Posted on November 27 2020
Canada has issued another 5,000 invitations in the latest Express Entry Draw #168 held on November 25, 2020 at 13:04:56 UTC. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System [CRS] requirement dropped to 469.
Candidates that are issued Invitations to Apply [ITAs] from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [IRCC] can then proceed to applying for Canadian permanent residence. Generally, while anyone can make an Express Entry profile, they cannot apply for Canada PR unless invited for the same.
The previous Express Entry draw was held on November 18, 2020.
As the latest Express Entry draw was an all-program draw, no program had been specified by IRCC as such.
Hence, Express Entry candidates eligible for any of the federal economic-class programs – the Federal Skilled Worker Program [FSWP], the Federal Skilled Trades Program [FSTP], and the Canadian Experience Class [CEC] – that are managed through the Express Entry system were eligible.
Moreover, Express Entry candidates that had been allotted 600 CRS points through a nomination under the Provincial Nominee Program [PNP] were also eligible.
With a tie-breaking rule of October 15, 2020 at 08:50:10 UTC being applied by IRCC, candidates that had a minimum 469 CRS and had submitted their profile before the date and time of the tie-breaking rule would have received an invitation in the latest Express Entry draw.
It is the highest-scoring – in terms of the CRS scores – Express Entry candidates that receive ITAs in the Express Entry draws that are held by the federal government of Canada.
With the latest draw, Canada has issued a total of 97,350 ITAs in 2020 so far. Despite 2020 being an unprecedented year, it is nonetheless proving to be a record-breaking year for Express Entry of Canada. The number of ITAs issued to date this year is the highest ever as compared to previous years.
As per the 2021-2023 Immigration Levels Plan, 4 lakh immigrants a year are to be invited by Canada.
With a commitment to welcoming 4,01,000 in 2021 – a majority of which are expected to find their way into Canada through the Express Entry system – Canada retains its place among the most accepting countries for migrants.
With the latest Express Entry draw – the 35th Express Entry draw in 2020 – a total of 97,350 ITAs have been issued so far this year.
Sl. No. | Draw No. | Date of Draw | Minimum CRS | ITAs issued |
1 | #134 | January 8, 2020 | 473 | 3,400 |
2 | #135 | January 22, 2020 | 471 | 3,400 |
3 | #136 | February 5, 2020 | 472 | 3,500 |
4 | #137 | February 19, 2020 | 470 | 4,500 |
5 | #138 | March 4, 2020 | 471 | 3,900 |
6 | #139 [PNP] | March 18, 2020 | 720 | 668 |
7 | #140 [CEC] | March 23, 2020 | 467 | 3,232 |
8 | #141 [PNP] | April 9, 2020 | 698 | 606 |
9 | #142 [CEC] | April 9, 2020 | 464 | 3,294 |
10 | #143 [PNP] | April 15, 2020 | 808 | 118 |
11 | #144 [CEC] | April 16, 2020 | 455 | 3,782 |
12 | #145 [PNP] | April 29, 2020 | 692 | 589 |
13 | #146 [CEC] | May 1, 2020 | 452 | 3,311 |
14 | #147 [PNP] | May 13, 2020 | 718 | 529 |
15 | #148 [CEC] | May 15, 2020 | 447 | 3,371 |
16 | #149 [PNP] | May 27, 2020 | 757 | 385 |
17 | #150 [CEC] | May 28, 2020 | 440 | 3,515 |
18 | #151 [PNP] | June 10, 2020 | 743 | 341 |
19 | #152 [CEC] | June 11, 2020 | 437 | 3,559 |
20 | #153 [PNP] | June 24, 2020 | 696 | 392 |
21 | #154 [CEC] | June 25, 2020 | 431 | 3,508 |
22 | #155 | July 8, 2020 | 478 | 3,900 |
23 | #156 [PNP] | July 22, 2020 | 687 | 557 |
24 | #157 [CEC] | July 23, 2020 | 445 | 3,343 |
25 | #158 | August 5, 2020 | 476 | 3,900 |
26 | #159 [FSTP] | August 6, 2020 | 415 | 250 |
27 | #160 [PNP] | August 19, 2020 | 771 | 600 |
28 | #161 [CEC] | August 20, 2020 | 454 | 3,300 |
29 | #162 | September 2, 2020 | 475 | 4,200 |
30 | #163 | September 16, 2020 | 472 | 4,200 |
31 | #164 | September 30, 2020 | 471 | 4,200 |
32 | #165 | October 14, 2020 | 471 | 4,500 |
33 | #166 | November 5, 2020 | 478 | 4,500 |
34 | #167 | November 18, 2020 | 472 | 5,000 |
35 | #168 | November 25, 2020 | 469 | 5,000 |
Total ITAs issued in 2020 so far – 97,350. |
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New Zealand to introduce Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa to fill workforce shortages
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To meet increasing workforce demands during peak seasons, New Zealand has announced two new visa categories—the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)—set to launch on December 8, 2025. These visas fall under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework and are designed to help accredited employers hire workers for short-term, high-demand roles in sectors like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, food processing, and more.
The GWSV, valid for up to three years, targets skilled seasonal workers who have completed at least three relevant work seasons in the past six years. Meanwhile, the PSV caters to lower-skilled roles and offers a seven-month stay, requiring just one season of prior experience in the last three years. Both visas remove English language requirements and Labour Market Tests, and include specific job roles under each category. However, they are not pathways to permanent residency and applicants will need to meet strict eligibility and seasonal alignment criteria.
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New Zealand’s new visa categories, the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV), are designed for specific roles tied to seasonal industries.
Here’s a breakdown of the occupations eligible under each route:
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) |
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) |
Agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operators |
Mussel or oyster farm workers |
Agricultural technicians (e.g., sheep or animal pregnancy scanners) |
Calf rearers and relief milkers |
Chairlift operators |
Forestry workers |
Snow groomers and snow makers |
Meat boners, slicers, and meat processing workers |
Mountain or glacier guides |
Seafood process workers |
Whitewater rafting guides |
Winery cellar hands |
Outdoor adventure instructors |
Wool handlers |
Winemakers and winery senior cellar hands |
|
Shearers |
|
Slaughterers |
|
Primary products inspectors |
|
Snow sports instructors |
|
Snowsport equipment technicians |
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First Express Entry draw of August invites 225 PNP candidates
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On August 6, 2025, IRCC conducted a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-only Express Entry draw, inviting 225 candidates to apply for permanent residence. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 739, reflecting the additional 600 points awarded to PNP nominees. This draw was the first for August and part of Canada’s ongoing strategy to address regional labour shortages. The focus on PNP candidates reinforces the government's commitment to targeted immigration through provincial selection.
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You can follow the below steps to submit your Express Entry profile:
Step 1: Check your eligibility for an Express Entry program (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC).
Step 2: Get your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) and complete a language test (IELTS/CELPIP or TEF/TCF).
Step 3: Create an account and fill out your Express Entry profile on the IRCC website.
Step 4: Enter the pool to receive your CRS score and wait for a draw.
Step 5: If invited, submit your permanent residence application within 60 days.
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Australia raises Student Visa Cap to 295,000 for 2025. Apply now!
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Australia has increased its annual foreign student cap to 295,000 as part of a broader shift in international education policy. This move is aligned with the ‘Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040’, which aims to deepen ties with Southeast Asian nations including Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia. While India remains one of the top source countries, the revised approach signals a more regionally diversified focus.
The government has recognised that education and migration are key economic drivers, and the expanded cap supports both economic growth and strategic regional engagement. The increase also reflects Australia’s goal to revitalise its post-pandemic education sector and enhance long-term talent pipelines.
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Australia’s decision to lift the foreign student cap to 295,000 is part of a broader strategy to deepen engagement with Southeast Asia. While this regional shift introduces new priorities, India continues to hold a strong position in Australia’s education and migration policy. Here's what Indian students should know:
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Finland to Welcome English-Speaking Professionals from August 2026
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In a major step to welcome skilled foreign professionals, Finland will begin offering upper secondary education in English from August 2026. The reform, backed by legislation passed in December 2024, aims to make relocation easier for international workers with school-aged children. In addition, matriculation exams will be available in English from autumn 2028, expanding beyond Finnish and Swedish. Unlike the existing IB curriculum, this will cover the full range of upper secondary subjects. The initiative is designed to reduce language barriers and promote smoother integration for globally mobile families.
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Finland’s decision to expand its national education system to include English-language instruction is part of a broader strategy to attract skilled foreign professionals. The following are key points of the reform:
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Is it possible to live in Europe with $2,000 per month?
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If you have ever dreamed of open-air cafés, seaside sunsets, or strolls through historic European towns but worried about the cost, there’s good news. According to Forbes, a monthly budget of $2,000 (around ₹1.74 lakh) can go a long way in destinations like Hungary, Greece, and Cyprus. In Budapest, you can enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle with excellent healthcare, culture, and transport while keeping expenses between $1,200 and $1,800/month.
Greece offers seaside living for as low as $400/month outside the tourist hubs, and Cyprus delivers a relaxed, sun-soaked lifestyle with modern infrastructure and low taxes, all within a modest budget. These countries don’t just offer affordability, they promise community, quality of life, and accessible visa pathways, making the European dream possible for more Indians than ever before.
Also, read…
Top 10 countries with best work life balance in 2025
For Indians seeking a slower pace of life, scenic surroundings, and affordability abroad, a handful of European countries make it possible to live comfortably on a modest monthly income. With the right location, you can enjoy a quality lifestyle, healthcare access, and community warmth, all for around ₹1.74 lakh per month.
The top 3 countries that are budget-friendly for Indians is as follows:
Hungary
Greece
Cyprus
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Do not apply for a B1/B2 Visa until you know these 3 changes
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Starting in 2025, the US is introducing a series of visa reforms aimed at increasing transparency, security, and enforcement. These include mandatory public social media for student visa applicants, a new $250 visa integrity fee for most non-immigrant categories, and stricter eligibility for interview waivers.
While these steps reflect broader immigration tightening, they also mean Indian applicants will need to prepare earlier, review their online presence, and budget for higher costs. For students, professionals, and tourists alike, understanding these changes will be critical to a smooth visa experience.
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In 2025, Indian applicants will see key policy changes in the US visa process aimed at increasing screening and compliance.
Applicants for F, M, and J visas must make their social media profiles public at the time of application. US consular officers may review usernames, posts, and affiliations as part of digital security screening.
Most non-immigrant visa applicants, including students, workers, and tourists—will be required to pay an additional $250 fee on top of existing visa charges.
In-person interviews will become mandatory for most applicants. Renewals will only qualify for a waiver under limited conditions and at the discretion of consular officers.
These updates reflect a shift toward greater scrutiny, and Indian applicants are encouraged to plan ahead, ensure profile transparency, and budget for the added costs.
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Live & Work in Germany – Freelance Visa for Just ₹7,500
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Germany’s Freelance Visa is open to a wide range of self-employed professionals across scientific, educational, creative, legal, and medical fields. If you belong to one of the following categories, you may be eligible to apply and live in Germany for up to one to three years.
Here is the list of categories of freelance employment in Germany:
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Germany is offering a one-year Freelance Visa that allows eligible professionals to live and work independently in the country. At just €75 (approx. ₹7,500), the visa offers an affordable entry into one of Europe’s most vibrant economies, perfect for creatives, consultants, writers, and digital nomads.
To apply, you will need to prepare the following documents:
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Top 10 countries with best work life balance in 2025
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In its 2025 global report, Remote, a leading HR and payroll platform, ranked the top countries that offer the best work-life balance. The study evaluated key factors including statutory paid leave, sick leave policies, minimum wage, and average working hours, among others, depending on data from 60 highest-GDP nations. These indicators help determine how well a country supports a healthy balance between personal well-being and professional life.
New Zealand emerged as the top-ranking country, followed closely by Ireland and Belgium. Others in the top 10 include the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, France, Spain, Finland, and Sweden. Each of these nations demonstrated strong worker protections, flexible working conditions, and a national culture that values downtime.
The report reflects a growing awareness globally that employee well-being is essential for productivity and long-term growth. For Indian professionals seeking a healthier lifestyle abroad, these countries offer a compelling mix of opportunity and quality of life.
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A global study by Remote, an international HR platform, has ranked countries based on key indicators like minimum wage, paid leave, working hours, and family-friendly policies and after analysing data from 60 highest-GDP nations.
The table below has the list of top 10 countries that offer the best work-life balance in 2025:
Rank |
Country |
Index Score |
Total Annual leaves |
1 |
New Zealand |
86.87 |
High minimum wage, 26 weeks paid maternity leave, generous vacation days |
2 |
Ireland |
81.17 |
30 days leave, 26 weeks full paid maternity, flexible work rights |
3 |
Belgium |
75.91 |
34.1-hour work week, strong social security, flexible work culture |
4 |
Germany |
74.65 |
33.2-hour average work week, 30 days leave, strong health protections |
5 |
Norway |
74.2 |
Universal healthcare, long paid holidays, short work weeks |
6 |
Denmark |
73.76 |
Full sick pay, excellent healthcare, high happiness index |
7 |
Canada |
73.76 |
Inclusive policies, accessible healthcare, flexible urban work life |
8 |
Australia |
72.1 |
High wages, public healthcare, relaxed work culture |
9 |
Spain |
71.94 |
Cultural richness, ample personal time, lifestyle-friendly norms |
10 |
Finland |
70.86 |
36 days annual leave, flexible hours, trust-based workplace culture |
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India and the UK Set 36-Month Timeline to Ease Mobility for Nurses, Accountants, and Architects
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India and the UK are making significant progress toward finalising Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) that would allow professionals from both countries to have their qualifications officially recognised across borders. These agreements, expected to take shape within the next 36 months, will play a vital role in easing migration for Indian professionals.
Once implemented, MRAs will enable professionals in regulated sectors, including engineering, architecture, accountancy, and law to practice in the UK without the need for additional training or requalification. This would not only save time and costs for Indian migrants but also help fill skill gaps in the UK’s workforce. India has already proposed a model MRA framework to streamline negotiations and accelerate the process. The initiative is part of the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is currently in its final negotiation stages.
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As part of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the UK has committed to a liberalised mobility regime that will greatly benefit Indian professionals across multiple sectors. These provisions are designed to ease market access, reduce visa-related barriers, and offer long-term stay options for skilled individuals and their families.
Under the agreement:
Note: The UK has also agreed not to impose numerical restrictions on the number of workers entering under these categories. Currently, around 60,000 Indian IT professionals are working in the UK as intra-corporate transferees.
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Canada offers FREE support for International Nurses: PASS program
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Canada’s PASS (Pre-Arrival Supports and Services) Program, led by the Canadian Nurses Association, is now open to internationally educated nurses (IENs) from all countries, including India. Funded by the federal government, the program offers free, personalized support to help nurses prepare for licensure and employment before arriving in Canada. Participants also get help with navigating Canada’s healthcare system, resume writing, interview prep, and more. The expansion of the PASS Program is part of a broader $86 million initiative aimed at helping over 6,600 IENs integrate into Canada’s healthcare workforce faster and more confidently.
Below are some of the services that are designed to support both professional integration and cultural adaptation before arrival:
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To qualify for the PASS (Pre-Arrival Supports and Services) Program, applicants must meet the following key requirements:
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You can follow the below steps to register for the PASS program:
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility as an internationally educated nurse approved for Canadian permanent residence.
Step 2: Visit the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) website and navigate to the PASS Program section.
Step 3: Complete the online registration form with required personal and educational details.
Step 4: Upload supporting documents, including proof of nursing education and IRCC approval.
Step 5: Submit the application and await confirmation from the PASS Program team.
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