In this special episode, Mark Holthe speaks with cross-border tax consultant Sonya Dolguina about the financial and tax implications of moving from the United States to Canada.

They discuss why tax residency is separate from immigration status, how Canada taxes worldwide income, what U.S. citizens need to know before relocating, and why proactive planning can help avoid costly mistakes when moving to Canada.

Key Topics Discussed

Key Takeaways

Booster Strategies to Improve Your Chances

Quotes from the Episode:

Mark Holthe:
“Sometimes you don’t even know the questions to ask.”

Sonya Dolguina:
“Tax residency and residency for immigration purposes are generally completely separate.”

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

In this special episode, Mark Holthe speaks with immigration lawyer Luca Vukolic about a bizarre Express Entry refusal involving a French citizen and McMaster research associate whose application was refused based on job duties from an entirely unrelated robotics role.

They discuss how generative AI may have been involved in the processing or refusal letter, why human review matters, and what lawyers and applicants should do when an immigration decision appears to rely on incorrect or fabricated facts.

Key Topics Discussed
- AI in immigration processing
- Express Entry refusals
- Incorrect job duty analysis
- Reconsideration and court options

Key Takeaways
- AI-related errors can seriously affect immigration files.
- Refusal letters may contain incorrect facts.
- Applicants must act quickly after a refusal.
- Clear records and organized evidence are essential.

Booster Strategies to Improve Your Chances
- Keep Complete Records
- Save copies of all forms, letters, uploads, and submission confirmations.
- Make Job Duties Easy to Review
- Use clear employer letters and consider a NOC duty-matching table.
- Act Quickly After a Refusal
- File a reconsideration request and protect Federal Court timelines.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
“The question isn’t whether a human clicked the final refusal button. The question is whether the human meaningfully reviewed the actual evidence.”

Luca Vukolic:
“Move quick, prudently, but quick.”

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

In this episode, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry discuss Alberta’s AAIP Farm Stream, a niche immigration pathway for experienced farmers.

They explain who may qualify, what documents are needed, and the practical challenges of using this stream to establish a farm in Alberta.

Key Topics Discussed

Key Takeaways

Booster Strategies to Improve Your Chances

Show Real Farming Experience
Provide clear evidence of active farm management.

Document Your Funds
Be ready to prove your net worth and source of funds.

Create a Strong Business Plan
Make sure it is realistic and tailored to Alberta.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
“It is just not feasible anymore for someone to just say, I want to be a farmer.”

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
“It’s a very niche program, but if you qualify, it’s a fantastic fit.”

 Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry explain whether applicants can claim Canadian and foreign work experience at the same time for Express Entry.

They break down how concurrent work experience may help boost CRS scores, especially through skill transferability points, but also why applicants must be careful to meet minimum eligibility requirements and properly document the work.

This episode is especially helpful for anyone trying to maximize their Express Entry score through remote foreign work while living and working in Canada.

Key Topics Discussed

Key Takeaways

Booster Strategies to Improve CRS Scores

Claim Foreign Work Carefully
One year of foreign work experience can increase CRS points.

Use Remote Work Strategically
Remote work for a foreign employer may count in some cases.

Document Everything
Provide detailed letters, agreements, and proof the work was genuine.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:

Alicia Backman-Beharry:

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe continues the Express Entry: Getting It Right series by exploring what the future of Express Entry looks like in 2026.

Mark breaks down recent changes to category-based draws, updates announced by the immigration minister, and how these shifts affect CRS scores and invitations to apply. He also explains three practical strategies applicants can use to increase their chances of receiving an invitation.

This episode is essential for anyone trying to understand how Express Entry is evolving and what steps can improve their immigration prospects.

Key Topics Discussed

How Express Entry works and why it was created

Recent changes to category-based draws

Removal of job offer bonus CRS points

Why CRS scores remain high

The growing importance of French language ability

Current Express Entry score trends and invitation rounds

Practical strategies to improve CRS scores

Key Takeaways

Express Entry remains highly competitive.

Category-based draws create opportunities for certain occupations.

French language ability can dramatically improve CRS scores.

Foreign work experience can significantly boost a profile.

Strategic planning is essential to succeed in Express Entry.

Booster Strategies to Improve CRS Scores

Gain Foreign Work Experience
Adding one year of foreign experience can significantly increase CRS points.

Learn French
French proficiency can unlock additional CRS points and access to special draws.

Target Category-Based Occupations
Applicants in priority sectors like healthcare may receive invitations even with lower CRS scores.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
- “Express Entry has never been more competitive, which means getting it right is more important than ever.”
- “If your CRS score is too low, you need to think strategically about how to improve your profile.”

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry kick off 2026 by continuing their Express Entry: Getting It Right series—this time tackling one of the most misunderstood and error-prone areas of the system: spousal points under Express Entry.

They break down who is considered a spouse or common-law partner for immigration purposes, when a spouse is considered “accompanying,” and how these distinctions directly affect eligibility, CRS scores, and Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) selection points. Drawing from real client experiences, they explain how small misunderstandings can quickly escalate into refusals or misrepresentation findings.

This episode is essential listening for anyone applying through Express Entry who is married, common-law, recently separated, or whose family situation may change during the process.

Key Topics Discussed

How IRCC defines a spouse vs. common-law partner for Express Entry

Common mistakes when declaring marital status and family composition

The difference between accompanying and non-accompanying spouses

How spousal status affects CRS scores and Express Entry competitiveness

Spousal points under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) selection grid

When and how spousal education, language, and Canadian work experience count

The risks of misrepresentation when marital status changes mid-application

Adding a spouse after submitting an eAPR—and when it can trigger refusal

Why undeclared spouses can be permanently excluded under IRPR 117(9)(d)

Key Takeaways

Declaring your spouse correctly is not optional—it is foundational to Express Entry

Having a spouse can significantly lower or raise your CRS score depending on their credentials

Accompanying vs. non-accompanying status has serious legal consequences

Marital status changes must be disclosed immediately to IRCC

Failing to declare a spouse can permanently bar future sponsorship

Always assess both FSW eligibility and CRS impact before submitting your profile

Quotes from the Episode

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
“Who is a spouse for immigration purposes is not always obvious—and that’s where people get into serious trouble.”

Mark Holthe:
“There is no such thing as a harmless mistake in Express Entry when it comes to spouses.”

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry return to their Business Immigration series to unpack a costly misconception: promotions, bonuses, and job changes can be LMIA violations.

With year-end raises and holiday bonuses top of mind, they explain why even well-intentioned changes to a foreign worker’s role can trigger employer non-compliance, audits, fines, public listing, and serious consequences for both employers and employees.

Key Topics Discussed

Why promotions and bonuses can violate LMIA and employer-specific work permit conditions

The difference between minor changes and material modifications that require a new LMIA

Employer compliance audits, public “non-compliant employer” listings, and penalties

How violations can affect permanent residence applications and work permits

Key Takeaways

No change is “small” on an employer-specific work permit.

Promotions, raises, and bonuses can put both employers and workers at risk.

Always get immigration advice before changing job duties, wages, or work location.

Quotes from the Episode

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
“Promotions are often LMIA violations—and people don’t realize it until it’s too late.”

Mark Holthe:
“The safest rule is simple: don’t change anything without advice.”

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

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

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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.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, hosts Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry shine a light on one of the most overlooked pathways to staying in Canada: the open work permit for spouses and dependent children of permanent residence sponsorship applicants.

They clarify who qualifies, how the process differs for in-Canada vs. Family Class applications, and how to avoid costly mistakes. With processing delays, stricter rules, and fewer temporary pathways, this episode is essential for couples navigating the PR journey.

Key Topics Discussed

Who’s Eligible:
Only spouses and dependent children included in a PR sponsorship (not PGWP holders or student spouses).

Inland vs. Outland Sponsorship:
Family Class applicants can now apply for open work permits too—without losing the right to appeal or travel.

Processing Times & AOR:
You generally need an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) to apply—but there’s a two-week grace rule if your status is expiring.

How to Apply Properly:
Must apply online through IRCC’s portal with correct job codes and supporting documents—no flagpoling or border apps allowed.

Out-of-Status Pathway:
A slower paper-based route exists for applicants with no valid status, but only after getting approval in principle.

Key Takeaways

A valid PR sponsorship with AOR unlocks the open work permit.

Don’t wait—timing and document accuracy are critical.

Even Family Class sponsors in Canada may qualify.

Seek legal help to avoid costly delays or misrepresentation.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
“If you don't follow the instructions, the processing times are so long that if something goes wrong, you're probably landing in a really tough spot.”

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
“You only have a two-week window. This is why I wanted to bring attention to this category—it can make a huge difference in people's lives.”

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

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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.

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

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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.