Weekly Digest | November 26, 2023

Key Highlights:

IRCC News Updates

Canada Enhances Support for Asylum Claimants: Announced on November 24, 2023, the Government of Canada is providing $7 million to the Region of Peel, Ontario, for a new reception centre to offer streamlined services and shelter to asylum claimants. This initiative is part of Canada’s commitment to collaborate across government levels to address asylum challenges, ensuring safe and adequate housing for vulnerable newcomers. Read more

Yazidi and Daesh Survivors Family Reunification Initiative: Starting December 1, 2023, IRCC will accept applications to reunite up to 400 Yazidi and other Daesh survivors in Canada with their family members. Eligible Iraqi nationals residing in Iraq can apply under this temporary public policy, which remains in effect until December 31, 2026. Applicants will receive income support and resettlement assistance, including mental health support. Read more

British Columbia Job Market Outlook: The Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills in British Columbia has released the Labour Market Outlook and Find Your Path tool. With an estimated one million job openings by 2033, these resources provide insights into high-demand sectors, suitable educational routes, and skills training for successful career integration in British Columbia. Read more

Yukon Nominee Program Allocation Increase: On November 23, 2023, the Government of Yukon secured an additional 150 spots, increasing the 2023 allocation for the Yukon Nominee Program to 580. This boost, achieved through collaboration with IRCC, aims to address local labor shortages by facilitating the immigration of foreign nationals. Read more

Deletion of COVID-19 Program Delivery Instructions: As of November 22, 2023, a series of program delivery instructions (PDIs) related to temporary residence during the COVID-19 period have been officially deleted. Read more

2023 Morocco Earthquake Response: On November 21, 2023, a clarification was made regarding the special processing measures in response to the 2023 earthquake in Morocco. To qualify, Moroccan nationals must have been present in Canada on September 8, 2023, and possess valid temporary resident status at that time. Read more

Urgent Protection Program: On November 21, 2023, updates to the Urgent Protection Program (UPP) included the integration of the streamlined immigration medical exam to facilitate accelerated processing for UPP cases. Read more

Student Direct Stream: On November 21, 2023, the instructions for the Student Direct Stream removed all references and links pertaining to the Canadian Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC). Read more