New measures for travelers to Canada – As of February 22, 2021, travelers arriving by air or land must undergo a total of three COVID-19 tests: one within 72 hours of the scheduled departure of the flight to Canada (or of entry into Canada if arriving by land), a second upon arrival in Canada, and a third on the tenth day of the quarantine, using a screening kit given to arriving travelers. People traveling by air must also make a reservation for three nights at one of the government-approved hotels, where they will stay while awaiting the results of their test performed at their arrival.
Work permits: Reopening of IEC pools – On February 24, 2021, the Canadian government announced that the opening of IEC pools for certain countries would take place on March 1st, 2021. Exceptionally, applicants in the Working Holiday category will be required to provide proof of a valid job offer in Canada in order to receive an invitation to apply for the 2021 season. No news yet as to when the first invitation may be.
Work permit: New list of occupations eligible for facilitated process – The Government of Quebec has published the new list of occupations eligible for facilitated LMIA processing. There is a transition period until March 24, 2021 during which employers can still apply under the old list.
Permanent residency outside Quebec: Express Entry draw of 27,332 applicants – On February 13, 2021, 27,332 applicants were invited to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class. This astonishing draw surprised everyone with a particularly high number of invitations and a minimum score of 75 points. Normally, a score of approximately 450 points is considered necessary to qualify for this program.