Épisodes

  • CIP 172: Immigration Levels Plans 2026-2028 - How It impacts you!

    CIP 172: Immigration Levels Plans 2026-2028 - How It impacts you!
    Dec 5 2025
    Episode Summary

    In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry break down Canada’s new 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and what it really means for workers, students, and families trying to stay in Canada.

    They explain how the government is cutting new temporary residents, modestly shifting permanent residence toward economic classes, boosting some PNP quotas, and hinting at future TR to PR–style options—all while warning that these are some of the toughest times in years for people on temporary status.

    Key Topics Discussed

    Why Levels Plans Matter

    • Three-year rolling targets now cover both permanent and temporary residents.

    • Drive everything from Express Entry draw sizes to PNP quotas and study permit approvals.

    Economic vs. Family Balance

    • Around 65% of PR spots are slated for economic immigration.

    • Slight decline in family class to make room for more economic applicants.

    Express Entry & PNP Shifts

    • “Federal high skilled” now bundles FSW, CEC, and FST under one label.

    • Some Express Entry numbers have been shifted back to the Provincial Nominee Programs, which see their targets climb again.

    Big Cuts to New Temporary Residents

    • Planned new temporary resident arrivals for 2026 are dropping sharply.

    • Driven by pressure on housing, healthcare, and services as temporary residents hit historic highs.

    Key Takeaways

    • Competition is intense: fewer new temporary residents and stricter PR targets.

    • PNPs are critical, but integrity checks are tougher than ever.

    • Be ready now: keep language tests, ECAs, and Express Entry profiles valid.

    • French can be a game-changer for those who can add it.

    • In some cases, leaving Canada in status may preserve better long-term options.

    Quotes from the Episode

    Mark Holthe:
    “These are dark times for many people in Canada. The government is very serious about reducing the temporary population.”

    Alicia Backman-Beharry:
    “Make sure your ducks are in a row—language, education, documents—so if a new pathway opens, you’re ready on day one.”

    Links and Resources

    • Watch this episode on YouTube

    • Canadian Immigration Podcast

    • Book a consult

    • Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass

    Subscribe for More
    Stay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process.

    Disclaimer

    This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    40 min
  • CIP 170: Business Immigration Series - What is going on with LMIAs in 2025

    CIP 170: Business Immigration Series - What is going on with LMIAs in 2025
    Jul 23 2025
    Episode Summary

    In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and immigration lawyer Alicia Backman-Beharry relaunch the Business Immigration Series with a timely update on the evolving LMIA process in 2025. As IRCC and ESDC crack down, employers face stricter rules, higher wage thresholds, and rising refusal rates.

    They explore what’s changed, why it’s harder than ever to get an LMIA, and how employers can improve their chances. From new advertising requirements to the end of Express Entry LMIA points, this episode offers critical insights for both employers and immigration professionals navigating today’s high-stakes landscape.

    Key Topics Discussed

    • New Wage Thresholds: High-wage vs. low-wage LMIA explained, with updated 2025 provincial cutoffs (e.g., $36/hr in Alberta and Ontario).

    • Tightened Restrictions: 10% cap on low-wage TFWs and automatic refusals in regions with 6%+ unemployment.

    • Advertising Requirements: 4-week minimum, national scope ads, and strict Job Bank/Job Match compliance now critical.

    • Processing Delays: Official timelines vs. real-world wait times—why 3–4 months is the new normal.

    • Business Legitimacy Scrutiny: Even large employers must prove they can pay and comply.

    • No LMIA Points in Express Entry: Loss of arranged employment points changes PR strategies.

    • Employer Liability: LMIA applications are the employer’s legal responsibility—precision and legal support are essential.

    Key Takeaways

    • LMIAs are tougher than ever—especially for low-wage or high-unemployment areas.

    • Follow Job Bank, wage, and ad rules precisely.

    • Be prepared for a 3–4 month process.

    • Seek legal help—errors are costly.

    • LMIA points no longer benefit Express Entry.

    Quotes from the Episode

    Mark Holthe:
    “There’s a concerted effort to make it as difficult as possible for employers to get LMIAs approved.”

    Alicia Backman-Beharry:
    “Fail to engage with Job Match and your ad—and LMIA—could vanish without notice.”

    Links and Resources

    • Watch this episode on YouTube

    • Canadian Immigration Podcast

    • Book a consult

    • Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass

    Subscribe for More
    Stay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process.

    Disclaimer

    This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    28 min
  • CIP 169: Time's Up Series - How to respond to a PFL

    CIP 169: Time's Up Series - How to respond to a PFL
    Jun 10 2025
    Episode Summary In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe is joined by guest co-host Igor Kyryliuk to tackle one of the most critical yet misunderstood components of Express Entry applications: responding to Procedural Fairness Letters (PFLs). This episode is part of the "Time’s Up" series and shines a spotlight on the rising trend of misrepresentation allegations and PFLs issued by IRCC, particularly around work history inconsistencies. Mark and Igor walk through the anatomy of a procedural fairness letter, highlight real-world examples, and break down the essential do’s and don’ts when drafting your response. They also explore how changes in federal immigration policy, increased use of AI in application assessments, and the government's intent to reduce temporary and permanent residents are raising the stakes for Express Entry applicants. Whether you’re currently facing a PFL or want to avoid one altogether, this episode provides vital strategies to safeguard your immigration future. Key Topics Discussed What is a Procedural Fairness Letter? Understanding its role in Canadian immigration processing. Legal duty of fairness and when it is (and isn’t) triggered. Common Triggers for Procedural Fairness Letters Inconsistencies in work and education history across past applications. Undeclared prior visa refusals. Omissions vs. commissions and the role of intent. Responding to a PFL Effectively How to structure your response to rebuild officer trust. Importance of taking full responsibility and providing detailed explanations. Addressing issues proactively—even before receiving a PFL. Examples of Misrepresentation Real cases where innocent mistakes led to serious consequences. When forgetting to mention past employment or education can cost you your future in Canada. Consequences of Misrepresentation Five-year inadmissibility bans. Loss of status, future refusals, and trouble with immigration systems worldwide. Strategic Considerations When to disclose new information voluntarily via a webform. Use of GCMS notes to anticipate officer concerns. Consulting with an immigration lawyer to preempt or respond to issues. Key Takeaways A small mistake in your Express Entry profile can escalate into a misrepresentation allegation with devastating consequences. Procedural fairness letters are your opportunity to clarify and defend your case—use them wisely. Owning your error and submitting a well-organized, transparent response is critical. Proactively addressing discrepancies before IRCC flags them can save your application. Legal help isn’t optional—it’s essential when facing a PFL. Quotes from the Episode Mark Holthe: “Even if you’re not trying to mislead, a simple omission can still land you with a five-year ban for misrepresentation.” Igor Kyryliuk: “Officers don’t have hours to read your documents. Your response should be clear, well-structured, and make it easy for them to say yes.” Links and Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Canadian Immigration Podcast Book a consult Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass Subscribe for MoreStay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process. Disclaimer This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    41 min
  • CIP 168: Express Entry Getting it Right - Language Tests

    CIP 168: Express Entry Getting it Right - Language Tests
    Jun 3 2025
    Episode Summary In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry unpack one of the most overlooked but impactful aspects of Express Entry: language testing. As one of the few areas where applicants can directly influence their CRS score, the language test often becomes the make-or-break factor in receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Mark and Alicia take a deep dive into why language tests matter more than ever, how to choose the right test, and what pitfalls to avoid when entering your results into your Express Entry profile. They also examine the crucial role French proficiency now plays in Express Entry scoring, especially in the context of category-based draws and the federal government’s push for Francophone immigration. Whether you're building your Express Entry profile or trying to increase your CRS score, this episode offers a detailed, practical guide to getting it right—before you risk a refusal or misrepresentation allegation. Key Topics Discussed The Power of Language Tests in Express Entry Why language test scores are one of the most controllable and impactful factors in your CRS score. How they affect eligibility under CEC, FSW, and category-based draws. Examples of missed opportunities due to expired or invalid test results. Approved Tests and Common Pitfalls A breakdown of approved English and French tests: CELPIP, IELTS (General), PTE Core, TEF, and TCF. Key differences between test formats and how they affect your performance. Why using the wrong version (e.g., IELTS Academic) can invalidate your score. Test Validity and Expiry Rules How long your test results are valid (and what date counts). What happens if your results expire between your ITA and eAPR. When to retake the test to avoid losing points—or your application. CRS Boosting Strategies The significance of CLB 7 and CLB 9: minimum thresholds vs. competitive scoring. The points advantage of adding French as a second language (up to 74 extra points). How dual-language applicants can outperform others in a tight draw environment. Data Entry and Misrepresentation Risks How to correctly input test codes, registration numbers, and scores in your profile. The hidden dangers of typing errors and mismatched documentation. What to do if your test expires mid-application. Retesting and Test Selection Strategy Why retaking a test can make a meaningful difference. Choosing between CELPIP, IELTS, and PTE based on format, availability, and your strengths. How to leverage test prep and targeted coaching to improve scores. Key Takeaways Language tests are one of the best ways to increase your CRS score quickly and legally. Accuracy matters: a small data entry error can cost you your ITA—or worse. CLB 9 opens the door to significant bonus points through skill transferability. French proficiency is now a game-changer under category-based draws. Retesting and preparation are strategic tools, not just last-ditch efforts. Quotes from the Episode Mark Holthe: "If there's one part of your Express Entry profile that you can control—and improve—it’s your language test score." Alicia Backman-Beharry: "People miss out on invitations every week because of expired scores or invalid test versions. Don’t let that be you." Links and Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Canadian Immigration Podcast Book a consult Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass Subscribe for MoreStay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process. Disclaimer This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    34 min
  • CIP 167: Express Entry Getting it Right - Canadian Work Experience

    CIP 167: Express Entry Getting it Right - Canadian Work Experience
    May 16 2025
    Episode Summary In Episode 167 of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry dive into one of the trickiest parts of Express Entry: properly claiming Canadian work experience under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). What sounds simple—just “a year of work”—is actually a legal and technical maze. From self-employment issues and vacation rules to miscalculating hours and unauthorized work, this episode breaks down exactly what qualifies, what doesn’t, and how to avoid being found ineligible or worse—misrepresenting your case. 🎓 With new draws targeting educators and healthcare workers, knowing how to correctly count your experience is more important than ever. Key Topics Discussed 🚫 Why self-employment doesn’t count for CEC (and how it catches many off guard) 📊 How to properly calculate 1,560 hours—even with part-time or multiple jobs 🌍 Foreign vs. Canadian work experience: why you can’t count both in the same week 📅 The impact of vacation time—what counts as “reasonable” paid leave 🧾 Why unauthorized or premature work (especially post-grad) won’t qualify 📜 How to match your work permit’s NOC code with your actual job duties 🏙️ Quebec-based work is fine—if you prove intent to live elsewhere in Canada Key Takeaways ✅ Only authorized, paid, high-skilled Canadian work counts toward CEC ✅ Max 30 hours/week counts—regardless of how many jobs you hold ✅ Vacation must be paid and reasonable; unpaid time won’t qualify ✅ Watch for unauthorized work or early post-grad employment ✅ Get your job’s NOC code right—or risk refusal and misrepresentation 💬 Quotes from the Episode 📢 Mark: “The system might give you an ITA—but if the law says your work doesn’t count, it’s over.” 📢 Alicia: “Every detail matters—one wrong assumption can unravel your application.” Links and Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Canadian Immigration Podcast Book a consult Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass Subscribe for MoreStay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process. Disclaimer This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    27 min
  • CIP 166: Express Entry Getting it Right - Mistakes Doctors Make

    CIP 166: Express Entry Getting it Right - Mistakes Doctors Make
    Apr 23 2025
    Episode Summary In this essential episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry return with another instalment in the Express Entry “Getting it Right” series—this time focusing on physicians and healthcare professionals. While doctors may excel in their field, navigating Canadian immigration law is a whole different beast. Mark and Alicia explore the unique challenges medical professionals face in Express Entry applications—from the pitfalls of choosing the wrong ECA organization, to confusion around Canadian spouses, unpaid internships, and self-employed work experience. They also dig into the April 2023 policy change that allows self-employed physicians to finally claim Canadian work experience under CEC—if done correctly. 👨‍⚕️ Whether you’re a doctor working in Canada or abroad, this episode is packed with critical insights to protect your application and avoid costly mistakes. Key Topics Discussed 🏥 Wrong ECA Organization for Physicians Why some healthcare professionals must use the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) instead of general ECA providers. How misidentifying your credentialing body can lead to refusals—or even misrepresentation findings. 🇨🇦 Including a Canadian Spouse in Express Entry Clarifying whether to list a Canadian spouse as accompanying or not. When to declare a common-law partner—and what impact this has on eligibility and settlement funds. 🩺 Internships and the CEC Trap Why even paid internships during Canadian education don’t count for CEC if done under a co-op or intern permit. Key tips to avoid working illegally after receiving your program completion letter. 💼 The Self-Employment Loophole for Physicians How the April 2023 Public Policy now allows select physicians to claim Canadian work experience—despite working on a fee-for-service basis. Who qualifies (specific NOC codes only), and why checking the self-employment box in the Express Entry profile could cost you points. 📑 Arranged Employment Confusion Why job offers still matter under FSW—despite the removal of CRS points for job offers post-March 2025. How to avoid false claims that could trigger misrepresentation. 🛑 Work Permit Limitations and Inadmissibility Risks Why you need to understand the terms of your current work permit before claiming experience in your profile. What to do if your employer categorized your NOC code incorrectly. Key Takeaways ✅ Doctors must get their ECAs from the MCC if they fall under specific regulated NOCs. ✅ Don’t click “self-employed” for Canadian work experience if you're a fee-for-service doctor covered by the new policy. ✅ Avoid including a Canadian spouse improperly—it can skew your profile or trigger refusals. ✅ Know your work permit's NOC code and limitations—missteps here can lead to inadmissibility. ✅ Claiming job offers incorrectly can still result in misrepresentation, even without CRS points at stake. 💬 Quotes from the Episode 📢 Mark Holthe: “One wrong box checked could eliminate your chance at PR. The system isn’t built to forgive honest mistakes anymore.” 📢 Alicia Backman-Beharry: “Being a smart doctor doesn’t mean Express Entry is easy. Immigration law is a whole other specialty.” Links and Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Canadian Immigration Podcast Book a consult Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass Subscribe for MoreStay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process. Disclaimer This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    30 min
  • CIP 165: Express Entry Getting it Right - Statutory Information Questions

    CIP 165: Express Entry Getting it Right - Statutory Information Questions
    Apr 9 2025
    Episode Summary In this critical episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry dive deep into one of the most overlooked yet high-stakes sections of the Express Entry process: the statutory information questions in your eAPR. Whether you’re answering questions about criminal history, prior visa refusals, or previous refugee claims, one careless answer—or a failure to disclose—can result in a finding of misrepresentation and a five-year bar from Canada. Mark and Alicia walk through real-world scenarios, key case law, and provide actionable advice for how to navigate this sensitive part of the application. This episode is a must-listen for anyone preparing to submit their Express Entry application and unsure how much to disclose. 🔎 If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I really have to include that old visa refusal?”—you need to hear this. 🗝️ Key Topics Discussed ⚖️ The Legal Weight of Statutory Questions Why your answers are bound by law under Section 16(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. What counts as “inadmissibility” under Section 41—even without a conviction. 🚨 What You Must Disclose—Even If You Think It’s Not Important Arrests with no charges, expunged records, or youth offences: They still matter. Refusals of TRVs, study permits, PNP applications, and even refugee claims abroad. How failing to disclose an old U.S. visa denial triggered misrepresentation. 📝 Letters of Explanation (LoEs): Your Best Protection Against Misrepresentation When and how to submit LoEs if you’re not sure how something will be interpreted. What details must go in: dates, reasons, outcomes, and documentation. 📉 Why Misrepresentation Doesn’t Require Intent Even honest mistakes or forgetting one past refusal can lead to a 5-year ban. The dangers of relying on memory—or assuming IRCC “already knows.” 💡 Practical Tips for Safer Submissions Always answer “Yes” if there’s any doubt, and explain later. Confirm information with your family—especially if you were a minor when events occurred. Understand that “No Live Trace” in UK criminal checks may still require disclosure. ✅ Key Takeaways ✅ Every statutory question must be answered truthfully and completely. ✅ “No intent to mislead” is not a defence if you get it wrong. ✅ LoEs are your best tool to explain complex histories and protect your application. ✅ Previous disclosure in past applications doesn't excuse omitting it now. ✅ Full honesty upfront is better than scrambling to fix a refusal or ban later. 💬 Quotes from the Episode 📢 Mark Holthe: “You never want to leave anything up to the discretion of an officer. One wrong click on ‘No’ instead of ‘Yes’ could cost you five years.” 📢 Alicia Backman-Beharry: “You might think the system already knows. But legally, you have to tell them again. Every time.” Links and Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Canadian Immigration Podcast Book a consult Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass Subscribe for MoreStay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process. Disclaimer This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    27 min
  • CIP 164: Express Entry Getting it Right - Changes to your eAPR after ITA

    CIP 164: Express Entry Getting it Right - Changes to your eAPR after ITA
    Mar 31 2025
    Episode Summary In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry dive into one of the most critical yet confusing areas of Express Entry: what happens when your situation changes after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Whether it’s a job change, a new family member, or realizing you made an error in your profile, what you do next could mean the difference between permanent residency or a five-year ban for misrepresentation. They walk you through the consequences of making changes post-ITA, what types of changes are most common, and—most importantly—how to handle them properly using Letters of Explanation (LoEs). This episode is an essential listen for anyone who’s received an ITA and wants to avoid costly mistakes that could derail their immigration journey. 🔎 If you’ve received an ITA or plan to submit your eAPR soon, this episode is packed with guidance to help you avoid misrepresentation and ensure a smooth Express Entry process. Key Topics Discussed ⚠️ What’s the Big Deal About Post-ITA Changes? Why changes made after receiving an ITA can lead to refusal, inadmissibility, or even a 5-year ban. Explanation of the A11.2 assessment and how IRCC uses it to assess eligibility. The legal obligation to notify IRCC of material changes to your application. 📝 Common Post-ITA Changes That Could Sink Your Application Incorrect NOC codes and what happens if you realize the wrong one was used. Adjusting job duties or hours of work—and the risk of being accused of misrepresentation. Adding or removing work history and how it can affect your points or eligibility. Updating expired or incorrect language tests and educational credential assessments (ECAs). Changing marital status (getting married or having a baby) and how it affects your score and application. 💡 How to Make Corrections Safely and Strategically When it’s okay to remove or change work history in your eAPR. The role of Letters of Explanation (LoEs) in mitigating risk and explaining changes. Strategies for dealing with expired documents or expiring test scores before submission. 🚫 What NOT to Do After Receiving an ITA Ignoring changes or inconsistencies—IRCC can see your original profile details. Failing to declare new family members or trying to game the system by adding a spouse later. Relying on old Express Entry advice or advice from forums that no longer applies. 📬 The Power of Being Proactive Why you should explain changes upfront to avoid being accused of misrepresentation. How to address big mistakes like an undisclosed prior work history or education credentials. Key Takeaways ✅ Always review your application carefully post-ITA—your situation may have changed. ✅ Use a Letter of Explanation to disclose and clarify any changes. ✅ Misrepresentation doesn’t require intent—it can happen from simple errors or omissions. ✅ If you’re unsure, get legal advice before submitting your eAPR. ✅ Being proactive is always better than trying to fix a problem later. Quotes from the Episode 📢 Mark Holthe: “You never want to leave anything up to the discretion of an officer. The moment you get an ITA, everything you do next has to be 110% accurate.” 📢 Alicia Backman-Beharry: “Doing the right thing is usually hard. But it’s better to lose an application than be barred from Canada for five years.” Links and Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Canadian Immigration Podcast Book a consult Enroll in the Express Entry Accelerator and Masterclass Subscribe for MoreStay up-to-date with the latest in Canadian immigration by subscribing to the Canadian Immigration Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes on policy changes, strategies, and practical advice for navigating Canada’s immigration process. Disclaimer This episode provides general information about Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult an immigration lawyer.
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    38 min