Relo-lerts!
All Points Relocation Service Canada Sees Huge Spike in Toronto Rental Prices
07 Jan 0 CommentsAll Points Relocation Service Canada Sees Huge Spike in Toronto Rental Prices Toronto rental rates are at all-time highs. The average monthly rent for a condo in the city is now $2,385, according to Urbanation Inc. This is a 7.6% jump in rental rates in one year. Such eye-popping figures
Data Security Session at CERC – good start, but not enough time. We need to do more work.
15 Oct 0 CommentsData Security Session at CERC – good start, but not enough time. We need to do more work in relocation. I was fortunate enough to be part of a panel at the recent Canadian Employee Relocation Council’s annual conference: Protecting Assignee Data Through the Supply Chain. I had the pleasure
Extreme Shortage of Temporary Housing in Toronto causing immediate Troubles for Corporations
19 Jun 0 CommentsExtreme Shortage of Temporary Housing in Toronto causing immediate Troubles for Corporations This is an important relo-lert to our clients and anyone relocating transferees or assignees to Toronto at this time. All Points Relocation Services Canada is experiencing an extreme shortage of temporary housing options in Toronto. All Points Relocation
Grand Prix wreaking havoc on Montreal temporary accommodation; rental market hot.
06 Jun 0 CommentsGrand Prix wreaking havoc on Montreal temporary accommodation; rental market hot. It is that time of year again where the Grand Prix is wreaking havoc on Montreal temporary accommodation. Availability is at an extreme low. All Points Relocation Canada recommends that clients delay assignee and transferee arrivals until after the
Beware eTA Assistance Providers – they aren’t required.
31 May 0 CommentsBeware eTA Assistance Providers – they aren’t required. For many Visa-exempt foreign nationals, traveling to or transiting through Canada by air means having to apply (before actually travelling) for and receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). In August of 2015, the Canadian government softly launched this travel mandate and, by
The EuRA Conference wrap-up: Acquisitions, Technology and Annihilation, oh my!
14 May 1 CommentsThe EuRA Conference wrap-up: Acquisitions, Technology and Annihilation, oh my! This year’s EuRA Conference, held in Dubrovnik, was jam packed with discussions about the future of the industry. Acquisitions During the EuRA Conference I learned of two major acquisitions. Both were sizable. What does this mean for the industry? It
GDPR – what are you doing to the relocation industry and to Human Resources? And how is Mike going to help you? And…stuff. (I am competing for the longest relo-lert title-award).
30 Apr 0 CommentsGDPR – what are you doing to the relocation industry and to Human Resources? And how is Mike going to help you? And…stuff. General Data Protection Regulation What is GDPR? On April 27, 2016 (enforcement date is May 25!), the European Parliament passed the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The
Duty of care meets the age of austerity. It doesn’t mix with lump sums.
12 Apr 0 CommentsWhat does it mean when the concept of duty of care meets the age of austerity? All Points Relocation Services Canada has seen the growth of the duty of care concept, but feels that it may clash with moves towards austerity and particularly with the advent of the lump sum.
So a US mover came up to me and told me my rates were going up by 10%. Is he out of touch or am I?
20 Mar 0 CommentsSo a US mover came up to me and told me my rates were going up by 10%. And the trick is – it wasn’t just directed at All Points Relocation Canada. It was everyone. Across the board. Yes, I have never even spoken with a Van Line directly (All
Greater Toronto Area experiences large annual increase in rental values and multiple offers
28 Feb 0 CommentsThe Globe and Mail has recently reported that Toronto is seeing multiple offers on condominium rentals. Kind of Old News This is actually not news to All Points Relocation Canada, as we have seen problems with rentals for some time now, but it does bear mentioning to those that relocate
You think temporary accommodation costs are expensive in Toronto? Just wait – things are going to get worse!
23 Jan 0 CommentsAfter last summer you might think that temporary accommodation costs have gotten out of control in Toronto. But, just wait. Higher pricing is coming your way quickly. Everyone knows that Toronto rental pricing had seen serious increases with the general cost of housing increasing rapidly up until last April and
All Points Relocation Canada experiences transferees getting rejected for Social Insurance Number at Service Canada
10 Jan 1 CommentsRecently, All Points Relocation Canada has experienced transferees getting rejected in their applications for Social Insurance Numbers at Service Canada. Before these recent experiences, getting turned away for a Social Insurance Number, when presented with the correct documentation, simply did not happen Not one reason And, unfortunately there is not
Toronto Real Estate Board hides behind privacy while Court does the right thing.
06 Dec 0 CommentsThe Toronto Real Estate board hides behind “privacy” while The Federal Court of Appeals has ruled that it cannot prevent members from publishing how much properties sold for. All Points Relocation Canada has written about big effects on the real estate market before. However, this is a big step in
Understanding The Global Talent Stream (GTS)
28 Nov 0 CommentsUnderstanding the Global Talent Stream (GTS) All Points Relocation Canada thought it was time to bring greater awareness to Canada’s Global Talent Stream. We have written about our advantage over the American immigration landscape in the past, but we thought that this program brought such an edge to Canada, people
OHIP is creating problems for some expatriates
21 Nov 0 CommentsOHIP is creating problems for some expatriates, based on our observations at All Points Relocation Canada. For eligible expatriates with a work permit, coverage becomes effective 90 days from receipt of the work permit (some conditions apply). Coverage for qualified dependents also starts 90 days from the issuance of the work
Trump’s America First policy and Amazon’s recent rental space in Vancouver and Toronto. Not a coincidence.
14 Nov 0 CommentsTrump’s America First policy is creating a distinct advantage for Canada to attract tech-talent. Recently Amazon took out 76,000 square feet of commercial space in Vancouver and 112,000 square feet in Toronto’s Scotia Plaza. This is not related to the current HQ2 contest for which there are a number of
Trump Tax Reform Threatens to Make U.S. (and cross-border) Relocation more Dysfunctional
07 Nov 0 CommentsThe Trump Tax Reform threatens relocation benefits in the U.S. Is U.S. Relocation Dysfunctional? Well, compared to its Canadian counterpart, the answer is yes. In the United States, just about every relocation benefit that could appear in a relocation policy is considered taxable by the IRS, whereas most are considered
Thanks for nothing CETA! You have let Canadians down on the immigration front.
02 Nov 1 CommentsCETA immigration definitely disappoints. All Points Relocation Services has made it clear that one of the most mishandled and least discussed files of the Harper government was immigration. Reacting to political pressure, the government of the day made life a lot more difficult for Canadian corporations to attract talent from
Is first condo agreement to regulate Airbnb rentals a threat to the Temporary Accommodation Industry?
26 Oct 1 CommentsAirbnb has reported that a Toronto condo building is the first in Canada to come to agreement with the short-term rental company. The company in question is called Neptune condominiums. Other buildings within the United States have signed similar agreements. In short, the condo board on the one hand agrees to
Is OFSI solving a problem that doesn’t need solving, while sacrificing Calgary?
24 Oct 0 CommentsLast week, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OFSI) introduced new rules on mortgage lending to take effect next year. OSFI will set a new minimum qualifying rate, or “stress test,” for uninsured mortgages. These are mortgage customers with down payments 20% or greater than their home price.
A one day Canadian destination service doesn’t work psychologically.
13 Oct 1 CommentsPicture yourself receiving a seven day house hunting trip to your new location and a Canadian destination service. You are offered the rental home finding services of a Canadian destination services company… for one day. Yes, that is for 1/7th of your time in the new city. There are a
Disappointing Data Security Session at ERC
10 Oct 0 CommentsI just recently wrote an article about relocation security breach potential. As it happens I also went to the Data Security Session at this year’s ERC in Chicago and was very disappointed in the quality of the content. All Points Relocation Canada felt that this should have been the session
Disappointing Data Security Session at ERC
10 Oct 0 CommentsI just recently wrote an article about relocation security breach potential. As it happens I also went to the Data Security Session at this year’s ERC in Chicago and was very disappointed in the quality of the content. In the audience there were Human Resources, Relocation Service providers and Destination
Data Breach at Equifax and Canadian Relocation – more of a connection than you think!
02 Oct 0 CommentsAll Points Relocation Canada wants to bring the issue of data security and privacy to the attention of our readers. A few weeks ago it was reported that there was a huge data breach at credit reporting company Equifax. This exposed sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers and addresses,
Rental Fairness Act Improves life for tenants and global assignees
05 Jul 0 CommentsOn March 8, 2017, All Points reported on what was then a little known loophole for landlords to raise rents above rental rate guidelines, if the property was first occupied for residential purposes after November 1, 1991. Please see this article here: http://www.allpointsrelocation.com/articles/landlords-rent-control-loophole/ Shortly after our relo-lert, this fact became
Non-Resident Speculation Tax and how it affects relocation. What you should know!
15 Jun 0 CommentsNon-Resident Speculation Tax and how it affects relocation. What you should know! All Points’ clients have been asking about the new Non-Resident Speculation Tax in Ontario. So, we wanted to share our preliminary summary of it, as soon as we could. Here are the keys points: The new tax was
For Mental Health Awareness Week: a new tool in the toolkit!
05 May 0 CommentsFor Mental Health Awareness week, we thought we would step away from relocation issues and give voice to what is truly one of the most important weeks of the year. Too many people suffer from poor mental health and one of the best ways to combat this is through the
Express Entry Tilts towards greater French Language Proficiency
19 Apr 0 CommentsThere has been an adjustment to Canada’s Express Entry application intake system, which represents a big change for immigration in Canada. It will now award more points to those who have strong French language ability, who are applying for permanent residence. This will come into effect on June 6, 2017.
Canada Relocation: Do you hold relocation benefits open for one year?
05 Apr 0 CommentsCanada Relocation: Do you hold your relocation benefits open for one year? You may want to qualify them. It is very common in many relocation policies to allow benefits to be available for one year. Very often this one year provision was intended to assist with origin properties that took
Landlords find “loophole” to Rent Control in Ontario
08 Mar 1 CommentsLandlords find “loophole” to Rent Control in Ontario Most people are under a misunderstanding about Rent Control in Ontario. They believe that landlords can only increase rental rates each year according to guidelines as set out by the Ministry. And it is true that this is the case for many
Toronto rents increase at fast pace
26 Jan 1 CommentsEveryone knows about Toronto’s hot housing market, so it should come as no surprise when there is a spillover effect into the rental market. As a Destination Services specialist, All Points saw an almost unprecedented low number of rentals on the market this summer contributing not only to higher rental
How will Vancouver’s 15% tax on foreign buyers affect relocation?
10 Aug 2 CommentsIn its ongoing attempt to rein in the runaway price increases in Vancouver’s hot real estate market, the BC government has introduced legislation that taxes foreign nationals an extra 15 per cent when buying real estate there. The legislation became effective on August 2. Effects: It should be said that
Vancouver Mayor’s proposal could affect Domestic Secondments and Global Assignments
28 Jun 0 CommentsVancouver’s mayor has announced that the city is looking at imposing a tax on vacant homes. Depending on how the proposed law is written this could increase the cost of domestic secondments and global assignments. However, we first have to remind ourselves of CRA guidelines for such assignments. What are
International Mobility Program – Temporary Foreign Workers Employer Compliance in Canada
21 Jun 1 CommentsWhen a company hires a LMIA Exempt Temporary Foreign Worker through the International Mobility Program (IMP) and pays that Employer Compliance Fee, does it actually contribute to anything? 1. Yes you may be inspected…now what When a company hires a LMIA Exempt Temporary Foreign Worker through the International Mobility Program
Rental Vacancy Rates at critically low levels in Greater Vancouver and Toronto Areas
14 Jun 0 CommentsJust recently Vancouver’s rental vacancy rate was measured at being the lowest in the world at 0.6%. CMHC has not released its figures, so Toronto’s rate is not currently known (last year’s published rate was 1.6%), but it is expected to be low, although not as low as that of
Citizenship and Immigration documents and your Fort McMurray Evacuees
02 Jun 1 CommentsDue to the wildfires and forced evacuation of Fort McMurray, there will be many assignees that have lost their official immigration documents or have at least had them damaged. The government has put in place special measures including priority processing and free replacement of Canadian citizenship and immigration documents. They
Preparing your transferees for Peak Household Goods Shipment Season can be the difference between a make or break relocation.
31 May 0 CommentsWhy does Peak Season matter? Peak Season is also the season where a transferee is more statistically likely to experience delays, poor service, damage or all three. Think about it this way. During the non-peak months, your transferee will get a team of three professionals helping them with their relocation.
What do you mean my global assignee’s car seat is illegal in Canada?
19 May 1 CommentsYes it is true, if a global assignee has brought their car seat from overseas, it may be illegal to use in Canada, and he or she may also be hit with fines and demerit points on their driving record if convicted. Transport Canada and Health Canada are concerned that
Fort McMurray Evacuation Effects Temporary Accommodation availability far and wide
11 May 0 CommentsThe tragedy in Fort McMurray has displaced thousands of families. Many of these have travelled south to Edmonton. As a result, it should come as no surprise that Edmonton temporary accommodation facilities are now full with no foreseeable vacancies. However, while many employees have fled to Edmonton, many have also
UK Government announces changes to the Tier 2 skilled visa category
20 Apr 0 CommentsAll Points originally reported that the UK Government’s Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) had met and made recommendations to immigration changes that would affect the Tier 2 visa category in 2016. The changes are in and they do make things harder for those with global mobility of intra-company transfers, although are
Calgary homes can sell this spring, but they must be priced aggressively.
18 Apr 0 CommentsRecently, Ann-Marie Lurie, chief economist at the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB), noted that Calgary detached home sale prices are expected to drop 3.2% in 2016 on an annualized basis. All Points has spoken with appraisers who believe that in some pockets, housing prices may drop as much as a
CIC announces eTA Leniency Period.
05 Apr 0 CommentsAs of March 15, 2016, the expectation is that all visa-exempt foreign nationals will have an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Even though this is the expectation, CIC has announced a NEW Leniency
Answers to your questions about Canada’s new eTA.
08 Mar 0 CommentsJust two weeks ago, All Points prepared a relo-lert about eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for Canada. You asked some good questions, so this is a follow-up relo-lert clarifying different aspects of eTA. Does passport expiration affect an eTA’s expiry date? Yes. An eTA is valid for five years,
Immigration filing fees go up in the UK
03 Mar 0 CommentsOn March 18, companies will be paying more for immigration fees for their global assignees and permanent relocations to the UK. There is a small increase of 2% work visas: Tier 2 visa route application up to three years (outside the UK): £564 to £575 (Increase of £11) Tier 2
Increased Migrant Populations start to affect Relocations to the UK
17 Feb 0 CommentsUK concerns over increased migrant populations have had two recent effects on relocations to the UK, one which has been proposed and will likely be forthcoming in 2016, the other of which has already been implemented. Immigration: After being commissioned by the UK Government to address concerns about increased non-EU
The possible effects of Vancouver House Flipping for relocation
09 Feb 0 CommentsOn Saturday February 6, the Globe and Mail published an extensive article on the issue of home flipping in the Vancouver market. In it, the Globe investigation further casts suspicion on irregular market forces creating a bubble in the Vancouver housing market. Just as importantly, the article has caught the attention of
Flying through Canada is about to get harder. Are you prepared for your business travellers and current work permit holders?
01 Feb 0 CommentsStarting March 15, 2016, visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to or transit through Canada will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa issued by a Canadian embassy, consulate, or high commission outside of Canada. eTA is a new entry requirement
Did you know about the new Online Immigration registration system for Beijing?
15 Jan 0 CommentsOn January 4, 2016, the Beijing Labour Bureau (BJLB) launched an online immigration registration system. Employers with foreign assignments to Beijing should take immediate action. Employers must: Register themselves in the system. If you have assignees in Beijing, this should be done immediately before you can access and use
Do you have household goods moves going overland through Ontario and Manitoba? Canada’s only bridge between east and west is out!
11 Jan 0 CommentsThe CBC has reported, early this morning that a newly constructed bridge in northern Ontario has broken and is in need of repair. This indefinitely closes the Trans-Canada highway — the only road connecting Eastern and Western Canada. We recommend that you call your movers right away for reports on
Are your transferees delaying their move to Calgary?
11 Jan 0 CommentsAll Points has seen a hesitation among some transferees moving to Calgary, because they believe that house prices are going to fall and they do not want to purchase a depreciating asset. The Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) has recently reported a significant year over year drop in the total
Prevailing Wage Increase – How could you be affected?
09 Dec 0 CommentsOn November 16, 2015, the prevailing wage was adjusted for selected National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes. These changes take effect immediately. Certain work permit applications in both the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TWFP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP) are affected. Employers will have to identify foreign nationals that are
Rising Canadian Mortgage Rates – What it means for your relocations.
02 Dec 0 CommentsCanadian mortgage rates rose last week as a result of one large lender raising its rates, setting a trend that the industry followed. This is a cycle we’ve seen several times. These movements have shrunk average five-year variable rate discounts from prime minus 0.6% to prime minus 0.4% and increased
All Points Dives Deeper into CIC’s New Employer Portal and Recommends Companies Implement Strategy Immediately
25 Nov 0 CommentsAfter an in-depth review of Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (‘CIC’) new, mandatory Employer Portal, All Points is prepared to make recommendations for how companies with global assignees or international permanent transfers into Canada, should approach the portal. In addition to our previous relo-lert, the CIC does provide a step-by-step guide
All Points recommends immediate action for corporations due to CIC’s new Employer Portal
11 Nov 0 CommentsEffective immediately, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (‘CIC’) has implemented a new, mandatory Employer Portal to collect employment related compliance data and to pay the associated fee. This must be completed prior to a foreign national submitting an application for an employer-specific work permit under the International Mobility Program (‘IMP’) such
All Points reiterates concerns regarding assignment starts during Pan Am Games.
18 Jun 0 CommentsJune 18, 2015: On May 15 All Points issued a relo-lert cautioning HR’s and relocation service providers about finding temporary accommodation and providing destination services in Toronto during the period of the Pan Am and Parapan Am Games. Further to that relo-lert, please find informative documents from the Pan Am
Stampede Demand Limits Temporary Accommodation Options and Affordability
28 May 0 CommentsMay 28, 2015: One to 1.2 million people will pass through the gates of the Calgary Stampede this year to see the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth according to Calgary Tourism. Temporary accommodation is virtually unavailable in the Calgary area until after July 31st. Given the high demand, the price
CMHC Says This; All Points Says That (11 Real Estate Markets to Watch for your relocations; plus bonus small town commentary).
20 May 0 CommentsMay 20, 2015: On April 30, CMHC released its House Price Analysis and Assessment Framework for Canada. Our Relo-lert summarizes CMHC’s comments, but we also add our own two cents so that you can stay on top of your domestic Canadian mobility. In short, we recommend that corporations take more
Pan Am Pandemonium for Toronto bound relocations this summer.
15 May 0 CommentsMay 15, 2015: By: Winfred Kadoma Global Relocation Coordinator The Pan Am and the Parapan Am Games will create gridlock and temporary accommodation challenges in the Greater Toronto Area from early July to mid-August. Companies should review plans for assignees and transferees right away! The Pan American Games (also known colloquially
New National Health Insurance Surcharges recently in effect for inbound immigration to the UK
16 Apr 0 CommentsApril 16, 2015: As of April 6, 2015, employers with international transfers or global assignments of non-European (EAA) nationals to the UK will be required to pay a National Health Insurance (NHS) surcharge. It applies to those EAA’s who go to the UK to work, study or join their family
Submission Process Confirmed for LMIA Exempt Work Permit Applications
24 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 24, 2015: On February 16, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) confirmed the process for employers hiring foreign nationals who are exempt from a Labour Market Impact Assessment, which went into effect on February 21, 2015. All Points highlights the changes below: Employers’ Submission Process Pay the new initial application
IMPORTANT! New Requirements and Fees for LMIA Exempt Work Permit Applications as of February 21.
12 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 12, 2015: Starting February 21, 2015, employers with international transfers or global assignments to Canada, applying for work permits for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) exempt foreign nationals will be required to submit additional information about their business and the LMIA-exempt applications themselves will also be subject to
Four Reasons Why You Should Tier Your Relocation Policy Now!
23 Jan 0 CommentsJanuary 23, 2015: 1. Align your program with best practices in the industry: The most common policy type in the Relocation industry is tiered. Some 55% of companies have tiered policies based upon recent research done by the Canadian Employee Relocation Council (CERC). The idea of a tiered policy is
Refugee problem becomes relocation problem for global assignees going to Sao Paulo, Brazil
12 Jan 0 CommentsJanuary 12, 2015: What is the challenge? A large influx of refugees to Brazil, and to Sao Paulo in particular, has created a significant delay in assignees’ and transferees’ ability to book registration appointments with the Federal Policia. As a final step in the Brazilian immigration process global assignees require
Oil Price Slump: Does your company have Western Canadian Relocations? Here are the Top 4 Reasons you should Review Your Relocation Policy Now.
03 Dec 0 CommentsDecember 3, 2014: By: Donna Lamb Western Region Manager Recent slump in oil prices have many people watching provincial economies like Alberta and Saskatchewan with concern. It is not known how long low oil prices will last and opinions vary. In a client note in the Huffington Post this past
Need a Roof Over Your Head? Show Me the Money Calgary!
10 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 10, 2014: By: VarunTripathi Global Relocation Counsellor There have recently been reports that some Calgary property managers are charging prospective tenants viewing fees to see their rental units. Let’s start off with some facts. In recent years, Canada has seen growth in the number of temporary foreign workers
Service Canada Pilot Project at Toronto and Vancouver Airports: Social Insurance Numbers
05 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 5, 2014 All Points Relocation has recently learned that Service Canada has issued Social Insurance Numbers at Pearson International Airport and Vancouver International Airport to some, but not all, foreign nationals on global assignment to Canada, concurrently with their Work Permits. All Points became aware of this during our
Three top highlights from Major Overhaul of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program
27 Jun 0 CommentsJune 27, 2014: A number of alerts and information pieces have been released with regards to the government’s major overhaul of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program. This article focuses on just three important points that are most pertinent to those Canadian companies that support global assignees with comprehensive relocation benefits.
Bulletin 575 and its effect on Specialized Knowledge ICT’s
20 Jun 0 CommentsJune 20, 2014: Those responsible for global mobility to Canada should be aware that Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) released Operational Bulletin 575 on June 9, 2014, which provides expanded guidance to officers who process work permit applications for Intra-Company Transferees (ICT) applying under the Specialized Knowledge Labour Market Opinion
Foreign Students new automatic work authorizations can benefit employers and assignees
12 Jun 0 CommentsJune 12, 2014: Just two weeks ago on June 1, 2014, study permit holders in Canada who are enrolled in academic, vocational or professional training programs of six months or longer will be automatically authorized to work. This does create benefits for employers with global mobility programs bringing assignees or
Negative Changes to Dependent Child Eligibility Might Require Fast Action by Human Resources
07 Jun 0 CommentsJuly 7, 2014: The Canadian Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration is revising the definition of a dependent child. This change will have negative impacts on those companies that have global assignees inbound to Canada with older dependent children. Previously, the definition of dependent children extended to those under twenty-two (22)
Santa Fe Reports Random Checks by Shanghai Police Enforcing Residence Registration
23 Apr 0 CommentsApril 23, 2014: The Santa Fe Group has reported that Shanghai local police are ramping up stricter enforcement on residential registration of foreign nationals and All Points recommends that HR’s communicate this within their organizations. Registrations have long been required upon a foreign national’s arrival in the country. However, enforcement
Quebec and Real Estate Appraisals Keep Calm and Carry On
24 Mar 0 CommentsMarch 24, 2014: Relocation professionals and Human Resources departments responsible for domestic Canadian mobility should be aware that some appraisers are making negative forecasting adjustments on properties in predominately Anglophone real estate markets in the Greater Montreal area, due to the possibility of a PQ majority government after the election
Changes to LMO Process Means Canadian Corporations should Centralize Immigration Compliance
04 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 4, 2014: On December 31, 2013, Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR)’s previously announced amendments were implemented. Compliance obligations have been increased substantially. While many of these obligations were in place before, these have been made stricter, and of longer duration. In addition, immigration officials have been provided
Bubble or Schmubble Canadian Real Estate Market and what you should do with your relocation policy
26 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 26, 2013: Recently there have been conflicting reports about the strength of and/or risks to the Canadian real estate market. The Globe and Mail has reported that economists have noted that the housing market looks resilient, if not downright strong. Then the Financial Times quoted economist David Madani of
Michael Deane receives the Worldwide ERC’s Meritorious Service Award
04 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 4, 2013: All Points Relocation Service, a Canadian full-service relocation management and destination service firm, is pleased to announce that Michael Deane, Vice President of Client Services, and All Points’ Co-owner, was recently honored with the Worldwide ERC®’s Meritorious Service Award, at the 2013 Global Workforce Symposium, in Dallas,
Shanghai considers criminal report requirement on permit applications
18 Oct 0 CommentsOctober 18, 2013: All Points Relocation’s Asian partner, Santa Fe Relocation has learned that the The Shanghai Labour Bureau are considering requiring a non-criminal record certificate in filing employment license, work permit and expert permit applications. At this time, the Bureau has not announced an implementation date. The non-criminal record
So how is the US federal shutdown affecting relocation?
03 Oct 0 CommentsOctober 3, 2013: Canadian companies should be aware that the impacts of the US federal shutdown are both immediate in some cases and may be lingering in other cases if it drags on. All Points strongly recommends that anyone with cross-border business travellers, cross-border relocations or cross-border assignees read Fragomen’s
Foreign service workers reach tentative agreement
02 Oct 0 CommentsOctober 2, 2013: After staging the longest strike in public service history, Canada’s diplomats have signed a tentative agreement with the Canadian government, thereby settling their dispute and ending their work-to-rule campaign. The tentative agreement was signed on Thursday, September 24, 2013. The deal is expected to be ratified shortly.
Form C required for immigration applications by Chennai Immigration office
13 Sep 0 CommentsSeptember 13, 2013: As reported by the Santa Fe Group, Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Chennai India has announced that immigration applications now must be accompanied with a Form C submission. All hotels, guest houses, Dharmashala, individual houses, universities, hospitals, institute, or other accommodation provider must submit the details
All Points Recommendations due to LMO Application Procedural Changes
15 Aug 0 CommentsAugust 15, 2013: Now that people have had time to absorb the recent changes to Labour Market Opinion (LMO) application procedures, All Points Relocation recommends that employers review recruiting exercises, immigration procedural practices, and consider greater centralization. Due to recent changes, employers filing LMO applications will now have to pay
Canadian Immigration Services Abroad affected by Foreign Service Officer Strike
18 Jul 0 CommentsJuly 18, 2013: Relocations and global assignments into Canada are likely to be affected by strike action at multiple visa offices abroad as a result of unsuccessful labour negotiations between Canada’s Professional Association of Foreign Services Officers (“PAFSO”) and the Canadian Government. Strikes are currently impacting both permanent and temporary
Extremely Low Vacancy Rates In Calgary, Alberta
27 Jun 0 CommentsJune 27, 2013: Due to the extreme flooding in Alberta, temporary accommodation, both corporate suites and hotels, are virtually unavailable in the Calgary area. Thousands that have been affected and are just now beginning to rebuild but Calgary Mayor NaheedNenshi has promised to do everything in his power to continue
New Rules for Temporary Foreign Workers
13 Jun 0 CommentsJune 13, 2013: The fallout from the Temporary Foreign Workers scandal that first broke in April of this year continues. The Globe and Mail reports that recent changes, just published allow HRSDC or CIC officers to walk in on businesses as part of a random audit or because they suspect
Birth Certificates Required for Work and Residence Visa Applications
06 Jun 0 CommentsJune 6, 2013: Under a new Brazilian government policy, all applicants for Brazilian work and residence visas will eventually be required to present their birth certificate as part of the consular filing. This new requirement is being gradually rolled out, being already in effect at some consulates. Birth certificates will
HRSDC Changes Minimum Advertising Requirements
15 May 0 CommentsMay 15, 2013: Earlier this month, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) updated the minimum advertising requirements for NOC level ‘0’ (Executives/Managers) and ‘A’ (Professional) positions. These new requirements must now be followed for eligible labour market opinions (LMOs). In order to meet the requirements, employers should conduct recruitment
Changes to Canadian Foreign Skilled Workers Program Take Effect May 4th, 2013
03 May 0 CommentsMay 3, 2013: In April, the Canadian Federal Government announced changes to the Foreign Skilled Workers Program (FSW) which take effect May 4th, 2013. Among these changes include an updated eligibility list, new minimum language proficiency requirements, and a list of organizations designated to perform assessments of educational credentials. The
Harper Government Announces Reforms to Temporary Foreign Worker Program
01 May 0 CommentsMay 1, 2013: Earlier this week, the Canadian government announced new restrictions for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Several of these changes are effective immediately, while more details are expected in the coming days. Of these changes, the Accelerated Labour Market Opinion (A-LMO) program has been suspended. It is
Visa Regulations in Flux in China
17 Apr 0 CommentsApril 17, 2013 Effective 1 July 2013, new regulations will be implemented for foreigners visiting, residing and working in China as a result of the new Exit-Entry Administration Law. As of this Relo-lert, these changes only apply in Beijing – this situation will be monitored closely by All Points in
Federal Budget Changes make Temporary Foreign Worker programs harder on employers
02 Apr 0 CommentsApril 2, 2013: The release of the Canadian federal government’s 2013 budget several weeks ago had outlined several reforms to the temporary foreign worker program, which are expected to come in the following months. The changes to the temporary foreign worker program were designed to increase employment opportunities for Canadian
Payroll Challenges Posed By International Assignments
22 Mar 0 CommentsMarch 22, 2013: The Global Tax Network (GTN) has recently published an article regarding pay delivery. In general, there are three different delivery methods: home, host and split. All Points finds that this article (found on GTN’s website) should prove to be very useful to clients when coordinating assignees. To summarize
In-Person Visit Now Required for Employment License Filings in Beijing, China.
07 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 7, 2013: Effective February 1, 2013, a local HR representative of the Beijing sponsoring company will be required to be present at the Beijing Labor Bureau at the time of submission of an employment license application. This representative is to be involved in the recruitment of the prospective foreign
US H-1B Cap Filing Season to begin April 1, 2013
28 Jan 0 CommentsJanuary 28, 2013: On Monday, April 1, 2013, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin to accept H-1B cap petitions for the FY 2014 annual quota of 85,000. The H-1B petitions approved under the FY2014 cap will be effective October 1, 2013. The H-1B is a non-immigrant visa that
UKBA Clarifies Rules for Tier 2 General and ICT Categories
14 Jan 0 CommentsJanuary 14, 2013: Taking into effect December 13, 2012, several changes will be applied to Tier 2 intra-company transfer (ICT) and general visa holders in the UK. These changes include longer maximum stay for high earning ICTs, an increase in time Tier 2 visa holders can spend outside of the
Potential Processing Delays for Work Permit, Visa Applications Due to Government Holiday Closures
14 Dec 0 CommentsDecember 14, 2012: Numerous government offices worldwide will be closed or work under reduced staff and/or hours of operation during the holiday season. This will likely result in processing delays o work permits, residence permits, and visas into the New Year. Below is a summary of most immigration office and
Shanghai Labor Bureau Eliminates Expedited Services for Work Permits
06 Dec 0 CommentsDecember 6, 2012: Put into effect on November 1, 2012, the Shanghai Labor Bureau stopped the expedited service for Work Permit applications in Shanghai. In this regard, all Work Permit applications (both initial and renewal applications) will be processed under the normal processing time of three working days upon submission
Canada, India Sign Totalization Agreement
21 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 21, 2012: The media often look at Canadian trade missions for big announcements of trade deals. Those in relocation, however, know how important it is for governments to sign more totalization agreements between different countries. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India,
Canadian Housing Resales Stable in 2013, Housing Starts Moderating
15 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 15, 2012: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) announced that activity in existing home market expected to stabilize, causing house price growth to fall in line with or slightly below inflation. Housing Starts are also expected to moderate in the last quarter of 2012 and going into 2013. Existing
Belgium Begins Accepting EU Blue Card Applications
06 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 6, 2012: Introduced on September 10, Belgium is now accepting applications for its version of the EU Blue Card. The Blue Card is intended to allow highly skilled non-EU nationals to live and work in Belgium, and ultimately acquire long term EU residence rights. Akin to other iterations of
CIC Announces Changes to Qualifications for Canadian Permanent Residence Application for Skilled Workers
01 Nov 0 CommentsNovember 1, 2012: Earlier in September, the Department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada had proposed legislative regulations that will allow Easier access to the Canada Experience Class (CEC); Changes to selection criteria for the Foreign Skilled Worker (FSW) Class; The creation of the new visa category for Foreign Skilled Trades
Portugal Introduces Blue Card
27 Sep 0 CommentsSeptember 27, 2012: In a new law that was put into effect on September 9, 2012, Portugal has introduced its version of the EU Blue Card. Portuguese Blue Cards are issued for an initial period of one year and are renewed in two-year increments. After the first two years, cardholders
CBP to Eliminate I-94 Card, to Be Replaced with Automated Arrival System
21 Sep 0 CommentsSeptember 21, 2012: The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has accelerated a plan to stop issuing I-94 arrival-departure cards to non-immigrants entering the U.S. and replace it with an automated arrival system. Presently, form I-94 is issued to most nonimmigrant foreign nationals entering the U.S. with a nonimmigrant visa.
Prime Properties See Strongest Growth since 2010, Looks to Asia
11 Sep 0 CommentsSeptember 11, 2012: Back in July, Knight Frank had released their Q2 Prime Global Cities Index, indicating that the world’s key urban centers had experienced its greatest growth since 2010, despite cooling measures that inhibited growth at the start of 2012. The Index, which tracks the performance of the top 5%
Italy Introduces EU Blue Card
05 Sep 0 CommentsSeptember 5, 2012: After Germany had recently started issuing the EU Blue Card, Italy has now released its version of the Blue Card. To be eligible, a non-EU national must have a confirmed job offer or valid work contract with a sponsoring employer in Italy and hold at least a three-year
China Introduces Stricter Enforcement Against Unlawful Entry, Stay and Work
30 Aug 0 CommentsAugust 30, 2012: As a reminder, new legislation in China was passed in June to introduce stiffer penalties against unlawful entry, stay and work. Under the new legislation, the following will take effect starting July 1, 2013: Unlawful employment is defined as (1) working without a valid work permit and
Temporary Accommodation Challenges in Toronto
07 Aug 0 CommentsAugust 7, 2012: Yes, it is that time again the Toronto International Film Festival will be running from September 6th to September 16th. As a result, temporary accommodation will be virtually unavailable in the Toronto area for the first two weeks of September. Given the high demand, the price for
Rental Vacancy Rate Decreases in Canada
31 Jul 0 CommentsJuly 31, 2012: According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) spring Rental Market Survey, the average rental vacancy rate in Canada’s 35 major centres decreased from 2.5% in April 2011 to 2.3% in April 2012. In the survey, several observations were made. These included: The major centres with the
Back to Basics: Making International Assignments Easier
19 Jul 0 CommentsJuly 19, 2012: Global Tax Network (GTN) has released a list of ten (10) measures that firms HR departments should consider implementing to ease the pain associated with administering international assignments. These best practices are: Have a written tax equalization policy for international assignments Have a written compensation policy for
Canadian Housing Market Expected to Moderate
16 Jul 0 CommentsJuly 16, 2012: According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) second quarter Canadian housing market outlook, both new and current housing markets are expected to moderate. In this report, the following trends are observed: The number of housing starts on the market is expected to be between 182,300 and
Making Sense of Recent Canadian Immigration Changes
07 Jul 0 CommentsJune 7, 2012: Christopher Garrah’s article Doing Business in Canada: Immigration provides great insight into four recent developments in Canadian business immigration law. In it he looks at: The impact of new foreign worker regulations New restrictions under the federal skilled worker category for obtaining permanent resident status Developments with
Stampede Demand Limits Temp Accom Options and Affordability
29 Jun 0 CommentsJune 29, 2012: Due to the 100th Anniversary of Calgary Stampede and the recent huge Petroleum Show, temporary accommodation is virtually unavailable in the Calgary area until after July 31st. Given the high demand, the price for any available accommodation has escalated upwards to $300 – $500 per night, which
Further Measures Announced to Strengthen Canada’s Housing Market
21 Jun 0 CommentsJune 21, 2012: As announced by the Department of Finance the government has introduced four additional measures to strengthen Canada’s housing market. These measures apply to new government-backed insured mortgages with loan-to-value ratios of more than 80 per cent: 1. Reduce the maximum amortization period to 25 years from 30
Mike relocationgeek Deane is on a mission!
31 May 0 CommentsMay 31, 2012: Check out his blog this week for the first in a series on the top five things that you should be doing to your relocation policy NOW. WARNING ! acting on the relocationgeek’s advice will keep you ahead of the relocation curve.
Have you claimed your 2011 EU Vat refund yet?
17 May 0 CommentsMay 17, 2012 The June 2012 deadline is fast approaching. For more information on receiving the full refund your non-EU company is entitled to check out this article from Ernst & Young’s T Magazine.
Accelerated Labour Market Opinion Process Launched
25 Apr 0 CommentsApril 25, 2012: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada announced today the launch of the Accelerated Labour Market Opinion (A-LMO) program. As we reported on April 10th, the A-LMO program is expected to reduce the Service Canada processing time. If the employer meets all the eligibility criteria to participate in
European Commission to Examine Taxation of Cross-Border Workers
17 Apr 0 CommentsApril 17, 2012 As reported by KPMG, the European Commission announced recently that it will examine the taxation of cross-border workers. Throughout 2012, the EC will assess the direct tax systems of EU Member States to determine whether they create unfair disadvantages for workers that live in one Member State
Accelerated LMO Process Coming Soon
10 Apr 0 CommentsApril 10, 2012: As reported by Greenberg Turner in its latest alert, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) will imminently announce the launch of an Accelerated Labour Market Opinion (ALMO) program. Under the new program, HRSDC expects to process LMO applications within 10 days from the date of submission
New Simplified LMO Process in Quebec
02 Apr 0 CommentsApril 2, 2012: The province of Quebec has implemented a new simplified Labour Market Opinion (LMO) process. The new process no longer requires employers hiring foreign workers to provide proof of recruitment efforts in 44 occupations in a variety of fields. This news is of particular interest for employers that
US Citizen and Immigration Services Accepting H-1B Visa Petitions for Fiscal Year 2013
26 Mar 0 CommentsMarch 26, 2012: On Monday, April 2, 2012, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting FY 2013 H-1B cap-subject petitions for employment starting on October 1, 2012. The H-1B visa is used to employ foreign workers in professional or specialty occupation positions. Any position that requires at least a
Canadian Temporary Foreign Worker Compliance Audits Increase
21 Mar 0 CommentsMarch 21, 2012: Recently there has been an increase in compliance audits, including assessments, to ensure TFWs are working under Subtantially the Same (STS) terms and conditions of employment set out in the Labour Market Opinion (LMO) confirmation letter and annex. It has been almost a year since Human Resources
Stricter Enforcement of Japanese Import Regulations
15 Mar 0 CommentsMarch 15, 2012: As reported on March 8, 2012 by Santa Fe Relocation, Japan Import Regulations for air shipments are being more strictly enforced at the Narita Airport. Santa Fe is advising that valued inventories be completed by all shippers arriving at the Narita Airport for both accompanied and unaccompanied shipments. This
Business Leaders Want Action
11 Mar 0 CommentsMarch 11, 2012: Canadian business leaders were asked to rank a number of key issues that should be addressed in the upcoming federal budget. Their responses clearly show that the gap between available jobs and the skill set of available workers is of key concern. As reported by BNN, the Gandalf
Detailed Valuations for Household Goods, Trend or Anomaly?
28 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 28, 2012: Recently we have seen an increase in the incidences of employees being asked for additional information when crossing the border in advance of their household goods shipment. When transporting household goods into Canada from the United States the employee is required to provide a listing of goods
UK Announces New Independent Border Agency
24 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 24, 2012: In response to a report from the Independent Chief Inspector for the UK Border Agency, the UKBA has announced that it will be establishing an independent agency, the UK Border Force. The new agency will be created in early March 2012 and will be responsible for border
The US has New L-1 Visa Rule
16 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 16, 2012: As reported by Fragomen, the US Department of State announced a new rule that allows L-1 visas to be issued for up to five years. View the full Fragomen report.
Canada’s Rental Vacancy Rate Decreases
06 Feb 0 CommentsFebruary 6, 2012: As reported by CMHC the average rental apartment vacancy rate in 35 of Canada’s major centres showed a slight year over year decrease. Their Rental Market Survey shows that the vacancy rate dipped to 2.2 per cent in October 2011, from 2.6 per cent in October 2010.
Canada’s Housing Market
12 Jan 0 CommentsJanuary 12, 2012: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has released its Housing Market Outlook. CMHC notes that employment levels will be pushed higher this year and next, which in conjunction with relatively low mortgage rates, will continue to support demand for new homes. As a result, growth in the
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