Canada Immigration News Podcast
Canada Immigration News Podcast #78: IRCC SUV Work Permit Update, Northwest Territories Immigration Draw, US-Canada Migration, PEI Recruiter Licensing
Welcome to episode 78 of the Canada Immigration News Podcast, where we bring you the most important updates in Canadian immigration policy. In this episode, we discuss the IRCC’s update to the SUV Work Permit guidelines, results of the Northwest Territories’ March immigration draw, a migration surge from the United States to Canada, and new recruiter licensing regulations introduced in Prince Edward Island.
IRCC updates guidelines for SUV open work permits and employer-specific permits
On March 27, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced major enhancements to the Start-up Visa (SUV) program. Beginning October 3, 2024, eligible permanent residence applicants under the SUV program can now apply for open work permits while awaiting their PR decisions. This marks a departure from the previous requirement of employer-specific work permits, offering greater flexibility and faster integration into the Canadian workforce.
Foreign nationals exempt from needing a temporary resident visa can apply under the International Mobility Program directly at the port of entry. However, due to the complexity of the application process, IRCC advises applicants to apply online using administrative code A77. Applications submitted before October 3 will still follow the existing employer-specific work permit rules.
Northwest Territories Immigration Program closes March intake with 90 random selections
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) has officially concluded its March 2025 intake, selecting 90 applicants through a random draw process. The intake period closed on March 6, with unselected applications remaining in a queue until December 12, 2025.
This year’s lower selection numbers account for 60 applications carried forward from 2024, aligning with the total 2025 nomination limit of 150 spots. Applicants whose files are randomly chosen from the queue will be contacted by email. The draw reflects the territory’s focused approach to managing its limited allocations and addressing local labor demands.
US-to-Canada migration surge: Non-citizens lead the way
New data from Statistics Canada highlights a significant increase in migration from the United States to Canada, with non-citizen US residents now representing the largest group of new arrivals. From 2010 to 2019, the number of non-citizens migrating from the U.S. to Canada quadrupled from 2,100 to over 9,000 annually.
This notable surge is driven by Canada’s inclusive immigration policies, access to universal healthcare, and clear permanent residency pathways. With continued uncertainties around U.S. immigration policy, Canada has emerged as an attractive alternative for skilled individuals seeking stability and opportunity.
New licensing regulations for recruiters in Prince Edward Island
Starting April 1, 2025, Prince Edward Island (PEI) implemented the Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act, introducing mandatory licensing requirements for recruitment agencies. Those interested in continuing recruitment services must apply for a license through the province’s designated portal.
A grace period until July 1, 2025, allows recruiters to continue operating without a license. After this date, however, conducting recruitment activities for PEI employers without a proper license will be considered a legal violation, subject to penalties of up to $5,000. The legislation is intended to protect temporary foreign workers and ensure ethical recruitment practices across the province.
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