Immigrants make up over 25% of our population and form a critical component of Canada’s workforce. Under Canada’s new immigration plan, we hope to welcome 500,000 new immigrants per year. This could be a tall order as the inherently political nature of Canadian immigration law means frequent and far-reaching policy changes, often made with little to no warning. How can practitioners deal with this lack of legal continuity and help Canada welcome 1.5 million immigrants?

In this episode, Chantal and Cathryn sit down with Andrew Carvajal to discuss the current state of Canada’s economic immigration policy, including the National Occupation Classification’s new TEER system, occupation-specific draws, work permit applications, and more. Will CRS scores continue to fall? What can you do when your client doesn’t meet the education requirement? Will the government favour healthcare workers in express entry draws? The recent extension of COVID-era policy means visitors can continue to apply for work permits inside Canada, but does this mean that they should?   Other topics include: 

• Subspecializing in immigration law. 
• Post-grad work permits. 
• Canada’s caregiver application process. 

Many lawyers opening up their own practice don’t have a business degree but find themselves at the wheel of one of the most complicated small businesses to run. In this segment of “Things I Wish I Knew,” Chantal and Cathryn offer practical guidance on taking your firm to the next level.

Special Guest: Andrew Carvajal, Head of Economic Immigration and Leader of the Latin America (LATAM) group at Desloges Carvajal Law Group in Toronto. Andrew’s practice focuses on all types of business immigration, including work permits, LMIA applications, start-up visas, study permits, visitor visas, citizenship applications, and more.