Canada Immigration News Briefs for June 2014

The following is a summary of developments concerning Canadian Citizenship and Immigration that took place or were announced over the last month.

• Work Permit Fee Eliminated for Musicians Playing in Bars and Restaurants

Foreign artists entering Canada to perform in a bar or restaurant can now do so without the need to apply for and receive a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Previously, an LMIA, as well as the associated fee of $275 per individual, was needed for artists performing in this capacity. >>Read more

• Canadians Celebrate Heritage This Week

Canadians are celebrating their shared heritage throughout June and early July. From June 21 to July 1, 2014, events are being held across the country to commemorate Canada’s history, diversity, and national identity. >>Read more

• Canada’s Biotechnology Industry on the Rise

Canadian Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Industry Mike Lake took part in the 2014 BIO International Convention in San Diego. The annual convention is the world’s largest gathering of scientific leaders and representatives from biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms, with representatives from 80 Canadian companies. >>Read more

• Major Changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program Announced

Employment Minister Jason Kenney and Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced major reforms to Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program this afternoon. >>Read more

• Government Announces Final Passage of Bill C-24

Canadian Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced yesterday that reforms to the Citizenship Act have received final passage and Royal Assent. These reforms are the first major changes to the program since 1977. The changes will affect the application process for immigration to Canada, and enforce new rules for some Canadian citizens. >>Read More

• Multicultural Society Helps Canadian Immigrants, Foreign Workers

Vancouver Island Multicultural Society is celebrating its 35^th anniversary this year, and its leaders are looking back on the growth and successes of the organization. >>Read More

• Canada Wages On Par With U.S.

An internal government study has shown that wage levels in Canada are generally even with those in the United States, suggesting that Canadian workers should not be paid at a competitive disadvantage. >>Read More