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

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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 co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry tackle one of the most critical yet frequently misunderstood aspects of Express Entry applications: proving work experience. With refusals on the rise, Mark and Alicia walk you through the common mistakes applicants make when submitting reference letters and employment documents—and how to avoid them.

They dive deep into the essential elements of a strong reference letter, including what must be included, what officers look for, and how to handle situations where you can’t get the perfect letter. Whether you’re applying under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), or navigating category-based draws, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about avoiding rejection and maximizing CRS points.

🔎 If you’re preparing your Express Entry application or worried about missing key details, this episode will help you build a bulletproof case for your work experience and increase your chances of success.

Key Topics Discussed

🏢 The Importance of Work Experience in Express Entry

📄 How to Structure the Perfect Reference Letter

❗ What If You Can’t Get a Proper Reference Letter?

⚠️ Common Express Entry Mistakes That Get You Refused

🛠 Fixing Errors and Strengthening Your Application

Key Takeaways

✅ Work experience must be clearly documented, with duties matching your NOC.
✅ A poorly written reference letter can sink your Express Entry application.
✅ If your employer won’t provide a letter, alternative documents are critical.
✅ Be consistent across all applications (work permits, PR, study permits).
✅ Proactive explanations help avoid misrepresentation allegations.

Quotes from the Episode

📢 Mark Holthe:
"The biggest mistake we see? People think a job title alone is enough. It’s not. Officers are looking at your job duties, not just your position."

📢 Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"A work experience refusal is often the difference between PR and starting over. Don’t leave it up to chance—get your documents right the first time."

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 breaks down the latest immigration measures introduced by the Liberal government, focusing on their impact on temporary residents, construction workers, and Canada’s housing crisis. With a late Friday night announcement (as usual), Minister Marc Miller introduced new initiatives that aim to support the construction industry, but many are questioning whether these measures are fair to legal workers already in Canada.

Mark takes a deep dive into the government’s plan to expand the Out-of-Status Construction Worker Pathway beyond the Greater Toronto Area. While the goal is to address the labor shortage in housing, many legal workers—who have followed the rules—are being left behind. Mark is also joined by Miguel, a newly landed permanent resident and carpenter in the GTA, who shares firsthand insight into the real state of construction jobs in Canada. His shocking experience contradicts the government’s claim that there is an urgent need for more workers.

If you’re a temporary resident, construction worker, or someone frustrated with the ongoing changes in Canadian immigration, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Topics Discussed

🏗️ Canada’s Plan to Support the Construction Industry

🚧 The Out-of-Status Construction Worker Pathway – A Fair Solution?

The existing pilot program in the GTA has already granted PR to 1,365 individuals.

Expansion of the program means more undocumented workers may now qualify.

Why does the government seem to be prioritizing undocumented workers over legal temporary residents?

Could this program encourage more people to stay illegally in Canada?

📉 What This Means for Express Entry & Legal Workers

The government has set a goal to reduce immigration numbers, yet they are opening PR pathways for undocumented workers.

Fewer ITAs? Why this program may take spots away from Express Entry candidates who have followed the rules.

The impact on category-based draws: Will the focus shift even more towards construction and skilled trades?

💰 Temporary Foreign Workers & Apprenticeship Program

A new policy now allows certain foreign workers in the construction industry to complete apprenticeships without needing a study permit.

Who qualifies, and how does this change affect current workers looking for PR pathways?

Could this be a better way to integrate legal workers rather than prioritizing undocumented individuals?

❓ Does This Really Solve Canada’s Housing Crisis?

Miguel, a carpenter from the GTA, shares his experience of losing work despite the government claiming there is a desperate need for construction workers.

Mark discusses whether immigration policy alone can fix the housing shortage.

Are bureaucratic red tape and high building costs a bigger issue than a lack of workers?

How government priorities might be missing the mark.

Key Takeaways

✅ The Out-of-Status Construction Worker Pathway is expanding beyond the GTA, but at what cost?
✅ Legal workers, including temporary foreign workers and international graduates, are struggling to find PR pathways.
✅ The apprenticeship exemption is a great step forward for legal workers in trades.
✅ Immigration levels are being reduced, yet undocumented workers are now getting PR pathways.
✅ Canada’s housing crisis is about more than just labor shortages—government inefficiencies play a huge role.

Quotes from the Episode

📢 Miguel (Carpenter, GTA):
"I’ve been in construction for years, and right now, work is drying up. I haven’t had a job since February. I keep getting messages from friends asking if I know where they can find work. So if we don’t even have jobs, why is the government saying we need more workers?"

📢 Mark Holthe:
"This program is rewarding the wrong people. What about the workers who have followed the rules? What about those struggling to get PR while working legally in Canada?"

Links and Resources

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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.

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry dive deep into one of the most common and misunderstood aspects of Express Entry—settlement funds. Misconceptions about proof of funds often lead to rejected applications, unnecessary delays, and missed opportunities for permanent residence in Canada.

Mark and Alicia break down who needs to show settlement funds, how much is required, how to prove financial stability, and what happens if you don’t have the necessary funds. They also explore changes to proof of funds policies, the implications of the recent immigration shifts, and practical strategies to ensure compliance with IRCC’s strict requirements.

If you’re applying for Express Entry, understanding proof of funds is critical. Whether you’re applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST), or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), this episode will give you the insights you need to avoid costly mistakes.

Key Topics Discussed

🔎 Who Needs to Provide Settlement Funds?

💰 How Much Money Do You Need?

📜 How to Prove Settlement Funds?

The must-have details your bank letter should include (and what happens if your bank doesn’t provide these details).

How to deal with multiple bank accounts and financial institutions.

Loans, credit cards, and liabilities—how IRCC evaluates your financial position.

How long do you need to keep the funds in your account?

❓ What If You Don’t Have Settlement Funds?

🛑 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Rejection

Key Takeaways

✅ FSW and FST applicants must provide proof of settlement funds—but CEC applicants do not.
✅ Settlement fund requirements change annually—always check the latest figures.
✅ IRCC evaluates both assets and liabilities—outstanding debts can impact your financial eligibility.
✅ If your funds are in your spouse’s account, you must provide an authorization letter.
✅ Your proof of funds should be available from ITA to landing—officers may check at any point.

Quotes from the Episode

📢 Mark Holthe:
"If you think settlement funds are just a checkbox, think again. IRCC officers are looking for financial stability—don't let a simple mistake ruin your Express Entry dream."

📢 Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"It's not just about showing the money; it's about proving it’s truly yours and available. The last thing you want is a refusal over an avoidable financial oversight."

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 co-host Igor Kyryliuk dive into the latest category-based Express Entry draws and the major changes announced by IRCC. With some occupations removed, new categories introduced, and controversial priorities in focus, Mark and Igor break down what’s changed, who benefits, and who is left scrambling for options.

With the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations slashed, IT occupations removed from STEM draws, and French language candidates dominating Express Entry invitations, it’s more important than ever to understand where you stand and what your best strategy is moving forward.

Key Topics Discussed

Breaking Down the Category-Based Draws: What’s Changed?

Who Wins, Who Loses?

French Language Dominance in Express Entry

Strategic Advice: What You Can Do Next

Key Takeaways

✅ Express Entry priorities have changed—adapt or risk losing your chance at PR.
✅ STEM draws are no longer a safe bet—most IT occupations have been removed.
✅ French language remains the biggest Express Entry advantage—74 bonus CRS points.
✅ Healthcare and trades still have strong demand, but some workers are left out.
✅ Strategic planning is critical—book a consult to explore your best path forward.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
"How did insurance agents and brokers make it into the STEM category while software engineers got removed? Somebody, please explain this to me!"

Igor Kyryliuk:
"If you think Express Entry is stable and predictable, think again. IRCC can change the game at any time, and you need to be prepared."

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 co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry kick off the Express Entry Getting It Right series by tackling one of the most misunderstood aspects of Express Entry: Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs).

Many applicants mistakenly assume they know when and how to submit police certificates—only to have their applications refused due to errors. Mark and Alicia break down the IRCC requirements, clarify common misconceptions, and provide essential tips to ensure you get it right the first time.

With Express Entry becoming even more competitive and IRCC enforcing strict completeness checks, one mistake could cost you your ITA and delay your PR process.

Key Topics Discussed

Why Are Police Clearance Certificates Important?

When and How to Obtain Your Police Clearance Certificate

Common Mistakes That Lead to Refusals

Practical Tips to Avoid PCC Pitfalls

Key Takeaways

- PCCs are mandatory for Express Entry applicants and must follow IRCC’s strict timing rules.
- Six-month rule: PCCs are needed for any country where you've stayed six months or more in a row in the last 10 years.
- A PCC must be issued after your last departure from the country to be valid.
- Mistakes = Refusal. IRCC will return your application as incomplete if PCCs are missing, incorrect, or outdated.
- Start early! Delays in obtaining PCCs can derail your PR process.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
"Submitting an Express Entry application without the correct police certificate is one of the most common mistakes we see—and IRCC has no mercy when it comes to refusing incomplete applications."

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"The six-month rule is now in a row—not cumulative. Many people still get confused and risk losing their ITA because they misunderstand this critical requirement."

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 co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry continue the Time’s Up series with an in-depth look at the Certificate of Qualification (COQ) and how it affects Express Entry points. Many applicants mistakenly assume they qualify for the 50 additional CRS points—only to have their applications refused.

Mark and Alicia break down the eligibility criteria for claiming these points, common mistakes applicants make, and the step-by-step process for obtaining a legitimate COQ from a Canadian province or territory. With IRCC’s tightening immigration policies and the elimination of job offer points on the horizon, getting this right has never been more important.

Key Topics Discussed

Understanding the Certificate of Qualification

What is a Certificate of Qualification, and who needs one?

The critical difference between a provincial professional license and a trade certificate of qualification.

Why doctors, nurses, and other regulated professionals do NOT qualify for these points.

Express Entry Eligibility: Do You Really Get Those 50 Points?

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

How to Properly Obtain a Certificate of Qualification

The Future of Express Entry: What’s Changing?

Key Takeaways

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:

"There’s nothing worse than filing your Express Entry application, expecting 50 points for a Certificate of Qualification, and then getting a refusal because you never actually qualified."

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"Professions and skilled trades are NOT the same thing. If you’re a doctor or a nurse, you do NOT qualify for these 50 points—it’s as simple as that."

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 co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry continue their Time’s Up series with a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood aspects of Canadian immigration: bridging work permits. They break down the key differences between Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWPs) and Bridging Closed Work Permits, highlighting the common mistakes that can lead to costly refusals.

With tightening immigration policies and minimal room for error, Mark and Alicia emphasize why understanding these distinctions is critical for temporary foreign workers transitioning to permanent residency. They also provide insights into employer responsibilities, the impact of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the importance of maintaining legal status in Canada.

Key Topics Discussed

Understanding Bridging Work Permits

Eligibility Criteria

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Employer Responsibilities and Pitfalls

Changing Employers During PR Processing

Strategic Advice for Maintaining Status

How to ensure you remain legally in Canada during your PR application process.

The importance of proactive planning to avoid falling out of status.

When leaving Canada voluntarily may be the best option for preserving future immigration opportunities.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the wrong bridging work permit can lead to refusals, putting your ability to work—and your permanent residency application—at risk.

Employer support is crucial: If your employer refuses to submit the necessary documentation for a closed permit, you could lose your ability to work.

PNP restrictions on employment can dictate whether you’re eligible for an open or closed work permit. Always double-check your nomination letter for restrictions.

Changing jobs during PR processing without proper guidance can result in losing your nomination and jeopardizing your entire application.

Staying proactive is essential. Consult with immigration professionals early to avoid last-minute issues that may be difficult—or impossible—to resolve.

Quotes from the Episode

Mark Holthe:
"These are unprecedented times within immigration. Every day, we see people whose dreams of permanent residency are at risk because of a simple mistake in their work permit applications."

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"If there is a restriction on employment in your PNP nomination, you are not eligible for a bridging open work permit. It's as simple—and as critical—as that."

Links and Resources

Watch this episode on YouTube

Canadian Immigration Podcast

Book a consult with Mark Holthe

Read Alicia’s Blog Post: Bridging Open Work Permits vs. Bridging Closed Work Permits

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.

In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry dive deep into the recent announcement by Immigration Minister Marc Miller regarding the removal of LMIA-based job offer points in the Express Entry system. This change has significant implications for temporary foreign workers, international students, and employers across Canada.

Mark and Alicia break down what this policy shift means, how it could impact applicants relying on Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) for additional CRS points, and what alternatives exist for those seeking permanent residency.

Mark Holthe:
"This change is not just about preventing fraud—it’s a shift toward prioritizing high human capital in Canada’s immigration system."

Alicia Backman-Beharry:
"For many, the LMIA points were a lifeline. Without them, workers and employers need to pivot to alternative pathways like PNPs."

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.

In this installment of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe is joined by co-host Alicia Backman-Beharry to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing temporary residents in Canada—understanding when not to file a refugee claim. As desperation grows for individuals facing expiring work permits and diminishing options, many turn to refugee claims without fully comprehending the eligibility requirements, legal implications, or long-term consequences.

Mark and Alicia break down the refugee claim process, who qualifies, and why a poorly founded claim could jeopardize not only your future in Canada but also your global immigration opportunities. This episode aims to educate listeners on the risks and complexities involved, empowering them to make informed decisions.

Understanding Eligibility for Refugee Claims

Consequences of Filing a Refugee Claim

Critical Considerations for Refugee Applicants

Social Implications

Links and Resources

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.