Updates to the Proof of Funds Amount, Proposal for Language Testing Requirements for Certain LMIA-Exempt Work Permits, Parent-Grandparent Sponsorship, and NEXUS Renewals
Proof of Funds
In July, the proof of funds amounts for those applying for permanent residence under the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program were updated. These amounts are based on 50% of the low income cut-off and are the minimum amounts of liquid, readily available, and unencumbered funds that one must show based on their family size. The updated amounts can be viewed here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/documents/proof-funds.html#how-much.
Language Testing Requirements Proposal for Certain LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
An amendment is being proposed to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations which would allow the government to impose required language thresholds for certain LMIA-exempt work permit categories under the International Mobility Program. Applicants’ language ability would be assessed by way of a language test. This requirement would make it more difficult for some applicants to apply for work permits under the selected work permit categories. The government’s rationale for this change is that it supports greater worker retention and increases the ability of workers to transition from temporary to permanent residence. The amendment has not been implemented yet, and the government is currently in consultations regarding this.
Parent-Grandparent Sponsorship Invitations to Apply for Interests to Sponsor Submitted in 2020
From July 28, 2025, for approximately two weeks, IRCC will be sending out invitations to apply for parent and grandparent sponsorships to those who submitted interests to sponsor back in 2020. In 2020, there was a great number of people who submitted interests to sponsor which resulted in a very large number of people sitting in the pool. There has not been a new intake of interests to sponsor since then, and the government is still working off of the intake from 2020. As such, many people who did not submit an interest to sponsor in 2020 but currently wish to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence in Canada will not be able to.
The government continues to tout its super visa program which allows for multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years. Super visa holders can stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time, with the option to extend their visit by up to 2 years at a time without having to leave Canada. Crucially, the super visa program requires that applicants obtain private health insurance from an authorized insurance provider. More information about super visa eligibility can be found here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/parent-grandparent-super-visa/eligibility.html#eligibility.
New Requirements for Canadians Applying for or Renewing Nexus Cards
As a result of President Trump’s executive order stating that the American government will only recognize the male and female sexes, US passports and other identity documents such as Nexus cards are no longer issued with an X gender marker. Consequently, Canadians will now have to choose a male or female gender designation for Nexus or chose to be excluded from the Nexus program which facilitates travel between Canada and the US for card holders. This is inconsistent with Canadian policies on gender identity. This issue will likely end up in court.
If you have any questions about these updates or need advice on immigration matters, you can reach out to us for assistance. Our Canadian immigration legal professionals can be reached by phone (416-368-1111) or via email: caruso@cilf.ca; bonisteel@cilf.ca; ali@cilf.ca; mukherjee@cilf.ca; garciafialdini@cilf.ca.
