigration programs marks a pivotal moment for prospective applicants. This unveiling emphasizes Canada’s commitment to diversity and opportunity. It invites individuals worldwide to explore these pathways, envisioning a future within Canada’s vibrant, inclusive society.
