April 2012 Visa Bulletin - All Is Not Lost

The Canadian government is taking a bold step in clearing their backlog of immigration cases and feels they must be able to change more quickly to the needs of employers. As such, Citizenship and Immigration Canada proposed to close the files of FSW applicants who applied before February 27, 2008, and for whom an immigration officer has not made a decision based on selection criteria by March 29, 2012. The process has gotten more difficult. But for something as valuable as an immigrant visa to Canada, it is still worth it.


We of course understand that it's not easy accepting this development specially if you have waited for almost 8 years already only to be told that your application will not be processed.

But all is not lost. Options for Pre-February 27, 2008 FSW Applicants.

MiscellaNEWS

British Columbia Nurses Union Demand 2,000 More Staff Nurses. The union representing British Columbia's 30,000 nurses is throwing a spotlight on what it argues is declining patient care as it appeals for public support to hire thousands of additional workers in the latest round of contract negotiations.

Noynoying in Canada. Planking is out, Noynoying is in. Noynoying is also in for Filipino youth in Canada!



FRAUD: Recognize It. Report It. Stop It.Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Competition Bureau are joining together during Fraud Prevention Month to warn potential immigrants to be wary of websites claiming to be, or to be affiliated with, official Government of Canada websites.

Canada Miss Universe Disqualifies Transgender Contestant. Canada may be liberal in recognizing same sex marriagaes and same sex common-law partnerships, but it looks like a transgender is not welcome in Canada's Miss Universe.

Visa Corner


Mr and Mrs Accountant. Accountants are not included in the current list of priority occupations. It's a good thing that Mr and Mrs Castelo made a timely decision 2 years ago. When they learned that Accountants are included in the priority list, they immediately grabbed the opportunity.

IELTS Examination Is No Hindrance. Ms. Marigold Rocero, a Registered Nurse, is one of those who opted for the Acedemic Module when they took the IELTS examination. General Training Module is the required module but there was a period in the past that Academic Module is being accepted. Thus, those with IELTS exam result ready, even if it's Academic Module, were submitted just the same in filing their application. But Citizenship and Immigration Canada eventually implemented strictly the rule on IELTS module requirement.

Manila Visa Office FSW Processing Updates

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 82 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 25, 2004. Citizenship and Immigration Canada proposed a legislation to wipe out this backlog and refund the processing fees of FSW applications filed before February 27, 2008 which do not have a decision as March 29, 2012.

Read: Refund up to $130 million FSW Processng Fees, Proposed.


Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. For the last two weeks, we received several notices (Medical Instructions, Passport Requests and Visas) from the Visa Office for this batch. Medical Instructions were issued to cases filed on February 05, 2011 (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment).

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far. The latest who received Medical Examination requests under this group are those who received positive assessment from CIO dated September 1, 2011.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed FEBRUARY 27, 2012. The latest application which received Medical Instruction was application filed October 24, 2011.

If your application was filed before February 27, 2012 and you still did not received any notice from CIO, there is a chance that your application may be returned unprocessed due to the cap imposed per occupation. If your job classification is Pharmacist, Dentist or Physician, the cap may have been reached already when CIO received your application. Should this be the case, you must be ready to refile your application this coming July 2012.

Read more...

March 2012 Visa Bulletin - Be ready all the time

In the spotlight now are those Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) applicants filed before February 27, 2008. These are applicants who have been waiting for more than 7 years now. In a speech at the Economic Club of Canada Event last week, The Honourable Jason Kenney, P.C., M.P. Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism mentioned three ways they are exploring to reduce the immigrationn (FSW) backlog. Citizenship and Immigration Canada is actively thinking of solution to FSW Backlog. This, however, includes an option to legislate away immigration backlogs.

FSW Backlog Reduction Pilot Program

We recently received letter of invitation for 130 clients whose FSW application was filed before Fenruary 27, 2008 to apply under the FSW Reduction Pilot Project. The aim of this pilot is to nominate FSW applicants with experience in kev occupations under Provincial Nominee Programs. Applicants are being selected based on the indicated province of their destination and their declared work experience. If selected, you have to submit your application as soon as possible. There is a limit on the number of applications to be accepted and this is a limited time offer only. IELTS Examination result is required, but this shouldn't really be a problem for those who did what we have been suggesting for quite a time now - that you should be ready all the time.

Get ready for July 2012

Whether you are yet to file your application or you have a pending FSW application filed before February 27, 2008, you should get your documents ready NOW in time for another window of opportunity this coming July 2012. Changes will most likely be implemented and it is best if you will prepare for it as early as now.



Language Proficiency is the key
The proposed new points system gives more value to language proficiency and less on work experience. There will be a required minimum level of language profiency depending on the applicant's occupation skills. This means a lower language requirement for a Welder than a Nurse. The maximum points to be awarded for proficiency in the first official language may be increased from 16 to 20. If you want to get ready for July 2012, schedule your IELTS Examination NOW!


Credentails Assessment
Canada may soon copy Australia's immigration program by requiring applicants in regulated/licensed occupations to have their professional credentials approved first before they may apply. This process may take time. If you want to be ready, this is one thing you may want to consider doing as early as now. Besides, you will really need this process if you plan to practice your profession in Canada. Furthemore, With your professional credentials approved, it would be easier for you to fina a job offer from Canada. With a job offer, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence in Canada even if your occupation is not included in the priority occupations.


For those who haven't done yet, log on to http://clients.go2canada.com for fill up your application forms. Submit your documents for checking ASAP. Your application forms and supporting documents must be ready on or before June 15, 2012.


Manila Visa Office FSW Processing Updates

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 82 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 25, 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unantiicpated backlogs. Current processing time under this batch is 17 months. The latest notice we received under this batch was for application filed (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment) NOVEMBER 27, 2010. The latest to received visa for this batch was an application submitted to Visa Office on October 28, 2010

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far. The latest who received Medical Examination requests under this group are those who received positive assessment from CIO dated September 1, 2011, no movement for almost a month now.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed FEBRUARY 08, 2012. The latest application which received Medical Instruction was application filed October 11, 2011.


MiscellaNEWS

SSS Premium Payments While In Canada
Do you stil want to continue paying your SSS Premium While working abroad? With the SSS Auto-Debit Arrangement Program, you save time, money and effort. Also, your payments are immediately posted. You no longer need to worry, for your accounts are easily and accurately recorded.

Marriage For Convenience No More?
If you were granted a permanent residence status in Canada through Family Class Sponsorship (Spouse), you will now have to wait for five years from the day you were granted a permanent residence status before you can sponsor a new partner. Prior to this new policy, a sponsored spouse or partner arriving in Canada as a permanent resident could leave their sponsor and sponsor another spouse or partner themselves, while their original sponsor was still financially responsible for them for up to three years.

March 2012 Visa Bulletin - Be ready all the time

Read more...

February 2012 Visa Bulletin - Are You Ready For Ministerial Instruction 5?

Are you ready for Ministerial Instruction 5 (MI-5)?

On or before July 1, 2012, a new Ministerial Instruction is expected to be issued by Canada's Immigration Minister. This Ministerial Instruction 5 (MI-5) will provide details about the priority occupations to be processed under the Federal Skilled Worker program.

Good News Might Be On The Way, Are You Ready?
Anybody who wants to have a bright future has to make plans. They plan how they are going to get ahead in life. They take charge of their life. They use the resources available to them to their advantage to get ahead in life.

For the Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) program, a new list of priority occupations will be identified. The sentiment is, more occupations will open in the future but they will also close quickly. You will be competing against millions of applicants around the world for immigrant visas to Canada. You need to be ready!

Let Us Get Your Application Ready for July 2012
Here’s what you must do to get your application ready for filing on July 1, 2012.

1. Fill up the online application forms using CIC Client Portal (http://clients.go2canada.com). If you don’t have your online access or you forgot your password, please get in touch with your assigned Agent.

2. Submit required documents for checking. Attached is a checklist for your reference.

3. Send your job description for review. You need to document your work experience within the last 10 years and your employment certificate must include a detailed job description. We need to review and enhance your job description before you have it signed by your employers. Please use the attached JD format.

4. Schedule your IELTS Examination. Take the General Training Module. It is highly recommended for you to undergo formal IELTS review before taking the exam.

5. Get your settlement funds ready.

6. Your target should be to get your application forms and documents ready for filing as early as June 2012.

Option for Applications Filed Before Feb 27, 2008
If your application permanent residence in Canada under Federal Skill Worker program was filed before February 27, 2008, you are understandably disappointed the way Citizenship and Immigration Canada treated your application. Current processing time for your application is now 82 months.

If you are still interested to Immigrate to Canada and you want an expedited process, you should also get your application forms and documents ready. Without withdrawing your application, you may file a new application if your job classification is included in the 2012 priority occupations. Once approved, you may then withdraw the previous application and possibly get a visa processing fee refund.

What's NEW?

Damascus Visa Office Temporarily Closed
Because of the continuing violence in Syria, the government of Canada decided to close the Visa and Immigration Section at the Canadian Embassy in Damascus is losed and services have been transferred to neighbouring visa offices.

How To Get Police Certificate From Australia
For purposes of Immigrant Visa application to Canada, a police certificate or police clearance from Australia is required if you stayed there for 6 months or more. You need to get Standard Disclosure – name check from Australian Federal Police, not the police certificate issued by state police authority.


Manila Visa Office FSW Processing Updates

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 82 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 25, 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. Current processing time under this batch is 17 months. The latest notice we received under this batch was for application filed (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment) November 20, 2010. . Also noted is the delay in passport request/visa notice after the medical examination is done. The latest to received visa for this batch was an application submitted to Visa Office on Sept 27, 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far. The latest who received Medical Examination requests under this group are those who received posistive assessment from CIO dated September 1, 2011. No movement for almost a month now.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed November 11, 2011. The latest application which received Medical Instruction was application filed September 24, 2011. The said medical notice was received February 3, 2012, less than 2 months after the assessment notice was recived from CIO.

Under this batch, several applications under the job classification of Registered Nurses, Pharmacists and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management that were returned unprocessed due to the cap being already reached at the time application was received by CIO.

Read more...

January 2012 Visa Bulletin - Happy New Year

On or before July 1, 2012, a new list of priority occupations is expected to be issued through another Ministerial Instruction. Are you ready for this? If you are still interested to live and work in Canada to give your family a better quality of life, you have to act now! Let us get your application ready!


How to get your application ready?

1. Log in to http://clients.go2canada.com and start filling up the online forms.

2. Submit the required documents for checking. A simple mistake like birth certificate entries may cause delay, problem. Do not wait until the last minute to correct what is needed to be corrected.

3. Schedule an IELTS Examination. Please remember that the required module is the General Training. Take advantage of Free IELTS online simulation test. It is best if you will take a formal IELTS review before taking the exam.

4. Have your job description reviewed and enhanced. You need to document your employment history within the last ten years. Having these documents signed by your previous employers may take time.

5. If you are under the Privelege Plan, consider upgrading to Apply Now Pay Later Plan to get the full package. Your objective should be to be able to send your application to Centralized Intake Office within the first week once the new list is out.

If your occupation is included in the current priority list, you only have until June 30, 2012 or until the 500 cap is reached to get your application filed. Time is of the essence. Let's get your application filed!

What's NEW?

Modiefied Payment Form
In its effort to simplify and stremline the application process, Citizenship and Immigration Canada has been introducing changes in the system, process and application forms. The latest of which is the modified fee payment form.

Positive Assessment for RN as LPN
We told you before of the possibility for a Registered Nurse to qualify as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Well, there's an applicant who tried and fortunately got a positive assessment from CIO.

First Supervisa Issued at Canadian Visa Office in Manila
Filipinos are really fast. Citizenship and Immigration Canada started to accept applications for Parent and Grandparent Supervisas on December 1, 2011. Guess what? The first Supervisa was issued at Canadian Visa Office in Manila!


Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:


Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 77 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004. Last month, an application filed Nov 25, 2004 received a notice from the visa office to update his application forms and other documents.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest notice we received under this batch was for application filed (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment) November 20, 2010. Current processing time under this batch is 17 months. Also noted is the delay in passport request/visa notice after the medical examination is done.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far. The latest who received Medical Examination requests under this group are those who received posistive assessment from CIO dated September 1, 2011.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed October 11, 2011. Please note that there are applications classified as Registered Nurses, Pharmacists and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management that were filed earlier than October 11, 2011 that are yet to receive notice from CIO. Most nurse applicants whose applications were filed after July 15, 2011 are being returned unprocessed.

If you already have a File Number from the Visa Office, here's where to check your application status online: https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas<=en

Let's help Typhoon Sendong Victims
There are ways more than one to help our kababayans in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan who were victims of typhoon Sendong.

May the year 2012 be the year all our dreams come true. Happy New Year!

January 2012 Visa Bulletin

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December 2011 Visa Bulletin - White Christmas

The main difference between working abroad as a contract worker and as an immigrant is that as an immigrant, you have the option to bring your family with you. There is no need to leave your spouse and kids just to earn in dollars. It is more difficult for an overseas contract worker considering the sacrifice of leaving one's family just to make ends meet. That is why this Coca-Cola Where Will Happiness Strike Next: The OFW Project made a hit in online forums and social media websites. It touches the sacrifices and difficulties faced in working as an overseas contract worker - away from one's family.

But those who opted for a long-term solution, by immigrating to Canada, do not necessarily have the same problem. They are now enjoying a White Christmas!

Let's Get Your Application Filed

You signified your intention to have a long-term plan for your family by signing up a consultancy agreement with Canadian Immigration Consultancy. Let us then get your application filed!

If your occupation is in the current list of priority occupations, get your application filed now. The cap may reached sooner than you expect. Get in touch with your assigned consultant to address all your application concerns.

If your application is not yet filed because your occupation is not in the priority list, get your application forms and documents ready now. On or before July 1, 2012, a new list of priority occupations may be released through another Ministerial Instruction. Make sure that you will be able to file your application immediately if your occupation is included in the priority list.

What's New?

Free Online IELTS Simulation Test
For clients of Canadian Immigration Consultancy who can't visit our office for the FREE IELTS Simulation Test, you can now do the IELTS simulation test online!

First Time Immigrant Fare for 2012
Moving to Canada? Book your flight now via Cathay Pacific and avail of discounted fare as First Time Immigrant.

New Application Process for Provincial Nominee Program Applicants
Effective December 1, 2011, all provincial nominees must submit their permanent resident applications to CIC's new centralized intake unit in Sydney, N.S. This is after receiving the nomination certificate from the province.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:


Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current proceesing period for this batch is 77 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004. Last month, an application filed Nov 25, 2004 received a notice from the visa office to update his application forms and other documents.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest notice we received under this batch was for application filed (documents submitted to Visa Office after CIO assessment) November 18, 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3)
MI-3 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from July 1, 2011 to present. The latest assessment notice we have received so far are for those filed August 19, 2011. Please note that there applications classified as Registered Nurses, Pharmacists and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management that were filed earlier than August 19 that are yet to receive notice from CIO.

If you already have a File Number from the Visa Office, here's where to check your application status online: https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas&lang=en

December 2011 Visa Bulletin - White Christmas

Read more...

November 2011 Visa Bulletin

As of November 10, 2011, Centralized Intake Office already received a total of 3,809 applications from the 29 in-demand occupations under Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3). Only a maximum of 10,000 applications will be received with a cap of 500 for each occupation. The cap for Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management and Registered Nurses have been reached few months ago. The next three applications nearing its cap are:

3131 Pharmacists 476
3113 Dentists 256
2121 Biologists and Related Scientists 261

For the complete list, visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/complete-applications.asp

Please note that the list is not a real-time tally and is meant as guide only. There are information circulating in some forums that the cap for nurses had been reached as early as mid of July 2011 and that those filed after July 15 will all be returned unprocessed. We have a couple of applications (nurses) received by CIO on July 15 that was already returned because according to the letter, the cap was already reached. We have yet to receive the assessment results for nurse applicants filed July 15 onwards. But for other occupations, those filed up to August 12, already received the assessment results.

The first published MI-3 update on the number of applications received was dated July 21 and with only a total of 26 applications from registered nurses. If the cap was indeed reached as early as July 15, it sure did not serve as a guide. It somehow mislead many applicants. We have written Minister Kenny to protest this grave injustice.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada News

Super Visas for Parent and Grandparent
Parents who wish to visit their children in Canada may now stay there for 2 years straight without applying for extended stay. This super visa is a multiple entry temporary resident visa and is valid up to 2 years.

New Language Test for Citizenship Applicants
Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney is proposing changes to to improve citizenship program. If approved, it would change the way that citizenship applicants aged 18-54 prove their language ability.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average proceesing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004. No movement for several months now. If you are under this batch and you , are you willing to join a group of fellow applicants in filing a case against Citizenship and Immigration Canada?

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The Canadian Visa Office in Manila has now started to process those we filed November 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Here's where to check your application status online: https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/?app=ecas&lang=en

Success Stories

French Language Test did the trick
Ms. Romina Santos is a Registered Social Worker, single, without Master's Degree and with only one year related work experience. Even if she has a relative in Canada and gets a perfect score in IELTS, she wouldn't have met the 67 points pass mark if not for the additional points from French Language.

She's now working as a Care Manager
Ms. Maria Angeles Escasa's application was filed under Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1) as Training Officer. She is now working as Care Manager for a nursing home.

Friends reuniting in Canada
Ms. Charina Lukban learned about our office through her friend, Ms. Ruby Calasag, who was able to get a PR Visa through Canadian Immigration Consultancy. They both applied as Registered Nurses. She will soon be joining Ms. Ruby in Canada!

Read more...

October 2011 Visa Bulletin - Alternatives

The opportunity to apply under Federal Skilled Workers program is still limited to 29 in-demand occupations and it will remain this way until June 30, 2012. If you have signed up a consultancy agreement with Canadian Immigration Consultancy and your application was affected by changes in the immigration regulations, chances are your application is not yet filed. Some of you may have been waiting for quite a time now for your occupation to get included in the priority list. Some others may actually be included but did not make it to the cap. We understand that this may disappoint you, but it isn't necessarily the end for your dream to live and work in Canada .

Here are few things you may do as an alternative:

1. If your application is not yet filed, it is important that you continue getting your documents ready. It is best that your application is ready for filing as soon as the opportunity for your occupation opens up again. If you haven't done yet, please fill up the application forms using our client's portal (http://clients.go2canada.com) and submit your documents for checking.

2. Citizenship and Immigration Canada will still accept application for occupations not included in the list, provided the applicant has an Arranged Employment. While waiting for the next Ministerial Instruction, it would be best if you will start looking for possible employer in Canada . How to find jobs in Canada

3. The key to getting an Arranged Employment in Canada for regulated occupations is getting your credentials assessed by the regulatory body for your occupation/profession.

Nurses, for example, need to pass the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination before they could work as a nurse. The first step in getting your credentials assessed is by deciding which province in Canada you want to practice your profession. In Canada , Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs) are regulated by different regulatory bodies determined by each provincial government. Provincial and Territorial Regulatory Bodies - Nurses in Canada

Once you already have the eligibility to work in Canada as nurse, you can then start looking for employer in Canada . Once you have the job offer, that’s the time that we can then file your application for a Canadian Visa. Guide for Filipino Nurses planning to work in Canada.

For information on how to get your credentials recognized, visit http://www.credentials.gc.ca/recognition/how.asp

4. If you have relatives in Manitoba or Saskatchewan , we may also file your application under the Provincial Nominee Program. If you have friends in Manitoba, they are also eligible to be your sponsor under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program.

Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3 Updates)
As of October 11, 2011, the Centralized Intake Office (CIO) has already 2,768 received total complete Federal Skilled Workers program applications out of the overall cap of 10,000. Under the Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3), there is a cap of 500 applications per occupation. The cap for Registered Nurses and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management has been reached already. For the latest tally of applications received, visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada official website.

Applications filed to CIO from July 1-9 have already received the assessment notice. It used to take only about 30 days for CIO to make an assessment but it now takes about 3 months. If you have filed your application within the said period and haven't received the notice yet, check your email spam folder. If it's not there, you may check your application status by contacting the CIO. Here's how to check your CIO application status.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status
If you have your file number from Canadian Visa Office - Manila, you can actually check your application status online. But to give you an idea on what application date is currently being processed by Manila Visa Office, here's a breakdown based on the period applications were filed:

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average proceesing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest MI-1 applications being processed by Canadian Visa Office in Manila are those we filed October 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

Here's how to check your application status online.

October 2011 Visa Bulletin - Alternatives

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September 2011 Visa Bulletin - Merry Christmas!

Filipinos celebrate Christmas longer. That's because Christmas season in the Philippines starts September 1, the start of the "ber" months. So let us be the first to greet you a Merry Christmas! And hopefully, a White Christmas soon for those who haven't experienced one yet.

Ministerail Instruction 3 (MI-3) Updates
As of this writing, we haven't received a single Assessment Notice from the Centralized Intake Office for applications filed under Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3). It's the 3rd month now. For some reason, it takes longer for CIO to process the assessment. They used to send the assessment notice within only a couple of months.

To check your application status, you may email FSW‑Sydney‑Search‑Enquiry@cic.gc.ca. You may contact CIO only if your application was sent at least within within the past six weeks.

As of September 6, 2011, only 90 slots remain for Registered Nurses (NOC 3152) for Federal Skilled Workers program under Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3). There is a great chance that the cap for nurses will be reached within this month.

The cap for NOC 1122 has been reached last August 22, 2011. Once the cap has been reached, Citizenship ang Immigration Canada will only accept applications for the affected occupation from applicant with an arranged employment.

Arranged Employment
Once the cap for your job classification has been reached, the only way to immigrate to Canada under the Federal Skilled Worker program is to wait for the new Ministerial Instruction and or find employer in Canada who is willing to hire you, an Arranged Employment. Of course, finding an employer in Canada from outside is easier said done than. But it is doable, possible and others have done it. Here's how to find jobs in Canada.

Mark Hernandez, for example is now working in Vancouver as a Registered Nurse. He found an employer though Health Match British Columbia. Health Match BC is a free health professional recruitment service funded by Government of British Columbia. If you are a health professional seeking employment, or a health care facility in British Columbia hiring qualified professionals, Health Match BC can help.

The key to finding an employer in Canada is help the employer understand the process and help solve what they perceive to be a problem. It would also help if will have your credentials assessed by the provincail regulatory body for your profession. Writing and passing the exam to practice your profession in Canada will also give you an advantage. For registered nurses who want to start the credentials assessment, check the requirements from Provincial and Territorial Regulatory Bodies for Nurses in Canada.

Provincial Nominee Program Updates

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program now have MPNP Online Application Tool. This is only applicable for priority streams such as Employer Direct Stream, International Student Stream, Family Support Stream and Strategic Initiative Stream. MPNP General Stream will have to submit application by mail.


Success Stories

It started with a Google Search
Mrs. Reanne Medallon, a Registered Nurse, is one those who stumbled upon this blog through Google search. Her visa was issued last week together with other 54 clients.

Tale of Two Dentists
When Dr. Alvaro attended the seminar few years ago, his occupation wasn't included in the priority occupations and thus, not eligible to apply. But when his occupation was included in the Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2), he decided right away to file his application through our help. There's another dentist who attended the same seminar but decided to file on her own. Unfortunately, her application was refused.

Ms. Abaya Visited Niagara Falls!
Ms. Laarani Abaya, a Registered Nurse moved to Canada two months ago and is now working as a health care aide at a hospital in Toronto. She sent us her picture taken at Niagara falls when she visit the place last July 31, 2011.

Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average proceesing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticpated backlogs. The latest MI-1 applications being processed by Canadian Visa Office in Manila are those we filed October 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, thus, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

September 2011 Visa Bulletin - Merry Christmas!

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August 2011 Visa Bulletin - The Clock Is Ticking

Centralized Intake Office (CIO) started to receive applications for Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) program under MI-3 since July 1, 2011. CIO will only accept a total of 10,000 applications from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012 with a cap of 500 applications per occupation. 

As of August 4, 2011, the total complete FSW applications received by CIO is 694 already. And just like last year, it looks like Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management (NOC 1122) will be the first to reach the cap. If your occupation is included in the current list of priority occupations, let's get your application filed ASAP! Don't waste time, the clock is ticking.

Occupation not included in the list?
There are other programs to live and work in Canada - Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers Program and Arranged Employment. While waiting for your occupation to be included in the priority list, try to maximize the Internet by sending your resume to Canadian employers. Here's how to find jobs in Canada.

How to Check CIO Application Status
IF your application was already filed at Centralized Intake Office (CIO) and you are wondering what the status is, there is a way to check it. But verify first with the courier service you used if it was in fact delivered to and received by CIO. You may contact CIO's Client Service Unit 6 weeks after your application is received.

Live-in Caregiver Program On Hold
There was a rumor circulating online that Canada's Live-in Caregiver Program is currently on hold. There is no truth to that. There were changes introduced in the past but the program is still open. For Filipino applicants, however, there are certain requirements you need to comply with POLO and POEA.

SCAM Alert: Cascadia Hotel and Suites Scam
The best way to fight online scams is to be informed. To legally work in Canada, you don't need to get in touch with a Zonal Coordinator for the Immigration Entry Assessment Fee.

Canadian Language Benchmark
Just to clarify, Canadian Language Benchmark 8 is not equivalent to IELTS Score of 8. The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) are the national standard used in Canada for describing, measuring and recognizing the English language proficiency of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants for living and working in Canada.

Temporary NBI Clearance Processing Center
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is in process of migrating to a new processing system and it now takes longer to get an NBI Clearance. Expect long lines of people applying for NBI clearance so it is best if you go there really early to Temporary Processing Center. NBI Clearance is onc of the requirements for all types of PR Visa Application.


Canadian Visa Office Manila Visa - Processing Status

Pre-Feb 27, 2008 FSW Applications
Applications filed before February 27, 2008 are those filed mostly using the Simplified Application Process. Current average processing period for this batch is 62 months. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is currently processing applications filed November 2004.

Ministerial Instruction 1 (MI-1)
MI-1 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from Feb 28, 2008 to June 25, 2010. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in of the 38 high demand occupations. They were originally promised 6-12 months processing period. The promised processing period materialized only during the first few months but since there's no limit on the number of applications to be received, it resulted to unanticipated backlogs. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is now processing MI-1 applications received August-September 2010.

Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2)
MI-2 applications are those filed at Centralized Intake Office from June 26, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Applicants under this batch are those with at least one year experience in any of the 29 in-demand occupations and were promised 6-12 months processing period. There's a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation, thus, and the Canadian Visa Office in Manila is current so far.

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July 2011 Visa Bulletin - Opportunity Knocks Twice, Sometimes.

They say opportunity knocks only once. BUt this time, it knocked twice.

The Ministerial Instruction 3 (MI-3) has been officially issued. The 29 in-demand occupations is extended for another year but Citizenship and Immigration Canada will only accept a maximum of 500 applications per occupation with a total target of 10,000 applications for the next 12 months beginning July 1, 2011. The proposed changes to FSW Points System was not yet implemented. Thus, the ideal age remains to be between 21-49 years old. No changes whatsoever was made for the Federal Skilled Worker Program requirements and procedures.

MI-1 Applications Now Moving | Medical Notice and RPRF Payment Request


Here's a good news for applicants who filed under Ministerial Instrucrion 1 (MI-1). The Visa Office in Manila has started to process again applications filed between February 27, 2008 and June 25, 2010. The same thing is true for applications filed prior to February 27, 2008. Of the 52 Medical Instructions and Right of Permanent Resident Fee payament request we received last week, 19 cases were filed before Feb 27, 2008. These pre-Feb 27, 2008 applications were filed between November 10-25, 2004. However slow, at least it's moving.

SCAM ALERT: Canadian Employment Services Representative Office

There is no such thing as Canadian Employment Services Representative Office. So if an alleged employer requires you to seek employment clearance from Canadian Employment Services Representative Office to get a work permit, consider it a red flag. It's a scam!


Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers Program


Those whose occupations are not included in the 29 in-demand occupations are not eligible under the Federal Skilled Worker Program unless they have an Arranged Employment. While waiting for the new list next year, you may also want to try your luck under Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers Program. This program does not require employer-sponsor. There is also no restructed occupations under this program. You will have an advantage though if you have knowledge in Frenh Language and got immediate relatives in Quebec. Another alternative is to find an employer in Canada using the internet. Some of those who did what we suggested few months ago - to send resume to Canadian employers - were actually getting good result.

Time is of Essesnse

For some of the occupations listed in the priority list, they may only have 2-3 months window of opportunity. The cap may be reached sooner that what you expect. If you are eligible under the current program, let us get your application filed soon!

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June 2011 Visa Bulletin - Delay in Processing Explained

The 3rd Ministerial Instruction (MI-3) is expected to be issued anytime now, on or before July 1, 2011. Considering the application backlogs, the upcoming Immigration Minister's Instruction would be crucial. It may worsen the backlogs or limit the opportunities for those planning to live and work in Canada. The next Ministerial Instruction may provide the new list of priority occupations, the number of applications to received and quite possibly, changes in the points system

Alternative Programs
If Citizenship and Immigration Canada decided to focus on their backlogs, there is a chance that there would be a fewer occupations to be listed as priority and fewer number of applications to be received for the next twelve months starting July 1, 2011. Should that be the case, that would mean the cap would be reached instantly. This is where you need to seriously consider finding an employer in Canada who might be willing to sponsor your application. Start preparing a Canadian resume format, prepare a good cover letter and find job vacancies through Canada Jobs Portal. With a job offer from Canada, you may apply under Provincial Nominee Program or Federal Skilled Worker program with Arranged Employment Opinion (AEO).

Delay in processing
Based on the recent processing times published at Citizenship and Immigration Canada website, it now takes 75 months for them to process applications filed on or before February 27, 2008 at Canadian Visa Office in Manila. It used to be 36 months. The Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish applications filed in 2004.

For applications filed between November 2008 and June 25, 2010, it now takes 12 months. It used to be 6-12 months.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada is prioritizing applicants filed under Ministerial Instruction 2 (MI-2) because it seeks to respond to the most urgent labor market needs first. That explains the delay in processing, why nurses filed under MI-2 are getting results faster than some nurses filed under MI-1 even if their applications were filed several months earlier.

Illogical Approach, Let's Make a Protest!
Citizenship and Immigration Canada's decision to prioritize applicant's filed under MI-2 does not make sense. It is illogical and unfair. Nurses and physicians are both included in the priority list under MI-1 and MI-2. Are they trying to say that nurses and physicians filed under MI-2 best respond to labor market demand? What's their basis?

If you are one of those affected, you have two options. You may either wait until your application is reviewed (12 months from the time the visa office received your application) or write a letter to the visa office and voice out your protest. You have all the right to write them a letter but avoid multiple and redundant follow up. I strongly suggest you do the latter. Otherwise, be prepared to wait longer if there are nurses and physicians again included in the Ministerial Instruction 3. Who do you think would be prioritized following their logic? We have already wrote them a letter, you can do the same.

Free Canadian Visa Internet Scam Alert
Please do not be deceived by scammers who promise free Canadian visa processing. Recently, many applicants have been receiving an email allegedly from no-reply@cic.gc.ca offering a free and guaranteed Canadian visa processing. Citizenship and Immigration Canada warned the public about it. It is a scam!

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April 2011 Visa Bulletin | 6 to 12 months processing period is no April Fools Day Joke

The Ministerial Instruction mandating the 6-12 months processing for Federal Skilled Worker program applications wasn't dated April 1. It isn't one of those April Fools Day jokes. It is real! Unfortunately, the Canadian Visa Office in Manila seems to have problem keeping up with the mandated processing period.

April 2011 Visa Bulletin | 6 to 12 months processing period is no April Fools Day Joke

What we have noticed is that Canadian Visa Office in Manila is giving priority to applications filed under the 2nd Ministerial Instruction (29 occupations). These applications are receiving assessment result faster than those who filed prior to them, those who filed under the 1st Ministerial Instruction (38 occupations). The same thing is true with the visa stamping and issuance. In the past, it only takes them about two weeks. But now it takes them around 2 to 3 months. Problem is some of those who submitted passports for visa stamping way back October 2010 are still waiting for the release of their visa, while those who have just recently submitted passports are processed within a couple of months. Please be informed, however, that we are doing something about this Canadian Embassy Manila Processing Delay. We are making a follow up regularly within a reasonable period.

1,000 cap for Pharmacists has been reached
The 1,000 cap for Pharmacists was already reached last month. That means they will no longer new applications for that job classification, unless there's an arranged employment. IF you're a pharmacist and wasn't able to made it, you may still have a chance. Plan ahead, get your documents ready for the next Ministerial Instruction. While at that, prepare a Canadian resume format and start sending applications to employers in Canada. With a certifed job offer, you may then be eligible to apply for Temporary Foreign Worker Program, Provincial Nominee Program or FSW through Arranged Employment Opinion. There's a guide on how to do it at the last part of this April 2011 Visa Bulletin.

New AINP Strategic Recruitment Stream
Temporary Foreign Workers in Alberta may now apply for permanent residence in Canada through Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) Strategic Recruitment Stream even without sponsorship from their employers. This will only apply to workers whose occupations classified under compulsary and optional trades. To qualify under the program, applicant must be presently working in Alberta.

May 2011 Canadian Election
There is a scheduled Federal Election in Canada on May 2, 2011. The result of this election may mean changes in the regulations again. That is if the Liberals win this time. The Conservatives introduced on 2008 a measure to modernize the immigration system. It's that bill giving the Immigration Minister the power to decide who will be prioritized under the Federal Skilled Worker program. The Liberals opposed it, arguing that such measure will be be shutting the door to immigrants. But the Conservatives managed to pass the bill and as a result, we now have 6-12 months processing period for selected occupations. As a consequence, however, those who filed before Feb 2008 are now being processed longer, about 6 years! The Liberals vowed to reverse the said measure if they win.

Visa Processing Status Monitor
For applications filed before February 2008, more patience is needed. The Canadian Visa Office in Manila has been stuck on November 2004 for several months now. Unfortunately, the only way to expedite the process is to find and Arranged Employment in Canada. Another option is to file your application to Centralized Intake Office once your occupation is included in the new priority list. If you are planning to take this option, it is best if you start preparing for the IELTS Examination and updating your documents.

Cetified Job Offer is the key
With a certified job offer from Canada, be it an Arranged Employment Opinion or a Labor Market Opinion, it will definitely speed up the process for you to legally live and work in Canada. But the question is, how to find an employer who will process a job offer for you? Here's a few tips:

1. In sending applications to Canadian Employers, be suse to send a Canada Resume format. Here's a Canada resume preparation guide.

2. Now that you already have a Canada resume format, the next step is to find job vacancies. But where? There are many job posting sites on the world wide web but there's also a number of scammers out there. So here's a a few list of Canada Jobs Portal that could be helpful.

3. More info on how to find jobs in Canada:

It is of course not easy to find jobs in Canada specially if you're just using the Internet. But this is an option that I know for a fact works. Here's a couple of proof:

Mr. Zedfrey Salazar - He attended one of our seminar schedules in Angeles City. He wasn't eligible at that time, due to lack in work experience. My suggestion was to look for employer in Canada. He did and is now working in Canada.

Mr. Mark Hernandez. He sent his resume for assessment. He wasn't eligible so I just told him to look for employer. He is now in Vancouver.

It is always a numbers game, the result will be determined by your efforts. Dreaming of a better quality life is one thing. Doing something to make it happen is another thing.

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March 2011 Visa Bulletin - Congratulations to graduating students and their parents!

School graduation ceremonies are normally held during the month of March. It's that time of the year that parents feel some sort of accomplishments - for being able to send their kids to school, for giving their kids the education they need.



Congratulations to graduating students and their parents!

March 2011 Visa Bulletin

Giving your kids a quality education in this part of the globe is a real struggle. With a commercialized educational system, education is now like a commodity and is just a privilege, not a right as stated in the constitution. Graduation ceremonies, however, may also mean a signal for a more serious struggle - their kids moving up from elementary education to high school or from high school to college. Almost all schools increase tuition every year. That, to most parents, is a concern.

But those who are now living and working in Canada with their family are insulated from this kind of problem. In Canada, education is free. You can also have this benefit. You just have to want it and make a commitment to your decision.

Let's get your application filed!

If your occupation is in the current list of 29 in-demand occupations, you only have until June 30, 2011 or until the 1,000 cap for your occupation is reached, to get your application filed to Centralized Intake Office (CIO). That's less than 4 months from now. You have to act quickly!

What is to be done?

This also applies to those who availed the start up program (Privilege Plan) in preparation for the new list of occupations which may be released this July 2011 (or earlier).

1. Log on to http://clients.go2canada.com and fill up the online application forms. By now, you should already have your username and password. If not, please get in touch with your assigned Consultant.

2. Submit basic requirements. You should do this only after filling up the forms online. We will not accept partial submission. When visiting the office, please set an appointment first. Basic requirements includes original or certified true copies of the following:

- NSO Authenticated birth certificates of all family members
- NSO Authenticated marriage Certificate/Proof of common-law partnership
- NSO Authenticated CENOMAR/Advisory on Marriage
- College/University Diploma and TOR (principal applicant and spouse)
- Copy of passport (all family members)
- Proof of relationship in Canada, if applicable
- Employment Certificates/Other proof of employemnt (all employers within the last ten years, for the principal applicant only)

3. Send your job description using the prescribed format for review and enhancement.

4. Take the IELTS Exam. Remember that the result of your exam will be released about two weeks after the exam. The sooner you schedule your exam, the better. But make sure you make the necessary preparation. Take advantage of our FREE IELTS Simulation Test and Evaluation. For IELTS Examination schedule, visit www.ielts.org


5. Finalization of application forms. To do this, you need to submit the remaining required documents such as IELTS Exam result, employment certificate with detailed duties and responsibilities, proof of funds, etc.

6. Send your application to Centralized Intake Office. Here we will need your payment for the visa processing fee in a form of bank draft payable to Receiver General For Canada in Canadian currency. You can also use credit card to pay the visa processing fee.

Should there be concerns that we should be aware of, please let us know.

Changes in FSW Points System

Citizenship and Immigration Canada recently proposed changes that will affect the current FSW Points System. The selection criteria and passmark would be pretty much the same but there may be changes in the way points are awarded for each factor. After the consultations that CIC is currently doing, the new points system will be published and may be implemented right away. It may probably affect those filing their applications starting July 2011. Hopefully, it will not to be implemented retroactively.

In a nutshell, the following will be the changes:

Age - maximum points may be awarded only for the age bracket of 21-35 years old and a reduced points for those older.

Language - There will be diffirent criteria for professionals, skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices.

Work Experience - The points awarded for this factor will be reduced

Education - skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices will have a lower requirement to get points under this factor

The proposed changes will make the program more accessible to skilled tradespeople, technicians and apprentices. It will also place greater emphasis on younger immigrants.

It actually makes sense. If Canada wants the skilled tradespeople, they should make the program realistic. Not many welders talk to their welding rods using the English language, right? :-) See, of the 1,000 cap for the crane operators, only 4 applications were received by Centralized Intake Office as of this post.

Angeles City Satellite Office

We now have a satellite office in Angeles City, Pampanga. It's located at 3rd Floor GM Building, Sta Tereista, Angles City. Should you wish to visit Angeles City office, it's by appointment only. My regular schedule there is every Tuesday from 1pm to 5pm.

Visa Processing Status Monitor

For applications filed before February 27, 2008, The Canadian Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish Dec 2004 applications.

For applications filed after February 27, 2008, processing period is still 6-12 months from the time the Visa Office acknowledged receipt of your file. It now takes about 4-5 months for CIO to complete the assessment and forward a case to the Visa Office. Upon receipt of notice from CIO, it takes about 2-3 months for Canadian Visa Office in Manila to send an Application Number (File Number). You will receive this notice via email.

To check your application status online:

Filed to Centralized Intake Office: CIO Online Inquiry

Waiting for Visa Office Notice: Canada Visa Application Status Online

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February 2011 Visa Bulletin

February 2011 Visa Bulletin: Time is of essence.

As of January 31, 2011, the Centralized Intake Office (CIO) has already received and accepted 7,156 applications of the 20,000 cap considered for processing under Federal Skilled Worker program. Within the 20,000 cap, a maximum of 1,000 applications per eligible occupation will be accepted between June 26, 2010 and June 30, 2011. The cap for Registered Nurses and Professional Occupations in Business Services to Management has been reached already. The next three occupations nearing the 1,000 cap are Pharmacists (736), Dentists (507) and Restaurant Managers (480). The updated list is available at http://cic.gc.ca.

If your occupation is included in the current priority list but your application is not yet filed, you only have until June 2010, or until the 1,000 cap has been reached, to send your application. The sooner, the better. Please get in touch with your assigned Consultant and work out a time line to get your application filed. If you haven't written the IELTS Exam yet, you have to arranged your schedule NOW! And make sure you're taking the IELTS General Training option. If you submit IELTS Academic option, your application may be returned unprocessed.

Be ready to enter when the door opens!

The new list of priority occupation may be made available on July 2011. If your occupation is not included in the 29 in-demand occupations, your chance be coming soon. Let's target to get your application ready on or before the end of April 2011. With the current policy regarding cap in the applications to be received by Centralized Intake Office, it is important that you position yourself as early as now.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Log on to http://clients.go2canada.com. Using this portal, you can update your information, monitor your application status, payments, etc. This is also where you will fill up the application forms. We made it easier for you to accomplish all the forms required by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. If you don't have your username and password yet, please get in touch with your assigned Consultant.

2. Draft your job description for all work experiences within the last ten years and send the same to your assigned JD reviewer. To expedite the review process, let me guide you in doing your job description. Email me to set an appointment. If you are currently abroad or lives in the province, you may contact me using our web call facility. You can call us for FREE as long you have Internet Connection.

3. Submit the following basic requirements. CIO requires original or certified true copies, but for the meantime, you may submit a clear copy of the following documents:

- NSO Authenticated birth certificates of all family members
- NSO Authenticated marriage Certificate/Proof of common-law partnership
- NSO Authenticated CENOMAR/Advisory on Marriage
- College/University Diploma and TOR (principal applicant and spouse)
- Copy of passport (all family members)
- Proof of relationship in Canada, if applicable
- Employment Certificates/Other proof of employemnt (all employers within the last ten years, for the principal applicant only)

You must submit the above documents only when you are done completing your application forms using our client's online portal, http://clients.go2canada.com. We will not accept incomplete submission of documents.

4. Prepare for your IELTS Examination. If we are targeting to file your application by July 2011, you must schedule your exam on or before April 2011. Take advantage of our FREE IELTS simulation test and evaluation. Get in touch with your assigned Consultant for schedule.

With the current policy regarding cap in the applications to be received by Centralized Intake Office, it is important that you position yourself as early as now.

Medical Technologist, Get Ready!

Medical Laboratory Technologists wasn't included in the first two Ministerial Instructions identifying the in-demand occupations. There is a great chance that Medical Laboratory Technologists (NOC 3211) could be next!


Check Refund from CIO

If you are still waiting for a check refund from CIO and the processing period they promised has already lapsed, chances are your check was lost in transit. You will need to sign UNDERTAKING AND INDEMNITY form to get another check. This UNDERTAKING AND INDEMNITY will be coming from CIO. Please get in touch with your assigned Consultant and check if you the said form is now available.

Visa Processing Status Monitor

For applications filed before February 27, 2008, The Canadian Visa Office in Manila is yet to finish NOv 2004 applications.

For applications filed after February 27, 2008, processing period is still 6-12 months from the time the Visa Office acknowledged receipt of your file. It now takes about 4-5 months for CIO to complete the assessment and forward a case to the Visa Office. Upon receipt of notice from CIO, it takes about 2-3 months for Canadian Visa Office in Manila to send an Application Number (File Number). You will receive this notice via email.

If this is your first time to receive Canada Visa Bulletin, check out Canada Visa Bulletin Archives.

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January 2011 Visa Bulletin

2011 is the year of the rabbit and they say it's going to be a peaceful year. Good luck to all of us. Happy New Year!

January 2011 Visa Bulletin

Six months from now, Centralized Intake Office will temporarily stop accepting new applications (without arranged employment) under Federal Skilled Worker program. Through another ministerial instruction, a new list of in-demand occupations will be set for priority processing. If your application is not yet filed, this means you still have ample time to send your application to CIO!

If your job classification is not in the current priority list, make sure you get your documents and application forms ready before the end of June 2011. The sooner, the better. The new list may be made available by July 2011. You should be able to file your application as soon as your occupation opens. The cap on the applications to be accepted may be filled up in just a couple of months.

1,000 applications cap reached
As of this writing, only two occupations have reached the cap so far: Professional Occupations in Business Services (NOC 1122) and Registered Nurses. The cap for nurses was reported to have been reached last month (December 2010). However, it does not necessarily mean that your application is included even if your application was sent to CIO before December 2010. If your application was received past the 1,000 cap, it will be returned unprocessed.

Check your CIO application status
If you want to know that status of your application that was sent to CIO, you can contact Federal Skilled Worker Client Service Unit through their online inquiry form. You will receive an email from them confirming the status of your application.

For those whose application is now in process at the Canadian Visa Office in Manila, you can use online services from Citizenship and Immigratin Canada website to check your status online. Please avoid unnecessary follow up to Canadian Visa office as this only adds up on the delay in the processing. Canadian Visa Office in Manila is now able to process applications within 6 months after CIO Assessment. It used to be 45 days, which was later extended to 90 days and now, 6 months. We contact the visa office to follow up your case after a couple of weeks allowance.

Applications filed before February 2008
For applications filed before February 27, 2008, the latest being processed by Canadian Visa Office in Manila is still Nov 25, 2004. There's no movement since the last update from December 2010 Visa Bulletin.

Documents for submission to CIO
Based on the recent correspondence from CIO, they now require original documents or certified true copies of most of the supporting documents. Originally, the only supporting document that should be submitted in original form is the IELTS Exam result and the rest are just photocopies. Notarized copies are acceptable too. NBI Clearance and Police Clearance from other countries where you stayed before is also best submitted during the first stage of the application. If you submit documents that are not in the required format, your application may be returned unprocessed.

We have a new office!
We now have a new office at SM City North EDSA in Quezon City. It's located at Unit 301, 3rd floor, Building F/North Link Building and is open daily from 9am to 8pm. You can now go there for submission of documents and or inquiry. It is best that you set an appointment first before visiting our office.

Hotel Kutuma Job Scam
Scammers are now really being super creative. This Hotel Kutuma scammer even created a website for the hotel, complete with booking services to make it appear it's real. Don't be a victic of these online scammers.

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December 2010 Visa Bulletin

December 2010 Visa Bulletin

As of this writing, Citizenship and Immigration Canada already received 4,416 applications out of 20,000 quota. That's based on the report from Citizenship andImmigration Canada covering applications received from June 26, 2010 until November 29, 2010. Out of the 20,000 quota, there a cap of 1,000 applications per occupation. If your occupation is in the priority list, you have file your application ASAP!

If your occupation is in the priority list, let's get your application filed soon!

Have you taken the IELTS exam yet? If not, schedule your exam earliest possible time but make sure you make necessary preparation. Have you submitted the required documents? How about the application forms? Get in touch with your Assigned Consultant/Documentation Officer and come up with a time table. Should there be concerns that we should be aware of, please get in touch with your assigned Consultant ASAP.

CANADIAN VISA PROCESSING MONITOR - December 2010 Bulletin

Applications filed before February 2008
The latest updates/notices we received from Canadian Visa Office - Manila for those filed before Feb 27, 2008 are for applications filed November 25, 2004. Just last week, we received notices for 16 applicants all filed November 25, 2004. We have reported in the November 2010 Visa Bulltein that the latest we received was for applications filed November 24, 2010. It's slowly moving.

These notices require the applicants to submit updated documents within 60 days. The required documents includes NBI Clearance, Police Certificate from abroad (if applicable), updated application forms and in some cases, a request to submit IELTS Exam results. There are times that you will no longer be required to submit IELTS and along with the those documents that needed update, you will be required to pay the Right of Permanent Resident Fee and Medical Instuction.

Check Refund from CIO/Canadian Visa Office  
For those waiting for the refund of processing fee from Canadian Visa Office as a result of withrawal of application, there is a terrible delay in check processing.

Please note that Canadian Immigration Consultancy does not have control over it. The visa office promised 12-18 weeks processing based on the letter they've sent you but in actual, it takes longer than that. Rest assured that we make a regular follow up within a reasonable intervals. We can't make a follow up as often you may want as this will only add up delays in the long run. We will keep you posted.

90 Days processing period after AOR
So you received your Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) from the Canadian Visa Office after submission of supporting documents and was told that you will recieve notice within 90 days. But 90 days passed and you still don't have the notice. Don't panic. It's not you, it's the visa office. For some reason, there is also a delay even for those filed under the new rules. We make a follow up after a reasonable allowance.

Latest AOR from Canadian Visa Office Manila states that the waiting period is now 6 months.

CIO Notice for applications filed after June 26, 2010
Last month, we started receiving assessment notice from Centralized Intake Office for application filed after June 26, 2010. Apparently, it now takes about 4 months before CIO can come up with a decision

Occupation not yet filed, not in the priority list?
Let us help you get ready in case your occupation is incuded in the priority list. Have you subitted the draft of your application forms yet? How about the list of requirements you need to submit? If not, please do not NOW. There's a lot of documents you need to submit and be checked for discrepancies, accuracy, etc. Do not wait until June 2010 before you work in your documents. Remember that Citizenship and Immigration Canada is implementing a quota and cap per occupations. You should be ready as early as now.

CANADIAN IMMIGRATION INFORMATION TIDBITS - December 2010 Bulletin

Free IELTS Simulation Test and Evaluation 
Canadian Immigration Consultancy offers a FREE IELTS simulatin test and evaluation through an IELTS Review Center partner. IELTS Simulation Test is done daily, from Monday to Saturday. Get in touch with your assigned Consultant to arrange schedule.

TEF: Test d’évaluation de français 
So you think you will lack points due to lack in work experince of a poor IELTS result? Taking Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) is an option to get additional points. If you got a good score, a maximum of 8 points mad be added to your total score using Canada's Points System for Federal Skilled Work applications.

Cheap Tickets to Canada
So you got your visa and is looking for cheap tickets to Canada? Check out our partner, CIC Travel Services, and you may just get the best deal. Tickets for new immigrants are normally given at discounted rates.

Canada lifts visa requirements for visitors from Taiwan 
Good news for Taiwanese planning to visit Canada. They are now excepmted from visa requirements. Will that priveledge be given to Filipino citizens, too? Highly impossible.

Scam Alert - Sunshine Dairy Foods Company Job Scam 
If you receive an email from Sunshine Dairy Foods Company offering you a job, mark it as spam. Don't send any information and never send them any money for the processing of your application. It is a scam.

1,000 cap for NOC 1122 has been reached 
Once the cap has been reached, Citizenship and Immigration Canada can only accept applications for this occupation from people with an existing offer of arranged employment. If your occupation is classified as NOC 1122 and your application is not yet filed, you can still live and work in Canada provided you have an arranged employment or sponsor for Provincial Nominee Program. A new Ministerial Instruction will be issued June 2011, your application should be ready for filing in case NOC 1122 is still included in the priority list.

Choices are the hinges of destiny
Ms. Rizza Nandwani was one of the first clients who chanced upon our new Mall of Asia office last year. She walked in to inquire and after learning her options, she decided right there and then to start with her application. Her visa was issued last month. She applied as a Certified Public Accountant.

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