Immigration, Citizenship, and Culture Blog

Renewing your Canadian Work Permit? Procrastination & new Immigration procedures don’t mix
By Stephen Fogarty • March 13, 2012

Sometimes reforms can lead to new problems.  In the past year the federal government has taken measures to protect foreign workers bound for or already in Canada, and the integrity of our immigration system, by implementing more detailed screening of employers.  This is aimed at rooting out fake job offers and reducing exploitation of such employees.  The government has also speeded up the Work Permit renewal process.  These are worthy achievements.  Unfortunately, in practical terms they are like oil and water.  They don’t mix together, and a whole new crop of problems has arisen due to the interplay of the two. Read More

Increased Scrutiny by Canada’s Border Agents — Don’t Take Chances
By Stephen Fogarty • February 29, 2012

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has demonstrated an increased vigilance in recent months. This approach goes hand in hand with Canada’s international obligations to combat terrorism and organized crime, as well as the Harper government’s emphasis on ‘law and order’. We all benefit when close attention is paid to passports to verify the identity of travellers.  Similarly, CBSA officers often play a key role in thwarting international arms smuggling and child kidnapping. Canada Customs: not the place to seek sympathy However, the more intense scrutiny by CBSA officers can have some less than pleasant consequences for the great majority who do not consider themselves criminals or terrorists. Read More

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