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Connecting Ottawa Communique


Connecting Ottawa Communique
13 février 2025

We are pleased to provide this information for front-line workers to support the information and referral needs of clients. Connecting Ottawa education sessions that may be of interest to workers are listed first followed by information and updates from our lawyers and partners related to services and programs relevant to clients who have a communication barrier due to language or sensory disability. Please feel free to share this email widely among your networks.

Upcoming Connecting Ottawa education sessions
Information Session: Income tax and benefit returns for low-income residents – Support and Resources

Speakers: Jonathan Rothschild, Bill Singleton and Daniel Danford Dussault
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86002540864?pwd=DjgjiFyQRLhqlBdcTObp4E42UCsXPB.1
Meeting ID: 860 0254 0864
Passcode: 226545
Session Description:  As we approach income tax season, it is a great time to learn more about why it is so important for your clients to file their taxes and where they can get help. Jonathon and Bill, longtime volunteers with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, will explain the importance of filing an income tax return for low income individuals and its impact on maintaining benefits and credits. They will also discuss where clients can get their returns prepared for free. Daniel, Communications and Development Manager, Community Navigation of Eastern Ontario (CNEO), will discuss CNEO’s referral service and the work it does during tax season to help people find the closest income tax clinics serving their area.

Limited Spots remaining for Workshop on February 26, 2025!: Advancing Access to Justice for Vulnerable Clients – What is my Role as a Frontline Worker?
People who have legal problems, particularly those with low incomes and communication barriers, often ask for help from community workers they already know and trust. In this way, you play a crucial role in advancing access to justice for vulnerable clients. Join us for a practical and skill-building education session by Connecting Ottawa’s staff lawyers, Liz Majic, Laura Chaves Paz, and Tania Princz-Lebel that will empower you with the knowledge and skills to help your clients navigate their legal issues. Topics will include:

  • Knowing the difference between legal information and legal advice
  • Identifying legal issues
  • Finding credible legal information and referrals online
  • Understanding the lawyer-client relationship, particularly summary legal advice vs. full legal representation, retainer agreements, terms of communication, and the responsibilities of both parties
  • Coaching clients to work effectively with their legal representative

This free workshop consists of formal and interactive elements to encourage discussion, practical learning, and skill-building. You won’t want to miss this opportunity!

Only a few spots are currently available and will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. Please email info@connectingottawa.com if you would like to attend. Registration closes on February 24, 2025.  *** Note:  those already registered for the Workshop (rescheduled from November 28, 2024) need not register again.  

Séance d’information: Comprendre le formulaire N13 : Ce que les locataires et les travailleurs de première ligne doivent savoir
Intervenante : Esther Dionne Desbiens, avocate en droit des prestations sociales et du logement, Services juridique communautaire d’Ottawa (SJCO)
Date : Jeudi 6 mars 2025
Heure : 11h00 – 12h00
Rejoindre Zoom:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82466669174?pwd=bqMUOcX3OpbcojlnyaYndPMrDBJ6a1.1
Meeting ID: 824 6666 9174
Passcode: 051703
Description de la session : Avec la hausse des rénovictions et l’émission des formulaires N13, les locataires peuvent se retrouver confrontés à la possibilité que leur logement locatif soit démoli, réparé ou converti pour un autre usage. Cela peut les laisser confus et incertains quant à leurs droits. Lorsqu’une crise du logement survient, il est essentiel que les travailleurs de première ligne — qui sont souvent le premier point de contact pour les locataires — connaissent les bases de ces situations. Si vous êtes un travailleur de première ligne qui aide les locataires, cette session est pour vous.

Rejoignez SJCO pour une revue pratique du formulaire N13 Avis de fin de location, qui est un document clé dans le processus d’expulsion potentiel. Pendant cette session, nous passerons en revue le formulaire, expliquerons les droits des locataires et fournirons des conseils essentiels pour naviguer dans ces situations complexes. Notre objectif est de permettre aux travailleurs de première ligne de comprendre les droits des locataires et de mieux aider leurs clients à prendre des décisions éclairées sans se sentir pressés par un avis ou par les propriétaires ou gestionnaires immobiliers. Cette session va offrir des conseils pratiques, des informations et des ressources aux travailleurs de première ligne qui pourraient rencontrer des locataires confrontés à des problèmes d’expulsion, en les équipant des outils nécessaires pour informer correctement, soutenir et guider les locataires dans la compréhension de leurs droits et l’accès aux bonnes ressources.

Understanding the N13 Form: What Tenants and Frontline Workers Need to Know
Speaker: Sarah Sproule, Director of Legal Services, specializing in Housing Law, Community Legal Services of Ottawa (CLSO),
Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82884004065?pwd=bqD8PkAfjid9L78FvTnH8aLGotXKPp.1
Meeting ID: 828 8400 4065
Passcode: 225069
Session Description: With the rise of renovictions and the issuance of N13 forms, tenants may find themselves facing the possibility of their rental unit being demolished, repaired, or converted to another use. This can leave them feeling confused and uncertain about their rights. In a housing crisis, it’s essential that front-line workers—who are often the first point of contact for tenants—know the basics about these situations. If you are a front-line worker assisting tenants, this session is for you.

Join CLSO for a practical review of the N13 Notice to End Tenancy form, which is a key document in the potential eviction process. In this session, we’ll walk through the form, explain tenants’ rights, and offer essential tips for navigating these complex situations. Our goal is to empower front-line workers to understand tenants’ rights and to better help their clients make informed decisions without feeling pressured by a notice and landlords or property managers. This session will provide practical guidance, information and resources for front-line workers who may encounter tenants facing eviction issues, equipping them with the tools to properly inform, support, and guide tenants in understanding their rights and accessing the right resources.

Legal information and updates:
Introducing Connecting Ottawa’s New Staff Lawyer – Public Legal Education and Information: Tania Princz-Lebel

Connecting Ottawa is pleased to announce that we have a new addition to our staff lawyer team! Tania Princz-Lebel joined us on February 3, 2025. Tania’s role at Connecting Ottawa will focus on the creation and delivery of public legal education and information materials aimed at building the capacity of frontline workers to help their clients navigate their legal issues. Prior to starting her new role at Connecting Ottawa, Tania practiced privately, specializing in immigration and refugee law. In her private practice, Tania handled a wide range of immigration matters, including refugee claims, humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) applications, permanent residency (PR) applications, and detention reviews. She is an active member of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers (CARL) and currently serves as co-chair of CARL’s Education Committee, which focuses on providing public legal education to refugee lawyers across Canada. I hope you will all join us in welcoming Tania to the Connecting Ottawa team!

IRCC announces Rural Community Immigration Pilot and Francophone Immigration Pilot
On January 30th, 2025, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the launch of the Rural Community Immigration Pilot and the Francophone Immigration Pilot. These pilots will attract newcomers who can fill key jobs and will provide 18 communities with a permanent residence pathway. The Rural Community Immigration Pilot aims to provide all communities with access to programs that address labour shortages while supporting local businesses. The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot aims to increase the number of French-speaking newcomers settling in Francophone minority communities outside of Quebec. Each selected community is represented by a local economic development organization, which will work with Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to identify labour gaps and help organize the program accordingly. Each community will provide details on timelines as to when employers and candidates can have a chance to apply.

The following communities will participate in the Rural Community Immigration Program: Pictou County, NS; North Bay, ON; Sudbury, ON; Timmins, ON; Sault Ste. Marie, ON; Thunder Bay, ON; Steinbach, MB; Altona/Rhineland, MB; Brandon, MB; Moose Jaw, SK; Claresholm, AB; West Kootenay, BC; North Okanagan Shuswap, BC; Peace Liard, BC

The following communities will participate in the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot: Acadian Peninsula, NB, Sudbury, ON, Timmins, ON, Superior East Region, ON, St. Pierre Jolys, MB,Kelowna, BC

For more information, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/rural-franco-pilots.html.

Financial Assistance for Gazans arriving in Canada now available
Canada remains concerned about the difficult conditions people are facing in Gaza. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, made an announcement stating that Palestinians who have arrived in Canada can make an application to receive transitional financial assistance. This assistance will contain a one-time payment of $3,000 per adult, and $1,500 per child (17 years and under). Canada will be providing the one-time payment in stages, beginning with people who have arrived in Canada by March 31st,2025.

Applicable candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. Payments will be issued through direct deposit. Applicants must have a bank account with a Canadian financial institution. Find out who is eligible and how to apply for financial assistance here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/israel-west-bank-gaza-2023/financial-assistance.html.

In addition, temporary resident visa (TRV) applications fees and biometrics fees will be refunded to people applying for the temporary measures for extended family in Gaza. Those who have already submitted their TRV application and payment will receive a refund in the upcoming weeks.

Please refer to: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2025/01/financial-assistance-for-gazans-arriving-in-canada-now-available.html.

IRCC announces improving measures for foreign victims of Human Trafficking and Family Violence
On February 4th, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced improved measures for foreign victims of trafficking and family violence. Victims and their dependents in Canada may now receive an initial temporary resident permit (TRP) for at least 12 months. Fees for subsequent TRPs, work permits, study permits, and biometrics will be waived. Please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/better-support-foreign-nationals-facing-human-trafficking-family-violence-canada.html.

Criteria for the issuance of temporary resident permits
An officer should assess if a foreign national is a victim of family violence by considering:

  • If they are in Canada and experiencing abuse from their spouse or partner, including physical, sexual, psychological, financial abuse, or neglect.
  • If they seek permanent residence dependent on remaining in an abusive genuine relationship.

Purposes for the issuance of temporary resident permits
The officer may be warranted in granting a temporary resident permit to a victim of family violence and their dependent children in Canada for a minimum duration of 12 months, based on the consideration of any of the following factors:

  1. To provide a period of reflection for victims of family violence who are out of status to further consider their immigration options;
  2. To allow victims of family violence to escape the influence of their abuser so that they can make an informed decision on a future course of action;
  3. The individual’s ties to Canada;
  4. Child custody or other family law related issues;
  5. For any other purpose the officer may judge relevant to facilitate the protection of vulnerable foreign nationals who are victims of family violence.

A subsequent temporary resident permit may be issued based on individual circumstances and the purposes mentioned above.

Effects of the issuance of these temporary resident permits on the victims
Issuing these temporary resident permits will not only regularize the status of the victims and their dependent children in Canada but also offer them the following protections:

  1. Eligibility to apply for a work permit under section 200 or 201 of the Regulations and/or a study permit under section 216 or 217 of the Regulations; and
  2. Healthcare coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program for the duration of their temporary resident permit, when the victims are not already covered under another healthcare program.

For a more detailed information please review the Ministerial Instructions: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/policies-operational-instructions-agreements/ministerial-instructions/other-goals/mi82.html.

2025 provincial and territorial allocations under the international student cap
In 2024, IRCC capped the number of study permit applications accepted for processing to maintain the program’s stability and help manage the demand on housing, health care, and other services. This measure reduced the number of international students coming to Canada by about 40% and alleviated pressures in rental markets with high student populations. For 2025, IRCC plans to issue a total of 437,000 study permits, which represents a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap. For more information please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/2025-provincial-territorial-allocations-under-international-student-cap.html.

Program delivery update: Citizenship – subsection 5(3) waivers of language, knowledge, and oath requirements 
The procedures for compassionate waivers for citizenship applicants have been updated to include a new oath waiver request form for minors and to apply the compassionate grounds definition to oath waivers for applicants aged 14 to 17. For more information please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/updates/2024-citizenship-waivers.html.

Program delivery update: Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) [R205(c) – C43] – International Mobility Program 
As of November 1, 2024, eligibility criteria will be dependent on when the student submitted their study permit application and when they applied for their PGWP, with the exception of flight school graduates whose criteria remain unchanged. The modifications differ according to the level of study and encompass language proficiency requirements, and in certain instances, requirements pertinent to the field of study. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/post-graduation-work-permit-program.html.

Significant alterations include the following:

  • eligibility
    • language requirement
    • field-of-study requirement
    • ineligible applicants specific to Global Affairs Canada funding
  • documentary evidence required for new eligibility criteria
  • program stacking clarification

The specific instructions demonstrating these changes were updated on February 5, 2025. Please refer to:  https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/post-graduation-work-permit-program.html.

The Nepean, Rideau and Osgoode Community Resource Centre (NROCRC) Free Income Tax Clinic
The NROCRC Income Tax Clinic provides free assistance to eligible individuals and families with their simple tax filings. The Clinic runs from March 3 – April 30, 2025. Spots can be reserved online or by calling 613-596-5626, extension 303, during business hours. For more information and to access the online booking page, please visit: https://nrocrc.org/app/income-tax.

Interactive webinar on benefits and credits for newcomers in Canada
The Canada Revenue Agency is hosting an interactive webinar on benefits and credits for newcomers on March 12, 2025. The webinar features information on Canada’s tax system, the Canada Child Benefit, the GST/HST credit, and ways to do your taxes free of charge. You can register for the webinar here: https://collaboratevideo.net/cra-arc/CRA-71V/.

Updated Family Court Operations and Services resource from Luke’s Place
In January 2024, Luke’s Place updated its Family Court Operations and Services guide for women and frontline workers: https://lukesplace.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Family-Court-Operations-and-Services-April-2024.pdf. This resource was created at the height of the pandemic and has since been updated to provide you with current information on Ontario’s family courts. For more information on the guide visit: https://lukesplace.ca/family-court-operations-guide-for-the-pandemic/.

A Guided Pathway for financial planning in separation and divorce
Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) created a free Guided Pathway on financial planning for people who are thinking about separating or divorcing, in the process of separating, or are recently separated: https://stepstojustice.ca/guided-pathways/financial-planning-guided-pathway/. This is an excellent tool to share with your clients because it will help them understand their attitudes and habits around money as well as their level of financial knowledge and goals. The second part of the pathways is a budgeting tool that can be saved and printed off. We encourage frontline workers to watch CLEO Connects’ recent webinar on supporting clients to use this helpful resource: https://cleoconnect.ca/resource/yourlegalrights/family-finances-in-separation-or-divorce-a-guided-pathway-for-financial-planning/.

Federal Court consultation open to the public until March 20, 2025
The Federal Court invites the general public to provide feedback on its third strategic plan. The Court currently faces an unprecedented increase in workload and limited financial constraints. Therefore, they want feedback on improving access to justice, accelerating the Court’s shift to technology, and strengthening its independence and capacity. Participants are encouraged to use this online form to provide ideas, comments, and suggestions by March 20, 2025: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=CPNLAkjnqk20Sv1Cb_K_QsUWnZsB7FtIjuuojEwBjb5UQ0pTNVlOUks0TFJMTFpXUDc5STYzTlhKVy4u. If you have any issues with the form, please contact information@fct-cf.ca.

Refugee 613’s New Multilingual Video: Getting Dressed for Canadian Winter
Refugee 613 has a new multilingual video for newcomers all about getting dressed for Canada’s winter. It’s beginner-friendly and about a minute long, so newcomers can easily watch and rewatch as they build their winter wardrobes. Visit this link for more information and to access the video: https://mailchi.mp/refugee613/new-video-getting-dressed-for-winter?e=9545bb140b.

P4P Planning Network Education Session: An Introduction to Advocacy in Ontario’s Schools
The P4P Planning Network is hosting a virtual education session on February 18, 2025 at 7:00 pm with the aim of helping families whose children have diverse learning learning needs to navigate the education system and learn what resources can equip them with the tools they need to advocate for their child’s education. Learn more and register here: https://www.planningnetwork.ca/events/intro-to-advocacy-in-ontarios-schools-.

Call for Nominations: Roberto Miranda Award
The Student Chapter of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers at the University of Ottawa is seeking nominations for the Roberto Miranda Award. After arriving in Canada as a refugee, Roberto Miranda had a profound impact on those he met by working tirelessly to promote social justice in Guatemala, other Central American countries, and Canada. In his honour, this award recognizes a refugee, or someone who has experienced a refugee-like displacement, who has made a significant contribution to social justice or support for refugees in Canada. If you know a refugee, or someone who has experienced a similar situation, who has demonstrated a commitment to social justice, courage, determination, a willingness to serve others before self, and love and respect for humanity, you are invited to nominate them. Nominations close March 7, 2025. In addition to recognizing this contribution to social justice or support for refugees, the winner will also receive $500. More details are available here: https://connexionottawa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Call-for-nominations-Roberto-Miranda-Award-2025-ENG.jpg (English) and here: https://connexionottawa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Call-for-nominations-Roberto-Miranda-Award-2025-FR.jpg (French).

Reminder: Changes to open work permits for family members of temporary residents
Starting January 21, 2025, only certain spouses of international students and foreign workers can apply for a family Open Work Permit (OWP). Eligible spouses of international students must be enrolled in master’s degree programs of 16 months or more, doctoral programs, or specific professional and eligible programs. You can find more information on the select programs: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/changes-open-work-permits-family-members-temporary-residents.html.

Similarly, family OWPs will be limited to spouses of foreign workers employed in TEER 0 or 1 occupations, or certain TEER 2 or 3 occupations with labour shortages or related to government priorities. This includes fields like natural and applied sciences, construction, healthcare, natural resources, education, sports, and the military. The complete list will be available on January 21, 2025.

Additionally, the foreign worker must have at least 16 months of work authorization left when the spouse applies for the OWP. Dependent children of foreign workers will no longer qualify for the OWP.

Previous OWPs, if still valid, will remain valid. In situations where students may need more time to complete their program or where family members received a shorter work permit than the principal applicant, in-Canada family members (including spouses and dependent children) can apply to renew their work permit as long as they are applying under the same criteria as the current work permit, and the requested duration of the renewal matches that of the existing study or work permit of the principal applicant

Spouses of workers under free-trade agreements and those transitioning to permanent residence won’t be affected by these changes. Family members who no longer qualify for a family OWP can apply for other work permits under Canada’s programs. Please refer to: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary.html.

For more detailed information, click https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/changes-open-work-permits-family-members-temporary-residents.html.

Reminder: Canada announces launch date for new permanent residence pathways for home care workers
On January 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that new immigration pilots for home care workers will start on March 31, 2025. These pilots, known as Canada’s “Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots,” will replace the expired permanent residence pathways. Eligible home care workers can receive permanent residence upon arrival through these new programs. Review requirements and eligibility: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2024/06/canada-announces-new-pilot-programs-to-support-caregivers-and-canadian-families.html.

Reminder: Super Visa Health Insurance Eligibility Update
IRCC has announced the expansion of health insurance eligibility requirements for the Super Visa, aiming to ease the process for parents and grandparents to visit. Effective 28 January 2025, parents and grandparents applying for a Canadian Super Visa may purchase health insurance plans from non-Canadian insurers to meet the proof of health insurance requirement. Previously, health insurance for Super Visa eligibility had to be obtained through a Canadian provider. Super Visa holders must have private health insurance upon each entry to Canada.

A Super Visa holder is required to have a valid health insurance policy while in Canada. If the health insurance expires before leaving Canada, it may need to be renewed or maintained during the stay. Private health insurance must be valid for each entry into Canada.

To meet Super Visa requirements, a non-Canadian health insurance provider must: be authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) under the Insurance Companies Act, appear on OSFI’s public list of federally regulated financial institutions, and issue the policy within its Canadian insurance business.

Insurance brokers and insurance claims administrators are not insurance companies and will not appear on the OSFI list. The company that issues the policy, sometimes known as “the insurer” or “the underwriter”, must be identified on the proof of insurance .All policies that are issued by a foreign insurance company must include a statement that the document was issued or made in the course of its insurance business in Canada.

The health insurance policy should

  • be valid for a minimum of 1 year from the date of entry
  • be paid in full or in instalments with a deposit (quotes aren’t accepted)
  • cover health care, hospitalization and repatriation
  • provide a minimum coverage of $100,000

For more information please review: Super visa for parents and grandparents: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/parent-grandparent-super-visa/eligibility.html.

Reminder: Ontario Taxpayer Rebate does not count as income for Ontario Works (OW) or ODSP
The Ontario government mailed a $200 taxpayer rebate to all eligible adults in Ontario who filed their 2023 Income Tax and Benefit Return by December 31, 2024. Families who qualified for the Canada Child Benefit received a separate cheque for $200 for each child under 18. The rebate payment will not be deducted as income from OW or ODSP income support payments. More information about the rebate is available here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-taxpayer-rebate. To track your rebate visit: https://cxp.mgcs.gov.on.ca/otris.

Reminder: City of Ottawa no longer responsible for Ontario Works (OW) applications and initial eligibility decisions due to Centralized Intake Expansion
Effective January 27, 2025, the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) assumed responsibility for the majority of OW applications and initial eligibility decisions through an Ontario Works Intake Unit. Therefore, MCCSS will issue decision letters, authorize initial OW payments, and review decisions made through the appeal process. Applicants can apply for OW online (https://www.sada.mcss.gov.on.ca/intake/home-page) or by phone application: 1-888-999-1142/TTY: 1-800-387-5559. Vulnerable applicants who require support, including interpretation, can meet with a member of the Ontario Works Intake Unit to finalize their application at the ODSP Office at 351 Preston Street. Note: The City of Ottawa’s Employment and Social Services staff will continue processing and making decisions related to Emergency Assistance, Temporary Care Assistance, and for residents under 18 years of age. These applicants should apply online (https://www.sada.mcss.gov.on.ca/intake/home-page), and their application will be redirected to the local office for completion. Anyone unable to complete an online application for Emergency Assistance, Temporary Care, or residents under 18 years of age can contact 3-1-1 for help.  

Reminder: Government of Canada webinars and recordings on tax benefits and credits
The Government of Canada will host the following webinars on tax benefits and credits:

  • January 29, 2025 – Benefits and credits for individuals with a modest income (recording soon available)
  • February 12, 2025 – Benefits and credits for adults 65 years and older (recording soon available)
  • February 26, 2025 – Benefits and credits for Indigenous Peoples
  • March 12, 2025 – Benefits and credits for newcomers to Canada

To register visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/income-tax/personal-income-tax/help-others/outreach/upcoming-events-products.html.

Reminder: Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) raising financial eligibility for duty counsel and criminal certificate services
On March 3, 2025, LAO’s income threshold for family and criminal duty counsel services will increase to $45,440 for families of up to four people. The asset threshold for duty counsel services also increases to $15,000, regardless of family size. Financial eligibility for family sizes of five or more remains the same ($50,803).

On March 31, 2025, LAO’s income threshold for criminal certificate services will increase to $45,440 for families of up to four people. The LAO asset threshold for criminal certificate services also increases to $15,000, regardless of family size. Financial eligibility for family sizes of five or more remains the same ($50,803).

For more information on LAO’s upcoming increases visit: https://www.legalaid.on.ca/news/legal-aid-ontario-raising-financial-eligibility-for-duty-counsel-and-criminal-certificate-services/.

Reminder: UOttawa Community Legal Clinic – Criminal Division is Accepting Eligible Clients
The UOttawa Community Legal Clinic provides free legal services to eligible members of the Ottawa Community. To be eligible, individuals must meet specific criteria regarding their finances and the legal issues they require assistance with. The Clinic’s Criminal Division is currently accepting new clients. The Clinic offers in-person or telephone intakes, by appointment only, three days per week. They also offer drop-in courthouse intakes one day per week on Fridays from 10am-12pm, in the ante-room outside courtroom #4 at the Ottawa Court House (day/time subject to change).  You can learn more about the types of legal issues the UOttawa Community Legal Clinic can assist with here:  https://connexionottawa.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/UOCLC-Pamphlets.pdf.

Reminder: Scammers exploiting new government rebate program to target seniors
On January 7, 2025, the Government of Ontario announced new rebate programs designed to help homeowners make energy-efficient upgrades to windows and doors, insulation and air sealing, smart thermostats and heat pumps, and rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems. Unfortunately, some predatory HVAC and home renovation companies are aggressively using phone calls, door-to-door visits, and deceptive online ads, claiming to handle rebate applications and payments on behalf of homeowners. According to the Low-Income Energy Network, legitimate programs will only send delivery agents to your home if you have scheduled an appointment for an energy assessment, audit, inspection, or home visit. We encourage you to read and share this information about the scam with your clients: https://www.acto.ca/beware-scammers-exploiting-new-government-rebate-program-to-target-seniors/.

Reminder: Connecting Ottawa Communique Sign up!
In Connecting Ottawa’s bi-weekly Communique, we share information about our upcoming education sessions, valuable resources, and timely information and updates on local, provincial, and federal legal and social service programs of interest to front-line workers serving clients in our target populations. If you are a front line worker who wants to receive Connecting Ottawa’s Communique directly to your inbox, we encourage you to sign up here: https://connectingottawa.com/connecting-ottawa-communique/sign-up-for-communque/.

Reminder: Connecting Ottawa Infographics – What is Connecting Ottawa? When should Front-line Workers contact Connecting Ottawa?
Connecting Ottawa is pleased to share infographics that describe our services and help front-line workers understand how we can build your capacity to support clients who meet our eligibility criteria with their legal issues.  You can view the infographics here:  

In case you missed it … (we think the following information bears repeating):
Updated Connecting Ottawa information sheets
The following resources have been produced by Connecting Ottawa lawyers to provide front line workers and community members with information and referral resources for common legal issues. Please feel free to share with your clients and networks.

Ending flagpoling for work and study permits at the border
On December 23, 2024 the Government of Canada announced under the Canada Border Plan that work and study permits will no longer be granted to persons flagpoling at a port of entry. This measure went into effect on December 23 at 11:59 pm ET. Flagpoling occurs when foreign nationals who have temporary resident status in Canada, leave Canada and, after a visit to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, re-enter to access immigration services at a port of entry.

Immigration services at the border are intended for people arriving in Canada, not those already in the country. Applications and renewals for work or study permits must be submitted through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Those intending to apply for a work and study permit will be directed to submit their application to the IRCC, unless they meet limited exemptions. For more information please check: https://www.canada.ca/en/border-services-agency/news/2024/12/ending-flagpoling-for-work-and-study-permits-at-the-border.html.

CBSA updates cost recovery for removing inadmissible individuals
On January 3, 2025, CBSA announced that it is introducing a new measure to reduce the financial burden of removing inadmissible persons from the country by increasing the fees that persons wishing to return to Canada will have to pay.

Individuals removed from Canada must pay their own travel expenses. In cases where the inadmissible person is unable or unwilling to pay, the CBSA covers the costs to ensure timely removal. The Government of Canada recovers costs when a person removed at government expense attempts to return to Canada. Fees will increase from the previous approximately $1,500 to just over $12,800 for escorted removals and just over $3,800 for unescorted removals, regardless of destination. This new measure will come into effect in April 2025. Any adult facing removal will be charged a fee based on the framework that was in place at the time they became subject to the removal order and were removed. For more information please check: https://www.canada.ca/en/border-services-agency/news/2025/01/cbsa-updates-cost-recovery-for-removing-inadmissible-individuals.html.

Express Entry candidates will no longer receive additional points for having a job offer
As part of ongoing efforts to prevent and reduce fraud, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced December 23, 2024, that Express Entry candidates no longer receive additional points for having a job offer. This change will come into effect in spring 2025.  Once implemented, the changes will impact candidates pursuing permanent residence through the Express Entry system, including those currently working in Canada temporarily. The changes will not affect candidates who have already been invited to apply or who have an application in progress. Once introduced, the change will apply to all candidates with job offers in the pool as well as new candidates entering the pool.  Please check: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/2024/12/canada-takes-action-to-reduce-fraud-in-express-entry-system.html.

Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) will accept no new applications in 2025
The Canadian federal government has announced that it will not accept new applications for parent grandparent sponsorship for permanent residence in 2025. IRCC has declared that throughout 2025, the department will solely process family sponsorship applications submitted under the Parent and Grandparent Program in 2024.The department intends to process a maximum of 15,000 sponsorship applications during 2025. The announcement was published in the Canada Gazette on January 4, 2025. In this announcement the government has not specified when new applications for the PGP will resume nor when new Interest to Sponsor forms will be accepted. Please check: https://gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p1/2025/2025-01-04/html/notice-avis-eng.html.

Refugee Family Reunification listserv
The Refugee Family Reunification Project is launching a listserv to exchange information on the practical aspects of refugee reunification, particularly One Year Window applications and Protected Persons applications that include family members abroad. To apply for the listserv visit: https://refugeefamilyreunification.ca/en/rfrlistserv-application.

Modest amendments to Canada Pension Plan (CPP) took effect January 1, 2025
The CPP provides contributors and their families with minimum basic income replacement upon the retirement, disability, or death of a wage earner. The benefit amount paid is generally based on an individual’s contributions to the CPP and the length of their contributory period. However, while the CPP is primarily a retirement plan, it also provides supplementary disability and survivor benefits, which are not a direct return on an individual’s contributions. Every three years, the CPP is reviewed to ensure it continues to respond to the needs of retirees, workers, and employers. The following modest amendments to the CPP, which have no impact on the minimum contribution rates, took effect January 1, 2025:

  • New child’s benefits for dependent children of disabled or deceased contributors attending school part-time. These new benefits allow children of disabled or deceased contributors aged 18–24 who attend a recognized educational institution on a part-time basis to receive 50 percent of the amount paid by the CPP to full-time students. For 2025, this is a monthly flat rate of $150.89 for part-time students who qualify for the benefit.
  • Top-up to the death benefit for CPP contributors who die before claiming a retirement or disability pension and leave behind no spouse or common-law partner. The estate of CPP contributors who die before collecting their retirement or disability pension and leave no spouse or common-law partner will receive a top-up of $2,500 to the existing death benefit of $2,500 (for a total of $5,000).
  • Extend eligibility for the Disabled Contributor’s Child’s Benefit (DCCB) when the parent reaches 65. Under the previous legislation, eligibility for the DCCB ended when a parent’s CPP disability pension was converted into a retirement pension at age 65. Now, children remain eligible for the DCCB when their parents reach 65.
  • End entitlement to a survivor’s pension following a CPP credit split. The CPP credit split allows for individuals ending a marriage or conjugal relationship to each receive equal shares of a pension that was earned through their joint efforts during their relationship. Now, individuals who are separated and who request a credit split will no longer be eligible to receive a survivor’s pension for their ex-partner, treating them in the same way as divorced or former common-law partners. Separated couples that reconcile and are living together at the time of death will regain eligibility for the survivor’s pension.

Webinar Recording: Refugee Family Reunification for Protected Persons
The training webinar on how Protected Persons (accepted refugee claimants) can apply for permanent residence for themselves and their immediate family members, including those overseas, is now available as a recording: https://vimeo.com/1037651620. The webinar is intended primarily for frontline workers who support refugees with their permanent residence applications. The slides are also available here: https://refugeefamilyreunification.ca/sites/default/files/2024-12/dr2-webinar-slides.pdf.

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