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By Mark Holthe
4.7
2323 ratings
The podcast currently has 171 episodes available.
Episode Summary
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe and returning guest Igor Kyryliuk delve into one of the most misunderstood and complex pathways in Canadian immigration—Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) Applications. As immigration policy tightens, many temporary residents in Canada are left with few options for staying legally. Mark and Igor provide a detailed overview of H&C applications, exploring their purpose, eligibility criteria, and the best practices for creating a compelling application.
Whether you're a temporary resident facing an uncertain future in Canada or an immigration professional looking to deepen your understanding of H&C applications, this episode offers actionable insights and expert guidance.
Key Topics Discussed
What Are H&C Applications?
When and Why to Apply
Key Factors Officers Consider
Challenges and Common Pitfalls
Why underestimating the complexity of an H&C application can lead to rejection.
The risks of insufficient documentation and poorly presented submissions.
Misrepresentation concerns and the importance of honest, well-supported claims.
Key Takeaways
Resources Mentioned
Quotes from the Episode
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.
Episode 153: "No Extensions for PGWPs: Navigating Post-Graduation Work Permit Challenges"
Episode Summary
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry tackle the recent changes impacting Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders in Canada. As the government tightens immigration policies and limits temporary resident extensions, many PGWP holders are left wondering what to do when their permits expire. Mark and Alicia break down the myths surrounding PGWP extensions, explain the rare exceptions for recapturing lost time, and explore alternative pathways for staying in Canada legally.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, an international worker, or planning your transition to permanent residence, this episode provides practical advice to help you navigate Canada’s shifting immigration landscape.
Key Topics Discussed
No More PGWP Extensions:
Recapturing Lost Time:
Work Permit Alternatives:
Permanent Residency Strategies:
When Leaving Canada is the Best Option:
Key Takeaways
Resources Mentioned
Quotes from the Episode
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.
Episode 152: "How to Move to Canada 2.0: Dedicated to US Citizens Post-Election"
Episode Summary
In response to the recent U.S. election results and a renewed interest among U.S. citizens exploring Canadian immigration options, Mark Holthe and Betsy Kane break down the key pathways available for Americans considering a move to Canada. From work permits and professional transfers to permanent residency (PR) strategies, Mark and Betsy explore the unique considerations of each pathway for those who may be looking north of the border due to recent political changes. With immigration policies tightening in Canada, this episode sheds light on both temporary and permanent routes, helping listeners understand the practical steps and realities of relocating to Canada.
Key Topics Discussed
Key Takeaways
Resources Mentioned
Quotes from the Episode
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 and discussion on Canadian immigration and is not intended as legal advice. For personalized assistance, please consult with an immigration lawyer.
Episode 151: Time's Up Series - Transitioning from Worker to Visitor Status in Canada
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Igor Kurliuk continue their "Time’s Up" series by discussing a critical question facing temporary foreign workers in Canada: Can I change my status from worker to visitor when my work permit is about to expire? As new immigration policies tighten pathways for temporary and permanent residence, many workers are considering a shift to visitor status to maintain legal presence in Canada. Mark and Igor dive into the key considerations, practical steps, and strategic advice for anyone contemplating this transition.
They also address recent policy updates, including significant changes to Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and entry rules affecting temporary foreign workers and international mobility. The episode highlights both the advantages and risks of switching to visitor status, the legal framework around "maintained status," and the essential documentation required to convince immigration officers of your temporary intent. Tune in to learn what you need to know to stay compliant and protect future immigration opportunities.
Topics Covered:
Current Immigration Landscape for Temporary Residents
Understanding Visitor Status vs. Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
Steps to Apply for a Visitor Record
Proving Temporary Intent
Maintained Status: What It Is and How It Works
Special Considerations and Common Pitfalls
Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Disclaimer:
This podcast episode provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. For personalized guidance, consider booking a consultation at Holthe Law.
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In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and immigration lawyer Alicia Backman-Beharry continue their Time’s Up series by delving into the significant risks and long-term consequences of staying in Canada without legal status. As temporary resident options narrow, many individuals face tough decisions about whether to stay or leave. Mark and Alicia discuss the legal, financial, and emotional realities for those who overstay, and offer strategic advice on why compliance with immigration laws is critical for safeguarding future opportunities.
The hosts also address myths surrounding the possibility of amnesty and provide practical options for restoring status. They outline when it’s time to explore restoration, when applying for temporary resident permits (TRPs) makes sense, and why leaving Canada voluntarily may sometimes be the smartest move. Tune in to learn how recent policy changes, economic pressures, and the upcoming federal election are reshaping the immigration landscape in Canada—and what you can do to stay ahead.
1. The Legal Landscape of Immigration Status
2. The Immediate and Long-Term Consequences of Staying Without Status
3. Debunking Myths: Will Canada Offer Amnesty?
4. Why Leaving Canada Voluntarily May Be the Right Move
5. Employers to Avoid and Hidden Costs of Staying Illegal
6. Preparing for Future Episodes in the Time’s Up Series
This podcast provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, please book a consultation with an immigration lawyer at Holthe Immigration Law.
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and immigration lawyer Alicia Backman-Beharry kick off the Time’s Up series, designed to address the critical issue of expiring work permits for international students, post-graduate work permit holders, and temporary foreign workers.
Mark and Alicia explore the realities of Canada’s tightening immigration landscape, including the challenges of extending temporary status and the consequences of becoming out of status. With fewer public policies offering extensions and increasing restrictions on LMIA-based work permits, this episode delivers practical insights into what options remain available and when it might be time to consider going home.
They also discuss strategic pathways like restoration, temporary residence permits (TRPs), and humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) applications, all while offering essential advice to avoid common pitfalls. The goal of this series is to empower temporary residents with the information they need to make informed decisions—and to understand that sometimes leaving Canada voluntarily is the best long-term option.
Restoring Status:
Switching to Visitor Status:
Temporary Residence Permits (TRPs):
Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) Applications:
Spousal Sponsorship Risks:
Refugee Claims:
Strategic Advantages of Leaving Voluntarily:
Leveraging Canadian Experience Internationally:
Disclaimer:
This podcast episode provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. For personalized guidance, consider booking a consultation at Holthe Law.
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Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe is joined by Alicia Backman-Arcand to discuss the latest developments in the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), specifically the launch of the brand new Expression of Interest (EOI) system. The episode delves into the impact of these changes, how they align Alberta with other provinces like BC and Ontario, and the significance of this new system for both immigration practitioners and applicants alike.
Mark and Alicia break down the complexities of the new EOI system, explaining how Alberta’s adoption of a points-based system is a move towards more transparency and fairness. They discuss the technical details of the points grid, what it means for applicants, and why the transition from the problematic “Race to File” model is a welcomed change. Tune in to get the full scoop on how to navigate this new landscape, what you need to do to optimize your profile, and what pitfalls to avoid when submitting your expression of interest.
Topics Covered:
Overview of Alberta’s EOI System:
Points Grid Explained:
Misrepresentation Risks:
Labour Market Priorities:
Key Considerations for Applicants:
What’s Next:
Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Disclaimer:
This podcast episode provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. For personalized guidance, consider booking a consultation at Holthe Law.
Listen to This Episode On:
Connect with Us:
Podcast Show Notes: Uncovering TFWP Abuse: What Every Employer and Worker Needs to Know
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry discuss the growing issue of abuse within Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). They explore the legal obligations of employers, the rights of foreign workers, and the severe consequences of non-compliance with immigration and employment laws.
Mark and Alicia provide an in-depth analysis of:
Understanding the LMIA Process: An overview of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process and the employer's responsibilities in hiring foreign workers, emphasizing the illegality of charging workers fees for LMIAs.
Recent Cases of Employer Abuse: Discussion on a recent case from Calgary where an employer was penalized for charging illegal fees and not paying overtime, highlighting the judicial consequences and restitution ordered by the court.
Options for Abused Workers: A breakdown of the rights and options available to foreign workers who experience abuse, including applying for a Vulnerable Worker Open Work Permit and reporting abuse through government channels.
Penalties for Employers and Misrepresentation: An explanation of the fines, penalties, and potential criminal charges employers can face for violating the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), including counselling misrepresentation and the importance of employers understanding their obligations under the law.
Preventing Abuse and Ensuring Compliance: Practical advice for employers on maintaining compliance with Canadian immigration laws, and guidance for workers on how to protect themselves and report abuse if they are victims of exploitation.
Tune in to this episode to learn more about the rights of foreign workers, the responsibilities of employers, and how to navigate the complexities of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Whether you're an immigration lawyer, consultant, employer, or prospective immigrant, this episode provides essential information to help you understand and comply with Canada's immigration laws.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
💻 BOOK AN IMMIGRATION CONSULTATION: https://bit.ly/3QBDyf6
🔺 Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://bit.ly/3RlH9h6
🔺 Become a member of the Canadian Immigration Institute YouTube channel: @canadianimmigrationinstitute
🟡 Canada Immigration Video Do-It-Yourself Courses
2024 Express Entry Accelerator Course and Masterclass: https://bit.ly/3xbQP6k
🎧 Listen to the Canadian Immigration Podcast:
📱 Follow us on social media:
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Podcast Show Notes: Provincial Nominee Programs and the "Intention to Reside" Requirement
In this episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, Mark Holthe and Alicia Backman-Beharry delve into the intricacies of Canada's Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) with a focus on the "intention to reside" requirement. This requirement is a critical component for applicants nominated by a province, as they must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and establish themselves in the nominating province.
Mark and Alicia provide an in-depth analysis of:
Tune in to this episode to learn how to navigate the PNP process and ensure your application aligns with all requirements. Whether you're an immigration lawyer, consultant, or prospective immigrant, this episode provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
💻 BOOK AN IMMIGRATION CONSULTATION: https://bit.ly/3QBDyf6
🔺 Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://bit.ly/3RlH9h6
🔺 Become a member of the Canadian Immigration Institute YouTube channel: @canadianimmigrationinstitute
🟡 Canada Immigration video Do-It-Yourself Courses
🎧 Listen to the Canadian Immigration Podcast:
📱 Follow us on social media:
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Episode Title: Lengthy Delays in Security Screening
Host: Mark Holthe, Immigration Lawyer, Holthe Immigration Law
Guest: Will Tao, Immigration Lawyer, Heron Law Offices
Sponsor: Canadian Immigration Institute - Subscribe to the 2024 Express Entry Accelerator Course
In this insightful episode of the Canadian Immigration Podcast, host Mark Holthe welcomes back immigration lawyer Will Tao to discuss a pressing issue facing many applicants: lengthy delays in security screening. This episode is particularly relevant for those navigating the complex and often frustrating Canadian immigration process.
Introduction to Security Screening Delays:
Impact of Security Screening Delays:
Understanding Security Screening:
Practical Advice for Applicants:
Mandamus Applications:
Legal and Policy Insights:
If you or someone you know is experiencing lengthy delays in security screening, it's essential to seek professional advice. Book a consultation with Mark Holthe or Will Tao to discuss your case and explore your options.
This episode is brought to you by the Canadian Immigration Institute's 2024 Express Entry Accelerator DIY Course, your best source of video content on Canadian immigration to help you navigate the Canadian immigration process.
The podcast currently has 171 episodes available.
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