CRS Points for IEC Work Permit Holders| Creating Expression of Interest for New Brunswick PNP - Step by Step Guide| Work Permit Exemptions in Canada: Who Qualifies and How| Avoid Interviewing in Spousal Sponsorship Applications- Guide| Cheapest Provinces to Live in Canada in 2025 with Great Quality of Life

Changes to CRS Points for IEC Work Permit Holders: What You Need to Know



As of December 18, 2024, foreign nationals holding an International Experience Canada (IEC) employer-specific work permit no longer receive Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for arranged employment. This change specifically impacts those under the IEC’s Young Professionals work permit category, which was previously the only IEC category eligible for additional CRS points (50 or 200) based on a valid job offer.


Work permit holders who received their permits before December 18, 2024, will still earn CRS points for arranged employment, as long as they meet all other job offer requirements.

This alteration comes ahead of the planned removal of all bonus CRS points for valid job offers, set for spring 2025. IEC work permit holders affected by this shift may experience a negative impact on their chances of receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) through Express Entry.


The government’s decision follows efforts to address potential fraud related to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA).


Creating Expression of Interest for New Brunswick PNP - Step by Step Guide



We’re excited to share a valuable resource for those interested in immigrating to New Brunswick! Our RCIC has created a detailed step-by-step video guide on how to create an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Whether you're new to the process or need a refresher, this video will walk you through each essential step, making it easier to navigate the requirements and submit a successful EOI.


This guide covers everything from gathering necessary documents to submitting your profile, ensuring you have all the tools you need to increase your chances of receiving a provincial nomination.


Don’t miss out on this helpful video! Watch the Video Now and get started on your journey toward immigrating to New Brunswick. Stay informed and take advantage of this expert-led resource to make your PNP application process as smooth as possible!


Work Permit Exemptions in Canada: Who Qualifies and How



Depending on your job and how long you’ll be working in Canada, you may be exempt from needing a work permit. In this article, we’ll outline key situations where foreign nationals are not required to obtain a work permit. These exemptions include cases such as maintained status, study permits, and foreign government officers, among others.


Examples of work permit-exempt individuals include students working on-campus, foreign representatives, military personnel, and event organizers. Business visitors, while also exempt, are covered in a separate article.


It’s important to understand the specific conditions attached to these exemptions. For example, individuals with maintained status can continue working under the terms of their expired permit if they’ve applied for a new one.


If you're uncertain whether you qualify for an exemption, or if you need help with your case, an immigration lawyer can offer guidance and assistance to ensure you meet all requirements for entry into Canada.


Avoid Interviewing in Spousal Sponsorship Applications – Watch Our Latest Video!


We know how stressful the spousal sponsorship process can be, especially when an interview is involved. 
That's why our RCIC has prepared an insightful video to help you avoid this situation and increase your chances of a smooth application. In this video, you'll learn essential tips and strategies to ensure that your application is complete, clear, and stands out – making it less likely that you'll be called for an interview.


Whether you're just starting your application or are in the middle of the process, this video provides valuable advice to help you navigate the complexities and avoid common pitfalls.


Don't miss out – watch the full video on our YouTube channel today and get the expert advice you need to make your spousal sponsorship application a success!

Watch the Video NOW!!


Cheapest Provinces to Live in Canada in 2025 with Great Quality of Life



A recent ranking by MovingWaldo reveals the most affordable provinces to live in Canada in 2025 while maintaining a high standard of living. The list factors in housing prices, rental costs, and overall cost of living, including utilities, safety, and job opportunities.


The ranking includes Newfoundland and Labrador, which topped the list due to its low housing and rental prices. Other affordable provinces include New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Each of these provinces also offers various immigration pathways, including Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and the federal Express Entry system.


For foreign nationals looking to settle in Canada, the Express Entry system provides opportunities for provinces other than Quebec, while provincial programs like the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP, New Brunswick PNP, and others offer tailored routes for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates.


Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living and average housing prices in these provinces:


ProvinceAverage Monthly Cost of LivingAverage 1-Bedroom Apartment RentAverage Property Buying Cost
Newfoundland and Labrador$2,411.87$845$297,000
New Brunswick$2,341.21$1,274$308,800
Saskatchewan$2,531.25$1,228$344,800
Manitoba$2,696.70$1,381$376,770
Prince Edward Island$2,718.14$850$365,600
Quebec$2,665.56$1,776$525,732
Nova Scotia$3,101.53$2,100$564,000




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